Chef’s new restaurant turns up heat

A chef’s creative food journey has resulted in a unique new dining experience in Central Whidbey.

By Karina Andrew • July 12, 2022 1:30 am

A longtime island chef’s creative food journey has resulted in a unique new dining experience in Central Whidbey.

Gordon’s Fusion opened last month in Coupeville with an exciting, multi-culturally inspired menu designed for the adventurous eater.

Owner and chef Gordon Stewart of Gordon’s on Blueberry Hill in Freeland said he was in need of a new creative outlet when the space “presented itself.”

The building now housing Gordon’s Fusion, located at 103 Northwest Coveland Street in Coupeville, was the home of Currents Bistro until a kitchen fire caused the restaurant to close last year. Stewart knew the building’s landlords and, after closing his food truck this spring, decided the space was just what he needed to launch his next endeavor.

The cuisine featured on Gordon’s Fusion’s menu is meant to give diners “a creative journey,” Stewart said. With nods to a variety of cultures and food traditions, each dish is uniquely designed.

“This was kind of a culmination of my wanting to get out there and do something totally different and challenge diners as well as myself,” Stewart said.

The current menu is largely Asian-inspired, combining Korean, Laotian, Vietnamese and other cuisines with Stewart’s own culinary signature. But other food traditions will also get their day in the sun; Stewart intends to change the menu up periodically so there is always something new for Whidbey residents to try.

For example, Stewart plans a revised menu in about three months that will more prominently feature Italian and Spanish dishes, with hints of Moroccan flair. The seasons will also influence the restaurant’s offerings, with a local squash risotto making an appearance this fall.

Gordon’s Fusion’s menu represents another journey for Stewart besides the creative one; the chef said lately, he has been more health-conscious and begun exploring gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options that appear on the menu.

Elements of the restaurant itself draw from many local sources. Coupeville artist Mark Wacker made the front sign out of reclaimed wood and metal from Fort Casey. Greenbank Metalworks created the striking glass rack over the bar. Camano-based painter Jack Gunter is the featured artist, with his paintings displayed for sale in the restaurant. Stewart encouraged local artists interested in selling their work in the restaurant to reach out to him.

Stewart has been in the food business for 37 years, working at restaurants across the state and the country. His culinary journey on Whidbey Island began around two decades ago at the Edgecliff in Langley. In 2005, he opened Gordon’s on Blueberry Hill, which will remain open even as he takes on this new project.

“I do want to be really clear that I have no plans on getting rid of Blueberry Hill,” he said. “It is a staple on the island, and it will remain a staple.”

Gordon’s Fusion is open from noon to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays.