A medium-shot portrait of Chef Yanick Destine. They are looking directly at the camera with a calm, confident expression. They have dark hair styled in an updo, secured with a prominent pearl-headed pin, and are wearing large, thick-rimmed tortoiseshell glasses. The subject is dressed in a smooth, lavender-colored satin button-down shirt. The portrait is set against a deep, textured, dark-red background, with warm, soft lighting highlighting the subject's features and creating subtle shadows.
Chef Yanick Destine Credit: Dave Decker / Creative Loafing Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay Restaurant Month is in full swing, offering special prix-fixe menus at nearly 60 restaurants and cafes across Pinellas and Hillsborough counties.

To mark the occasion, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay—together with Visit St. Pete-Clearwater and Visit Tampa Bay—hosts two “Meet The Chefs” events, bringing readers and food scene supporters face-to-face with the bright minds bringing new energy to the local restaurant scene.

Almost 30 chefs—including Yanick Destine of Bulla Gastrobar, pictured—are confirmed in the lineups. Look below for the list and chef bios.

Secure your tickets here before they sell out.

Chefs appearing at Meet The Chefs St. Pete on Thursday, June 18 include:

  • Brian Lampe Pete’s Gulf Bistro
  • Cameron Capri Q Southern BBQ
  • Clayton Parrett HEW Parlor & Chophouse
  • Cole Martinovich The Helm
  • David Asher Taverna Costale
  • Jessica Leung Central Park
  • Joey De Los Santos Ocean Hai
  • Johnathan Rodriguez FOMO Chefs
  • Lee Aquino The Birchwood (associated with Teak and Birch & Vine)
  • Makil Malone Paul’s Landing
  • Marco Gradeja Paul’s Landing
  • Nick Ocando Juno & The Peacock
  • Ryan VanDusen LUMA at SkyBeach Resort
  • Steven Cady Birch & Vine
  • Tim Lentsch Allelo
  • Tony Bruno The Brinehouse

Chefs appearing at Meet The Chefs Tampa on Thursday, June 25 include:

  • Anthony Santos Private Chef
  • Arturo Lo Rusty Pelican
  • Billy Brannen O-Ku & Maru
  • Cody Tiner District South
  • Cristian “Cris” Ruiz Sal y Mar
  • David Reyes Uno Mas
  • Felicia LaCalle Quiote Tequileria
  • Gerry Sizemore CW’s Gin Joint
  • Max McKee Bar Terroir
  • Mike Morales Sunda
  • Nelly Buleje Timpano Hyde Park
  • Olivia Giesler The Pearl at Water Street
  • Taylor Dillon Con Amor
  • Yanick Destine Bulla Gastrobar

Tickets to Creative Loafing Tampa Bay’s Meet The Chefs events at The Birchwood in St. Petersburg (June 18) and The Vault in Tampa are still available and start at $85.

Meet the Chefs – St. Pete Lineup

Brian Lampe, Executive Chef at Rooster & the Till Credit: Photo by James Ostrand / Creative Loafing Tampa Bay

Brian Lampe
Pete’s Gulf Bistro, 5500 Gulf Blvd., St Pete Beach
Chef Brian Lampe is a graduate of the Florida Culinary Institute, where he finished first in his class. He began his career in Tampa working under acclaimed chefs Ferrell Alvarez and Marty Blitz at Mise En Place before continuing his culinary journey at Café Dufrain. Lampe later helped lead Rooster & the Till, which earned Michelin Bib Gourmand honors in 2022 and 2023. Today, he serves as Chef de Cuisine at Breckenridge Tradewinds, bringing his passion for innovative cuisine and exceptional hospitality to the Gulf Coast dining scene.

Credit: QSouthern BBQ / QSouthern BBQ

Cameron Capri
Q Southern BBQ & Catering, 664 Main St., Dunedin
Chef Cameron has been working in the food hospitality business since he was a teenager. As a self-taught chef, he has worked over the years with many culinary mentors. This experience allowed him to open his restaurant of hand-crafted artisan barbeque. He opened Q Southern BBQ in Dunedin in early 2020, just before the pandemic hit. They made it through the pandemic and now the restaurant is thriving. With a second location in Oldsmar in the works, he plans on showcasing his artisan BBQ to a new community. He invites you to introduce yourself when you visit Q Southern BBQ! Let’s MEAT!

jbm.photography.com Credit: JBM Photography / The Fenway

Clayton Parrett
HEW Parlor & Chophouse, 453 Edgewater Dr., Dunedin
Chef Clayton believes the best moments in life come from good food, friends, and music. He began his culinary journey at a butcher’s market, developing a passion that led him across Louisiana, mastering French, Cajun, and Creole techniques. While at LSU, he deepened his culinary skills, leading to collaborations with top chefs at venues like the Orange County Convention Center and Amalie Arena. As Executive Chef at IMG Academy, he’s cooked for elite athletes from the NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLS, La Liga, and Bundesliga.

Credit: The Helm Seafood & Coastal Provisions / The Helm Seafood & Coastal Provisions

Chef Cole Martinovich
The Helm, 7736 Blind Pass Rd., St. Pete Beach

Credit: Taverna Costale / Taverna Costale

David Asher
Taverna Costale, 200 Central Ave. Suite 165, St. Petersburg
Chef David Asher, born in Orlando, Florida on November 23, 1979, discovered his passion for food and hospitality early in life. Influenced by Florida’s vibrant culinary culture and inspired by his grandmothers’ cooking, he developed a deep appreciation for fresh ingredients, coastal flavors, and the power of bringing people together through food. With more than 25 years of culinary experience, Chef David has built a dynamic career rooted in elevated American cuisine with a coastal influence, complemented by Mediterranean and French techniques. A graduate of the The Art Institutes, he is recognized for combining refined culinary technique with approachable, flavor-driven menus focused on seasonality, quality, and presentation. Throughout his career, Chef David has held leadership roles ranging from Executive Chef to Regional Executive Chef for respected hospitality brands and venues including NBCUniversal Hollywood, Karl Strauss Brewing Company, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Golden Road Brewing, The Harvest, and A Votre Santé. His culinary philosophy emphasizes farm-to-table cooking, international influence, consistency, innovation, and exceptional guest experiences. Now part of Fabio Viviani Hospitality, Chef David continues to mentor culinary teams while creating menus that reflect his creativity, leadership, and passion for hospitality. His dedication to sustainable living, agriculture, and livestock farming further shapes his ingredient-focused approach to cooking. In addition to his culinary accomplishments, Chef David has been recognized as an Industry Chef in Los Angeles and remains actively involved in community events and charitable initiatives, including Savor St. Pete and local chamber events. Through every role, Chef David remains committed to crafting memorable dining experiences that connect people through exceptional food.

Credit: Central Park St. Pete / Central Park St. Pete

Jessica Leung
Central Park St. Pete, 551 Central Ave., St. Petersburg
Chef Jessica Leung is the executive chef of Central Park St Pete, a new multi-unit food and beverage concept from Tampa Bay’s Hi Hospitality Group, located in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg. Prior to opening Central Park, chef Leung served as a company exec chef for Hi Hospitality, where she began as a consulting chef for the opening of Kojo in Sarasota. For the past four years, chef Leung steered culinary operations at Kojo, and served as opening chef for both Bar Hana and Palm Avenue Deli.  Before joining Hi Hospitality Group, Chef Leung relocated to Martha’s Vineyard from NYC and was the executive chef of the Harbor View Hotel. Born and raised in Queens, she has worked at a variety of restaurants throughout NYC, including Hudson Yards Grill with chef Michael Lomonaco, Covina at the Park South Hotel with chef Tim Cushman, and Michelin-starred Ai Fiori with chef Michael White.

Credit: Ocean Hai at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach / Ocean Hai at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

Joey de los Santos
Ocean Hai at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, 100 Coronado Dr., Clearwater Beach
Chef Joey De Los Santos leads the culinary team at Ocean Hai in Clearwater Beach, where he brings a bold and refined vision of Asian fusion to life. As Chef de Cuisine, he blends traditional Asian flavors with modern global techniques, crafting dishes that are both innovative and deeply rooted in culinary artistry. Known for his precise execution and creative flair, Joey’s menu highlights the freshest local ingredients, artful presentation, and a deep respect for flavor balance. Under Executive Chef Nana Darkwah leadership, Ocean Hai continues to elevate the dining experience.

Credit: Johnathan Rodriguez / Johnathan Rodriguez

Johnathan Rodriguez
FOMO Chefs, Private Chefs & Catering
Chef Johnathan Rodriguez is a nationally recognized culinary innovator, known for his bold flavors, high-energy personality, and passion for community-driven food experiences. As the founder and CEO of FOMO Chefs, he has built a dynamic brand that extends across private dining, high-profile catering, and culinary consulting. From cooking for A-list celebrities to leading gourmet pop-up dinners in multiple cities, Chef Johnathan continues to elevate the dining experience. With appearances on Food Network, ABC, CBS, and FOX, he has captured the hearts of food lovers nationwide. His mission is simple: build culture, share flavor, and inspire through food. Whether he’s mentoring aspiring chefs or curating elevated dinner events, Chef Johnathan is committed to keeping it sexy in the kitchen-one plate at a time.

Credit: The Birchwood / The Birchwood

Lee Aquino
Teak St. Pete, 800 2nd Ave .NE 4th Floor, St. Petersburg
Chef Lee Aquino, a native of Amelia Island, is known for bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and creative presentation. His culinary journey began in high school and led to formal training with the American Culinary Federation in St. Augustine. He has since built a successful, award-winning career, including leadership roles at The Birchwood and Teak Properties at the St. Petersburg Pier. Chef Aquino believes cooking should be immersive and memorable, guided by the idea that hunger fuels flavor. Beyond the kitchen, he’s a dedicated mentor and community advocate, serving on culinary committees and supporting causes like Ryan’s Wells Foundation and St. Vincent de Paul. He aims to elevate Birchwood and Teak into world-class dining destinations through innovation and community engagement.

Credit: The Vinoy / The Vinoy

Makil Malone
Paul’s Landing at The Vinoy, 502 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg
A proud native of the U.S. Virgin Islands, Chef Makil Malone began his culinary journey at Harbor Beach Marriott, where he built a strong foundation in resort operations and fine dining. He refined his skills at the acclaimed 3030 Ocean restaurant under Chopped-winning Chef Adrienne Grenier, while also gaining valuable experience in banquet operations.
Throughout his career, Makil has worked with renowned properties including Atlanta Marriott Marquis, West Palm Beach Marriott, and The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale. He brings a deep appreciation for Caribbean flavors, with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Known for his collaborative spirit and passion for creating memorable guest experiences, Makil draws continuous inspiration from the ocean, local markets, and his island roots when crafting dishes in the kitchen.

Credit: The Vinoy / The Vinoy

Marco Grajeda
Paul’s Landing at The Vinoy, 502 5th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg
Originally from Mohegan Lake, New York, Chef Marco Grajeda studied at The Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, before beginning his career with Marriott through the prestigious Voyager Program at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort & Spa in Phoenix. He was later promoted to Banquet Kitchen Supervisor before relocating to Fort Lauderdale, where he served as Sous Chef for four years and Senior Sous Chef for an additional four years. In 2025, Marco joined The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club as Executive Sous Chef, bringing extensive luxury hospitality experience and a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. He is known for his collaborative leadership style and believes that consistency is more important than perfection.

Credit: Juno & the Peacock / Juno & the Peacock

Nicholas Ocando
Juno & The Peacock, 400 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg
Chef Nicholas Ocando’s culinary journey began in the family garden of his hometown in Waterville, Maine. At just 10 years old, he discovered a passion for cooking while helping his mother prepare meals with homegrown ingredients—an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine. After earning his Culinary Arts degree from Le Cordon Bleu, Ocando launched his professional career in Veiques, Puerto Rico as chef de partie at Blue Macaw. In 2009, he joined the Alain Ducasse Restaurant Group, serving as sous chef at MIX on the Beach at the W Retreat & Spa. His Ducasse experience continued in New York City, where he helped open Pinch, refining his skills in high-end, high-volume kitchens. In 2014, Ocando moved to Dallas to work under Chef Graham Dodds at Hibiscus, where he was promoted to Executive Chef and led a celebrated farm-to-table program along with an in-house charcuterie initiative. He later became Executive Chef at the Dallas Cowboys Club, crafting innovative, seasonal menus for one of Texas’ most exclusive private memberships. In 2021, Ocando joined the team at Allelo in St. Petersburg, Florida, where he helped establish the restaurant’s elevated Mediterranean-inspired identity. In August 2024, he expanded his culinary leadership as Culinary Director with the openings of Juno & The Peacock and Pluma Lounge, overseeing menu development, concept creation, and team leadership across all three venues.  Influenced by chefs Alain Ducasse and Graham Dodds—and forever inspired by his mother’s home cooking—Chef Ocando is known for pairing refined technique with bold, seasonal flavors. He remains dedicated to supporting local farms and purveyors, believing the best meals start with knowing where your ingredients come from. When he’s not in the kitchen, Nick enjoys spending time with his wife, Monica, and their twin daughters, Marley and Madison.

Credit: LUMA at SkyBeach Resort / LUMA at SkyBeach Resort

Ryan VanDusen
LUMA at SkyBeach Resort, 6800 Sunshine Skyway Ln. S, St. Petersburg
Chef Ryan VanDusen brings over 20 years of culinary leadership to his role as executive chef of LUMA at SkyBeach Resort. A Michigan native, VanDusen began his career at a farm-to-table restaurant in Kalamazoo, where he learned to build menus around locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, a philosophy that continues to define his approach today. Most recently, VanDusen served as banquet chef and chef de cuisine at the Don Cesar Hotel in St. Pete Beach, where he was responsible for developing and executing three-meal restaurant service, managing kitchen staffing and training, and curating large-scale banquet and catering menus for the property’s multiple food and beverage outlets. At LUMA, VanDusen oversees all culinary operations. His Mediterranean-inspired menu is built around fresh, coastal ingredients and includes original dishes such as Moroccan-Spiced Eggplant, Crispy Brussels Sprouts with tahini vinaigrette, and Black Grouper Tiradito. He also launched a new menu at SkyBeach’s SkyBar + Grille, featuring lighter, health-forward fare. VanDusen’s focus remains on operational excellence, from food cost control and vendor sourcing to staff training and recipe development. He sees his role not only as a chef but as a leader who shapes the guest experience through back-of-house precision and front-of-house collaboration.

Credit: Birch & Vine / Birch & Vine

Steve Cady
Birch & Vine, 340 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg
Born in Detroit, Executive Chef Steven Cady began his career in a family-run Italian restaurant before rising through the ranks at major casinos in Detroit and Milwaukee. His journey took him to Tampa Bay, where he helped launch and lead restaurants at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Sheraton Tampa Riverwalk, Florida Avenue Brewing Co., and Hotel Haya. Now at The Birchwood Hotel, Steven draws on decades of culinary and leadership experience to create refined, approachable dishes that reflect his passion for craftsmanship and hospitality.

Credit: Juno & the Peacock / Juno & the Peacock

Tim Lentsch
Juno & the Peacock, 400 Beach Dr NE, St. Petersburg
Tim Lentsch was born and raised in Florida and attended Santa Fe College in Gainesville, where he studied zoology before ultimately discovering his true passion for the culinary arts. Drawn by a love of seafood and coastal living, Tim relocated to St. Petersburg in 2016 to be closer to the water. Over the years, he honed his craft and worked his way up Beach Drive, serving as Sous Chef at several notable restaurants before earning the role of Executive Chef at Juno & the Peacock. As Executive Chef, Tim is dedicated to creating elevated dining experiences while fostering a positive and supportive culture within the restaurant. He believes that strong morale is an essential ingredient in every successful kitchen, and that commitment is reflected in both the guest experience and every dish that leaves the pass. Outside the kitchen, Tim enjoys fishing, playing disc golf, spending time at the beach with his wife, and relaxing at home with her and their two dogs.

Credit: The Brinehouse / The Brinehouse

Tony Bruno
The Brinehouse & Dunedin Smokehouse, 100 Main St Suite 104, Safety Harbor
Chef Tony Bruno started cooking professionally at age 17 in the 80’s in the South Tampa, SOHO District, working in all of the big restaurants on South Howard from Bella’s to Bern’s Steakhouse. He also apprenticed under James Beard award winning Chef Marty Blitz for 14 years at Mise En Place working his way up to Chef de Cuisine and Catering Chef. Chef opened The Dunedin Smokehouse & The Living Room restaurants in 2008, and later in 2020, opened the Berkeley Beach Club and their restaurant Dewey’s. In 2021, Chef Tony created The Brinehouse with a new concept of different flavored brined meats finished on a wood burning grill. Chef has a love for wine and creating food with a twist and flare, but staying true to the integrity of dishes. He has a talent for creating all types of cuisine!

Meet the Chefs – Tampa Lineup

Credit: Dave Decker / Creative Loafing Tampa Bay

Anthony Santos
Private Chef

Credit: Rusty Pelican / Rusty Pelican

Arturo Lo
Rusty Pelican, 2425 N Rocky Point Dr, Tampa
Chef Arturo Lo, originally from Peru, discovered his passion for cooking through the rich culinary traditions of his heritage. After attending culinary school in Miami, he built his experience working in acclaimed restaurant scenes across San Francisco, Miami, and Tampa. Chef Arturo has worked with renowned establishments, including COTE Korean Steakhouse and La Mar, where he refined his approach to bold flavors, technique, and hospitality. His cooking reflects a blend of Peruvian influence and modern culinary creativity, bringing passion and memorable experiences to every plate.

Credit: O-Ku / O-Ku

Billy Brannen
O-Ku & Maru, 2907 W Bay to Bay Blvd, Tampa
Billy Brannen is the Executive Chef of O-Ku, a modern Japanese restaurant from the Indigo Road Hospitality Group that celebrates unique ingredients, traditional techniques, and sophisticated presentations. Originally from Jesup, GA, Brannen began his journey in the hospitality industry in 2008 when he started working at his friend’s restaurant, Sushi Time Towa, in Savannah. There, he developed a passion for the culinary industry, gaining hands-on experience across multiple roles and moving his way through the ranks and honing his skills in kitchen operations and leadership, eventually becoming Executive Chef. In 2022, Brannen joined The Indigo Road Hospitality Group as an Executive Chef at O-Ku Jacksonville Beach. His role evolved into a traveling task force chef, playing a key part in opening O-Ku Alys Beach while supporting operations across other O-Ku locations. He later settled in Tampa to oversee the launch of Maru, an elevated rooftop bar and sister concept to O-Ku Tampa. Now as Executive Chef of O-Ku Tampa, Brannen fosters a positive kitchen culture while overseeing all aspects of back-of-house operations. His culinary philosophy is rooted in intention and care, ensuring each bite is memorable. Brannen finds fulfillment in the culture of the culinary world, and values being a part of meaningful milestones for guests celebrating special occasions. Committed to learning and development, Brannen traveled to Japan as a 2025 Gohan Society Scholar, strengthening his connection to Japanese cuisine and culture while informing the menu and traditional cooking techniques at O-Ku.  

Credit: District South Kitchen + Craft / District South Kitchen + Craft

Cody Tiner
District South Kitchen & Craft, 3301 S Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa
Executive Chef and Partner, Cody Tiner brings over a decade of kitchen experience to District South Kitchen & Craft. With that comes varying styles of cuisine, with an extensive background in private dining and catering. Cody was formerly Executive Chef of CW’s Gin Joint, Chef de Cuisine of Piquant Hyde Park, and a graduate of the Culinary Arts program at the Art Institute of Tampa. He was raised in Lake Placid, Florida; a thriving agricultural driven community, where he learned from the likes of true southerners in his family. Chef Cody’s cuisine inspiration comes from a southern background, a passion for approachable food, and a firm grasp on French technique. Cody is slated to partner and operate The Black Palm in Seminole Heights with business partner Ryan Fitzgerald later this year, alongside District South, this new restaurant will focus on providing a gathering place for the neighborhood through creative and approachable fare, libations, and an inviting culture and atmosphere.

Credit: Dave Decker / Creative Loafing Tampa Bay

Cristian “Cris” Ruiz
Sal y Mar, 3650 Midtown Dr., Tampa
Cristian “Cris” Ruiz serves as the Executive Chef at Sal Y Mar Rooftop Bar located atop the dual-branded Aloft & Element hotel in Midtown Tampa, where he brings over 22 years of culinary innovation and leadership to one of the city’s hottest dining districts. A seasoned chef with experience across luxury resorts, upscale restaurants, and high-profile events, Chef Cristian is celebrated for his ability to craft seasonal, cost-effective menus that balance creativity, flavor, and profitability. His cuisine blends Mediterranean and Latin influences with modern presentation, resulting in dishes that captivate both locals and travelers alike. Prior to joining Sal Y Mar, Chef Cristian led multimillion-dollar operations and culinary teams at top establishments including OLIVIA in Tampa and Palmer’s Catering & Events in Darien, Connecticut, where he oversaw both the restaurant and its thriving catering division.

Credit: Uno Mas / Uno Mas

David Reyes
Uno Mas, 1701 N Franklin St., Tampa

Credit: Quiote Tequileria / Quiote Tequileria

Felicia LaCalle
Quiote Tequilaria, 2109 Bayshore Blvd., Tampa
Chef Felicia Lacalle’s culinary journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to hospitality. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University, she spent a decade honing her craft with Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion, working her way through the ranks and building the foundation of her culinary philosophy—one that blends technical excellence with bold creativity. Never one to stay comfortably in her lane, Felicia ventured out on her own, launching a successful meal prep company before expanding her footprint with innovative restaurant concepts throughout the Tampa Bay area. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to create a modern Cuban concept at both Armature Works and St. Pete Beach, where she showcased her talent for reimagining tradition through a contemporary lens.
Her career continued to gain momentum when she was named Executive Chef at the iconic St. Pete Pier, overseeing culinary operations at one of Florida’s most celebrated waterfront destinations. Today, Felicia serves as Chef and Partner at Quiote Tequilaria, a refined Mexican dining experience dedicated to authentic flavors, exceptional ingredients, boutique tequilas and mezcals, and elevated hospitality. Through every chapter of her career, she has remained driven by a simple belief: great food tells a story, and the best stories are shared around the table. From corporate kitchens to entrepreneurial ventures, from Cuban comfort food to modern Mexican cuisine, Chef Felicia’s career has been defined by fearless innovation, cultural respect, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Chef Gerry Sizemore holds a martini glass at the bar of CW’s Gin Joint in Tampa
Screenshot Credit: CW's Gin Joint / GW's Gin Joint

Gerry Sizemore
CW’s Gin Joint, 633 N Franklin St., Tampa

Credit: Bar Terroir / Bar Terroir

Max McKee
Bar Terroir, 3636 Henderson Blvd., Tampa
Chef Max McKee serves as Executive Chef at Bar Terroir, bringing a refined yet ingredient-driven approach shaped by some of the country’s most acclaimed kitchens. Prior to leading Bar Terroir, Max served as Chef de Cuisine at Rocca, helping the restaurant earn and maintain its Michelin star. Max honed his craft in Washington, D.C., working in several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Bresca, Jônt, and Gravitas. He later moved to Tampa to help develop Psomi’s dinner program before joining Rocca as Executive Sous Chef. Now at the helm of Bar Terroir, Max brings together classical technique, thoughtful sourcing, and a deep appreciation for wine-driven cuisine, crafting a menu rooted in seasonality, simplicity, and hospitality.

Credit: Sunda / Sunda

Mike Morales
Sunda New Asian, 3648 Midtown Dr., Tampa
Chef Mike Morales began his career at Rockit Ranch Productions in 2009. After working in various capacities and proving to be an invaluable asset to the team at Sunda New Asian, Morales was named Executive Sous Chef at the venue’s Chicago location. As Executive Sous Chef, Morales supervised a kitchen staff of more than forty and led the team in upholding impeccable standards in creating unique modern pan- Asian dishes that catered to the venue’s very distinct clientele. Chef Morales was promoted to Executive Chef of Sunda in Nashville and now is the Culinary Director, overseeing both locations in Chicago (River North and Fulton Market), and the locations Nashville, Tampa and Detroit. Morales is a Board Member of Culinary Care, an organization that provides complimentary meal support to in-need cancer patients and enjoys volunteering his cooking skills at local charity events around the city. Under his leadership, Sunda New Asian has received countless awards and accolades including a Michelin Guide recommendation in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and has participated in culinary events and appearances like Chicago Gourmet and most recently, the Food Network’s popular cooking show, “Chopped.” Morales graduated from the Illinois Institute of Art with an Associate’s Culinary Degree in 2006.

Credit: The Pearl / The Pearl

Olivia Gieser
The Pearl on Water, 823 Water St. C100, Tampa
Olivia Giesler is the Executive Chef of The Pearl at Water Street. Launching The Pearl’s Tampa location is the culmination of a long career with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants. Her culinary career began at eighteen when she fell in love with the company’s family-like atmosphere, devotion to chef-driven cuisine, and philosophy toward Genuine Hospitality. She believes there is no substitute for excellence in food quality, preparation, and service and is recognized as a calm leader who brings a creative approach to her cuisine. Her creativity in dishes is apparent, as is the ease of her warm smile. She crafts exquisite cuisine in an easy atmosphere, creating your favorite place to unwind and enjoy. Most recently, Olivia served as the Sous Chef at Ocean Prime Tampa.

Credit: Dave Decker / Creative Loafing Tampa Bay

Taylor Dillon
Con Amor, 5240 N Florida Ave., Tampa
Chef Taylor Dillon is a New Orleans-born chef and co-owner of Con Amor in Tampa. After training in top New York restaurants, he developed a passion for Mexican cuisine and traditional masa-making. His cooking combines fine-dining technique, Mexican culinary traditions, and Louisiana influences with a focus on scratch-made food and hospitality.

Credit: Bulla Gastrobar / Bulla Gastrobar

Yanick Destine
Bulla Gastrobar, 930 S Howard Ave., Tampa
Chef Yanick Destine is a Haitian culinary creative bringing bold Caribbean flavors, vibrant energy, and unforgettable experiences to every table. Passionate about food, culture, and community, she loves putting a modern twist on traditional Haitian cuisine while keeping the heart and soul of the flavors alive. With a background in finance and on the path to becoming a board-certified health and wellness coach, Chef Yanick blends creativity, flavor, and wellness into her culinary journey. Whether through live cooking demonstrations, curated events, or flavorful dishes, her mission is to make people feel connected, excited, and well-fed, one bite at a time.