Walt grew up in the Tampa Bay Area with local fishermen and learned how to catch, properly care, and cook fresh seafood - he developed an early interest in becoming a professional chef.

While working for four years for a nationally renowned restaurant chain- which started locally - in Clearwater, Walt learned the basics of cooking and the skills needed in running a kitchen. After attending LSU, in Baton Rouge, LA, Walt then decided to continue culinary training at Johnson and Wales University in Miami, FL.

While in Miami, Walt worked under 5 James Beard House Award winning chefs. Upon returning to the Tampa Bay Area, Walt opened a restaurant as a sous chef, in South Tampa, under a 6th James Beard Award winning chef.

Shortly afterwards, Walt accepted a position as the Executive Chef for a popular casual-fine dining restaurant located in St. Petersburg, FL.

While designing and building his own restaurant in Dunedin, Walt also worked at a Florida Trend "Golden Spoon Hall of Fame" restaurant on Clearwater Beach as the chef of their popular bistro.

Walt was born and raised in the Dunedin / Clearwater area and currently resides in Dunedin with his wife and daughter.
When not at the restaurant, Walt enjoys cooking with family and friends, especially on Sundays, boating, fishing, hunting, and teaching his 3 yr old daughter swim lessons.