Chef Nicholas Chavez brings the rhythm of his Cuban heritage to the soul of the Carolina coast. Based in Wilmington, North Carolina, he crafts food that bridges Latin warmth, southern ingredients, and fine-dining precision into dishes that feel both rooted and revelatory.
A proud Food Network Chopped champion, Chavez made his mark showcasing bold flavors, balance, and creativity under pressure— traits that define his cooking today. His food celebrates seasonality and story, drawing inspiration from the Lowcountry’s coastal abundance and the soulful traditions he grew up with. From bright crudos and wood-fired seafood to slow-cooked, deeply layered sauces, every plate reflects his belief that food should carry memory and emotion.
Raised in a culture where food means connection, Chavez brings that spirit into every kitchen he leads. He champions local purveyors, crafts menus that evolve with the tide, and builds experiences that make people feel something— comfort, nostalgia, joy or pure surprise.
Through his evolving work and vision, Chef Nicholas Chavez continues to carve out his own voice in Southern cuisine: deeply personal, unapologetically flavorful, and always rooted in the joy of feeding people’s souls and redefining what southern cooking can be.
2:00 pm - 5:30 pm
