A third-generation Floridian, Will was born and raised in Bradenton and is a proud graduate of Manatee High School. He began working in restaurants at the age of 14, starting as a busser and working his way up through the kitchen ranks to Chef de Cuisine. Along the way, he’s also rebuilt boats, repaired gelcoat, crabbed, mullet fished, and tackled just about every hands-on job you can think of.

What started as just a job turned into a true calling. “I feel I can make a positive impact on guests and staff members alike,” Will says—and it’s a mission he takes seriously in and out of the kitchen. One of his favorite memories? Preparing a special anniversary lunch for his parents on their 45th wedding anniversary—an experience as meaningful as it was delicious.

Outside of work, Will’s ideal day includes strong coffee (or English breakfast tea with cream and honey), a rod and reel, and a wide-open body of water. His dog might tell you he’s impossible to find—“he’s probably out fishing”—but Will always finds his way back to the kitchen, where he lives to create and inspire.

Salty or Sweet: Sweet
Describe Yourself Using Movie Titles: The Goonies, SLC Punk, The Old Man and the Sea
What’s on His Bucket List? To be the man his father is
Go-to Order: Heavy on the appetizers and daily specials—“I want to taste the world.”