Who We Are
Born in 2026, Barrier Island Cuisine brings the spirit of the Gulf Coast to the table. Chef Bo and Chef Chris share a love for relaxed coastal living, fresh seafood, and dishes that feel both comforting and exciting.
Chef Bo
Meet Chef Bo. Born and raised in Southwest Florida, he has over a decade of experience cooking in our tropical paradise.
Growing up, he spent countless hours fishing and exploring the surrounding waters with his father and grandfather, developing a deep connection to the Gulf and a lasting respect for its natural bounty. He also spent time in the kitchen with his parents, learning to cook at home and discovering his passion for creating meals that bring people together.
For the past six years, Chef Bo has been navigating the culinary currents of North Captiva, drawing inspiration from the barrier islands of the Pine Island Sound and developing a deep appreciation for the local flavors of the Gulf Coast.
When he’s not in the kitchen, Chef Bo enjoys reading, playing the latest games, and traveling to explore new places and flavors.
Sanibel Causeway Beach 1999
Chef Chris
Before moving to Florida, Chef Chris grew up in New England, where he developed a deep appreciation for the region’s seafood, from baked cod to warm Connecticut lobster rolls.
At the age of 15, he began his career in the fire service at South Trail Fire District as a Fire Explorer. He later relocated to North Carolina, where he continued his firefighting journey. By age 20, he had become a full-time firefighter with the Tabernacle Fire Department in North Carolina.
During his time at Tabernacle, he developed an interest in wildland fires and conservation work, which led him to transition to the U.S. Forest Service. There, he served on various hand crews across the American West, including the Sacramento Hotshots in New Mexico and Mad River Hotshots in Northern California.
His time out West allowed him to explore diverse culinary experiences, from New Mexican cuisine to fresh halibut from the California coast. He encountered a wide array of dishes, flavors, and cooking styles that inspired him and influenced the development of his own culinary style.
Upon returning to Florida, he established Barrier Island Cuisine LLC in 2026, partnering with his childhood friend and classmate, Chef Bo.
In addition to his culinary pursuits, he enjoys fly fishing and hunting, but his passion for cooking and the pursuit of high-quality ingredients have always guided him. Driven by a desire to serve others and create unique culinary experiences, he strives to deliver exceptional dishes with every creation.
Sacramento Hotshots 2022 - Calf Canyon / Hermits Peak Fire
Mad River Hotshots 2025 - Colorado