Chef Zachary Smith

At 37 years old, I bring over 15 years of experience in restaurant leadership, combining culinary excellence with strong operational and team management skills. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of contributing to highly recognized concepts and working alongside respected industry leaders.

I was personally selected by Tim Love to serve as Chef de Cuisine at Koko’s Bavarian in Austin, a role that allowed me to lead the kitchen and help shape a concept that quickly gained critical acclaim. Koko’s Bavarian was nominated for Best New Restaurant in Austin by Austin Monthly, CultureMap, and other major publications, recognized alongside standout establishments such as Birdie’s and Canje.

In 2021, I was honored with a nomination for Culinary Artist of the Year for the city of Waco, reflecting both my creativity and impact within the local dining scene. Prior to that, I served as Assistant General Manager at Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ in Tyler during the time Thrillist named it the second-best BBQ restaurant in the nation, an achievement that underscored our commitment to quality, consistency, and hospitality.

My career has been built on leadership, passion, and a drive to create memorable dining experiences. Whether developing concepts, leading teams, or crafting exceptional menus, I am dedicated to delivering food that is thoughtful, refined, and rooted in excellence.