Experience the culinary scene with our impressive lineup of talented chefs. Our chefs bring a wealth of experience and creativity to their dishes. Indulge in an experience that brings a diverse and exciting culinary experience.
Host of Food Network
CUTTHROAT
KITCHEN
Brian Malarkey is one of America’s most dynamic and accomplished chefs and restaurateurs, celebrated for his bold culinary vision and innovative, concept-driven dining experiences. Beyond his successful restaurant ventures, Malarkey is the founder of Chefs Life, a rapidly growing culinary lifestyle brand offering premium cooking oils and products, now available in over 4,000 grocery stores nationwide. He currently serves as the host of Food Network’s Cutthroat Kitchen.
Executive Chef,
Herb & Wood
Winner of Food Network
CHOPPED
As a winner of TV competition shows such as Cutthroat Kitchen and Chopped: Next Generation, Chef Carlos Anthony has made a name for himself in the culinary world. The Arizona native and restaurateur Brian Malarkey’s protégé is currently the executive chef of San Diego’s Herb & Wood, where he is combining his homegrown and family-rooted love for cuisine with a touch of technology.
Executive Chef,
Elliott Aster
Elliott Aster, the new restaurant at The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in St. Petersburg, FL, is led by Michelin-starred chef Lee Wolen. Wolen is also known for his work with Boka Restaurant Group in Chicago, where Boka has maintained a Michelin star since 2011, according to St. Pete Foodies. Elliott Aster, which opened in May 2025, aims to bring a refined Italian and Mediterranean-inspired dining experience to St. Pete.
Chef,
Rachel Martin
Rachel Martin brings fine-dining expertise and heart-led purpose to everything she cooks. Before joining Pilgrim’s, she honed her craft in Michelin-nominated kitchens like The Little Nell and led large-scale catering for renowned events such as Aspen Food & Wine and the Kentucky Derby. Beyond the spotlight. Passionate about making nourishing food accessible to all, she’s dedicated to helping people bring ease and joy back to the kitchen.
Executive Chef Ole
Chef Marco brings his passion for Latin cuisine and experience to Olé with the goal to help Olé work with its key clients to develop exciting menu ideas that incorporate Olé items and capitalize on the dynamic consumer trends of today.
Executive Chef
Rao's
Chef Ethan Holmes of Rao’s is a culinary virtuoso whose passion simmers in every hand-stirred sauce and heirloom tomato reduction. With a heart steeped in tradition and a palate attuned to the poetry of rustic Italian fare, he elevates simplicity to sacred ritual. In his kitchen, time slows, and each dish becomes a love letter to the old country—rich with soul, kissed by fire, and served with reverence.
Kinder's PitMaster
Dave Johnston brings the heat as Pitmaster and Promotions Manager for Kinder’s Premium Seasonings & Sauces. With decades of barbecue expertise and a passion for bold, authentic flavor, Dave represents the heart of the brand—on the grill and on the road. Whether he’s perfecting smoked meats or leading flavor-packed demos across the country, Dave is all about sharing the Kinder’s tradition of great taste and quality craftsmanship.
Co-Founder, Chef & the Baker
Over the course of her career, Chef Rosana Rivera has been featured extensively in print, TV, and radio media. Most recently, she competed on Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay and won with her signature Beef Empanadas. Chef Rosana has also been featured on the Today Show. She has been a driving force behind many of Tampa Bay’s most popular restaurants over the past 10 years and currently operates several culinary ventures under the Chef & The Baker brand, including catering, a cooking school, gourmet foods, and kitchenware.
Executive Chef Coconut Charlies
Chef Stephen Horvat is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of Pittsburgh and earned his C.C. through the American Culinary Federation. His culinary journey has taken him from interning at the acclaimed Alberini’s in Ohio to executive roles at restaurants and resorts including Marriott Hutchinson Island and Hilton Garden Inn, St. Pete Beach, where he currently leads as Executive Chef. He’s also owned and operated Allstarz Sports Grille and served as a Culinary Director in healthcare. When he’s not in the kitchen, Steve enjoys Caribbean travel, cooking with his wife, and staying active.
Chef
Florida Dairy Farmers
Executive Chef
Melting Pot
Chef Jason Miller brings over 30 years of culinary expertise to his role as Director of Culinary Innovation & Development at Melting Pot. He leads the creation and evolution of the brand’s menu offerings, drives culinary innovation, and spearheads promotional events across more than 90 locations nationwide.
For over a decade at the Melting Pot, Chef Jason’s passion for bold flavors, guest experience, and inventive cuisine continues to shape the brand’s culinary direction and delight guests across the country.
Executive Chef
Vinoy
Executive Chef,Birch & Vine
Elegant, seasonal, and always unexpected—Chef Lee elevates local ingredients with precision and artistry. Expect refined dishes and a soulful presentation style.
Executive Sous Chef
Vinoy
Chef,
Filippo Berio
Celebrity Chef Johnathan Rodriguez, the Italian-Puerto Rican creator of FOMO Chefs, now proudly serves as a brand ambassador for Filippo Berio. With over 20 years of experience, he and his team craft unforgettable culinary experiences, infusing every dish with a love for Italian cuisine and premium olive oils. Featured on Food Network, ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC, and known for cooking for presidents and top-tier clients, Chef Johnathan turns luxury dining into a true celebration of flavor and community impact.
Chef,
Taverna Costale
Chef,
Doc Ford's
Chef,
The Blue Halo
Chef,
Tryst
SUNDAY ONLY
Chef,
The Cake Girl
Kristina Lavallee, founder of The Cake Girl®, is a Celebrity Cake Designer and nationally recognized entrepreneur celebrated for her jaw-dropping custom cakes and signature mini cupcakes. Featured on Food Network, TODAY, Telemundo, Entrepreneur Magazine, TMZ, and People, Kristina has created viral desserts for celebrities including Tom Brady, Daymond John, and Jason Momoa. A proud Puerto Rican innovator, she blends creativity with community, leading weekly “Random Acts of Sweetness” to honor military families, first responders, and local nonprofits.
More celebrity chefs and local culinary talent being announced weekly! Check back often and follow us on social for the latest additions to this year’s tasting team.
From innovative flavor combinations to beautifully crafted dishes, these culinary artists transform every bite into a celebration of creativity and passion. Don’t miss your chance to experience firsthand. Secure your tickets now!
From live music and interactive experiences, to exclusive tastings and chef meet-and-greets, every moment at SAVOR St. Pete is crafted to surprise and delight. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable weekend where flavor, fun, and Florida sunshine come together in perfect harmony. Learn more about the heart behind the festival and what makes SAVOR St. Pete a must-attend event.