Celebrating Five Years of Flavour and Fellowship

There is a restaurant in the bustling Limegrove Lifestyle Centre locale approaching its fifth anniversary – The Rustic Chef. Offering an abundant spread of food for every meal of the day from breakfast to dinner, The Rustic Chef’s food has already built up a few fan favourites. From their irresistible truffle parmesan fries to high-protein salads, creative flatbreads, and classic burgers – The Rustic Chef offers something for everybody. Make sure to try the rich pastas and hearty goulash – a traditional European slow-cooked meat stew. Offering loads of spices and rich flavour with Polish influence, Chef Dawid’s food centres on unique Eastern European flavours and vibrant colours. His cooking goes back to the roots with original flavours, rough cooking with fine dining to elevate the cuisine. Between quirky cocktails and homemade European flair – it’s impossible to overlook the essence of what makes this dining spot truly special – the team. More than just a restaurant, The Rustic Chef is a story of dedication, growth, and community spirit, woven through the lives of its founding team members.

In an untraditional Foodie article, this time we won’t be taking you through the mouth-watering cocktails or dynamic and irresistible food – that’s for you to go try yourself. Here, we shine a light on five individuals whose passion and hard work fuel the continuing success, and now expansion into its second location on the south coast, of The Rustic Chef.

MONIQUE BEST:
THE CULINARY HEARTBEAT
Since January 2020, Monique Best has served as the backbone of The Rustic Chef’s kitchen operations. As Chef Dawid’s secondin-command, Monique’s culinary expertise has been pivotal in crafting the unique flavours that patrons have come to adore. Her journey in gastronomy extends beyond the restaurant’s kitchen— Monique also runs a beloved food stall at Oistins Fish Market named Shirley’s. With The Rustic Chef’s expansion, Monique will soon transition to the restaurant’s second location under the continued leadership of Chef Dawid – promising to bring her signature flair and innovation to the south coast.

JONATHAN DENNY-YEARWOOD:
THE PILLAR OF SERVICE
Jonathan Denny-Yearwood, the first team member to join The Rustic Chef on December 1st, 2019, epitomises the spirit of growth. Starting his journey as a Kitchen Porter while pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Hotel Management, Jonathan’s dedication saw him rise through the ranks to become a Front of House Supervisor. His academic achievements are complemented by a Mixologist Certificate, acquired through company-sponsored training, allowing him to charm guests not only with his leadership but also with his cocktails.

HALINA PNIAK:
THE HOSPITALITY ANCHOR
Halina Pniak, another esteemed Front of House Supervisor, brings a unique blend of skills to The Rustic Chef team. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Halina applies her understanding of human behaviour to enhance guest experiences. Like her colleagues, she has focused on her mixology repertoire, adding depth to her role as a supervisor and bartender. Halina’s academic and professional journey exemplifies The Rustic Chef’s commitment to supporting their team’s educational pursuits and career aspirations.

KWAME YEARWOOD:
THE SPIRITED SUPERVISOR

Kwame Yearwood’s story at The Rustic Chef progressed quickly. Starting in June 2021 as a Kitchen Porter, his exceptional work ethic and knack for hospitality fast-tracked his promotion to the Front of House team and then Bar Supervisor. Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in International Tourism Management, Kwame has also excelled in mixology at The Rustic Chef. His journey reflects the restaurant’s ethos of nurturing potential and rewarding hard work.

CHEF DAWID:
THE VISIONARY LEADER

While this time around Chef Dawid preferred to shine the spotlight on his team, his leadership has been instrumental in guiding The Rustic Chef through its formative years. His vision creates a dining experience that feels like home and sets the standard for wholesome, rustic food. Under his guidance, the restaurant has not only become a culinary landmark in Limegrove, but also a nurturing ground for budding talent in the hospitality industry.

The Rustic Chef is a testament to the power of nurturing and investing in employees in Barbados. Gaining more and more momentum after five years of operation, the restaurant not only celebrates its culinary achievements but also honours the people that have made it all possible. Here’s to many more years of success, innovation, and community for the team at The Rustic Chef.