St. Croix, USVI, December 4, 2024— The Buccaneer is pleased to announce the appointment of Greg Smith as the resort’s new Executive Chef. Chef Smith, a seasoned culinary professional with an extensive background in fine dining, brings over two decades of experience to The Buccaneer, and he is excited to share his passion for exceptional food with the resort’s guests.
Prior to joining The Buccaneer, Chef Smith held several prestigious roles, including Executive Banquet Chef at The Ojai Valley Inn and Omni La Costa, and most recently, Banquet Chef at The Four Seasons Nevis. With a deep understanding of Caribbean culture, he has a profound respect for the flavors and ingredients that make the region’s cuisine unique and inspiring.
“We are thrilled to welcome Greg Smith to The Buccaneer family. His extensive background, appreciation for both local and international flavors, and passion for creating memorable dining experiences align perfectly with the high standards we aim to offer our guests, stated Elizabeth Armstrong, owner of The Buccaneer. “We are confident that he will elevate the culinary experience at The Buccaneer across our three signature restaurants, introducing exciting new dishes that celebrate the rich cultural landscape of St. Croix.”
Chef Smith’s love for the culinary arts began at a young age, but it wasn’t until he was 23 years old that he decided to pursue a career as a chef. He graduated from the prestigious Art Institute of California—Los Angeles in 2003 with a degree in Culinary Arts, and his career quickly took off from there.
Chef Smith’s journey led him to some of the most renowned institutions in the United States, starting with his role at Neiman Marcus Beverly Hills’ fine dining restaurant, where he honed his skills in working with fresh, local ingredients. His fascination with California cuisine, particularly the bold and spicy flavors that define the region, helped shape his culinary style. He then went on to work at high-end venues such as the Four Seasons Los Angeles and The Peninsula Beverly Hills, where he further developed his expertise in banquet and fine dining services.
Seeking to explore new culinary horizons, he left Los Angeles for the East Coast, taking a position at The Ritz-Carlton Westchester, where he joined the team at BLT Steak. His career in the East Coast hospitality scene flourished, and he also spent time at The Ritz-Carlton San Juan, deepening his appreciation for Caribbean flavors and the cultural diversity that shapes the region’s culinary landscape.
Chef Smith’s leadership style is one that focuses on mentorship and team development. His number one priority is guiding and coaching the younger staff members he works with, believing that when passion is present in the kitchen, it translates into outstanding culinary creations.
Chef Smith is already hard at work crafting a new menu that highlights fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and bold, flavorful dishes, with an emphasis on St. Croix’s vibrant culinary culture. Guests of The Buccaneer can look forward to an elevated dining experience, whether they are enjoying a meal at one of the resort’s acclaimed restaurants or experiencing the beauty of the island while dining at the beach.
For more information about The Buccaneer’s many dining options, or to make a reservation, please call 340-712-2120
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