Ryan T. Whittaker from 116 Espresso & Wine Bar

Posted: 9/28/2011

BIO:

Chef Ryan Whittaker is a local product of Irmo, South Carolina and Owner of 116 Espresso and Wine Bar in West Columbia. Ryan began his culinary training as an apprentice with the American Culinary Federation in Columbia and studied under many of the city’s top chefs. He worked as an Executive Chef for Tronco’s Catering for several years before moving to Chicago to manage a high end catering firm and to root on his beloved Cubs. He returned home 4 years later to open The Chef’s Table Catering and Special Events in Lexington which he operated for 3 years before eventually launching his current venture at 116. Ryan purchased “House Coffee” in May of 2009 and remodeled and redesigned the business to become 116 Espresso and Wine Bar in September of 2009.

PHILOSOPHY:

Chef Ryan strives to create simple thoughtful food with a focus on local ingredients at 116 while providing the diner a casual and welcoming environment complete with local art and live music.