New chef takes helm of the Chunky Tuna Cafe
Longtime local award-winning chef Alan “Rudy” Porter recently took the helm of the Chunky Tuna Cafe and Bakery (in the Gulf View Shops, 2943 Estero Blvd.), bringing some tasty new menu additions to the restaurant, as well as decades of culinary experience.
“I really enjoy bringing tasty, good-quality food to a happy atmosphere, such as the Chunky Tuna Cafe,” Chef Rudy said.
“We’re so happy to have Chef Rudy as a part of our cafe family,” said Kelly Chrisien, owner of the new restaurant and bakery. “He’s a great addition to our staff.”
Prior to working at the Chunky Tuna, Chef Rudy graced the presence of several island establishment kitchens within the 12 years he’s lived in town, including Beach Pierside Grill, Fernando’s, The Holmes House, Big Game and Channel Mark, where he’s been awarded several Taste of the Beach awards several years in a row.
He also cooked on the 100-foot Ultimate Getaway Dive Boat, where a chef’s abilities are truly tested in such “cozy” quarters.
“You have to be very organized if you’re going to run a ship’s galley,” the chef said.
Along with Rudy, the cafe is also proud to announce an all-new dinner menu, allowing the restaurant to offer early bird specials, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., Wednesday through Friday.
Summer hours will be Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2:30 to 5:30 for dinner; Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Sunday, from 8 a.m. to noon.
Catering is still available, and private parties are welcome to use the cafe facilities during “after-hours” functions, as well as days the cafe is closed.
Keep an eye out for a special Easter brunch the Chunky Tuna will offer during Easter Sunday, April 24.