Chef Don Splain

Chef Don Splain

Naples, Florida

Chef Don Splain began his culinary exploration in the heart of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Here, he developed a passion for how different cultures influence culinary arts and became enamored with the diverse palette of local ingredients. Eager to expand his horizons, Chef Splain ventured across the United States to delve into regional culinary styles, aiming to incorporate these unique methods and ingredients to elevate the dining experience for his guests.

After completing his education at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, Chef Splain ventured abroad to explore Europe's rich culinary traditions. He staged in the esteemed kitchens of chefs such as Adolfo Muñoz and Martin Berasategui, among others, throughout Spain and Italy.

At the core of Chef Splain's culinary philosophy is a commitment to the 'Art of Possible Cuisine.' He views each dish as a marriage of history, culture, and geography, carefully crafted to stimulate the senses and educate the palate. Through a relentless pursuit of culinary excellence, Chef Splain employs a 'farm-to-fork' approach, emphasizing locally sourced and seasonally available ingredients. This philosophical underpinning sets him apart, transforming each dining experience into an intimate voyage through the world's rich tapestry of culinary traditions.

Chef Splain gained widespread recognition for his pre-COVID-19 restaurant, The Founders, in Naples, Florida. This establishment emphasized local ingredients in made-from-scratch dishes that caught the attention of the James Beard Foundation and Bon Appétit Magazine. The Founders was in the running for 'Top 10 New Restaurants in the US' before it was unfortunately forced to close its doors.

Currently, Chef Splain focuses his culinary expertise on private dining events and in-home cooking classes, a venture featured in Gulfshore Life Magazine. These classes range from mastering basic knife skills to exploring advanced culinary techniques, offering an educational experience bounded only by a student's imagination. In addition to these services, he consults with restaurants to build robust relationships with local and international growers and producers.

Chef Splain is often seen collaborating in culinary endeavors with his wife, Sarah, and their three daughters. The family affair brings a unique warmth to his approach. Echo, a chef carving her own path in the culinary world, contributes her inventive flair. Saffron, the family's logistician, ensures that everything runs smoothly, while Keziah, an emerging talent in pastries and protocol, adds a touch of sweetness and formality. Together, they form a cohesive culinary tapestry, amplifying Chef Splain's philosophy that cooking and hospitality are more than a craft; they are a familial bond that nourishes the soul as much as it does the body.

Looking ahead, Chef  Splain envisions creating a dining establishment that genuinely reflects his eclectic approach and culinary philosophy. He actively seeks like-minded individuals and partners for collaboration. The planned restaurant aims to be an experiential journey beyond merely satisfying the appetite but also delighting the soul. This venture will not only offer exquisite cuisine made from the freshest local and international ingredients but will also serve as a sanctuary where culinary arts, friends, family, and community spirit coalesce.

Chef Splain holds an Associate of Occupational Studies in Culinary Arts from The Culinary Institute of America and has studied nutrition and food anthropology extensively. His career reflects a profound dedication to the culinary arts, hospitality, and community service.