The Local Grape

Chef Robert W. Snyder III

Chef Snyder has had a long and productive relationship with cooking, starting with his family and interacting at his father’s restaurant. At an early age, Chef Snyder discovered a deep passion for culinary arts and at fifteen years old began a career in the restaurant industry where he quickly developed a great eye for detail and vision. This quickly led to becoming the Executive Chef at Graffiti’s restaurant in Destin, Florida and the success led him to pursue and complete a degree in Culinary Arts / Restaurant Management from the Scottsdale Culinary Institute in Arizona.

Over a fifteen-year span Chef Snyder traveled for experience and knowledge— resulting in opportunities to work with many Michelin-starred chefs including those at the renowned French Laundry and Meadowood restaurants in Napa, California.

Chef Snyder is proud to list his role as Executive Chef for the renowned AAA Five Diamond, Relais & Châteaux association member Chateau du Sureau’s “The Elderberry House” in Oakhurst, CA as the flagship of his career.

Having truly experienced one of the highest platforms of culinary arts, Chef Snyder loves the creative process of fine dining, the challenge of preparing a different menu each day, using only fresh, market quality ingredients and making the guest beyond happy. Today, Chef Snyder continues his culinary ventures with RWS Catering.

“Culinary education is an important passion for me. I have had the opportunity of being able to educate the next generation of young chefs and teach the importance of eco-friendly techniques, sustainability, and supporting local farms. I am constantly learning and absorbing modern techniques. Each day of this career offers something new to a boy still playing with his food.”