For Sandpiper's Chef Bruno, food is his passion

By PAMELA BARKER
Community Reporter/Social Media Editor
North Palm Beach Life/northpalmlife@gmail.com

Meet Sandpiper's Cove Restaurant and Bar Executive Chef, Bruno Martin, and it is obvious he cares immensely about his duties and mission to provide excellent food and a very special dining experience.

However, it is also easy to conjure up images of him dressed, not in the traditional white garb associated with a chef, but in the uniform of the French Navy.

"I served for three years, and sailed around the world. During that time, I also met my American wife, Lynn, in Martinique. It was at a disco," he grinned.

"Thirty years later, here we are. We have no children, and we love to travel."

When asked if his wife shared cooking duties at home, his answer was simple.

"No, she doesn't."

Can't blame her, as Chef Bruno's passion for food, it's proper preparation and presentation quickly became apparent.

The  road leading to his current position at Sandpiper's Cove is fascinating, and has been diverse and ever-evolving.

"Your first job can set the course and rules for your career," he said. "Mine did. Your passion is reflected in the food prepared and served."

Throughout our conversation, it became clear that his experience and knowledge of the food industry is vast. He has had on-the-job training, experience at exclusive country clubs, formal training for three years and owned his own establishment, Bruno's Mountain Bistro, in Cashiers, North Carolina, in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Chef Bruno believes it takes passion, as well as training, to be successful in the professional food arena.

He and his wife have certainly had some challenges along the way. Such as a home fire a few years ago.

"The house was insured, but it took two years to re-build," he shared.

Personal obstacles aside, he stressed that each meal, whether at home or while dining out, should be special. No sitting down in front of the television with a plate of food at his home.

"We do not even own a television."

His story is filled with fascinating anecdotes of the differences in dining experiences, venues and cities.

Even better?

The opportunity to hear from him yourself.

Call or check the Sandpiper's Cove website for upcoming Chef's Dinner Demonstrations. You can meet Chef Bruno in person as he shows you how to cook, and you get to sample the courses he presents. Seating is limited, so get your reservation in early.

Sandpiper's Cove Restaurant and Bar is located at Old Port Cove, a gated-community, and is a membership operation. However, tours of the facility are available by calling their office. On your first visit, you get to dine without a membership (the tour is free, but the food is on you). For more interviews and information, go here.

Your first job can set the course and rules for your career."

Sandpiper's Executive Chef, Bruno Martin (NPBL Photo)

Review of Bruno's Mountain Bistro in Cashiers, NC
​(Courtesy of Bruno Martin)