Chef Christoper DeGenova of The Oyster Society
Tell us about your hometown & growing up...
Mainly grew up in Texas outside of Dallas. My dad would make homemade pasta on Sundays growing up
Chef Christoper DeGenova
What was your first thought when you drove over the bridge?
In 2005 driving over the Bridge to Marco Island was a sensation of a clean and quiet island. It's a genuine paradise I still enjoy every time I cross the bridge.
What inspires your cooking and how did you get started in the industry?
I am inspired by ingredients and my passion for creating new dishes from the best ingredients. My career started in my early teens and has always been my passion.
How do you work with the bar staff to create such a seamless dining and beverage experience?
As the chef, I work with Francesco Serravalle to help keep the consistency of his recipes. The kitchen plays a role in the different styles of fruit syrups and cordials Francesco creates.
Give us the scoop on your Oyster program...
Oyster Society is way more than oysters, but it’s the name of our establishment so we decided to develop one of the most vast oyster programs in the entire country. We offer 16 to 24 west and east coast cold water varieties daily and at any given moment we can have between 2000 to 5000 oysters in our inventory. We serve them simply and let the oyster express itself in its natural form. Our TOS hot sauce is a Jack Daniels lemon pepper sauce that pairs perfectly with any oyster.
What's your favorite dish to make?
This is a trick question in the fact I have been cooking for over 35 years, but I will say products such as Tuna, High-Quality steaks, Foie Gras and Mushrooms are some of my favorite ingredients to utilize.
What should everyone know about Marco as either a resident or a first-time visitor?
Oyster Society is unique and we love to personalize your experience. We can make an amazing surprise dinner “chefs tasting” for any occasion, just simply contact us directly. It’s definitely a personal and unique experience.
What is your ideal meal to share with your family?
Simple summer outside grilled dinner at home with my family, steaks shrimp, and vegetables. Always keep it simple.
What do you do on your off days?
I spend most of my days off with my family, we love new adventures hiking, and outdoor activities.
Do you have any favorite spots to dine around Marco when not at TOS?
I tend to go to most of our sister restaurants… Marco Prime, DaVincis, and Snook Inn. Sometimes I will venture out to other spots, I enjoy the JW Marriott during the Spring and Summer.
What's one thing people don't know about you that may surprise them?
I love to build unique things.
Boat Day or Beach Day, that is the question...
Boat Day, it’s a simple decision because you can go to several beaches on the same day