Tony Ridgway

Tony Ridgway

Chef

Tony Ridgway has been successfully operating restaurants as a chef-owner in Naples, Florida, since 1971.  He is credited as having inspired the evolution of fine dining in Naples, beginning with The Chef’s Garden in 1972, and including restaurants such as Truffles Café, Villa Pescatore, and Plum’s Café. Today, Tony and his co-owner, Sukie Honeycutt, are proprietors of Ridgway Bar & Grill, Tony’s Off Third, Bayside Seafood Grill & Bar, and Sukie’s Wine Shop.  Tony is self-taught and will tell you he prefers to be called a cook rather than a chef. He believes the authenticity and passion behind his work lies in a pure love of the food and for the pleasures of dining with family and friends.

Now in his 49th year of consecutive business, Tony published a book entitled Kitchen Privileges: A Hands-on Account of Life, Food, and How to Cook, which encompasses the story of his life and career, detailed techniques and tips, and an extensive repertoire of recipes.  Tony is respected in Southwest Florida, not just for his prowess in the kitchen, but as a social leader and