Tap 42 Names David Peck as New Executive Chef

Tap 42 in Fort Lauderdale has named David Peck as its new executive chef, restaurant partner Andy Yeager confirmed in an email interview this week. "We are happy to have (Peck) as part of our team and look forward to continued improvement in all facets of our operation," Yeager said. Peck replaces Chris Palmer, who parted ways with the restaurant in mid-March.

Yeager said Peck's background shows "great range," with stints at Mark's Las Olas, Nobu in Dallas, and with the Chicago-based N9NE group at their restaurant NOVE Italiano. Most recently, Peck was living and working in Naples doing consulting work and other projects.

"(Peck) is really an ideal fit for our group for a multitude of reasons, the most important of which are skill and an openness to learn and coach," Yeager said. "We are equally as impressed with his ability to think outside of the box and combine flavors that are not only tasty, but interesting."

Yeager continued: "Tap 42 is a gastro-pub, so we don't have to hide behind certain societal norms, and we leave everything on the table when we look at our menu. Most importantly, (Peck) brings a 'can-do' attitude to our bar with him everyday. We like to talk about one sentence when we get together: 'It can be done.' Getting there is another story, but we are confident in (his) skills and disposition out of the gates, and will give him the support he needs to realize his potential. We think (Peck) brings the right style and approach to our kitchen everyday, and we are very happy to have him."

Stay tuned to Clean Plate Charlie for more details on the chef changeover and what it will mean for the restaurant and its menu.

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