Our Chef

Born and raised in upstate New York, Chris Blackwood started refining his culinary skills at an early age. His dad owned a restaurant in Jamestown, New York, and Chris was his eager young apprentice. Such was his drive that by the time he graduated high school, he knew there was only one goal he must pursue. He enrolled at the St. Augustine Culinary Institute in Florida.

After graduation he tore through the restaurant community of Gulf Shores, Alabama, eventually landing a job under the tutelage of Creole cuisine master Chef Gerhard Brill at the Perdido Beach Resort. It was there that Chris sank his teeth into the Creole fusion cuisine that has become his passion. In 1993 Chris sought his culinary fortunes in Boulder. A few years later, he landed at Jax Fish House Boulder, right next door, creating exciting and innovative food for nearly 7 years.

As chef/partner of The West End Tavern, Chris has created bold new tavern food flavors that are quickly becoming the locals favorites.