STEAK - Key Persons
Bio
Hailing from Bellevue, Ian was a key member of the Walla Walla Steak Co. Woodinville opening team. His journey has been driven by his passion for food, spirits, and nature, which shines through in every dish.
Before becoming Executive Chef, Ian successfully ran a catering company with his wife. Family is his top priority, and his proudest accomplishments are raising his two sons. Outside the kitchen, Ian enjoys hunting, fishing, and connecting with the outdoors. He draws inspiration from Anthony Bourdain's "Kitchen Confidential" and believes that food fulfills our emotional need for purpose and meaning.
Bio
Kris Nearents recently joined the Walla Walla team as General Manager, bringing dedication, warmth, and enthusiasm to Walla Walla Steak Co.
Kris brings a wealth of experience from managing renowned establishments, including roles at The Hollywood Tavern, Palisade, Southfork Public House, and RoundTop Public House. His dedication and commitment to creating a familial atmosphere align perfectly with Walla Walla Steak Co's values.
Hailing from Omak, Wash., Kris grew up in Okanogan and spent significant time in Pullman and Seattle. His passion for hospitality extends beyond work, as he enjoys collecting whiskey and tequila, exploring new cuisines, and being a devoted Marvel comics fan. Some of his favorite things range from Negroni cocktails to movies, "Dune" and "Jurassic Park."
Known for his laugh and hard work, his philosophy on success is that it's related to action, persistence and learning from mistakes. Kris recently married Lexi, and they share their home with four cats.
Bio
Nearly two decades of dedication to guests and his team led to Louis Bentley's role as general manager at Walla Walla Steak Co. in Woodinville. Louis has served in a variety of roles within Fire & Vine Hospitality including 11 years at El Gaucho Bellevue, and most recently as a captain at AQUA by El Gaucho and his wealth of experience and leadership is a strong asset to the Steak Co. Woodinville team.
A Washington native, Louis traveled extensively during his childhood as part of his father's Army career which sparked a lifetime of curiosity and creativity. He is finishing a double major in Sociology and Psychology at the University of Washington and is also an avid fisherman and a skilled artist and craftsman working with wood and metal to make knives and more, including the smoked old-fashioned vessels used at many Fire & Vine Hospitality locations. He and his wife, Beverly, are the proud parents of three adult children and four grandchildren, as well as their dog, Virgo.
Bio
Walla Walla native Rock Silva's hunger for all things food have taken him near and far, from kitchens in Seattle to Australia. After culinary school, Rock pushed himself to work with the industry's leaders including Jason Wilson, Michael Mina, Ethan Stowell and Brian Clevenger. Rock hopes to share his passion for hospitality with others through his enthusiastic and honest approach. Rock shares his belief that food is the single greatest element to any great party. He believes in simple food done right, with integrity, thought, and a good knob of butter.
Rock resides in Walla Walla with his wife, Amanda, and their two sons. On his days off, you can find him spending time with his family and friends, BBQing, watching sports and playing golf. Some of his favorite foods include tacos, noodles of all kinds, and anything to satisfy his sweet tooth.