Food, Music, Family and Faith

A Life Lived with Flavor.

Across more than eight decades, I discovered that I spoke two languages: the language of the kitchen and the language of the musical stage. My journey began in New Jersey, continued through my teenage years on Staten Island, and led me to chef’s school in New Haven—where I met my lifelong friend and classmate, J.B., whose bold spirit became a catalyst for so many remarkable moments; the finest being when he organized James Beard and Julia Child to give talks on our campus.

It was through Julia Child—her knowledge, generosity, and friendship—that opened unexpected doors for us. Her letter introduced us to her co-authors and guided us into the culinary world of Paris—a turning point that shaped the rhythm of our lives.

A few years after our sojourn, J.B. called me to Oklahoma to cook with him, and together we transformed a cellar café into a sought-after gourmet destination. After moving on to another venture near the University of Oklahoma campus, destiny stepped in once more: I met Pam Jones—an Okie—the love of my life.

In our early married years, I refined my craft in restaurants in Chicago and across the East Coast. Eventually, Pam and I settled in Charleston, where we raised our three daughters and created a unique restaurant—Robert’s of Charleston. There, I embraced the role that became my signature for more than thirty years—the Singing Chef of Charleston.

This site, lovingly built by a dear friend and former singer at Robert’s, offers a look into my world: the kitchens and the stage, family and faith, laughter and perseverance that shaped my life.

Welcome—pull up a chair—and pursue my journey.