Opening Robert's of Charleston

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 first met my lifelong friend and classmate, J.B. Her knowledge, generosity, and friendship opened doors I never imagined.

Through Julia’s letter, she 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 later, my dear friend and CIA classmate J.B. called me in Oklahoma to cook with him, transforming a cellar cafe into a sought-after gourmet restaurant. Moving on to another restaurant venture on the University of Oklahoma campus, I met Pam Jones, an Okie, the love of my life.

In our early married years, I improved my craft in restaurants up and down the East Coast. Eventually, Pam and I settled in Charleston, where we raised our three daughters and created a unique restaurant concept. 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, invites you into my world: the kitchens and the stage, the family and faith, the laughter and perseverance that shaped my life.

Welcome and pull up a chair—and let us begin the journey together.