Adam Kirby

Co-Owner and Chef

Adam Kirby, chef and co-owner of Bistro 217 in Pawleys Island, has successfully taken all of his culinary influences and created a diverse, Southern menu. "Growing up in Atlanta, I had the benefit of learning from two fantastic Southern cooks at a young age, my mother and grandmother." Chef Kirby later moved from Atlanta to Hawaii, where he fell in love with the cuisine on the islands and decided to pursue a career that mirrored his passion for cooking. Adam then moved to Portland, Ore., and graduated from Le Cordon Bleu of the Western Culinary Institute.

After his intense culinary training, Adam spent a number of years travelling the country while working for a number of renowned restaurants including Stars in San Francisco, Spice Canoe and the Terrace Hotel in Atlanta, and the Gasthaus Restaurant at the Widmer Brewery in Portland.

Today, Chef Kirby's menu at Bistro 217 exemplifies his culinary talents and wide-ranging influences. His style of cuisine is described as Southern and Pacific Rim by some, and described as delicious by all. Chef Kirby has been with the restaurant since it opened in 2004, and the menu has expanded quite a bit during the last six years. "I love to create new, exciting and flavorful dishes. I will often have a nightly special and will sometimes incorporate them into the menu permanently. I want to present a menu that has something for everyone, whether it is a lunch or dinner." In addition, Chef Kirby prides himself on utilizing consistently fresh ingredients and not cutting any corners. At Bistro 217, even the ice cream is homemade.