Sam Smith

Sam was born in Berkley, CA. After graduating high school in 2000, he moved to the East Coast to attend Villanova University. During his time there, he studied English literature, philosophy, and Spanish.

Unsure of the next step, he decided to attend culinary school. This set the direction for the rest of his professional career. After culinary school, Sam opened the famed restaurant Zahav. Eventually, Sam was pulled back to the West Coast and ended up in Portland in 2011. He was the opening chef at Spirit of 77, Ava Gene’s, and Tusk. He left Tusk in the summer of 2020 to do some personal reflection and growth. He recently teamed up with an old friend to reopen Sweedeedee as chef and partner.

Sam is excited to participate in helping the people that work so hard alongside him, and beyond.