Butchers & Bakers announced their newest culinary team member, Executive Chef Zach Shuman, a food and industry veteran. In this role, he will be responsible for enhancing the hand-crafted, creative dishes the acclaimed menu currently offers. Butchers & Bakers was founded in 2017 and is part of the Locals 8 Hospitality Group.

Born and raised in West Hartford, CT, Shuman has spent nearly all his life pursuing his passion for cooking. Yet, with a culinary family history dating back three generations, some could say it’s been in his blood for a long while. As he looks forward to this new chapter, Chef Zach says, “I chose Butchers & Bakers because, like the last group I worked with, there’s sole ownership, and I like the ability to interact directly with the owner. It creates a great experience and a great team. Butchers is a brand I can see expanding and growing with, and growth is HUGE for me!” Similarly, Locals 8 Founder and CEO Allie Gamble explains, “We want Butchers & Bakers to be the ultimate culinary destination, and with Chef Zach’s expertise on our side, we know we are there.”

Zach studied at Johnson & Wales University in Rhode Island. Since then, he’s worked for notable Connecticut chefs and restaurants across the country. With that said, Zach is a chef of many talents and many delightful, pallet-pleasing ideas. However, no matter where he goes, he isn’t a fan of the term ‘fine dining.’ Instead, he prefers the concept of ‘casual fine dining’ as his work embodies the quality behind mastery dishes without the weight of poshness or pressure.

For those eager to get a bite of Chef Zach’s new additions to the Butchers & Bakers menu, know he’s just as excited to serve you. From unique cocktails to decadent brunch specials and sensational lunch and dinner entrees, there’s something for everyone to indulge in and enjoy.