The restaurant industry has been my domain since my teenage years, where I’ve gained experience in both cooking and hospitality. Now, I have the opportunity to write about Central Florida’s newest culinary hotspot. It’s an exciting chance to explore and share the delights of this unique establishment. Join me as I delve into the world of kitchen dynamics and customer service, uncovering the secrets behind this rising star in the local culinary scene.
Located in the historical district of New Smyrna Beach, The Spott occupies a historic two-story brick building nestled just east of US 1 on Canal Street. This culinary gem is the brainchild of Terrence Dever and Greg Gabringer, who turned their vision into reality on July 9, 2021. The name “The Spott” had long been brewing in Terry’s mind before its eventual realization.
Terry and Greg’s partnership spans two decades, during which they’ve worked side by side in various capacities, from bartending to management. Setting themselves apart from typical restaurateurs, they’ve cultivated their expertise from the ground up, leveraging their firsthand experiences.
From the moment you step through the door, you’re welcomed with open arms by the entire team. Excellence extends beyond the culinary delights to encompass impeccable service – a cornerstone of any exceptional dining experience. A reflection of hands-on ownership and management, where every guest is treated with genuine warmth and attentiveness. Witnessing the seamless teamwork unfold throughout the dining room is a testament to their dedication and passion for hospitality.
Indulge your senses with the invigorating zing of an Espresso Martini or the fiery kick of a Spicy Margarita infused with fresh jalapenos. For those seeking a refreshing yet sophisticated option, look no further than The Spotted Delight – a blend of lime, cucumber, and basil harmoniously paired with vodka.
In the bustling kitchen at The Spott, Chef Vaughn Metcalf commands the culinary helm with over two decades of experience under his belt. His recipe for success is simple yet profound: starting with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients imbued with a generous serving of love.
Chef Vaughn’s dedication to freshness is evident in his meticulous sourcing from small local farms like Fletcher Family Farms, Tomazin Farms and Charlie’s Chicken Farm to name a few. Embracing a farm-to table ethos, he prioritizes quality and flavor, sourcing fish directly from local fisheries and fishermen such as Kelly at Simple Seafood and Chris Gherkin, a skilled spearfisherman.
Originally from Vermont, Chef Vaughn honed his craft under the mentorship of Chef James Bergin in New Hampshire, who instilled in him the foundational principles that guide his culinary artistry at The Spott today. For those curious about his culinary prowess, The Spott’s Instagram and Facebook pages offer a tantalizing glimpse into Chef Vaughn’s butchery skills, from expertly breaking down a whole HertaBerkSchwein pig to showcasing locally caught swordfish.
In describing his culinary creations, Chef Vaughn uses unconventional terms like “naughty” and “dirty” to convey the labor of love and meticulous attention to detail that goes into crafting each dish. Drawing a parallel to a rockstar, he humorously likens his cooking style to the legendary Roy Orbison, as both evoke an irresistible allure – men aspire to emulate him, while women are drawn to his culinary charm.
Proudly flaunting what many consider to be the finest steaks anywhere, The Spott offers prime Angus beef that’s perfectly marbled for maximum flavor and tenderness. Elevating the dining experience, a personal touch awaits as one of the owners or managers delicately torches bone marrow compound butter right at your table, imparting an additional depth of flavor to the already incredible dish. You can find yours truly firing up a 36 oz Cowboy Ribeye every Tuesday and Sunday as the owners literally pass the
torch to me as I manage on those evenings.
The Spott also offers an experience like no other with their Chef’s Tables. Nestled within the restaurant are two bespoke chef’s tables with a meticulously crafted menu to elevate your dining adventure to new heights. Let Chef Vaughn take the reins, curating an unforgettable dining experience tailored to your preferences and dietary restrictions. Simply provide him with about two weeks’ notice, and prepare to be whisked away on a culinary journey catered specifically to you.
Venturing into The Spott’s latest addition, the upstairs bar, is a sensory delight. As you step inside, the air is filled with the rich aroma of leather and wood, while the ambiance is enhanced by the warm glow of stained glass and the allure of rare and sought-after liquors adorning the shelves. Conceived from the visionary minds of Greg and Terry, every detail of this space, apart from the original brick walls, has been meticulously crafted to perfection.
The upstairs bar exudes a unique beauty, with its gold shakers, cocktail swords, and exquisite glassware adding to its charm. With a capacity of only 25 to 30 guests at a time, the intimate atmosphere is preserved, ensuring that each visit is truly special. For those seeking an exclusive experience, private parties can be arranged upstairs, allowing guests to bask in the luxurious ambiance while sipping on craft cocktails tailored to their tastes.
Moving into their third year, this remarkable establishment stands as a beacon of culinary creativity and hospitality, seamlessly blending together all the quintessential elements that define a truly exceptional restaurant experience. Under the visionary leadership of Terry, Greg and Chef Vaughn, alongside the dedicated staff, The Spott has blossomed into a must-visit destination in Volusia County.
Let’s celebrate the unwavering dedication to bringing exceptional food and hospitality to our community. Come and see for yourself why it has captivated the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike.
To Terry, Greg, Chef Vaughn, and the entire team at The Spott, I extend my heartfelt appreciation for enriching my life with your passion, creativity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Here’s to many more years of culinary brilliance and memorable moments shared at The Spott.
Cheers… Bobby G OUT!
THE SPOTT
(386) 400-9696
424 Canal Street | NSB 32168
TheSpottNSB.com
TUES – SUN
KITCHEN: 4:30PM – 11PM
BAR OPEN LATE – Based on Volume
