Simon Zatyrka has spent over three decades in the kitchen. He came for the food, fun, and chaos, but stayed for the people. Traversing the country and embracing the mobility offered by being a cook, he was exposed to vast array of great food and people along the way. culinary journeys led him to the Patina Group, the Viceroy Santa Monica, the Four Seasons Biltmore, multi-concept stalwart, Restaurants Unlimited and finally Cactus Restaurants in Seatte, Washington.

With 2022 came a realization. It was time to “use the brain differently”. Simon pivoted from kitchen operations to advising chefs and restaurant owners on improving their culture, systems, and profit. Focused on the people, he set out to define and craft kitchen cultures that align with the times.

Launched in December 2023, Simon launched CULINARY MECHANIC to further scratch the people itch. The opportunity to talk to a wide swath of people throughout the world and within an industry that has given him so many stories to tell is the fire that burns bright. Simon continues his mission of helping chefs become the leaders everyone wants to work with.