New Personal Project: Chef Red Beard
NEW PERSONAL PROJECT: CHEF RED BEARD
Jeremy VanAntwerp — also known as Chef Red Beard — isn't your typical chef.
Based in Buffalo, NY, Jeremy operates an intimate private dining space that accommodates no more than ten people, where every menu is custom-built from the ground up. No pre-set dishes — no standard service. Every event is tailored to the client's taste, theme, and vibe. His style favors elevated comfort food with a creative edge, and it's all deeply personal.
That mindset is what drew me to him. I'm always inspired by people who go all-in on their craft — who create things with character. Jeremy's work is hands-on, thoughtful, and totally unpretentious. He's not chasing trends; he's creating experiences, and he's doing it by himself, fulfilling all the back and front-of-house roles that traditional restaurants would need a staff of a dozen or more to fill. He is a culinary auteur who can transform a simple breakfast sandwich into something that rivals a meal at many of the country's most notable restaurants.
This short film and accompanying portraits offer a glimpse into his world, revealing how he works, his thoughts on food, and why he approaches things his own way. It's raw, honest, and rooted in the idea that creativity doesn't need to be flashy to be powerful. The short documentary was directed and produced by me, with Aaron Rizzo serving as the Director of Photography. We kept things stripped-down and honest — just Jeremy doing what he does best, in his space, on his terms.
See the whole project here.
