Conversations with Creatives - Brad Matthews

Kempt. So, who is Brad Alan Mathews?

Brad Mathews I am the Executive Chef and Co Owner of Bar Le Cote in Los Olivos, California. Bar Le Cote is a stylish seafood tavern, named Esquire Best New Restaurant 2021, Wine Spectator Beat New Restaurant 2021, Michelin Guide: 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026.

K. Where did you grow up?

BM. Watkins Glen, New York

K. Does a passion for food run in your family?

BM. Yes, my father was a butcher in a small family run grocery store in upstate New York.

K. Where was your first start in a commercial kitchen?

BM. Just A Taste (Ithaca New York).

K. Here at Kempt, we are always trying to make small adjustments to try and improve everything we do. Is there any particular dish that you find your self still working on?

BM. I think all food is an evolution, I tweak and change dishes every day. At BLC I push my cooks to get better every day. Be more intentional, more thoughtful and more disciplined. Ingredients and seasons constantly change and it’s our job to showcase them at their peak. 

K. When did you find yourself developing an interest in style and fashion?

BM. I would say that I’ve really gotten into fashion that last few years of my life. I love how clothes can be used as self expression and hour people notice great outfits and most importantly how a great outfit makes me feel.

K. When you opened Bar le Côte, what sort of atmosphere did you hope to create?

BM. We wanted to create a neighborhood restaurant, an institution here in Santa Barbara Wine Country. However more importantly a place that people really LIKED to work and were proud of what we are doing. 

K. Apart from Kempt, what other brands do you admire or find yourself navigating towards?

BM. Ralph Lauren, RRL, Buck Mason, Freenote Cloth

K. You have an afternoon off and decide to cook for four ideal guests. Who would your four fantasy guests be (living or not)

BM. My Grandma Mathews, Alice Waters, David Bowie, Keith Richards. HA what a party that would be!

K. When you're not cooking, what do you like to do to relax?

I love flowers, music and reading. My house is littered with books and guitars. I love swimming and reading in the California sun. I find being creative in other medias helps keep the juices flowing in the kitchen as well.