It must be a sign from the Universe when you find yourself cutting classes in college to cook. That still small voice inside your head is directing you to your destiny if you’ll listen. Listen is exactly what Chef Dave Snyder did years ago when he found himself in this situation. A guidance counselor suggested Dave might want to look into attending culinary school since college just didn’t prove to be his “cup of tea”. The rest is history.
As head of the very successful Halyard’s Restaurant Group on St. Simons Island, Chef Dave offers culinary paradise for the devout foodie. Residents and tourists alike visit his two restaurants, “Tramici” (go here) and “Halyards” (go here) to sample the fabulous items on the menu, daily specials an excellent wine list and other libations. Tramici offers a more casual Italian bistro atmosphere with delicious brick oven pizzas, cooked to perfection loaded, with your favorite toppings, outstanding pasta, delectable salads and daily specials. Halyards offers a more upscale, yet still island casual, dining experience with it’s lovely decor, intimate booths and innovative seasonal menus. Either way, you can’t miss if you are a food lover.
Among Chef Dave’s many food related passions is providing the finest, freshest ingredients to create signature dishes that tantalize the palate to keep his customers coming back for more. Most recently he has introduced “Sunday Plantation Suppers” at Halyards where traditional comfort foods are served up family style in the Southern way. A recent Sunday night menu included buttermilk fried chicken, fried pork chops and grilled Manchester quail with mashed potatoes, green bean casserole and a crisp, tossed salad to round out the meal. I love to cook, but Sunday dinner out with my family is something I truly enjoy and this fills the bill!
Here’s some exciting news Chef Dave shared with me when we met to discuss his life, interests and passions. Be on the look out for a line of products about to debut under the “Tramici” label! The first delicious offering will be the fabulous marinara sauce trademarked at Tramici that makes their lasagna and other pasta dishes dazzle with complex flavors of tomato, fresh herbs and other secret ingredients. Soon to follow will be salad dressings and other condiments foodies can purchase for their home cooking enjoyment.
Chef Dave is actively involved in the South Atlantic Fisherman’s Association (go here) which provides him the opportunity to meet with various members of our government, on a state and national level, in reference to saving our oceans so that fish and seafood thrive. A fishing boat is no stranger to Chef Dave as he makes his way out into local waters as often as possible to provide the freshest, local catch for his patrons.
On a more personal side I asked Dave what he loves about living in coastal Georgia and he simply replied, “Peace”. He also loves southern hospitality and it abounds in both of his businesses with servers who are trained to provide a welcoming, friendly environment in which to dine. Family is at the top of Dave’s list when it comes to priorities. I asked him to share his favorite meal with readers, something he makes in his down time. He graciously shared his yummy recipe for fish tacos that I am delighted to share with you! Roll up all of the ingredients in a warm, soft corn tortilla and enjoy with an icy cold beer!
Chef Dave’s Fish Tacos
Local Snapper dusted with ground cumin, light chili powder, salt and pepper.
Saute fish in hot pan with olive oil and touch of butter………….do not overcook.
Warmed, soft corn tortillas
Salsa
In pot, boil tomatoes, pequin peppers, yellow onion, jalapeno, and garlic for about 5 mins.
Puree in blender with cilantro until smooth.
Season with salt, pepper, and lime juice.
Long Grain Rice
Cooked in chicken stock
Sliced Avocado
Cold Beer of course.
Both Tramici and Halyards cater or you can enjoy the beautiful Village Creek Landing (go here) where events of all sizes can be held. Experienced coordinators are on hand to help you plan your special event. This is also where adventures begin if you’re looking for a sunset cruise, kayaking or fishing instruction.
What a delight to spend time with Chef Dave and share our mutual love of great food, wine and service. He is actively involved in the Glynn County Boys and Girls Club as a member of their board, as well as Georgia Grown Chefs which encourages local restaurants to use local produce. He also offers cooking classes and interactive dinners he’ll prepare for you and a small group of guests. His most recently published book “Edible Art” is available on either of the websites you can access above. As he grows his businesses I suspect there will be more exciting news to share!
Here’s to you Chef Dave…you continually inspire and delight your clientele with the best of everything! And NOW for the giveaway! Leave a comment for me on this post, “like” Halyard’s and Tramici on Facebook and your name will be entered in our special giveaway. Chef Dave will offer the lucky winner a bottle of wine from his regular list with dinner! 
5 Responses
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Betsy Knight Says:
What a great article! Chef Dave is quite an asset to our area!
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Melissa Says:
Yes he is!
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Marti Tolleson Says:
Two of my most favorite restaurants! Great job Chef Dave!
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Melissa Says:
🙂
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Mavis Says:
I do not even know hhow I ended up here, but I thought this pkst was
good. I don’tknow who you are but definitely you’re going to a famous
blogger if you are not already 😉 Cheers!
