Caribbean Roots, Florida Soul: Exclusive Interview with Chef Steve Mendez

South Florida’s culinary identity has always been shaped by more than geography. It reflects the rhythm of the seasons, the abundance of nearby waters, and the extraordinary cultural influences that have transformed the region into one of the country’s most dynamic dining destinations. While many waterfront restaurants understandably rely on their views to make an impression, the most memorable experiences begin and end with what arrives at the table. Fresh seafood, vibrant local produce, thoughtful technique, and genuine hospitality remain the true ingredients that define exceptional coastal dining.

Set directly along the Atlantic shoreline in Fort Lauderdale, OCEAN2000 at Pelican Grand Beach Resort embraces that philosophy from the moment guests arrive. Expansive ocean vistas provide an unmistakable backdrop, yet they never overshadow the restaurant’s culinary ambitions. Instead, the setting works in harmony with a menu that reflects the flavors, ingredients, and character of South Florida through refined coastal cuisine that feels sophisticated without sacrificing warmth or authenticity. Every element, from the breezy veranda overlooking the beach to the carefully considered dining room infused with modern coastal design, reinforces a sense of place that is unmistakably Floridian.

That connection to the region extends well beyond aesthetics. OCEAN2000 celebrates South Florida by allowing local ingredients to lead the conversation. Seasonal produce, fresh seafood sourced through long-standing relationships with trusted purveyors, and globally inspired culinary influences all come together in dishes that respect both tradition and innovation. Rather than chasing fleeting dining trends, the restaurant focuses on thoughtful execution, allowing each ingredient to speak clearly while reflecting the diverse coastal influences that have helped shape South Florida’s culinary landscape.

Leading that vision is Executive Chef Steve Mendez, whose culinary perspective has been shaped by his Jamaican upbringing, professional training throughout the Caribbean, and years spent refining techniques that honor fresh, high-quality ingredients. His cooking reflects an appreciation for simplicity, balance, and restraint. Caribbean influences appear naturally throughout the menu, complemented by refined global touches that enhance rather than compete with Florida’s exceptional seafood. The result is a culinary identity that feels personal, regionally grounded, and unmistakably authentic.

The experience itself strikes a balance that many restaurants aspire to but few consistently achieve. Couples celebrating a special evening, families gathering over Sunday brunch, resort guests discovering the property for the first time, and South Florida residents returning for another memorable meal all find a setting that feels polished yet welcoming. The atmosphere invites guests to linger, whether enjoying cocktails overlooking the Atlantic, sharing appetizers as the ocean breeze drifts across the veranda, or settling into a leisurely dinner where every course unfolds at its own comfortable pace.

During an exclusive interview, Executive Chef Steve Mendez shared how OCEAN2000 continues to evolve while remaining firmly rooted in the flavors, ingredients, and hospitality that define South Florida’s coastal dining culture. He discussed his culinary philosophy, the influence of his Caribbean heritage, the importance of local sourcing, and the signature dishes that have become synonymous with the restaurant’s identity. What follows is our conversation.

MK: First, what do you feel are the top qualities clearly distinguishing OCEAN2000 from other waterfront restaurants throughout South Florida, which are plentiful?

CSM: At OCEAN2000, we provide an unmatched oceanfront setting where every meal is complemented by panoramic Atlantic views, along with a coastal menu that highlights fresh Florida seafood, seasonal produce and globally inspired flavors while remaining rooted in the region, and personalized hospitality that creates memorable experiences beyond the plate.

MK: OCEAN2000 blends refined coastal cuisine with Old Florida grandeur in a setting unlike most waterfront restaurants. How did you develop a culinary philosophy that complements both the Atlantic Ocean backdrop and the restaurant’s distinctive design?

CSM: OCEAN2000’s thoughtfully reimagined design set the tone for our culinary approach. The sophisticated modern coastal aesthetic, featuring soft sage greens, warm neutrals, rich wood tones, layered natural textures and sweeping Atlantic Ocean views inspired a menu that feels elevated yet approachable. We wanted every dish to reflect the same sense of relaxed refinement as the space itself: fresh, vibrant and rooted in South Florida’s coastal character, while showcasing refined culinary techniques and the region’s exceptional ingredients.

MK: Your culinary journey includes extensive experience throughout the Caribbean. Which techniques, ingredients or cultural influences have had the greatest impact on the menu you’ve created at OCEAN2000?

CSM: Growing up in Jamaica, the biggest lesson I learned was simplicity. We didn’t need much. Just fresh fish, a little fire and bright citrus to finish. That philosophy continues to shape everything I do. The techniques that have stayed with me are whole fish cookery, slow grilling over coals and using every part of the catch. Ingredients like Scotch bonnet peppers and fresh thyme taught me how bold, earthy flavors can elevate seafood without overpowering it. At OCEAN2000, you’ll find that Caribbean soul woven throughout the menu, whether it’s our miso-glazed grouper or a bright citrus broth. My formal training taught me technique, but Jamaica taught me heart.

MK: South Florida enjoys extraordinary access to fresh seafood and local produce. How do your relationships with regional fishermen and suppliers shape menu development and help distinguish OCEAN2000 from other upscale coastal restaurants?

CSM: At OCEAN2000, our menu begins long before it reaches the kitchen. It starts with the trusted seafood purveyors we’ve worked with for years, who call us as soon as the boats return with the day’s freshest catch. Those longstanding relationships allow us to build menus that evolve with the tides and the seasons, ensuring we’re always serving the highest-quality ingredients. Our connections aren’t just about freshness. They’re about trust, collaboration and supporting the people behind our local food community. Every dish tells a story of the waters, producers and coastal heritage that make South Florida so unique.

MK: Although OCEAN2000 is located within a luxury beachfront resort, it has also become a favorite among local residents. Beyond the spectacular setting, what keeps South Floridians returning?

CSM: Locals return because they know they’ll receive a consistently exceptional experience. Beyond the setting, it’s about approachable luxury, excellent food, attentive service, a welcoming atmosphere and a menu that continues to evolve while maintaining guest favorites. We want our guests to feel like OCEAN2000 is their elevated, neighborhood coastal restaurant that they come to for celebrations, date nights, family outings and more.

MK: Coastal cuisine continues to evolve. What trends, ingredients or preparation techniques do you believe will help define the future of Florida coastal dining, and how is OCEAN2000 contributing to that evolution?

CSM: At OCEAN2000, we’re embracing fresh catches that showcase unique species, not always the mainstream choices. This allows us to introduce guests to distinctive and delightfully unexpected flavor profiles. Through techniques like char-grilling and the thoughtful incorporation of global influences, such as miso and yuzu, we’re creating dishes that feel both innovative and rooted in coastal tradition. We believe the future of Florida coastal dining lies in celebrating exceptional local seafood with fresh perspectives, while honoring the ocean from dock to dish, one thoughtful plate at a time.

MK: Every memorable restaurant has signature dishes that capture its identity. Which menu items best represent your culinary philosophy and the overall personality of OCEAN2000?

CSM: OCEAN2000 strikes a beautiful balance between intimate dining and a warm, family-oriented atmosphere, and our menu reflects that same versatility. The Seafood Risotto embodies freshness, comfort and the spirit of sharing, making it perfect for gathering with family and friends. The Prime New York Strip, on the other hand, represents elegance and indulgence, making it an ideal choice for a romantic or intimate dinner. Together, these dishes reflect the heart of OCEAN2000, a place where families and couples alike can enjoy thoughtfully crafted cuisine in a welcoming yet refined oceanfront setting.

MK: Hospitality extends well beyond the food itself. When guests leave after celebrating a milestone, romantic evening or family gathering, what do you hope remains with them long after the meal has ended?

CSM: Great restaurants create lasting memories through genuine hospitality, beautiful surroundings, exceptional cuisine and meaningful moments shared around the table. If guests leave feeling cared for and eager to return, then we’ve accomplished our goal.

MK: The Ahi Poke Nachos and Lobster Crab Cakes have become standout starters. What inspired you to reinvent these familiar favorites into dishes that feel uniquely representative of OCEAN2000 and South Florida’s coastal dining scene?

CSM: The goal was to take recognizable dishes and elevate them through premium ingredients, balance and presentation. The Ahi Poke Nachos offer freshness, texture and bright flavors that reflect South Florida’s tropical influences, while the Lobster Crab Cakes focus on showcasing sweet, high-quality seafood with minimal filler and complementary flavors. Both dishes embody our philosophy of familiar flavors executed at a higher level.

MK: The Miso Black Grouper pairs Florida seafood with Japanese influences through miso butter, forbidden rice and a kaffir lime yuzu broth. What inspired this combination, and how do those components elevate such an exceptional local fish?

CSM: Growing up in Jamaica, I learned that the best fish needs little more than freshness and respect. That same philosophy guides our Miso Black Grouper. The miso butter adds rich depth without masking the delicate flavor of the fish, while the forbidden rice provides an earthy, grounding base. The kaffir lime yuzu broth brings a bright citrus finish, reminiscent of the fresh lime we’d squeeze over just-caught fish back home. Every component works together to elevate the grouper rather than overpower it. It’s a fusion of Florida, Japan and a little piece of my Caribbean roots.

MK: Of all the dishes on the menu, which is your personal favorite and why?

CSM: My favorite is our Tomahawk Pork Chop with bacon onion jam and maple beurre blanc because I believe it’s truly unique. The bacon onion jam actually started as a way to thoughtfully use bacon from our breakfast service, but it evolved into something really special. What began as a creative idea turned into one of the dish’s signature elements, and it’s often the first thing guests mention because they love the flavor. It’s a great example of how simple ingredients, when treated with care and creativity, can become something memorable.

MK: Is there anything else you would like readers to know about OCEAN2000?

CSM: OCEAN2000 is continually evolving while staying true to what makes South Florida dining so special. From using fresh, local ingredients, providing genuine hospitality and offering an unforgettable oceanfront setting, every member of the team shares the goal of creating experiences that guests remember long after they’ve left the restaurant that encourage them to return.

In a region celebrated for its vibrant culinary landscape, OCEAN2000 succeeds by remaining grounded in the very qualities that have always defined exceptional coastal dining. Fresh seafood arrives with purpose rather than pretension. Seasonal ingredients are treated with restraint instead of unnecessary complexity. Caribbean influences appear naturally, woven into a menu that honors South Florida’s diverse cultural fabric while allowing local flavors to remain front and center. Add attentive hospitality and one of Fort Lauderdale’s most captivating oceanfront settings, and the result is an experience that feels both elevated and comfortably familiar. It is little wonder that visitors discover the restaurant while locals continue returning long after their resort stay has ended.

For diners seeking more than simply another waterfront meal, OCEAN2000 offers something increasingly valuable: an authentic reflection of the destination itself. Every thoughtfully prepared plate, every Atlantic sunrise over breakfast, every leisurely dinner overlooking the waves reinforces a genuine connection to South Florida’s coastal identity. Chef Steve Mendez and his team have created a restaurant where the food never competes with the view, but instead complements it with confidence, craftsmanship and a deep respect for the region’s remarkable ingredients. In a destination known for memorable dining, OCEAN2000 stands as a compelling reminder that the best restaurants tell the story of their surroundings one thoughtful course at a time.

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Entrepreneur Leadership Network member Merilee Kern, MBA is an internationally-regarded brand strategist and analyst who reports on cultural shifts and trends as well as noteworthy industry change makers, movers, shakers and innovators across all categories, both B2C and B2B. This includes field experts and thought leaders, brands, products, services, destinations and events. As Founder, Executive Editor and Producer of “The Luxe List,” Merilee is a prolific business, lifestyle, travel, dining and leisure industry voice of authority and tastemaker. She keeps her finger on the pulse of the marketplace in search of new and innovative must-haves and exemplary experiences at all price points, from the affordable to the extreme. Her work reaches multi-millions worldwide via broadcast TV (her own shows and copious others on which she appears) as well as a myriad of print and online publications. Connect with her at www.TheLuxeList.com / Instagram www.Instagram.com/MerileeKern / X http://www.X.com/MerileeKern / Facebook www.Facebook.com/MerileeKernOfficial / LinkedIN www.LinkedIn.com/in/MerileeKern.

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided or arranged at no cost to accommodate if this is review editorial, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way.***

Artwork Courtesy of / Provided by Pelican Grand Beach Resort 

***Some or all of the accommodations(s), experience(s), item(s) and/or service(s) detailed above may have been provided at no cost and/or arranged to accommodate this review, but all opinions expressed are entirely those of Merilee Kern and have not been influenced in any way as per the disclosure policy on our “Legal” page***