Co-Owner & Executive Chef Christopher Santos

As a teenager working in his hometown of Bristol, Rhode Island, Chef Chris Santos was drawn to the creative and chaotic world of the kitchen. The constant racket of plates being jostled, fresh ingredients dancing over searing flames, and the pirate-like swagger of his mentor and chef all conspired to set his career course before he was old enough to drive. He later studied at Johnson & Wales University and graduated with honors, before honing his craft, palette, and style through his travels to Europe and the United States.

Recently named a Star Chefs Rising Star Chef for 2007, Chris has served as executive chef of the award-winning Suba restaurant, where his Latin-inspired cuisine gained him recognition in top media outlets.  Prior to this, Santos served as chef and partner of the cult-classic Wyanoka restaurant.  It was at Wyanoka that Santos began to truly “find his groove”, preparing full-flavored, approachable and innovative cuisine, often reinventing familiar and classic dishes with a modern and whimsical touch.

Earlier in his career, Santos spent time at the Boston boutique Cranebrook Restaurant and Tearoom, where he cooked French-inspired cuisine.  Upon his arrival in New York, Santos began cooking at the Lafayette Street institution Time Café.  He was appointed the role of executive chef at the young age of 23, which is where he began his “self-taught” education that has led him to his approach and style today.  In 2005, he opened The Stanton Social and his ingredient-driven approach quickly received recognition from The New York Times, which noted that his talent “shines.” 

Throughout his career, Santos has appeared as guest chef on several Food Network programs and pilots, as well as The Today Show.   In the summer of 2004, Santos worked as food stylist and consultant on the movie set of ”Hitch,” starring Will Smith, and recently contributed to the film “Mostly Martha” starring Catherine Zeta-Jones.  This multi-talented entrepreneur has even crossed over into the fashion word, currently developing “Daredevil Chefwear”; a rock ‘n’ roll inspired line of chef apparel with renowned tattoo artist Michelle Myles. 

Chef Chris Santos, with two decades of experience, has put together a creative, multi-cultural, 50 item share-plate menu that features something for everyone.  At The Stanton Social, his menu, designed for sharing, reflects his playful creativity and passion for bringing cooking and entertaining together to provide a truly unique experience.