Locals Dockside Restaurant
Podcast Episode Recap — Episode 87
Get ’N Your Business Podcast
In Episode 87, host Alison Shores sits down with Executive Chef Chad of Locals Dockside for a behind-the-scenes look at one of St. Marys’ most talked-about waterfront restaurants.
Chef Chad shares his journey through the culinary world—from Jacksonville and Tallahassee to Miami and Destin Florida—before landing in coastal Georgia. Now leading the kitchen at Locals Dockside, he brings big-city experience to a laid-back coastal space, pairing casual waterfront vibes with upscale, scratch-made food.
The conversation dives deep into what truly sets Locals apart: everything is made from scratch, ingredients are carefully sourced, and quality control is taken seriously—from Certified Angus Beef steaks to fresh shrimp caught near Brunswick and fish delivered multiple times each week. Chef Chad also opens up about customer service, sharing stories of custom menus, large private events, and the personal approach that keeps guests coming back.
Along the way, listeners get an honest look at life in the kitchen, including a jaw-dropping fryer accident story, the science behind real Louisiana-style jambalaya, and why tasting everything every single day is part of the job.
The episode wraps with rapid-fire questions, reservation tips for busy holidays like Valentine’s Day, and a reminder that Locals Dockside is more than a restaurant—it’s a team-driven, community-focused experience in the heart of St. Marys.
Key Highlights
👨🍳 Chef Chad’s culinary path from Florida’s big cities to coastal Georgia
🌊 The “casual coastal” atmosphere with upscale, chef-driven food
🍤 Everything made from scratch—no pre-made or frozen shortcuts
🥩 Certified Angus Beef steaks with strict quality control
🐟 Fresh, local shrimp and fish delivered weekly (sometimes twice a week)
🌮 Fan favorites like Bayou Blaze Tacos, Penne Alla Vodka, and Jacked Up Jambalaya
⭐ Weekly specials: All-You-Can-Eat Shrimp Wednesdays & Grouper Finger Friday
🤝 Going above and beyond for customers with custom menus and private events
😳 A shocking (and unforgettable) kitchen mishap story
📅 Reservations encouraged—especially for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day
📍 Locals Dockside — 307 W St. Marys St, St. Marys, GA
🕒 Wed–Sat 11am–9pm | Sun 11am–8pm (Closed Mon–Tue)
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