Oxbow Bar & Grill welcomes Germán Méndez as new Chef de Cuisine

Oxbow Bar & Grill, the waterfront restaurant located just steps from Luminary Hotel & Co. announced the appointment of Germán Méndez as its new Chef de Cuisine. With over two decades of international culinary experience, Méndez brings a rich blend of Mediterranean tradition and culinary innovation to the downtown Fort Myers dining scene.

“Chef Germán’s impressive background and unique approach to food are a perfect match for Oxbow,” said Joe Shurmur, General Manager of Luminary Hotel & Co. “His mastery of Southern Spanish and French techniques, combined with vibrant local influences, will bring fresh creativity and exceptional flavor to our menu.”

Born and raised in southern Spain, Méndez refined his craft in Europe’s top food capitals – Marseille, Milan, and Berlin – before moving to the United States. He honed his skills in acclaimed Miami kitchens such as 1 Hotel South Beach and the Kimpton Surfcomber Hotel. Most recently, he served as Chef de Cuisine at Ocean Social at Nobu Hotel and Eden Roc Hotel, where he oversaw and led large-scale culinary teams. After years in Miami collaborating with notable culinary talents such as Akino West and Top Chef’s Tristen Epps, Méndez now calls Cape Coral home.

“I’m excited to join the talented team at Oxbow Bar & Grill and share my love for fresh, seasonal cooking with our guests,” said Méndez. “This location is so unique, and I look forward to creating dishes that reflect both my heritage and the local ingredients found here in Southwest Florida.”

Méndez is infusing Oxbow Bar & Grill’s menu, adding his Mediterranean roots and signature style, making subtle updates now and planning a refresh in the months ahead. A passionate community advocate, he has participated in numerous Food & Wine festivals and supports causes dedicated to cancer and diabetes research.