The VooDoo Chef Experience

Event Information

A Day for Dad!

Celebrate dads everywhere with an unforgettable culinary experience led by Chef Erik Youngs, CEC—The VooDoo Chef. This isn’t just dinner—it’s a full day of indulgence inspired by his signature Five Food Groups: Butter, Bacon, Caffeine, Carbs, and Bourbon.

Guests will Watch, Learn, and most importantly, Taste their way through a high-energy, flavor-packed event. The journey kicks off with the ultimate brunch showstopper: Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles. Then, it’s time to head poolside for a Florida-inspired Game Changer Grouper Sandwich. The evening wraps up in true steakhouse style with a decadent plate of Steak Frites.

Each course is expertly paired with a handcrafted VooDoo cocktail, featuring the bold flavors of Blue Note Bourbon (the Official Bourbon of the VooDoo Chef), Tequila 512, and Pa’Lante Rum. Throughout the night, Chef Erik will demonstrate the preparation of each dish and drink, giving guests a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process.
Don’t miss this epic celebration of food, flavor, and flair—a night that’s equal parts entertainment and indulgence.

Menu:

BIB
Chicken & Waffles
Sugar Waffle ~ VooDoo Chef’s Tennessee Hot Chicken ~ Bourbon Bacon Maple Glaze
Best Ranch Ever ~ Blue Cheese ~ Tobacco Onions

Bloody Maria
Tequila 512 ~ VooDoo Chef’s Bloody Gaspar ~ Accoutrement

~

SURF
Game Changer Grouper
Blackened Grouper ~ Blue Cheese Slaw ~ Citrus Tartar ~ American Nostalgia
Brioche ~ House Cut BBQ Chips 

Summer Splash
Mur Mur Rum ~ CoAqua Coconut Water ~ Bubbles ~ Mint ~ Pineapple ~ Lime

~

TURF
Steak Frites
VooDoo Chef Dirt (Espresso Rub) ~ Picanha ~ Bacon Fat Fries ~ Charred Sprouts
Roasted Garlic Aioli ~ Chimichurri ~ Fire Roasted Chiles

VooDoo Chef Old Fashioned
VooDoo Chef’s Barrel Select Bourbon ~ Woodford Bitters ~ Orange ~ Cherries

About Erik:

Erik Youngs, CEC, also known as the VooDoo Chef, has over 35 years of experience in the Foodservice & Hospitality industry and currently works full-time as a Culinary Teacher at a public school in Hillsborough County. For over 25 years, he has been as a Culinary Educator and mentor in the seventh largest school district in the nation. He has worked at several different public schools and has made an impact on many students lives throughout Hillsborough County.

In every dish he makes, Erik incorporates his zingy signature edge by blending a passion for flavor and a love for rock n’ roll. Centered around his “Five Food Groups: Butter, Bacon, Caffeine, Carbs, and Bourbon,” Erik has a unique approach to cooking. After years spent in industry kitchens and teaching in the multiple classrooms, educator and mentor, he has fine-tuned this approach to food with VooDoo-fied cooking methods and rock star recipes. This inspired him to create his own signature seasonings and sauces, available to purchase on VooDooChef.com. In addition to cooking for fun and work, Erik also volunteers with local schools and organizations to serve people in need.

Driven by his two passions for education and the Foodservice & Hospitality industry, Erik created a foundation to make a difference and a long-lasting impact within the community. When Erik is not teaching in the classroom or spending time with family, he is focused on supporting the community through The VooDoo Chef Foundation. He is a dedicated leader and mentor within the community, and he is on a mission to provide for students and families who are in need.

Erik works with educational partners and local businesses to create culinary and education programs that are impactful and help create a viable workforce. He also hosts fundraisers and events to raise money to support the mission of the VooDoo Chef Foundation, which includes granting culinary scholarships to high school students in need. Erik makes a huge impact on lives through food, education and connection.