Experience The Southern Affair

Founder & Executive Chef, B&F Catering & Consulting LLC | Owner, The Southern Affair Food Truck

Chef Gary Pyrus is a culinary artist whose journey began with Landry's, and over the years, his passion for Southern cuisine has flourished. Blending the warmth of traditional Southern dishes with modern culinary innovation, Chef Gary has touched the lives of many through his food. As the founder of B&F Catering & Consulting LLC and owner of The Southern Affair food truck, his mission has always been about more than just cooking—it's about creating experiences that nourish both the body and the soul.

A graduate of The Art Institute of Tampa with a B.A. in Culinary Arts, Chef Gary's culinary journey has been filled with grace and purpose. He believes that food is a gift that brings people together, and each dish is prepared with an intentional sense of care and love. His career highlights include being the Executive Chef at Roux in Tampa, where his signature dish, the Crispy Cauliflower Po'Boy, gained widespread recognition. His culinary talents have been featured in ABC Action News: Morning Blend, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay, and WTSP: Hoodline.

Throughout his career, Chef Gary has been blessed with opportunities to serve at prestigious events, such as the 2024 Winter New York Fashion Week (NYFW), the 2024 NBA Allstate Weekend, and the 2024 Paralympics during the Olympic Games in Paris. These experiences reflect his belief in using his gifts to reach new heights, while staying grounded in gratitude and humility.

Yet, for all his achievements, Chef Gary’s deepest blessings are his children, Faith A. Pyrus and Elijah J. Pyrus. Guided by a strong spiritual foundation, he understands the importance of showing up consistently, not just in his career, but as a father. His children remain his greatest source of inspiration and purpose, reminding him daily of the values of love, faith, and resilience.

In 2023, Chef Gary launched The Southern Affair food truck, a project that combines his passion for Southern cuisine with his desire to bring comfort and joy to his community. Every meal he prepares is a reflection of his belief in using food to uplift, connect, and heal.

Beyond his culinary talents, Chef Gary has been a proud VIP sponsor of the Full Figured Industry Awards since 2023, supporting diversity and empowerment in the industry. His partnerships with figures like Tawana Blassingame, founder of Queen Size Magazine, and Gabby Symone, Ms. Full Figured USA Plus 2021, speak to his commitment to uplifting others.

Chef Gary Pyrus believes that food is not only nourishment for the body but also for the spirit. Through his work, he strives to touch lives, build connections, and spread joy—one plate at a time.