Nocatee’s Coastal Wine Market introduces new chef

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Since opening last year, Coastal Wine Market & Tasting Room at Nocatee Town Center has become known locally for its wide selection of wines and craft beers. What many in the community do not know, however, is that the business recently added a new and flavorful menu selection, courtesy of its new chef, James Coffey.

Open Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Coastal Wine Market offers an assortment of artisan foods perfect for pairing with the wine or beer of a customer’s choice.

“I’m trying to make a menu that has something for everybody,” Coffey said. “We have everything from Italian stuffed mushrooms to shrimp pad Thai, and we’re going to be working on some Latin dishes coming up.”

Coffey has an extensive background in the restaurant business, having started out as a busboy at the age of 15.

“I’ve worked in many restaurants in North and South Florida over the years,” he said. “I’ve traveled the country to try different flavors and cuisines. I’ve explored restaurants in New York and New Orleans, and am currently planning a trip to the Washington, D.C., area to cook with some talented chefs.”

Coffey said his passion for cooking is rooted in its intersectional nature, stating, “The way I see it, cooking is like art, history and science all mixed together to create something special.”

 A self-described “people-pleaser,” Coffey said his favorite way to make others happy is through cooking, so when he received Coastal Wine Market Co-owner Steve Lourie’s invitation to come work there, he was thrilled.

 “I’ve known Steve for a while,” Coffey said. “He was looking for some help, and I love cooking, so I just felt honored that he contacted me. I came onboard and I haven’t looked back. I’ve had a blast here.”

In addition to Coastal Wine Market’s nightly small plate offerings, the wine bar also recently began offering brunch on Saturdays.

“We’re looking to grow our brunch community,” Coffey said. “We serve brunch every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and we offer a lot of really unique and delicious options, like our made-from-scratch lemon ricotta pancakes, which are absolutely amazing.”

Coastal Wine Market & Tasting Room is located at 641 Crosswater Parkway B in Ponte Vedra. For more details about its menu offerings, call (904) 395-3520 or visit www.coastalwinemarket.com