Chef-owner Todd Winer has been the driving force behind the launch of several of the region’s most successful concepts. He has opened more than a dozen award-winning restaurants that have become nationally known for their thoughtful and delicious menus. His newest venture is as chef and owner of Pastoral, which is located in Boston’s hottest neighborhood, the Fort Point District.

Winer has worked under many of the country’s most renowned chefs including: Charlie Palmer, Bobby Flay, Nancy Oakes and Todd English. Under English, Winer developed several successful concepts around the world. Winer turned heads as the Executive Chef at Olives Charlestown with his complex flavor profiles and his layering techniques. One of Winer’s most impactful experiences under English is when he traveled to Japan for a year to help English open Olives Tokyo, which is where he developed his skills and love for Asian cooking.

Winer’s passion for food was first ignited during his teenage years when he began a part-time job in the kitchen of an Italian bistro. That led him to the New England Culinary Institute, where he learned the fundamentals of fine cooking.

In 2006, Winer became the Executive Chef of The Metropolitan Club in Chestnut Hill under owner Kathy Sidell Trustman where he brought a variety of influences and styles to his role. His tenure with Metropolitan Club continued on and he helped create new concepts for new locations, including Massachusetts’ first burger bar at the MET Bar and Grill in Natick, as well as the MET Bar and Grill in Dedham, which opened in 2008. He then helped open MET Back Bay on Boston’s posh Newbury Street. In 2012, Winer helped launch MET on Main, which is located on the island of Nantucket.

Winer’s taste for full-bodied flavors and eye-appealing presentations is a reflection of his training and personal style. With a unique combination of fearlessness and respect for tradition, he continues to evolve as a chef working with the best suppliers and farmers to compose a menu that is creative and approachable.

Winer has been invited to cook at the James Beard House several times. He has received many awards and accolades for his cooking under English and with MET Restaurant Group, and he participates in several annual charitable events, including the Foundation to be Named Later’s Hot Stove Cool Music, the SHADE Foundation’s Bubbles and Bites and Lovelane Special Needs Horseback Riding Program. Chef Winer has also participated in a number of nationally recognized events such as the Mohegan Sun Winefest, Epcot Food and Wine, and Bermuda Food and Wine. Winer also just became a certified Pizzaiolo by the VPN to make authentic Neapolitan pizza at Pastoral, his new restaurant.

Opened in 2014 in South Boston’s Fort Point district, Pastoral is Winer’s first restaurant and an innovative dining destination featuring rustic yet refined food, creative cocktails, communal dining, lounge and take-out areas, and a patio. Pastoral offers an entertaining and welcoming atmosphere for guests to enjoy delicious quality food and service. Winer lives in Bridgewater with his wife, Amy, and two children.