A recent renovation at Bistro 217 in Pawleys Island boosted the restaurant’s seating capacity to about 240, said Adam Kirby, chef and co-owner.

It includes a covered courtyard and two bars.

But diners will probably be more excited about the meals Kirby prepares. He makes everything – bread, stocks, soups, sauces, even about 10 flavors of ice cream – from scratch.

“We serve lots of local fish. The nice thing about a bistro is that I am not stuck with just one theme. We run seasonal menus, so as the produce changes, the menu does, too.’

Q: What are your favorite summer ingredients?
A: Tomatoes, figs, peaches, all your peas and beans … The list is too long! Love summer time

Q: Which chefs inspire you?
A: My mother and Jamie Oliver. Both keep it simple and rustic. (I also love Gordon Ramsey.) 

Q: What’s your prediction for the next big food or restaurant trend?
A: I think the next trend will be going back to the basics and going organic … Simple food done right! Flavor! It’s easy to make things look pretty, but it does you no good if they aren't cooked right or don't taste good. I grew up eating good, well seasoned food. It’s pretty simple: If it does not taste good, don't serve it.

Q: Which three cooking gadgets or tools are your favorites?
A: The only things you need in a kitchen are a knife, saute pan and tongs.

Q: What was your first job in food? What did you learn?
A: My first job in a kitchen was washing dishes and prep. I learned that if you don't wanna wash dishes anymore, you better work harder and know more than everyone else..

Q: What would your dream meal be?
A: Well my dream meal … that is a tough one, because I would just cook it for myself. But anytime someone else cooks for me is a dream come true! Good or bad, just as long as they put the love into it.

Q: What’s the best tip you can give a home cook?
A: Keep it simple. Taste, taste, taste; Salt and pepper throughout, not just at the end. Always use hot pans, never a cold one. Don't be scared to go for it. Put your heart in it, "the love."

Q: Even chefs don’t eat gourmet every night. What is your ultimate comfort food or quick meal?
A: My favorite comfort food is the hamburger. It has everything you need all in one, all of the food groups: fruit (tomato); vegetable (onion, lettuce, etc.); meat; starch (bread or roll); dairy (cheese); and, of course, it has some sort of sauce. And you can tell by my belly, I’m not too picky.