Meet Chef Shabo

With over 20 years of restaurant leadership and countless events produced, our mission is simple:
No stress. No mess.

Just 5 Star exceptional experiences.

Chef Shabo - seasoned private chef and caterer in Naples, Florida

Kitchen is all about love and passion. It’s not just cooking; it’s about creating a masterpiece that both tastes and looks amazing!

Chef Shabo, founder

From fine-dining restaurants to luxury events, Chef Shabo’s hands-on approach ensures that every dish and every guest receives the attention they deserve.

Scroll down to learn more about Chef Shabo’s journey & media features ⬇️

Behind every great meal is a GREAT TEAM

For years, Chef Shabo has worked side-by-side with a trusted network of hospitality professionals, each trained to deliver five-star service with warmth and professionalism. Together, they bring restaurant-level expertise to your home, venue, or private event.

  • Skilled Cooks
  • Servers & Bartenders
  • Food Runners
  • Sommeliers
  • Cleaning Crew
  • Florist
  • Various singers/bands/performers
  • Photo & Videography
Chef Shabo’s skilled catering team in action

Chef Shabo Bio

From Cairo to Southwest Florida: Chef Shabo’s Culinary Journey

Born in Qualyubia near Cairo, Egypt, Chef Shabo developed a love for cooking at an early age, inspired by his mother’s farm‑fresh meals and his father’s culinary influence. He trained at the Cairo Hilton Culinary School and began his career at the Cairo Marriott before moving to the United States in 2009.

In the U.S., Chef Shabo advanced through leadership roles in fine dining and hospitality, including kitchen supervision at the Marriott Resort & Spa in Marco Island and executive chef positions on the East Coast of Florida.

In April 2014, he opened Shabo’s Mediterranean Barbecue, a celebrated American‑Mediterranean fusion concept that earned strong local acclaim.

In November 2023, Chef Shabo opened Shabo’s Bistro in Naples, FL — showcasing contemporary American cuisine with a Mediterranean influence and quickly becoming a local favorite.

In September 2024, he established 5 Star Catering, a full-service culinary company dedicated to personalized, luxury dining experiences, cooking classes, and curated private events throughout Southwest Florida.

Having successfully sold both restaurants, Chef Shabo fully transitioned to private dining and catering.

Chef Shabo is highly recognized for creating allergy-friendly menus — including gluten-free, seed-oil-free, vegan, and vegetarian options — and is experienced and knowledgeable in kosher and halal dietary restrictions and food preparations. His commitment to exceptional flavor, presentation, and service brings restaurant-level quality to private homes, venues, and unforgettable events.

Accomplishments & Media

Chef Shabo’s work has been featured in prominent local and lifestyle publications, highlighting his culinary expertise, business journey, and artistic approach to food.

Featured Media & Interviews

  • Dec 2025The Naples Press: Introducing Chef Shabo — the brilliance behind 5 Star Catering and his approach to luxury private experiences. ➪ Read full article
  • Nov 2025 – Gulfshore Business: Coverage of Shabo’s Bistro changing hands in North Naples, marking the successful sale of the restaurant and Chef Shabo’s full transition to private dining and catering. ➪ Read article
  • Oct 2025 – Voyage Tampa Magazine: In‑depth interview exploring Chef Shabo’s life, business philosophy, and evolution from restaurateur to founder of 5 Star Catering and Wise Spice. ➪ Read full article
  • July 2025 – Facebook Spotlight by Tim Aten: senior editor for Gulfshore Business and The Naples Press, highlighted Chef Shabo’s cooking show at Shabo’s Bistro, showcasing his gluten‑friendly dishes and creative Mediterranean-American menu. ➪ View feature
  • May 2024 – Naples Daily News: Exclusive interview sharing his recipe for opening a successful restaurant. ➪ [Read Here]
  • Jan 2024 – The Naples Press: Interview with Jean Amodea on Chef Shabo’s culinary philosophy. ➪ [Read full article]
  • Dec 2023 – Naples Daily News: Featured review by Diana Biederman. ➪ [Read full article]
  • May 2023 – Check, Please! South Florida TV feature. ➪ [Watch episode]
  • May 2021 – Hosted Miss Universe 2020 pageant participants. ➪ [Watch CBS Miami report]
  • November 2019Sun Sentinel review by a prominent local critic, highlighting Chef Shabo’s innovative dishes and the elevated dining experience at Shabo’s Mediterranean Barbecue. ➪ Read full article

Summary of Restaurant Successes:
Chef Shabo’s previous restaurants consistently ranked among the top 10 in Florida, earning over 1,500 combined positive reviews across Yelp, Google, and Facebook.

Other Highlights:

  • Culinary TV show appearances at Nile TV (Cairo, Egypt)
  • 2010 Iron Chef Competition winner, Marco Island Marriott
  • Conducted cooking classes for 50+ children and 100+ adults