Meet Dave Merlina | Cook

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dave Merlina and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dave, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I have always wanted to have my name on the door so to speak. It is a huge undertaking, starting your own business but I knew I would regret it if I didn’t at least try

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My main job has been a private chef for a family here in Seamboat for over 18 years now. I have been a chef at a restaurant in Aspen , a winery chef in the Napa Valley and most recently have started my own line of burnt caramel sauces.

I would like to think that there are multiple reasons why I am where I am at today. Luck of course…always helps…my work ethic is extremely important to me and I would like to think that my friends and family that have been there for me over the years do so because I care about my people and will do anything for them. I am so grateful that they have always had my back as well.

I don’t think any of this was easy. I worked my a** off to get to where I am today. But I also appreciate the good fortune I have had ….because work ethic alone doesn’t always open doors for you

My goal was to always do the best I could. Never ever phone it in. I carried that philosophy as a dishwasher, prep cook and line cook all the way up to running my own kitchen and starting my own business. No job is beneath me and everyone I come in contact with deserves respect and empathy
I feel that is an important rule to follow …..in my life as well as
My career

My goal with Bogey’s Larder Burnt Caramel Sauce is to open the door for ever increasing culinary possibilities. The reason I made a burnt caramel sauce in the first place was because all the caramel sauces out there were cloying sweet and one dimensional. I wanted to make something with depth and soul and that could be paired with savory and sweet dishes alike. I wanted to create something unique and thought provoking

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would certainly take them to the Old Town Hot Springs pool or the Strawberry park hot springs. Both are very unique and fun places to visit, especially in the winter time……being outside in a warm pool in the middle of a snow storm is incredible

Definitely take them to Winona’s for breakfast and or Luch. Jamie and her crew are always dialed in and she is so generous. There isn’t a better breakfast/ lunch spot in Steamboat.

Obviously taking someone skiing in Steamboat is a must. Or if it’s summer , riding the gondola up and hiking around is amazing.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! First and foremost I would like to thank my parents for all of their hard work and sacrifice over these last 51 years. I wouldn’t be here today without their many facets of support and love

Vince and Gretchen Coleman are two perfect examples of people who are so kind and have a generosity of spirit that is second to none. Without their support and help this past year, I would not be where I am today, including this spotlight
I also would like to mention my old men’s group the Graveyard Group. They were the ones who got me off my butt and made me take responsibility for getting this thing off the ground.

Website: www.bogeyslarder.com

Instagram: Bogeys Larder