A Culinary Journey With Travis Grappo

Hey there, adventurers and food enthusiasts! We at Discover Shelby recently had the privilege of sitting down with Travis Grappo, the passionate owner of Oak House, a high-end, fan-favorite restaurant. Our conversation with Travis was nothing short of fascinating, as he took us on a journey through his remarkable career in the restaurant industry and shared his vision for Oak House. So grab a seat, and let’s dive into why this is one of the best spots in Shelby County to eat and drink!

Getting to Know Travis Grappo

Travis Grappo’s journey in the restaurant industry began with humble beginnings, waiting tables at the original Outback Steakhouse in Tampa in 1989, where his father was a partner. His dedication and skill led him to become a managing partner in Utah, where he embraced the concept of local managing partners for consistency. At just 27, Travis invested his savings and family and friend’s support to become an Outback partner. His journey took him from Oregon to Florida, transitioning to the high-end world of Flemings.

In 2020, Travis considered opening his own restaurant, inspired by his time at Flemings. Within 24 hours, he was meeting the landlord of what became Oak House, an upscale dining experience focusing on quality food and service. With his former colleagues on board, they transformed a gravel-floored space into Oak House, celebrating its two-year anniversary on January 11, 2022, a testament to Travis’s dedication and teamwork.

The Oak House Experience

Describing Oak House, Travis notes its “casual upscale” nature. Everything is made fresh daily, from sauces to salad dressings, and even the steaks are hand-cut by the chef. This dedication to freshness and quality is what sets Oak House apart from the rest. The attention to detail is impeccable, and Travis believes that if it’s not right, it’s wrong, a philosophy that ensures consistently outstanding food.

One standout item on the menu that Travis personally recommends is the Nola New Orleans barbecue shrimp. It’s a delightful appetizer featuring sautéed shrimp in a Cajun butter sauce. But here’s the twist – regulars at Oak House enjoy pouring the shrimp sauce over a filet, creating a mouthwatering combination that is a must-try for visitors.

Future Plans for Oak House

When asked about expansion, Travis shared his cautious approach. While the success of Oak House has piqued his interest in growth, he believes in taking things slow and steady. Travis values the unique culture and quality of Oak House and doesn’t want to rush into anything that might compromise these values. He emphasizes the importance of doing things right and not chasing opportunities just for the sake of expansion.

Dine At Oak House

Oak House, with its dedication to fresh, high-quality cuisine and exceptional service, is a culinary gem that has quickly become a staple in Shelby County.

So, if you’re looking for an extraordinary dining experience, Oak House is the place to be. Travis’s commitment to excellence and the outstanding team behind Oak House ensure that every visit is an unforgettable adventure for your taste buds. Make Oak House your next dining destination and experience the magic for yourself. Cheers to great food, great company, and great adventures!