Matt Smith, a Glenside resident, has been named K to Z Collective’s new Director of Operations.

From K to Z’s announcement:

Matt Smith is a seasoned culinary professional with a diverse background in fine dining and luxury hospitality. Originally from southern England, Matt moved to London at 16 to attend culinary school. Upon graduating, he joined the prestigious Savoy Hotel as part of their opening team in 2010. After Savoy, he traveled extensively, working in renowned five-star restaurants and hotels across Canada, Australia, and the United States. He landed in Scotland, met his wife, and then settled in Philadelphia so she could pursue her PhD. In 2016, Matt joined Stephen Starr’s team at Barclay Prime as a Sous Chef and was named Executive Chef by 2019. Matt resides locally with his family. With his extensive knowledge and expertise along with his pride for the community, we look forward to all Matt will bring to further our mission for quality dining experience.

Smith said K to Z Collective, which operates The Pizza Wheel in Jenkintown, West Avenue Grille in Jenkintown, the Highland Restaurant & Bar in Glenside, and Taco Kidz (an events and catering food truck) has plenty of new offerings coming this month.

“We have a new chef coming to The Highland, so a menu change is on its way along with new ideas. We’re excited for them,” he said. “We also have forthcoming beer flights and a new cocktail menu, and we’re switching our happy hour from 4:00pm – 6:00pm to cater to those still doing the traditional 9-5.”

Now two weeks in, Smith said he handles a little bit of everything regarding K to Z Collective’s day-to-day operations.

“I got to know Dan and Chelsea and everything they’ve been doing following the SPS fire. They’re about people, good food and drinks, and being a hub for the community. That’s something I’ve been looking for,” he said. “We have a lot of kids that work here, and that was exciting to me. These are perfect jobs for them. They’re hungry. Some of our employees were here when this was still a Bernie’s.”

“We love being a part of this community and look so forward to welcoming you in,” Smith said.

For more on the K to Z Collective, you can visit their Instagram page.

For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.

Photos: Matt Smith