Geoff Gunn
Executive Chef · Co-Owner
Geoff Gunn is a distinguished executive chef and hospitality expert with over three decades of experience, celebrated for his commitment to sustainable sourcing and profound community impact across the Pacific Northwest.
Raven is a homecoming. Geoff served as chef at this same location under previous ownership until 2020, when COVID closed the room. Reopened in 2026 with longtime collaborator Todd Pederson, Raven revives the fan-favorite dishes and the relaxed, welcoming feel that made the old café a beloved corner of Gearhart — staying true to his hallmarks of local, seasonal ingredients, and environmentally conscious cuisine.
Geoff also continues to lead Arise Culinary Specialists in Astoria, which he founded in January 2024 — crafting tailored private events, consulting, and training with an emphasis on sustainable practices and operational efficiency.
Today
- Co-Owner & Executive Chef, Raven Gearhart 2026 —
- Founder, Arise Culinary Specialists, Astoria 2024 —
Education
- Western Culinary Institute (Le Cordon Bleu), Portland '01 — '02
Magna Cum Laude · Valedictorian · 4.0 GPA.
Recognition
- NWRESD Partners in Education Award
- Nominated, Chef Mentor of the Year — ProStart Oregon
- Nominated, Volunteer Citizen of the Year — Tillamook
- Region's first five-star rating — Bridgewater Bistro
Previously
- Executive Chef, Akres on the Pier, Astoria to Dec '25
- Executive Chef, Aquamarine, Seaside Mar–Dec '25
- Executive Chef, Bridgewater Bistro, Astoria '14 — '17, '20 — '23
- Corporate Chef, Bear Claw Organics / Willapa Wild '23
- Executive Chef, Pacific Way Café, Gearhart prior
- Executive Chef, Wayfarer Restaurant & Lounge, Cannon Beach
- Executive Chef, Lumberyard Rotisserie, Cannon Beach '05 — '13
Bridgewater earned a 50% business increase and the region's first five-star rating; Lumberyard served over a thousand guests a day.
Community
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Clatsop County since March 2022, advocating for youth in the court system. For twelve years, Geoff helped organize and emceed Iron Chef Goes Coastal, raising significant funds for the United Way of Clatsop County.
"It is a rewarding full-circle journey and exciting partnership. It's great to see this beloved spot reborn with our shared vision."