MON 9/22 | cayo coco x connor daidone

Who: Chef Chris Ippolito and Guest Chef Connor Daidone
When: Monday, Sept 22 
Where: Cayo Coco Rum Bar and Restaurant

Chris and Connor come together for a special pop-up celebrating thoughtfully foraged, preserved, and expertly crafted dishes. Their menu focuses on delivering delicious plates made with intention and care, showcasing a deep respect for ingredients and culinary craftsmanship.

Born and raised in Birmingham, AL, Connor Daidone grew up surrounded by the life of the kitchen. The son of the late chef Richard Daidone of the Bessemer classic, The Bright Star, he spent his childhood weaving between tables in their timeless dining room. He began his culinary path in local kitchens, where he sharpened his skills.

A move to Chattanooga, TN, broadened his craft and leadership, but it was in Asheville, NC, that his approach to Southern and Appalachian flavors began to flourish. He draws inspiration from the region’s seasonal bounty, working hand-in-hand with local farms and foragers to create dishes that honor both his Southern roots and the flavors of the mountains. At the nationally renowned restaurant The Admiral, his cooking celebrates sustainability, vibrant ingredients, and the simple joy of a meal well made.

Chris and Connor have been close friends for over 20 years, having met in early elementary school. Their shared passion for cooking was evident from their first job together at Which Wich in The Summit. With Chris’s Greek heritage and Connor’s Italian roots, food and family traditions have always been central to their connection. They later became roommates in Asheville while working in notable kitchens—Chris at The Admiral and Connor at ELDR. Chris eventually returned to Birmingham to work at Cayo, while Connor stayed in Asheville, building his culinary career. After Hurricane Helene, Connor joined The Admiral, reuniting the two longtime friends and collaborators whose bond is grounded in friendship, culture, and a shared love of food.