Chris Hart
General Manager, Operating Partner
chart@boatwerksrestaurant.com

Chris’ career began in 1970 as a server at the Hatch Restaurant in Holland, owned by Dick Den Uyl. He was attending Hope College and continued working for Dick for eight years. He had the opportunity to become the Director of Operations for The Hatch and Point West, located in Holland and Tanglewood Restaurant in Norton Shores. Chris then joined the El Chico Corporation in Dallas, Texas as the Regional and District Director of four markets. This proved to be a phenomenal move for Chris as he managed over 100 units during his eight year tenure.

In 1988, he located back to West Michigan to work for Universal Restaurants, owners of Findley’s, Pietro’s, and Applause Banquets and Catering. During his 14 year tenure he held positions including District Manager, Director of Operations, Vice President of Operations and President and COO of the Pietros and Applause divisions. In 2002, Chris was offered the opportunity to become the General Manager of the Double JJ Resort in Rothbury, MI. This was of particular interest to Chris as he was to aid the operating owners in improving their operations and preparing for their upcoming expansion into real estate and an indoor water park facility. His position required overseeing all operations of the 2200 acre resort, including golf course, F&B venues, equestrian facility, waterpark, retail, entertainment/recreational activities, lodging and rental of hotels, log homes and condominiums.

In January 2008, Chris returned home to the Holland area to become an operating partner with Joe Walsh for Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant. He has compiled one of West Michigan’s finest management teams, made operational improvements in food, beverage and service refinements, has made cosmetic improvements indoors and has added a full outdoor patio bar for great waterfront experience. Chris is happy to be home in West Michigan and looks forward to all the new exciting things that Boatwerks offers the lakeshore community. Chris loves spending spare time with his family and his five grandchildren.