Eric Straley

Executive Chef

Chef Eric Straley brings passion, precision, and creativity to his Executive Chef role at Indaco in Charlotte, NC. Originally from Omaha, NE, Straley began his culinary journey making pizzas while pursuing a finance degree at the University of Nebraska Lincoln. His early culinary work led him to switch career paths and pursue his passion for the culinary arts. He graduated from college with an Associate of Applied Science in Food Service Hospitality, focusing on Culinary Arts from The Great Plains Culinary Institute. 

After a few moves to Portland, ME, and New Haven, CT, working in several established restaurants and expanding his culinary repertoire, Chef Straley has embarked on his latest journey in Charlotte and is eager to make his mark on the vibrant culinary scene.

At Indaco Charlotte, Straley is fortunate to pass his knowledge to an enthusiastic team of culinary professionals who remind him of himself. In the kitchen, he truly appreciates Indigo Roads' incorporation of sustainability, and believes in fostering personal relationships with local farmers to feature high-quality, fresh products in every dish. 

When Straley is not in the restaurant, you can find him searching for the best local ingredients and experimenting with new recipes alongside his official taste tester, his wife Amber. Aside from his foodie roots, Straley can be found teeing off at the golf course and loving on his two miniature dachshunds, Luna and Penny.