Djerf appointed new executive chef at Prime 239 Steakhouse
Prime 239 Steakhouse has announced the appointment of Matt Djerf (pronounced ‘Jerf’) as its new executive chef at the award-winning restaurant at 1715 Cape Coral Parkway, West.
A Cape Coral native with deep roots in the local dining scene, Djerf brings more than 15 years of culinary experience and a passion for refined, flavor-forward cooking to the steakhouse. His journey began working alongside the late Chef Shannon Yates, one of the region’s most respected restaurateurs, first cooking for the Boston Red Sox and later helping open Nevermind Awesome Bar & Eatery in 2012.
“I started out washing dishes and doing prep work at Nevermind and eventually worked my way up to running the kitchen,” said Djerf, adding that every station, every burn and every late night was part of the journey. “Shannon taught me not only how to cook, but how to lead a kitchen and connect with the community through food.”
Over the years, Djerf continued to hone his skills at several of Southwest Florida’s top restaurants including CRaVE, Leroy’s in Punta Gorda, Hooked Island Grill, Cru and Lush. He also helped open Enter the Dragon, an eclectic local favorite known for its creative blend of tacos, fried chicken and sushi.
“Joining Prime 239 feels like coming home,” Djerf said. “This is much more my wheelhouse — incredible ingredients, classic steakhouse flavor and a team that’s passionate about excellence.”
Prime 239 owner George Lukas says Djerf’s appointment reflects the restaurant’s commitment to cultivating homegrown talent and maintaining the high standards that have defined its success since opening in 2022.
“Matt represents the next generation of Cape Coral culinary leadership,” Lukas said. “He’s got the creativity, discipline and heart that make great chefs — and he understands what our guests expect from a Prime 239 dining experience. We’re thrilled to have him leading our kitchen.”
Located at 1715 Cape Coral Parkway, West, Prime 239 Steakhouse specializes in wet-aged USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood and creative accompaniments. The restaurant offers more than 100 whiskeys, 300-plus wines, craft cocktails and non-alcoholic selections. Dine indoors or alfresco. It’s open for dinner Monday through Saturday, 4 to 10 p.m.; closed Sundays. For reservations, visit prime239.com or call 239-673-8816.