J. Gilbert’s St. Louis

Tripp Anway

Managing Partner

Tripp’s journey with the company began in 1977 at the very location he now proudly leads as Managing Partner—J. Gilbert’s in West County. Over the decades, Tripp has been deeply involved in every concept the company has developed, playing a vital role in numerous restaurant openings across the country. His dedication, culinary expertise, and people-first leadership style earned him titles including Executive Chef, Regional Chef, and his current role, General Manager and Managing Partner.

Beyond the restaurant, Tripp is a passionate foodie who enjoys growing his own fruits and vegetables, canning seasonal harvests, and sharing the results with friends. A perfect evening? A great bottle of Pinot Noir paired with a prime cut strip steak.

Adam Kuhn

Executive Chef

With nearly two decades in the restaurant industry, Adam’s journey began humbly as a busser at a local Mexican restaurant in 2007. It wasn’t long before his growing passion for food drew him into the kitchen, where he began cooking and training, igniting a career that would shape his life.

Fueled by a love for the culinary arts, Adam pursued formal training in culinary school, eventually finding his professional home at J. Gilbert’s in 2014. Starting as a sauté cook, he immersed himself in learning every aspect of the kitchen. His dedication and drive quickly earned him the role of Sous Chef in 2016, and by 2019, he was named Executive Chef.

Outside the kitchen, Adam enjoys quality time with his wife and their two daughters, Addison and Charlie. A passionate home gardener, he loves cultivating heirloom varieties and growing organic produce to share with friends and family—continuing to nurture the same passion for food that started it all.

Michelle Strathman

Sales & Events Manager

With over two years of dedicated service, Michelle has grown from Sales and Events Coordinator to Sales and Events Manager — driven by creativity, strategic marketing, and a passion for people.  Since joining the company in 2022, Michelle has had the opportunity to work with all of the brands within our portfolio, including J. Gilbert’s Wood-fired Steaks & Seafood, Bristol Seafood Grill, Devon Seafood Grill and Houlihan’s, and is currently responsible for private events at the Bristol in Creve Coeur, Missouri, J. Gilbert’s in Des Peres, a suburb of St. Louis, and the Houlihan’s in Ramsey, New Jersey. 

Proud to be recognized as the 2024 Sales Coordinator of the Year, Michelle brings a unique blend of marketing expertise and food & beverage knowledge that allows her to elevate even the simplest gathering into a memorable dining experience.  

Michelle holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing from Montclair State University in New Jersey. Approach is rooted in creative thinking and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations at every touchpoint.

“My goal is to exceed our guests’ expectations at every touchpoint and thoroughly enjoy ensuring that each event receives our commitment to five-star concierge service.”

Michelle’s favorite menu recommendations ...

The Wood-Grilled Ribs at J. Gilbert’s that are slow-cooked to perfection, with a smoky aroma that enhances rich taste, with a tender, juicy texture that allows every bite to melt in your mouth.  At Bristol, Michelle always recommends the Seafood Mixed Grill, a seafood lover's paradise that satisfies every craving.