Wellington, Fla. – Jan. 12, 2018 – Celebrating its second year as a Wellington culinary staple, The Patio At Polo is enjoying renewed success thanks to its intimate atmosphere and bold dishes, a testament to the family trio holding the reins. Owner-operators Sheila Motley and Chef Mat Allen, along with their 6-year-old son Collins, are the driving force and creative minds behind the most unique dining locale in Wellington. Combining Motley’s talents for event management and catering with Allen’s skill in the kitchen, family-run The Patio At Polo has quickly and justifiably become one of the town’s most charming jewels.
“We had the idea for The Patio At Polo because we spend so much time here each year that we wanted a way to utilize our skills in the culinary industry as well as provide Wellington with a new and unique spot to eat,” commented Motley. “We found a perfect home within The Palm Beach Polo and Country Club, and I’m so proud that our vision came to fruition. We’ve had such a warm reception, and I’m excited to return for another year of business.”
For more than 15 years, Motley has orchestrated a wide array of spectacular events on the local, regional and national levels, earning a stellar reputation for success in the process. A long-time equestrian, her ties to Wellington go beyond simply the culinary scene and extend into the winner’s circle at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center. Splitting time yearly between Wellington and her family’s home base in Virginia, she and husband Allen imagined creating a seasonal restaurant to bring more culinary flair to South Florida during their time in Wellington for the hectic winter season. Ultimately after careful planning and creative menu preparation, their ideal became a reality, taking shape in the form of The Patio At Polo.
“I follow Sheila,” laughed Allen. “Our little man is the big boss. He runs the show. He preps, he greets tables and he tells the servers when the tables need water or checks.”
Though Chef Allen is quick to credit his wife and son, he is equal half of the culinary power couple. Between Motley and Allen, the dynamic pair pose the perfect skill set to build and grow The Patio At Polo. Classically-trained in his home nation of England, Chef Allen worked for the Queen of England and the Royal Family at Windsor Castle, later crossing the pond to further hone his skills in the United States. Allen added his unique taste to one of the premier country clubs in Virginia before moving to an exclusive restaurant and catering company in Charlottesville, where he met his future wife. With more than 10 years of experience as a first-class chef, Allen now brings his culinary expertise to his own brainchild, coordinating the ever-changing menu and overseeing the preparation of dishes at The Patio At Polo with his family at his side.
“I love the freedom of expression that comes with being a chef. I can stand in the back, do my thing and let my food do the talking,” said Chef Allen. “I love that with our own restaurant we have the freedom to change the menu every couple of weeks and keep experimenting. Plus, what’s better than working with your best friends? It’s our place.”
The Patio At Polo exemplifies the best that Wellington has to offer in a casual atmosphere. Boasting a menu featuring both traditional favorites and adventurous new plates, it is the ideal space for equestrians and locals alike.
With the winter season in full swing, reservations are recommended to experience The Patio At Polo. To make a reservation, please call or text 561-660-3300 to secure your spot.
For more information on The Patio at Polo or to view the current menu, please visit thepatioatpolo.com.
