We had the good fortune of connecting with Carmen Naputi Davis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carmen Naputi, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
My name is Carmen Naputi Davis, and I’m the Chef and Owner of Island Smoke N Grill, a woman-owned BBQ business rooted in culture and community. Originally from the island of Guam in the Pacific, I bring the heart of Chamorro cuisine to Los Angeles and its diaspora. With a background in pastry and a deep love for island hospitality, I created Island Smoke N Grill to share the rich flavors and traditions of my homeland with Southern California — the place I now proudly call home.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve been a pastry chef for over 27 years, with my culinary journey beginning at just 16 years old. I had the privilege of mentoring under Guam’s own “Iron Chef,” Peter Duenas, at Sam Choy’s. It was during this time that I developed a deep appreciation for the art of pastry.

My passion truly ignited while working in mass production for the Hilton Resort in Guam, where I also launched the resort’s first-ever kids’ cooking class. I went on to compete in Pastry in Paradise, earning multiple awards for my creative flair and innovative desserts.

Eager to take my skills to the next level, I enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu in Las Vegas while working at Caesar’s Palace. As a girl from the islands with big dreams, I wasn’t quite sure how to break into the high-level pastry world—so I took a leap of faith. I walked down to the pastry kitchen in the depths of Caesar’s Palace, asked to speak with the executive pastry chef, and boldly asked for an opportunity.

He brought me into the cake decorating room and challenged me to create a wedding cake on the spot. I rose to the occasion, and the chef hired me immediately. I began decorating cakes and soon transitioned into full pastry work for the 808 Restaurant, where I had the honor of working directly under renowned chef Jean-Marie Josselin.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Guam is home to countless amazing places to eat across the island. Some of my personal favorites include Meskla, Templa, and the Chamorro Village. When it comes to places to visit, I love spending time at my family’s beach in the southern part of the island, as well as at Ritidian. There, you can fish, snorkel, and explore the beautiful, deep blue sea.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My right-hand sous chef and son, Sage, along with my partner, Whisper, are the heart and hands behind everything I do. Their support allows me to pursue my passion each day—sharing our story and a piece of our home with others. Through our business, we offer a space where Islanders and those curious about Guam can come together, reconnect, and feel a sense of community, even from 6,000 miles away.

Instagram: Island Smoke N Grill

Facebook: Carmen Naputi Davis

Image Credits
Whisper Dela Cruz

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