RJ'S
SEAFOOD/CHOPS/PASTA/STEAK
EST. | 2021
109 FIRST STREET
PITTSFIELD, MA 01201
413-464-8204
RESTAURANT
ABOUT
RJ'S
RJ'S opened Sept 2021 and is the 4th Restaurant owned and operated by José Reyes
Reyes has run his own Long Island-based restaurants and catering companies since 2008. Previously, he learned all about five-star dining while working at the Scotto Brothers restaurant in Long Island. “I learned from them and decided to open up my own business,” he said. “I have been very happy to make that decision. Then learning from my Friend Fernando Gallicia Rivera there was a need for my experience in Lakeville Ct, I decided it was time to open new restaurants in Ct, Ma and Ny where he owns and operates Picante's Lakeville, Lakeville Ct, Picante's Canaan, Canaan Ct, El Noa Noa Chatham, Chatham Ny, with Chef/partner Fernando Galicia Rivera.
and now RJ'S Pittsfield Ma with Chef/Cousin & partner David Reyes
José Reyes said recently, “Moving to this area was one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life.” He added, “People love the food. I want them to leave happy.”
Aug 20,2025 Restaurant Review:
RJ's in Pittsfield brings a homey feel to fancy Italian food
About David Reyes
50% Owner /Co-founder of the RJS CORPORATION.
David Antonio Reyes, Executive Chef, Restaurateur, Culinary Innovator
Da39reyes@hotmail.com / C: 631-413-3701 / Huntington, NY11743
Chef’s Biography
Having devoted over thirty years of his life to the fine dining business, Executive Chef David Antonio Reyes has established a distinguished culinary career marked by passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Chef Reyes was trained under the tutelage of the legendary Gustavo Graciano, where he perfected his art and came to appreciate both old and new cuisine. Focusing on classical Italian gourmet cuisine while remaining open to international influences, he has developed a reputation for infusing traditional flavors with modern art elements to create memorable dining experiences. Chef Reyes is now at the forefront of two award-winning restaurants: RJ’s Italian Restaurant, known for its sophisticated seafood, chops, and pasta, and RARE 297 Sushi/Steak House, a new establishment that combines style and creativity in its cuisine. His experience shines through in his journey, not just in the decades of his life, but also in his lifelong commitment to bring cuisine as an art form, and, as such, to inspire guests and influence the fine dining environment.
Work Experience
RARE 297 – Sushi & Steak House 2024–Present
Introduced a bold fine dining concept that unites Japanese sushi artistry with modern steakhouse elegance.
Designed a sleek, upscale atmosphere that blends contemporary style with intimate hospitality.
Curates a menu featuring premium aged steaks, expertly crafted sushi, and seasonal specialties.
Elevates guest experience through innovative plating, refined presentation, and top-quality ingredients.
Positioned RARE 297 as a premier destination in the Berkshires for culinary excellence and sophistication.
RJ’s Italian Restaurant – Seafood, Chops & Pasta 2021–Present
Co-founded with cousin and partner Jose Reyes, establishing a family legacy in fine dining.
Crafted a menu that blends classic Italian traditions with modern culinary innovation.
Highlights fresh seafood, handcrafted pasta, and premium cuts of meat to deliver refined Italian flavors.
Developed a welcoming yet elegant dining environment with exceptional guest service.
Earned recognition as a go-to destination for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Italian cuisine in the Berkshires.
SALD’S Italian Restaurant 07/2000 - 07/2021
Cook and Coordinated kitchen staff for Italian Restaurant that serve a population of 100 or more customers.
Managed a team of 9 kitchen staff members during day/night shift as well as actively participated in the management of the diner room team members.
Performed safe cooking skills in order to obtain optimal food outcomes.
Attended management duties such place the wine and food orders, coordinate food deliveries in an effective and timely manner, including kitchen staff scheduling, preparation of food, take out menu, and create daily dinner special’s menu.
The Giving Tree Italian Restaurant Co-Owner 05/1996 –01/2000
Supported activities related to restaurant management including setting up and operating the restaurant from creating the menu to deliver top quality food to the table.
Provide safety food environment for customers by ensuring all food products are fresh and have been labeled correctly. Perform a wide range of tasks, including food products inspection, cleaning and disinfected all food products to prevent food-borne pathogens from spreading, and verifying employees performed their jobs to run kitchen workflows smoothly.
Skills
Expertise in culinary skills
Skilled in planning catering menu including gourmet food dishes.
Ability to collaborate with other restaurant team members.
Adapt in delegating activities relating to the food industry and restaurant management.
Proficient in the process of creating new dishes and special recipes ala carta.
Ability to determine coping mechanisms from stress management.
High level of cultural competency
Bilingual: English & Spanish with excellent communication skills
Education and Training Culinary Training
School Academia Centro Americana de Gastronomía, El Salvador Diploma: Executive Chef — Graduated August 1998
Formal culinary training with emphasis on classical techniques, international cuisine, and gastronomic
innovation.
Mentorship under industry leaders, including Gustavo Graciano, CEO of the International Culinary Institute of American Forum of Gastronomic Professionals.
Foundation of culinary philosophy rooted in precision, artistry, and hospitality.
Certifications & Professional Development
NYS Department of Health Food Management Certificate – Advanced training in food safety and restaurant management.
Food Manipulation & Infection Control Certification – Specialized knowledge in food handling, hygiene, and high-standard culinary operations
References Available
upon request
Chef David A Reyes and Wife Maria
CONTACT US
Sunday 11–9PM
Monday Dinner only 4pm-9pm
Tuesday 11–10PM
Wednesday 11–10PM
Thursday 11–10PM
Friday 11–10PM
Saturday 11–10PM
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RJ'S Restaurant
Seafood/Chops/Pasta/Steak
109 First Street
Pittsfield, MA 01201