Charles “Chuck” Kline oversees daily operations for all Cameron Mitchell Restaurants (CMR) and the Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern. He actively participates in new concept development for the company, traveling to diverse locations to research potential new ideas with the goal of further extending CMR’s national presence.
In July 2025, Kline celebrated his 30th anniversary with CMR. He began his journey at Cap City Fine Diner & Bar Grandview in 1995 alongside his brother Jamie, and both continue to be integral members of the CMR family to this day. While Kline quickly moved from sous chef to executive chef at Cap City, he truly “cut his teeth” as an executive chef while opening Martini Modern Italian in 1996. His favorite CMR dish continues to be the Chicken Picatta at Martini.
Kline’s enthusiasm for the kitchen started early. Growing up, holidays and family events always began in the kitchen – his grandmother, grandfather, mother and brother were all great cooks, and homemade meals were the centerpiece of family celebrations. At 16 years old, he was making breads and entrees at Vincenzo’s, an Italian restaurant in Columbus, Ohio.
He completed a three-year apprenticeship at The Refectory in Columbus under French Chef Richard Blondin and graduated first in his class at Columbus State Community College with an associate degree in hospitality management. During this time, he also met his wife of more than 30 years, Michelle, who was also a chef apprentice. “Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today,” notes Kline.
Following graduation, Kline served two years as sous chef under Chef Blondin at The Refectory. He credits Blondin – along with Cameron Mitchell and Charlie Trotter – as major influences in his career.
In 1999, he joined the executive team at CMR as corporate chef and steadily rose through the ranks, from vice president of food and beverage in 2007, vice president of operations in 2009 and senior vice president of operations in 2016.
In his corporate roles, Kline helped develop the Ocean Prime brand and is currently focused on expanding the national footprint of newer concepts, including Del Mar and The Pearl.
Kline is enthusiastic about developing and nurturing people as well as the restaurant brands. He remains focused on growing himself, his team and the CMR portfolio. As a passionate ambassador of food, beverage and hospitality, Kline is more focused than ever about ensuring a strong future for the company for generations to come.
During his downtime, he enjoys spending time with family, attending OSU football games and fishing with friends.
