Our story

Casey Barella.Cooking for the coast.

Pacific Northwest born, fine dining trained, and the chef behind Astoria's award-winning clam chowder.

Chef Casey Barella cooking in a home kitchen

Good food doesn't need white tablecloths.

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Casey has spent his career celebrating the region's ingredients and its laid-back hospitality. After honing his craft in fine dining kitchens, he set out to prove that exceptional food doesn't require white tablecloths. It just requires quality ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and a passion for sharing great meals.

That vision became The Chowder Stop in Long Beach, Washington, where Casey built an award-winning restaurant known for its handcrafted clam chowder and approachable Northwest fare. Year after year his chowder earned top honors, and it became a destination for locals and visitors alike. After building and successfully selling the restaurant, Casey chose to return to what he enjoys most: creating memorable, personal dining experiences.

Today, through Driftline Provisions, Casey brings restaurant-quality cooking straight to your table. Whether it's an intimate chef's dinner, a catered celebration, or a week of meals made in your kitchen, every menu is inspired by the flavors of the Pacific Northwest and prepared with the same care that made The Chowder Stop a local favorite.

Chef Casey at the clam chowder stand

Still serving chowder

Come say hi on Sundays.

The chowder that made The Chowder Stop famous is still here, served hot at the Astoria Sunday Market all season long.