So much of a person’s life can be summed up in our relationships with others. Alan Caraco, the new director of culinary at Duke’s Seafood, treasures the memories and good times with chef Bill Ranniger, the beloved executive chef at Duke’s who passed away in summer 2023. Caraco carries Ranniger’s kindness with him, advising anyone and everyone: “‘Show as much love as you can to your family and friends closest to you. If you can hug them, please do.’ A hug from Bill was always full of love.”
Ranniger started as a chef in the 1980s in Seattle and was the one who first hired Caraco as a sous chef. They stuck together and worked at the original Red Robin before eventually going to the Duke’s family of restaurants, where they gained an appreciation for sustainable seafood and preparing meals with fresh, local ingredients long before it was trendy. Caraco has spent decades in the restaurant industry, and so much of his life has been in the company of industry folks such as Ranniger, who wasn’t just a “work friend” but part of his family, a travel companion, a fellow Steve Miller Band superfan, and a true brother.
When asked about his new leadership role with Duke’s, Caraco is the first to keep Ranniger’s memory as part of the conversation. When taking on the new position, he insisted on a different title out of respect. Since Ranniger’s passing, Caraco quietly has been taking on added responsibilities while cultivating the connections Ranniger spent a career building. Along with ensuring the overall food quality of the restaurants is maintained, Caraco works daily with the chefs, helping develop new featured menu items and serving as the creative director for what the restaurants wish to do in the new year…