Matt Carter, chef and proprietor of Zinc Bistro, was first smitten with the demands and disciplines of French gastronomy when he apprenticed at Scottsdale's La Chaumiere in 1989.   His experience there inspired him to pursue classical training in Paris, where he staged at several restaurants. 

Upon his return to Arizona in 1992, his Parisian references helped him land a job at Christopher's under chef Christopher Gross.  In the mid-nineties, Carter became the chef de cuisine of Christopher's Mobil Four-Star kitchen.  A subsequent meeting with French Laundry's Thomas Keller led to a stint as the restaurant's poissonier.  Carter returned home and became the executive chef at Michael's at the Citadel.  After 2 and a half years at Michael's, Matt met future partner, Terry Ellisor.   And Zinc Bistro was born!