Chef
Matthew Cooper
- Discipline
- Chef
- Based in
- Bentonville, Arkansas, United States
- Venue
- Conifer · Restaurant
i. Biography
Matthew Cooper is the chef/owner of Conifer Restaurant in Bentonville, Arkansas, United States. His public philosophy is direct and communal: "My focus has always been to build communities." That idea also shapes how he talks about success: "It is a “we,” not an “I,” because I’m not successful without any of the people that have chosen to surround me."
The Climb
Matthew Cooper trained at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts-Portland and Le Cordon Bleu.
Today
At Conifer Restaurant, Cooper holds the role of chef/owner. He describes the restaurant’s purpose in civic terms: "Conifer strives to support the local economy and become a big part of it in turn. No business is an island and the closer we all become, the more we all benefit."
In Their Words “Conifer strives to support the local economy and become a big part of it in turn. No business is an island and the closer we all become, the more we all benefit.” “My focus has always been to build communities.”
Recognition
In 2025, Cooper was named a James Beard Award Best Chef South finalist. The honor placed his cooking and leadership among the region’s recognized chefs that year.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Matthew
What is Matthew Cooper's current role?
As of 2026, Matthew Cooper is Chef/Owner.
Where did Matthew Cooper train or study?
Matthew Cooper trained at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts-Portland and Le Cordon Bleu.
What recognition has Matthew Cooper received?
