Loughhead originally started his education as a film student, but soon handed in his video camera for a toolbox and a seat at the Culinary Institute of America.

Loughhead ran the show at Tantra Restaurant as Executive Chef. He also ran Palm Grill's Key West outpost, and clocked in at Pacific Time and Schatzi on Main before joining The Ritz-Carlton, Coconut Grove.

His reputation certainly precedes him, famous for his former stint at Miami’s exotic-themed Tantra. As Tantra’s Executive Chef, Loughhead took the restaurant to fame, being listed among America's Best Restaurants 2000 by Gourmet, and receiving rave reviews in newspapers, magazines, and from customers in the Zagat Survey and Citysearch. WHERE Miami called Willis Loughhead a “Chef to Watch” in 2001.

Loughhead likes to use ingredients in their most pure form and create dishes where the combination of textures and flavors speak for themselves. An example is his Charred Venison Salad on Paradise Micro Greens with Amarena Cherry Vinaigrette. His reputation for unique, discriminating cuisine makes Willis Loughhead a rising star.