Renowned Pastry Chef Segal Joins Elysian Hotel Chicago
The high-end hotel project, which Charlie Trotter exited in February, also named Jason McLeod as executive chef.
-- Restaurants & Institutions, April 15, 2009
(press release)
April 15, 2009 (CHICAGO) – In preparation for its flagship launch in July, the Elysian has unveiled its elite culinary team of experts that will bring an authentic, approachable and world-class dining experience to the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast.
Mindy Segal, Chicago’s finest pastry chef, and Jason McLeod, award winning executive chef, are the first to be added to a larger team of Elysian Masters who will define the culinary team. Chosen for their individual excellence and creative approach, Mindy and Jason will work together to support the two dining destinations, as well as in-room dining and catering.
As managing pastry chef, Mindy is the master of sweet indulgence at the Elysian. She will oversee the menu creation and execution of all pastry, dessert, bread and related beverages, as well as the production of wedding cakes. Owner of Chicago’s HotChocolate Restaurant and Dessert Bar and a three-time (2007-2009) James Beard Award Outstanding Pastry Chef nominee, Mindy has dazzled diners for years with her masterful interpretations of timeless desserts.
“This is a very special opportunity for me,” said Mindy. “I love the team approach - we each offer a level of excellence that could not be found in one individual. This is an environment I thrive in and can’t wait to share my passion for pastry and sweets with the guests and residents at the Elysian.”
As executive chef for the Elysian, Jason will be leading the culinary vision, menu and execution of Elysian’s two restaurants and in-room dining experience. Best known for creating exceptional American cuisine with fresh, quality ingredients from small farms, Jason brings his refined yet approachable style of simple gastronomy to the Elysian’s dining experience. Jason joins the Elysian most recently from the Grand Del Mar, where he served as executive chef. Prior to this, Jason spent seven years with the Four Seasons Hotel Company including the Great Exuma, Whistler and Toronto properties.
“The Elysian culinary experience is going to be something unique,” said Jason. “Our team in the kitchen will create a remarkable dining experience for all of our guests whether they are enjoying a fine meal, grabbing a casual bite to eat or dining in the comfort of their suite.”
Together, the Elysian culinary team will work with their network of artisan farmers, proprietors and vendors to provide an evolving array of high-quality, seasonal and locally-sourced food, drink and pastry with new and exciting ingredients and presentations in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.
“We have selected two incredible chefs to support the dining experience at the Elysian,” said Atilla Gyulai, director of food and beverage. “Both Jason and Mindy bring sensational knowledge and award-winning experience to our team and we can’t wait to share their authentic approach to food with our guests and residents.”
Passionate about providing the most luxurious and high quality meals, the new chefs are looking to add two sous chefs to their growing team set to provide a unique, world-class dining experience at the Elysian.
About the Restaurants
The Elysian delivers world-class dining including two exceptional restaurants as well as in-room dining and catering. The all-day restaurant will serve breakfast, lunch, light dinner and late night cuisine while the signature restaurant will offer an exceptional fine dining experience. Bernard’s Bar will offer an array of premium cocktails, creative libations and light fare. Private dining rooms are also available and are ideal spaces for groups of eight to 36 to gather for exceptional cuisine and conversation.
About the Elysian
As the owner, operator and developer of hotels, resorts and private residences, the mission of the Elysian is to restore to hotel-keeping a level of style, taste and grace that is reflective of a bygone era when attention to detail was customary and genuine service uncompromised. The intimately scaled flagship property, located in Chicago, will set a new standard in hospitality as the company expands to gateway cities and resort destinations worldwide.
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