The FINANCIAL -- Nestled on
the tip of Northeast Florida’s barrier island, the Omni Amelia Island
Plantation welcomes Daven Wardynski as the new executive chef of the
resort.
Boasting 17 years of experience in the culinary world, Chef Wardynski joins the food and beverage team from the Omni Chicago Hotel located on the world famous Magnificent Mile.
During his tenure in Chicago, Wardynski made it a priority to incorporate local ingredients wherever possible, using his passion for fresh, quality goods to support the farmers and purveyors of the Midwest region. Under his direction, the Omni Chicago Hotel’s landmark dining establishment – 676 Restaurant & Bar – quickly became a sought-out culinary destination for “comfort food with an attitude.”
Prior to his role as executive chef at the Omni Chicago Hotel, Wardynski was a key player in regaining the coveted AAA 4-Diamond Award for The Pump Room and also served as sous chef under the direction of celebrity chef Rich Tramonto during his time at TRU, the city’s most elite restaurant and AAA 5-Diamond Award winner. Chef Wardynski graduated from Northern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management and has since received multiple honors from the American Culinary Federation, including a Gold Medal in the Chicago National Restaurant show, and has graced media outlets such as Oprah Radio, Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and Cooking Light.
Moving from Chicago to Amelia Island is an incredible change for my family and we welcome the experience. We’re already falling in love with the canopied oaks and ocean views at the Omni Amelia Island Plantation;” said Chef Wardynski. “My passion is creating dishes with fresh, local ingredients and collaborating with area producers and growers will be an exciting new endeavor for me.”
Opening a new chapter in its nearly 40-year heritage, the Omni Amelia Island Plantation in the midst of an $85 million re-imagination. Currently boasting 249 ocean front guest rooms and 300 multi-bedroom villas, the resort offers a variety of on-property dining options, ranging from fine to casual dining. As Omni Hotels announced, the newest venue – Marsh View Bar & Grill – is poised on the ninth hole of the Oak Marsh golf course and features a large deck with a firepit to view Amelia Island’s celebrated marsh sunsets. Upon completion in March 2013, the resort will feature nine different culinary choices for guests including new additions Marsh View Bar & Grill, Natural Slice, Oceanside and Seaglass Lounge.
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