Carlsbad, Calif. – Nov. 12, 2015 – Teri McIllwain has been named culinary director at Cape Rey Carlsbad, a Hilton Resort. In her new role, McIllwain will leverage her diverse industry experience and passion for locally sourced, healthy cuisine to develop fresh menus, social offerings and group activities both at the resort's ocean view Chandler's restaurant and through the catering and room service divisions.
"Teri's deep creativity and passion for food combined with her culinary knowledge and familiarity with the north county San Diego lifestyle, make her an ideal pick for crafting and delivering truly flavorful and eclectic California cuisine," says Clifton Carmody, director of food and beverage operations. "Her openness to learn, teach and lead stems from her love of the kitchen and promises to bring incredible dining experiences to our increasingly discerning guests."
McIllwain's fresh approach in Chandler's includes creating new seasonal, coastal-inspired menus that are centered on premium ingredients sourced from local and sustainable farms. Menus also feature weekly dishes inspired by the best ingredients from nearby farmer's markets. To help her in the quest, McIllwain has recruited Matt Geremia, formerly a chef at the popular Solana Beach eatery Crush, to step into the role of senior sous chef and her second in command.
"I want each guest to taste the essence of the coast through their palate," states McIllwain. "Food is so much more than fuel for the body; we create memories every time we gather around the table. Every meal is a memory, and it should reflect of our laid-back, SoCal vibe."
Prior to joining Cape Rey, McIllwain served as chef de cuisine at Omni La Costa Resort and Spa working in nearly all of the resort's culinary outlets including Diversions Sport Lounge, Bluefire Grill, Catering and Banquets. While at La Costa, she also served as a nutritional chef for the onsite, wellness-focused Premier Fitness Camp and Chopra Center. McIllwain attended the San Diego Culinary Institute after entering the field as a private chef and Bon Appetit culinary instructor for Sur La Table stores in San Diego.
To learn more about Cape Rey and Chandler's, visit www.CapeRey.com and www.ChandlersCarlsbad.com.
