COLUMBUS, OH (June 2, 2022) – Hilton Columbus Downtown has named globally-renowned Chef Sebastian La Rocca, as Executive Chef of Restaurants for FYR, Spark, and Stories on High, the three-anchor food and beverage concepts set to open this fall as part of the hotel’s second tower expansion. Hilton Columbus Downtown will be the largest hotel in Ohio, with 1,000 rooms.
Born in Argentina with Italian roots, Chef La Rocca’s illustrious background includes working with some of the world’s most distinguished chefs at Barbecoa London by Jamie Oliver and Zodiac UK by Michael Roux. During Chef La Rocca’s tenure, both restaurants were each awarded two AA Rosettes and the Michelin guide distinction.
Chef La Rocca will bring his unique Latin American culinary style and flair to the wood-burning grill at FYR. Accessible from High Street, FYR will provide a spirited affair of dishes and complementing cocktails. The majority of the menu at FYR will be cooked over a wood-burning oven, as fire is the oldest and arguably most meticulous method of cooking. FYR will feature an approachable American menu with Latin influence and a monthly, chef-driven tasting menu that will include suggested drink pairings alongside locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The specialty cocktail program at FYR will feature brighter notes and ingredients that pair perfectly with the smoky flavors found in each dish. The wine program will center around highly curated selections, while the beer program will range from lighter to more elevated options and offer a heavy representation of local brews.
Located 28 stories above High Street, Stories on High will be the tallest rooftop bar in Columbus, boasting two outdoor terraces offering expansive 360-degree views of the city. Guests can expect a swanky, cocktail-forward food and beverage offering where each carefully-crafted drink threads together its own story through the marriage of unique ingredients. The venue will feature an extensive wine list, a signature cocktail program, and sophisticated bar bites and small plates with a Japanese influence, such as yakitori, fresh sushi rolls, and wagyu sliders.
“To create a truly elevated dining experience for guests and locals alike, we need the culinary talent that can bring that vision to life,” said Christian Coffin, general manager, Hilton Columbus Downtown. “Chef La Rocca brings with him a distinguished experience uniquely suited for FYR and Stories on High and his dynamic personality will be enticing to young culinarians looking to learn to cook with live fire. Under Chef La Rocca’s leadership, we look forward to our new concepts becoming the most talked-about restaurants in downtown Columbus.”
In addition to overseeing FYR and Stories on High, Chef La Rocca will oversee Spark, located on the lobby level, featuring a Midwest-driven menu with classic cocktails and local brews, ideal for an after-work drink or quick bite following a meeting at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
“As someone who has lived and traveled all over the world, I’ve seen first-hand how food can be a catalyst that breaks down barriers and brings people and communities together,” said Chef La Rocca. “I’m looking forward to building relationships in the community with local suppliers as menus at all of our venues will feature signature ingredients that spotlight the rich, agricultural heritage of the Midwest.”
Most recently, Chef La Rocca was chef and owner of the Eat Gastro Group in Costa Rica, featuring four distinct restaurants. Botaniko, anchored by a wood-burning grill similar to FYR, was recognized by San Pellegrino in 2021 as one of The World’s 50 Best Discoveries, a first in Costa Rica. It also received the honor of being named part of the Top 19 Restaurants in Central America by the New Worlder Guide, and among the top 10 percent of restaurants worldwide by TripAdvisor. His extensive background also includes his work as a chef at distinguished international properties, including Four Seasons Costa Rica, El Mangroove Autograph Collection Costa Rica, Faena Hotel Buenos Aires, and Hanbury Manor by Marriott Hertfordshire UK.
Working alongside Chef La Rocca at Hilton Columbus Downtown will be Executive Banquet Chef Todd Goodwin and Pastry Chef Brian Wildroudt. Chef Goodwin has served in his position at Hilton Columbus Downtown for three years where he brought a seasoned culinary background to his role, previously serving as an executive chef in some of Columbus’ most well-known kitchens. Chef Wildroudt also brings a background of pastries into his role, previously having served as an executive pastry chef at Tupelo Donuts in Columbus.
Hilton Columbus Downtown is located at 401 North High Street. To make a reservation, click here or call 614-384-8600.
