Vail, Colo (April 30, 2018) – Hotel Talisa, Vail is excited to announce that Jay R. Spickelmier has been appointed as Executive Chef. With over 15 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality industries, Chef Spickelmier will oversee the hotel’s culinary operations, including Gessner, the hotel’s full-service restaurant.
A native of Denver, Colorado, Chef Spickelmier joined the former Vail Cascade Resort and Spa in 2011 as The Chef De Cuisine. He remained an integral part of the team as the property underwent a $65+ million renovation, reopening as Hotel Talisa, Vail in November 2017.
“I truly enjoyed being a part of Hotel Talisa, Vail’s renovation and grand opening,” said Chef Spickelmier. “I look forward to this next chapter and am thrilled to have the opportunity to further elevate the dining experience at Gessner.”
Chef Spickelmier formally began his career in Boulder, Colorado at The Boulder Café and the iconic, Flagstaff House. He has worked at various high-end restaurants and hotels through the years, earning a Zagat Award and winning The Westword’s Mile High Chef Competition.
“Jay has been an integral member of the Hotel Talisa, Vail team and is very deserving of this new position,” said John Garth, Area Managing Director. “Chef Spickelmier is extremely passionate about food and we are excited for him to infuse his energy and enthusiasm into Hotel Talisa, Vail’s culinary offerings. Our team is dedicated to providing guests timeless memories and we are positive Chef Spickelmier will do this with his culinary creations.”
