The Allison Inn & Spa Appoints Executive Chef, Christopher Smith
As The Allison Inn & Spa prepares to celebrate a decade in Oregon's bountiful wine country (2019), the resort welcomes Christopher Smith as Executive Chef. In this new role, Chef Smith will lead all culinary programs at the 85-room award-winning boutique resort, including the resort's signature restaurant JORY.
Seattle native Chef Smith's passion for the culinary world began at a young age, cooking for his family and determining at the age of 14 to pursue a career in the culinary arts. Two years later, he enrolled in the culinary program at Lake Washington Institute. With 15 years of industry experience under his belt, including mastering his craft under chef Bobby Moore at the Barking Frog at Willows Lodge for six years, Chef Smith was named one of Zagat's “30 under 30” Seattle Chefs that are redefining the industry. Chef Smith brings an inventive and artistic vision to The Allison with new, transformative tasting menus and elevated dining experiences.
“I am thrilled to be working with the talented team at The Allison and look forward to curating creative, flavorful dishes honoring the resort's 10th year of excellence in Oregon's wine country,” said Chef Smith. “We will continue to elevate our menus infusing fresh, seasonal ingredients from our Chef's Garden and through our work with local partners to embrace the melting pot atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest.”
“Chef Chris' love and appreciation for food and sense of place complements our culinary philosophy here at The Allison,” said Pierre Zreik, Managing Director of The Allison Inn & Spa. “I am delighted to have him as Executive Chef leading this diligent and remarkable team into our 10th anniversary year.”
Sourcing ingredients from the on-property Chef's Garden and greenhouse, the innovative culinary team at The Allison continues to deliver delectable locavore menus. In addition to JORY, the exceptional garden-to-table menu is available throughout the property including in-Room Dining and on the light fare menu at the Allison Spa Cafe. For guests searching for an intimate dining experience, the Chef's Table - adjacent to the glass-enclosed kitchen - serves 2-10 people, and a private dining room are available for dinner parties seating up to 12 guests. The JORY menu is complete with an extensive 500-label wine list, managed internally by The Allison's Wine Director Kristen Young.
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