The DAYTONA Appoints Jason Ward As Executive Chef
Jason Ward has been appointed Executive Chef of The DAYTONA. The boutique, Marriot Autograph Collection hotel opened its doors in April and is located directly across from the world-famous Daytona International Speedway.
A Boston, Massachusetts native and certified Executive Chef in the American Culinary Federation, Ward has more than 25 years of experience working with Marriott hotels and restaurants across the United States. Most recently, he was Executive Chef of Trilogy at Ocala where he oversaw the golf resort's community clubhouse and restaurant, managed daily food and beverage operations, conceptualized menus, and oversaw culinary operations.
Chef Ward showcases his fresh, innovative take on classic American fare at Sir Malcolm, the hotel's full-service, on-site restaurant. The eatery gets its name from the legendary British racing motorist, Sir Malcolm, who's known for setting various land speed records - five on the track in Daytona. The restaurant is upscale and contemporary with international influences and soulful menu items that showcase Ward's whimsical twist on classic comfort food and pay homage to the area's iconic racing history. Menu highlights include house-made corn bread with Moonshine butter, chili shrimp corn dogs with miso mustard, and dulce de leche waffles paired with smoked bourbon ice cream.
"Food is a common touch point for everyone. A great meal will not only bring our guests together at the table, it'll also make them excited about staying with us and visiting the Daytona area," said Ward. "I'm thrilled to be joining The DAYTONA's talented food and beverage team and look forward to creating culinary experiences that take our guests to the raceway, the beach, the boardwalk, and beyond."
In addition to Sir Malcolm, the DAYTONA features The Blue Flame, a contemporary bar with more than 16 custom craft beers on tap and cocktails inspired by the area's legendary racing history. In addition, The Blue Flame features a signature Moonshine lighting ritual, and has a distillery partnership with Sugarland's Shine, the official Moonshine of NASCAR®.
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