Alila Ventana Big Sur Appoints Food & Beverage Team

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USA, Big Sur, California. May 07, 2025

Alila Ventana Big Sur, an intimate luxury retreat along the Pacific Coast Highway, announced the appointments of Giuseppe Marchesini as Director of Food and Beverage and Andrew Lauer as Executive Chef. Marchesini will lead the resort's culinary department, overseeing menu creation, cost control, and kitchen operations, while Lauer will manage the resort's diverse food and beverage outlets, including the signature restaurant, The Sur House.

GIUSEPPE MARCHESINI, DIRECTOR OF FOOD & BEVERAGE

Marchesini brings over 25 years of experience in fine dining and wine to Alila Ventana Big Sur. His culinary journey began in his hometown of Southern Italy, where he attended a prestigious hospitality school before refining his skills at world-renowned establishments like the Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz, Palazzo Sasso on the Amalfi Coast, Lume in Bordeaux, Bauer Hotel in Venice, and the Grand Hotel in Rimini. He then deepened his expertise in Rome, becoming a master sommelier, collaborating with Michelin-starred chefs Anthony Genovese and Heinz Beck, and evaluating wines for Gambero Rosso. Seeking new challenges, Giuseppe moved to Toronto where he spearheaded the opening and expansion of Buca Osteria & Enoteca as Head Sommelier and Food and Beverage Director, later opening his own acclaimed restaurant, Il Covo. Prior to Alila Ventana Big Sur, he led operations at the Forbes 5-star Meadowood Napa Valley. With a passion for gastronomy, he's eager to immerse himself in the unique culinary landscape of California's Central Coast.

ANDREW LAUER, EXECUTIVE CHEF

Lauer brings a wealth of experience and a passion for culinary excellence to his role as Executive Chef at Alila Ventana Big Sur. A graduate of Johnson & Wales University Providence with both a Bachelors of Culinary Arts & Food Service Management and a Masters of Business Administration, Lauer has honed his skills in some of the world's most prestigious kitchens. His career has been defined by a commitment to luxury hospitality, evident in his previous roles as Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Banquet Chef at Four Seasons Hotel Denver and Sous Chef at the James Beard Award-winning Mercantile Dining & Provision. Chef Lauer's leadership style emphasizes coaching and mentorship, fostering a collaborative and driven culinary team. He is adept at organizing and strategizing complex operations, ensuring seamless execution and exceptional guest experiences. Having worked alongside multiple James Beard Award-winning chefs and Forbes Four-Star rated establishments, Chef Lauer possesses a deep understanding of refined cuisine and unparalleled service.

"We are delighted to welcome Giuseppe and Andrew to Alila Ventana Big Sur," said Matt Skaletsky, General Manager of Alila Ventana Big Sur. "Their combined talent, passion, and dedication to their craft will undoubtedly enhance our culinary program and create truly memorable experiences for our guests. We are excited to see them embrace the abundance of fresh, local ingredients available on the Central Coast and incorporate them into innovative new menus that showcase the best of California cuisine."