  Stamford, Connecticut, April 19, 2022: The fourth annual Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards and first annual Golf Kitchen Invitational sponsored by NGCRA will be held on Thursday, September 8, at the prestigious GlenArbor Golf Club in Bedford Hills, New York. The Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards dinner promises to be outstanding,” said Diana DeLucia, Founder of the Golf Kitchen portfolio. “An impressive lineup of private golf and country club chefs will take guests on a culinary journey and ensure an unforgettable event.” Host Executive Chef Michael Ruggerio and Marisa Hernandez, Executive Pastry Chef of GlenArbor Golf Club, will welcome a stellar team to their kitchen, including:
*Menu, Wine, Spirits to be announced A four-five course menu will showcase a collection of progressive American club cuisine utilizing the finest products available. GlenArbor’s Sommelier and Wine Director Fernando Silva will pair fine wines to enhance each dish. Culinary awards in 10 categories will be presented throughout the evening, including the new Wine Program Award. “Any time you have the opportunity to collaborate and work with a collection of accomplished chefs and industry peers, you know it will be a special evening for all involved,” Ruggerio said. “Chefs are artists, and each involved will have a unique perspective that has developed over many years of hard work and training. I’ll enjoy seeing the methods and techniques used to create the meal for this special evening.” DeLucia added, “I commend Morgan Gregory, President of GlenArbor, and his staff for their continued commitment to raising awareness and rewarding the high-level culinary talent in the private club industry.” Schedule of Events 11.30 AM Arrival - Lunch - Warm-Up 12:50 PM Welcome and announcements 1:00 PM Shotgun Start 6:30 PM Cocktails and Tournament Awards 7:30 PM Dinner and Culinary Awards Golf Format: 1 Best Ball of 4 Special Events: Long Drive Nearest to Pin Through this event, Golf Kitchen hopes to support further their recently established Golf Kitchen Private Golf Club Scholarship for students at The Culinary Institute of America. "For as long as I have known Diana DeLucia, her passion has always been geared towards philanthropic and educational endeavors - whether on or off the golf course. This new scholarship is a perfect example of her continuous dedication to her passions in life and will benefit many worthy recipients in the future." ~ Maria Loi, Chef, Entrepreneur, Greek Food Ambassador, TV Host & Healthy Lifestyle Expert A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available. Email Diana@GolfKitchen.com for more information. This is an invitation-only event. Contact Diana@GolfKitchen.com for questions. *** About NGCRA: NGCRA was founded in 2006 to support the needs of F&B operations at Country Clubs. They are dedicated to finding solutions to the unique and challenging issues that Club GMs and Chefs face on a daily basis in their dining facilities. Their exclusive Nationally renowned food purchasing program has $15 billion of buying power with 400+ manufacturers participating. About GlenArbor Golf Club: Providing a collegial combination of golf, fine dining, and camaraderie, the GlenArbor Golf Club, was founded in 2001. The Club is located on 200 acres of land in northern Westchester County, on grounds that were originally developed in 1917 as the White Estate – one of the largest, historic estates in Westchester. GlenArbor’s master plan preserved the property’s historic roots as benefitting its heritage. The award-winning Mark Finlay designed, 33,000 square-feet clubhouse that overlooks the first and eighteenth fairways and offers stunning views of the course and the surrounding landscape. Formal and informal dining options are available along with a number of private dining and meetings rooms in which to host intimate and larger member events. About Golf Kitchen:Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a semi-annual magazine, books, unique culinary events, certifications, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards and Invitational. Media Contacts: Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782
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NGCRA takes lead sponsorship at the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards and Invitational3/31/2022  Stamford, Connecticut, March 31st – Golf Kitchen is pleased to announce NGCRA (National Golf Course Restaurant Association) as its lead sponsor for the 2022 Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards and Golf Kitchen Invitational on September 8th at GlenArbor Golf Club, Bedford Hills, New York. The NGCRA's mission is to support their national member base with all their F&B needs by establishing long-term relationships and creating a platform to share ideas for improving operations, growing sales, and reducing food purchasing costs without compromising quality or service. "After many years of mutual discussions with Diana and Golf Kitchen, we at NGCRA are honored to be the lead sponsor of this event as our core business values, philosophies, and passion for F&B Excellence in the challenging Golf and Country Club operations are uniquely aligned." commented Steve Cohen, CEO of NGCRA. www.ngcra.com "I am pleased with this milestone for the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards and Invitational," said Diana DeLucia, President, Golf Kitchen. "I look forward to working with the NGCRA to continue to illuminate the exceptional culinary career paths within the industry, especially when staff shortages are at an all-time high and membership applications are growing. Dining is now one of the most critical elements at a club that potential members consider with scrutiny." *** About NGCRA: NGCRA was founded in 2006 to support the needs of F&B operations at Country Clubs. They are dedicated to finding solutions to the unique and challenging issues that Club GMs and Chefs face on a daily basis in their dining facilities. Their exclusive Nationally renowned food purchasing program has $15 billion of buying power with 400+ manufacturers participating. About Golf Kitchen: Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a semi-annual magazine, books, unique culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards, golf Kitchen Invitational, Wine Dinners, and The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence program. About GlenArbor Golf Club: Providing a collegial combination of golf, fine dining, and camaraderie, the GlenArbor Golf Club was founded in 2001. The Club is located on 200 acres of land in northern Westchester County, on grounds that were originally developed in 1917 as the White Estate – one of the largest, historic estates in Westchester. GlenArbor’s master plan preserved the property’s historic roots as benefitting its heritage. The award-winning Mark Finlay-designed, 33,000 square-feet clubhouse overlooks the first and eighteenth fairways and offers stunning views of the course and the surrounding landscape. Formal and informal dining options are available along with a number of private dining and meetings rooms in which to host intimate and larger member events. Media Contacts: Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782  Stamford, Connecticut, February 10th – The first annual Golf Kitchen Invitational and the fourth annual Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards will be held on Thursday, September 8th, 2022 at the prestigious GlenArbor Golf Club in Bedford Hills, New York. “I am deeply humbled by the continued partnership with GlenArbor Golf Club and their assistance in developing this important industry event. Working with a club that honors the Traditions of Golf, Food, Wine, and Camaraderie is a blessing. Adding a Golf Tournament, with a culinary component gives this event an even greater appeal and reach, we are ready for an international stage” said Diana DeLucia. The first annual Golf Kitchen Invitational will showcase some of the tri-states finest local private golf and country club chefs and their cuisine, positioned around the renowned Gary Player-designed golf course, to be enjoyed by all players. "We are honored to host the fourth annual “Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards” that recognize executives at the forefront of providing the highest caliber experience for members and guests. The creativity, attitude, and thinking of club chefs has significantly progressed in the last decade, and we are encouraged at the direction the industry is moving. Diana and Golf Kitchen are at the forefront of this movement, and I applaud the notion that many public and private facilities are finally getting recognized as having some of the best minds and leaders in the culinary industry. It's not often that one team within a club can influence so many human emotions in a single seating... sight, smell, touch, and taste.. what a gift.." remarked Morgan Gregory, President, GlenArbor Golf Club. A cocktail party complete with hors d'oeuvres and small plates, fine wines, and cocktails will take place at the stunning patio overlooking the 18th green at 6.30 PM. At 7.30 PM, a four-course menu will showcase a collection of progressive American club cuisine utilizing the finest products available. GlenArbor’s sommelier and wine director Fernando Silva will pair fine wines to enhance each dish. A limited number of culinary awards and the new Wine Program Award will be presented throughout the evening. Award categories will encompass private golf and country clubs, golf communities, chefs, pastry chefs, and wine program, as well as visionary leaders and rising stars. Through this event, Golf Kitchen hopes to further support their recently established Golf Kitchen Private Golf Club Scholarship for students at The Culinary Institute of America. "For as long as I have known Diana DeLucia, her passion has always been geared towards philanthropic and educational endeavors - whether on or off the golf course. This new scholarship is a perfect example of her continuous dedication to her passions in life and will benefit many worthy recipients in the future." ~ Maria Loi, Chef, Entrepreneur, Greek Food Ambassador, TV Host & Healthy Lifestyle Expert Our full culinary lineup will be announced in the coming weeks. Schedule of Events 11.30 AM Arrival - Lunch - Warm Up 12:50 PM Welcome and announcements 1:00 PM Shotgun Start 6:30 PM Cocktails and Awards 7:30 PM Dinner Golf Format: 1 Best Ball of 4 Special Events: Long Drive Nearest to Pin Sponsorship opportunities: diana@golfkitchen.com Only Diana DeLucia represents Golf Kitchen Invitations and Sponsorships at this time. Please contact info@golfkitchen.com if you experience scammers. This is an INVITATION ONLY event. About GlenArbor Golf Club: Providing a collegial combination of golf, fine dining, and camaraderie, the GlenArbor Golf Club was founded in 2001. The Club is located on 200 acres of land in northern Westchester County, on grounds that were originally developed in 1917 as the White Estate – one of the largest, historic estates in Westchester. GlenArbor’s master plan preserved the property’s historic roots as benefitting its heritage. The award-winning Mark Finlay designed, 33,000 square-feet clubhouse that overlooks the first and eighteenth fairways and offers stunning views of the course and the surrounding landscape. Formal and informal dining options are available along with a number of private dining and meetings rooms in which to host intimate and larger member events. About Golf Kitchen: Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a semi-annual magazine, books, unique culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards, Wine Dinners and The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence program. Media Contacts: Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782 Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com (908) 963-6013   Over the past 12 years, I have been illuminating the exemplary culinary talents in the Top 10% of Private Golf and Country Clubs across the USA and globally. I have been to 48 countries and more clubs than I could list. One thing they all have in common is these clubs were pioneers in the industry. They all recognized that Golf was number one, but they began to understand that they needed to put as much emphasis on the culinary and epicurean development to make a very well-rounded experience for their members and guests. Colin Burns, General Manager at Winged Foot Golf Club in Mamaroneck, New York was a supporter of my vision and in 2014, I produced chapter one of Golf Kitchen, a 568 page, 6.5-pound coffee table book featuring the culinary teams of 16 of some of the most prestigious properties in golf. At that time Rhy Waddington was the Executive Chef and he bought the cuisine to a new standard. When I was working on that chapter I was taken aback by a young woman who was very determined to learn her craft with Chef Rhy's encouragement and mentorship. At that time, I knew she was destined to become an Executive Chef. A few days ago I learned that Chrissie Bennett is now officially the first female Executive Chef in Winged Foot's long history. Her work ethic and fierce dedication to the club and its membership were always apparent to me and I had witnessed Chrissie's leadership first-hand at a large event Golf Kitchen had in conjunction with Punta Mita, Mexico where she was representing Winged Foot. Here is a question I asked Chrissie in 2014, and it may be more than 5 years, but she is now at the helm of one of the world's prestigious golf properties - Golf Kitchen: Where do you see yourself in five years? Chrissie Bennett: Hopefully in an executive position, and most likely in a Sous Chef position. I love Winged Foot so much that I am happy to work my way up here, and have no intentions of leaving. I am a very family-oriented person, and Winged Foot just feels like home, which is why people stay here for 20 years and more. We’re always thankful for members and management acknowledging our performance, and it happens every day! To sum up my feelings, Winged Foot has been great to me, and I, in turn, need to be great for Winged Foot. It goes to show, that if you believe in yourself and love what you do, the sky is the limit. ~ Diana DeLucia  Winged Foot Golf Club, Mamaroneck, New York, USA. Image by Larry Lambrecht, courtesy Winged Foot Golf Club.
  L-R: Kelly Wilmot (Executive Pastry Chef), Peter Zoole (Executive Chef), Troy Bonghi (Chef de Cuisine), Taufeeq Ballim (Executive Sous Chef) (Photo by Gideon Heller)
Stamford, Connecticut (August 12, 2021) -- Addison Reserve Country Club in Delray Beach, Florida, has earned the rigorous Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence. Diana DeLucia, president and founder of the Golf Kitchen brand delivered the Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence plaque to Peter Zoole, Executive Chef and his team. "Peter and the culinary team at Addison Reserve are among the finest in the country," said DeLucia. "They have built a superb member culinary experience—from fine dining dinners, imaginative banquets, and event cuisine, plus, they have an incredible pastry team that continues to delight." Addison Reserve Country Club is minutes away from the heart of downtown Delray Beach, "America's Most Fun Small Town." This boutique community and exclusive club welcomes residents and members to a luxury lifestyle that combines the harmony of nature, excellence in service, and superior amenities. Addison Reserve is a Distinguished Elite Club and is recognized as #5 out of the top 150 clubs in the country, and as #32 in the world by Platinum Clubs of the World. “My team and I take great pride in providing our members, their families, and guests with exciting and artfully crafted dining experiences,” said Zoole. “Addison Reserve Country Club is honored to receive this prestigious award from our esteemed peers in the culinary and club industry." The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence is based on a rigid set of criteria and a club's ability to produce an exemplary product, as evaluated by an independent review of the entire food and beverage operation. As part of the process, clubs must apply to be considered for certification, followed by an on-site evaluation and a series of interviews with the culinary team and management. DeLucia believes that club dining rooms will become the "go to" restaurants of the future, an observation made even more likely in the era of COVID. "With more younger people coming back to private clubs, in particular younger couples and families joining clubs and moving into golf communities, a club's culinary offerings are increasingly important," she said. For additional information about Golf Kitchen or the Certification of Culinary Excellence, access the website at www.golfkitchen.com. About Golf Kitchen Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a bi-annual magazine, books, special culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards. which is held at GlenArbor Golf Club, in Bedford Hills, New York, annually. Media Contacts: Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com (908) 963-6013 Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782 
Stamford, Connecticut (July 13, 2021) – The Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards will be held on Thursday, September 9 at the prestigious GlenArbor Golf Club in Bedford Hills, New York. "The third edition of the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards promises to be our best ever,” said Diana DeLucia, Founder of the Golf Kitchen portfolio. “An impressive line-up of private golf and country club chefs will take guests on a culinary journey and ensure an unforgettable event.” A reception featuring signature cocktails created by Liberty National's Shaun C. Lewis, specialty wines, and hors d'oeuvres will kick off this elegant event. During the pre-dinner period, fortunate guests will receive some golf pointers from Rob Labritz, GlenArbor’s Director of Golf, 2021 Metropolitan Teacher of the Year, 2021 Massachusetts Open, 2019 PGA Championship low club pro and more! Cohesity, a modern multi-cloud data management company, will sponsor the renowned island green situated off the Club's patio that overlooks the 18th green. A four-course menu will showcase a collection of progressive American club cuisine utilizing the finest products available. GlenArbor's sommelier and wine director Fernando Silva will pair fine wines to enhance each dish. Culinary awards in 11 categories will be presented throughout the evening. Host Executive Chef Michael Ruggerio and Marisa Hernandez, Executive Pastry Chef, of GlenArbor Golf Club, will welcome a stellar, talented team to their kitchens, including:
“Any time you have the opportunity to collaborate and work with a collection of accomplished chefs and industry peers you know it’s going to be a special evening for all involved,” Ruggerio said. “Chefs are artists, and each one involved will have a unique perspective—one that has developed over many years of hard work and training. I’ll enjoy seeing the methods and techniques used to create the meal for this special evening.” DeLucia added, “I commend Morgan Gregory, president of GlenArbor, and his staff for their continued commitment to raising awareness and rewarding the high-level culinary talent in the private club industry." Award categories will encompass private golf and country clubs, golf communities, chefs, pastry chefs, and wine programs, as well as visionary leaders and rising stars. A limited number of sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Diana@GolfKitchen.com For more information about the event go to https://www.golfkitchen.com/awards. For Reservations: jperez@glenarborclub.com jperez@glenarborclub.com ### About GlenArbor Golf Club Providing a collegial combination of golf, fine dining, and camaraderie, the GlenArbor Golf Club was founded in 2001. The Club is located on 200 acres of land in northern Westchester County, on grounds that were originally developed in 1917 as the White Estate – one of the largest, historic estates in Westchester. GlenArbor's master plan preserved the property's historic roots as benefitting its heritage. The award-winning Mark Finlay designed, 33,000 square-feet clubhouse that overlooks the first and eighteenth fairways and offers stunning views of the course and the surrounding landscape. Formal and informal dining options are available along with a number of private dining and meetings rooms in which to host intimate and larger member events. About Golf Kitchen Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a semi-annual magazine, books, unique culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards. Media Contacts: Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com (908) 963-6013 or Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782  Stamford, Connecticut (June 19, 2021) -- GlenArbor Golf Club, Bedford Hills, New York, is among the first recipients of the rigorous Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence. Diana DeLucia, president and founder of the Golf Kitchen brand delivered the Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence plaque to Michael Ruggiero, Executive Chef and Fernando Silva, Sommelier, and the club’s culinary team. "Michael and his team at GlenArbor have a unique opportunity to create a high standard of menus due to a supportive membership that is made up of not only passionate golfers, but foodies and wine enthusiasts,” said DeLucia. “Pair these tastes with Fernando’s extensive knowledge, and you have a winning team that nails it every time.” GlenArbor’s 30,000 square foot clubhouse is the centerpiece of the members’ culinary experiences. Built on the site of the White Estate, one of the largest, historic estates in the Town of Bedford, and designed by Connecticut architect Mark Finlay, the building is situated on a commanding site overlooking the golf course and provides countless amenities in an intimate and comfortable environment. The focus of the main floor is the dining room and grill room, which open onto traditional covered porches, taking advantage of sweeping views of the first and eighteenth fairways. The clubhouse is a preferred location not only for intimate dinners, but also for larger events up to 160 guests. The third annual Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards will be held here on September 9, 2021. “Anytime you are recognized by well-respected industry peers it’s an honor and a validation of your hard work,” said Ruggiero. “Without the dedicated and talented culinary team my success as a chef would not be fully realized. It’s the collective efforts of everyone that gets us to the goal.” The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence is based on a rigid set of criteria and a club’s ability to produce an exemplary product, as evaluated by an independent review of the entire food and beverage operation “We are really honored to receive the prestigious Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence,” added Silva. “I believe that as true professionals in the hospitality industry we strive daily to achieve the most satisfactory standards of service and experiences for our members and their guests. In that endeavor we are never alone, it takes a lot of positive energy from every individual on every team.” The evaluation criteria and process were created by an advisory board comprised of noted private club managers, chefs, and culinary consultants. As part of the process, clubs must apply to be considered for certification, followed by an on-site evaluation and a series of interviews with the culinary team and management. DeLucia believes that club dining rooms will become the “go-to” restaurants of the future, an observation made even more likely in the era of COVID. “With more younger people coming back to private clubs, in particular younger couples and families joining clubs and moving into golf communities, a club’s culinary offerings are increasingly important,” she said. For additional information about Golf Kitchen or the Certification of Culinary Excellence, access the website at www.golfkitchen.com.  Left: Michael Ruggiero, Executive Chef . Right: Fernando Silva, Wine Director and Sommelier About Golf Kitchen
Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a bi-annual magazine, books, special culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards. which is held at GlenArbor Golf Club, in Bedford Hills, New York, annually. Media Contacts: Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com (908) 963-6013 Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782  Stamford, Connecticut (June 8, 2021) Naples National Golf Club has completed the rigorous Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence. Diana DeLucia, president and founder of the Golf Kitchen brand personally delivered the award plaque to Jason Voiselle, Executive Chef, and his team. “Jason and his staff at Naples National Golf Club produce incredible cuisine for members and guests,” DeLucia said. “A fine dining evening at Naples National is a lavish experience and Jason’s presentations are visually stunning. Additionally, the wine program run by Dan Ano is sophisticated and ever evolving.” The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence is based on a rigid set of criteria and a club’s ability to produce an exemplary product, as evaluated by an independent review of the entire food and beverage operation, including:
The evaluation criteria and process were created by an advisory board comprised of noted private club managers, chefs, and culinary consultants. As part of the process, clubs must apply to be considered for certification, followed by an on-site evaluation and a series of interviews with the culinary team and management. “The culinary team is honored to be part of the foundation on which private club hospitality is recognized throughout the industry,” said Voiselle. Naples National, which is also known for its Hurdzan/Fry, award-winning golf course, prides itself on delivering attention to detail starting from arrival at the front gate. The friendly atmosphere and shared passions for golf and culinary excellence envelops the entire property. For additional information about Golf Kitchen or the Certification of Culinary Excellence, access the website at www.golfkitchen.com. # # # About Golf Kitchen Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a bi-annual magazine, books, special culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards. which is held at GlenArbor Golf Club, in Bedford Hills, New York, annually. Media Contacts: Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com (908) 963-6013 Diana DeLucia, President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406-1782  Jason Voiselle, Executive Chef, with kitchen staff Eric Wilson and Chayo Soto   Left: Shaun C. Lewis, Executive Chef and Assistant General Manager. Right: Lee Smith, Managing Director, Liberty National Golf Club. Stamford, Connecticut (May 27, 2021) -- Liberty National Golf Club, Jersey City, New Jersey, is among the first recipients of the rigorous Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence.
Diana DeLucia, president and founder of the Golf Kitchen brand personally delivered the Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence plaque to Shaun C. Lewis, Assistant General Manager / Executive Chef and Lee Smith, Managing Director at Liberty National. "Shaun is a multidimensional chef with specialization in various fields, including culinary, spirits and mixology, wine studies, community outreach, and beekeeping. He sat for his CMAA certification last year and qualified. Is there anything Lewis can't do," said DeLucia. “Under his leadership a strong culinary program has been developed and is an excellent springboard for the right team members to develop culinary ideas." One of the world’s most picturesque golf courses, Liberty National Golf Club is located along the Hudson River in Jersey City, N.J., with striking views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Manhattan skyline. The golf club fittingly opened on July 4, 2006 and is guided by the vision and leadership of former Reebok Founder/Chairman & CEO Paul Fireman, currently chairman of Fireman Capital Partners, and his son Dan Fireman, managing partner of Fireman Capital Partners. Liberty National has been the proud host numerous PGA Tour events and The Presidents Cup in 2017. Later this year, the club will host The Northern Trust 2021. The club offers a very personalized culinary service with an emphasis on using the highest quality ingredients and proper techniques. Chef Lewis has garnered a reputation for creating some of the most luxurious events and has set a new standard in event dining for the PGA Tour. "I am so proud of our team and very happy for the Fireman family to receive this prestigious award,” Lewis said. “It means a great deal to all of us at Liberty.” The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence is based on a rigid set of criteria and a club’s ability to produce an exemplary product, as evaluated by an independent review of the entire food and beverage operation, including but not limited to:
DeLucia believes that club dining rooms will become the “go-to” restaurants of the future, an observation made even more likely in the era of COVID. “With more younger people coming back to private clubs, in particular younger couples and families joining clubs and moving into golf communities, the club’s culinary offerings are increasingly important,” she said. For additional information about Golf Kitchen or the Certification of Culinary Excellence, access the website at www.golfkitchen.com. # # # About Golf Kitchen Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a bi-annual magazine, books, special culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards. which is held at GlenArbor Golf Club, in Bedford Hills, New York, annually. Media Contacts: Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com  Stamford, Connecticut (May 20, 2021) - Royal Poinciana Golf Club, Naples, Florida, is among the first recipients of the rigorous Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence. Diana DeLucia, president and founder of the Golf Kitchen brand personally delivered one of the first Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence plaques to Scott Haegele, Director of Clubhouse Operations, Executive Chef Juan Pablo de la Sota Riva Leal, and the team at Royal Poinciana Golf Club. "The Royal Poinciana staff and its membership have set have set a high bar for excellence in all areas," said DeLucia, who has amassed ten years of experience reviewing and visiting private golf and country club kitchens. "They have empowered their teams with the framework to continue to develop their exceptional culinary operations." "Royal Poinciana received two great accolades this year—the Golf Kitchen Certification and the Platinum Clubs of America. I am so proud of my team and their commitment to excellence," said Haegele. The Golf Kitchen Certification of Culinary Excellence is based on a rigid set of criteria and a club’s ability to produce an exemplary product, as evaluated by an independent review of the entire food and beverage operation, including but not limited to:
The evaluation criteria and process were created by an advisory board comprised of noted private club managers, chefs, and culinary consultants. As part of the process, clubs must apply to be considered for certification, followed by an on-site evaluation and a series of interviews with the culinary team and management. DeLucia believes that club dining rooms will become the “go-to” restaurants of the future, an observation made even more likely in the era of COVID. “With more younger people coming back to private clubs, in particular younger couples and families joining clubs and moving into golf communities, the club’s culinary offerings are increasingly important,” she said. For additional information about Golf Kitchen or the Certification of Culinary Excellence, access the web site at www.golfkitchen.com  Left: Executive Chef Juan Pablo de la Sota Riva Leal. Right: Scott Haegele, Director of Clubhouse Operations. Image by Stephanie Starr About Golf Kitchen
Golf Kitchen was founded in 2014 by Diana DeLucia, an internationally recognized culinary writer/photographer, to recognize private golf and country clubs for the quality of their culinary offerings. The Golf Kitchen portfolio includes a bi-annual magazine, books, special culinary events, and an annual program, the Golf Kitchen Culinary Excellence Awards. which is held at GlenArbor Golf Club, in Bedford Hills, New York, annually. Media Contact: Karen Moraghan Hunter Public Relations kmoraghan@hunter-pr.com (908) 963-6013 Diana DeLucia President Golf Kitchen diana@golfkitchen.com (860) 406 1782 |
