One of the most anticipated luxury family resorts opening in 2014 has announced an executive chef and unveiled new dining concepts.
The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, opening this summer, has named Italian native Fabrizio Schenardi to oversee the culinary operations of the property’s five dining restaurants, in-room dining and catering.
“I’m excited to return to the central Florida area and bring some new, innovative cuisine options to Orlando,” says Schenardi, who lived in the Tampa area before joining Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts in 2010 as Executive Chef for Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis. “The Resort will have so many options, so there’s going to be something for everyone to love.”
Schenardi has worked for the Pelagia Trattoria at Tampa Hotel International Plaza; the St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort and Spa in Dana Point, California; Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, in Los Angeles, California; and numerous other properties around the world.
Not only is this property a family-friendly get-away for the affluent, it is also establishing the resort as a must-visit culinary destination with five restaurants available to both resort guests and local residents. Here’s details from the Four Seasons Resort on the various dining options:
Capa
A true highlight of the Resort will be Capa, the 17th-floor rooftop steakhouse and bar, featuring Spanish influenced cuisine in a romantic setting like no other. Capa’s diverse offerings range from freshly shucked oysters and Florida seafood to incredible small plates and expertly grilled cuts. An open kitchen and wood-burning grill allow diners to get close to the action, while those dining on the outdoor terrace enjoy views of the nightly fireworks. Capa, Spanish for a matador’s red cape, is decorated in black and white with bold hues of crimson accenting the space. An abstract painting conveying the movement of dust as it rises during the matador’s performance appears near the bar. Six traditional matador jackets flank the entrance to the private dining room, and a flowing red art installation travels across the ceiling, representing the flow of the matador’s cape. Capa, serving dinner only, will open in September 2014.
Ravello
Named for the Italian seaside town situated above the Amalfi coast, modern Italian cuisine is the specialty at Ravello, the all-day dining restaurant at Four Seasons. Breakfast offerings include an omelet station and traditional breakfast favourites. Dinner offers fresh pizza and bread from the wood-burning oven, regionally influenced Italian specialties, and the open kitchen’s pasta bar. Ravello will offer a “Goofy & Pals” Disney Character Breakfast on Thursdays and Saturdays, and select Tuesdays during peak school break periods.
Plancha
Whether taking a break from hitting the greens, or seeking a serene retreat, Plancha will delight with its fresh, bold flavour Cuban-American cuisine. Located at the Golf Clubhouse, Plancha – Cuban for grill – offers a picturesque lakeside setting. Signature dishes such as the Cubana sandwich, empanadas and chorizo burger offer an authentic taste of Cuba, and vibrant cocktails from the Mojito to the Hemingway Daiquiri are sure to please. Plancha will open in September 2014.
Lickety Split
For guests on the go, Lickety-Split provides delicious quick bites throughout the day. Café lattes and breakfast pastries, savoury quick bites, gelato and more will be offered at the colourful Lickety Split.
PB&G
Premium American barbecue dishes, fresh salads, frozen cocktails and mocktails, an extensive kids’ and teens’ menu with lots of healthy options: the Pool Bar & Grill offers a lively, fun and casual atmosphere. This smokehouse and rotisserie serves up pulled pork, rotisserie chicken, smoked brisket and house-made hot dogs and burgers with plenty of Southern charm. Brightly painted picnic tables, teak floorboards, and whimsical lighting elements such as lanterns and stringed lights give the space a fun vibe.
