JENNER, Calif., April 20, 2016 — Renowned chef and restaurateur Phillip Kaufman has been named executive chef at Coast Kitchen and Timber Cove near Jenner and Bodega Bay, where he will continue to build on a legacy of culinary excellence established over the course of his 30-year career.
Formally trained by two of California's most prominent chefs, George Morrone and Bradley Ogden, Kaufman's signature "contemporary-meets-old-world" style has drawn widespread accolades. Kaufman brings well-honed culinary sensibilities and a creative repertoire to Coast Kitchen, Timber Cove's full-service oceanfront restaurant. In addition, his oversight of the kitchen design and menu development ensured that both the space and cuisine blended perfectly with the overall aesthetic and mission of the resort.
Coast Kitchen will specialize in freshly procured seasonal cuisine that reflects its coastal wine country surroundings. Locally sourced ingredients from area farmers, fishermen, mushroom foragers and other producers will be featured wherever possible in dishes such as Sonoma duck presented two ways and a charcuterie appetizer that features California cheeses.
Other signature dishes at Coast Kitchen will include Maine Lobster and Dungeness Crab Mac and Cheese; Duck Confit Poutine; House-Made Sea Salt Roasted PEI Mussels; Seared Day Boat Sea Scallops with Carrot Puree and Local Mushrooms; and Roasted Local Cod with Blistered Sonoma Grapes.
"Timber Cove is about seeking connection, reconnection and rejuvenation," Kaufman said, "and I want that experience to extend to the time guests spend at Coast Kitchen. The natural areas surrounding us don't just look amazing — this rich landscape also produces world-class ingredients including abalone, crab, wild game, mushrooms, organic produce and more. It will be a truly dynamic dining experience."
Kaufman is well-versed in transforming superior ingredients into transcendent dishes. His experience includes culinary positions at several notable restaurants, including 3950 at Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas, Gramercy Grill in San Francisco and The Little Nell, a five-star, five-diamond property in Aspen, Colorado. He also followed his vision to open the acclaimed Hush Restaurant in Laguna Beach, along with other ventures in Santa Rosa and Las Vegas.
Kaufman's discerning eye and wealth of talent will create a refined dining experience, with carefully selected and skillfully prepared seasonal and local ingredients — in a warm, friendly setting without pretense.
"Coast Kitchen will feel like an extension of Timber Cove, as it should," Kaufman said. "The entire experience, both in the dining room and elsewhere, will nourish the mind and provide guests with a tantalizing culinary adventure."
