Member News

Talented Culinary Team to Elevate Catering at Hyatt

Rochester, NY – Hyatt Regency Rochester, located at 125 E. Main St., announced the hiring of a Rochester favorite and culinary artist, Chef Justin Chapman, to the Hyatt culinary team. Chapman joins Hyatt as the Culinary Director after more than two years with Char Steak & Lounge at Strathallan Hotel & Spa.

"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Chef Chapman to the Hyatt family," said Jay Rettberg, General Manager. "Chef Chapman's arrival significantly enhances our culinary offerings. His exceptional skills and proven track record in both high-end cuisine and sophisticated banquet execution immediately strengthen our entire operation. Together with our talented culinary managers and kitchen staff, we now boast an unmatched depth of artistry and talent ready to serve all of our clients' needs."

Chef Chapman brings vast experience with banquet teams and specialty, high-end dining to Hyatt, including six years as Executive Sous Chef at Genesee Valley Club and stints at TRATA and Bazil. His accumulated knowledge allows him to step into his role at Hyatt, identify what is needed to fine-tune service, and orchestrate plans with the other chefs. He brings a lot of passion to his role. When asked what he likes most about being a chef, Chapman said, “I love watching people smile after eating.” “Whether it’s in a smaller, intimate event like a wine tasting, or a large, banquet-style event, seeing a meal come together and the joy on someone’s face after enjoying it, is what it’s all about.”

Chapman leads Hyatt’s culinary management team, which is strengthened by the diverse expertise of Executive Chef Keith Jenks, Banquet Chef Josh Soileau, and Kitchen Chef Daquan Florence.

• Executive Chef Keith Jenks brings a wealth of leadership experience to the kitchen, previously serving as Culinary Manager at SUNY Brockport, following key management roles at The Gables of Brighton and St. Ann’s Community.
• Banquet Chef Josh Soileau began his culinary journey at age eight. After attending culinary school, he honed his craft in New Orleans, including an apprenticeship with acclaimed Chef John Folse at the distinguished five-bean, four-star fine-dining establishment, Lafitte’s Landing Restaurant. He offers 20 years of management experience both regionally and in the south.
• Kitchen Chef Daquan Florence rounds out the team, contributing 14 years of kitchen management, with recent positions at DoubleTree by Hilton - Rochester and local favorite, Mad Hatter Restaurant & Bakery.

“We’re excited to have this well-rounded, exceptional team at Hyatt to create incredible culinary experiences for our guests seven days a week; whether they are here for a corporate luncheon, wedding, breakfast in Astor on Main, a business lunch, or dinner in The Street Craft Kitchen & Bar,” added Rettberg.

Hyatt Regency Rochester is the premier destination for extraordinary events, featuring 21,000 square feet of dynamic event space and an exceptional culinary team ready to execute any vision. The venue boasts unique settings including a Grand Ballroom and Astor on Main with floor-to-ceiling windows, Regency Ballroom, Center City Terrace + Lounge (a fun indoor/outdoor rooftop terrace with downtown vibes and city views), The Street Craft Kitchen & Lounge, several luxurious suites and more. Backed by dedicated staffing and culinary experience, the Hyatt provides the flexibility to host anything from an intimate dinner party or corporate luncheon to an expansive wedding or major corporate event, accommodating up to 1,000 guests. For seamless safety and comfort following any event, guests can utilize one of the hotel’s 336 well-appointed rooms, with group rates available upon request. Visit HyattRegencyRochester.com for more information or contact the sales team directly at 585-794-4810 for booking and inquiries.

ABOUT HYATT REGENCY ROCHESTER:
Situated along the Genesee River, Hyatt Regency Rochester is the tallest hotel in downtown Rochester at the entry to the Finger Lakes Area and Upstate New York with 336 rooms and an amazing selection of newly renovated suites. Conveniently connected with the Rochester Riverside Convention Center, you can enjoy breathtaking views, savory restaurants, exciting entertainment and shopping.