New Culinary Team Adds Exciting Flavors to Downtown Charleston Hotel Dining

CHARLESTON, SC--(Marketwired - May 31, 2013) - Coming home to the Charleston Marriott, Executive Chef Jeff Robinson is teaming up with new Sous Chef Ross McRae Webb to create flavorful dining experiences in downtown Charleston.

Combining years of culinary adventures, the new duo heads up the dynamic offering of bold flavors found inside the hotel's Charleston, SC restaurants; fine tuning menus of the Saffire Restaurant and the popular Aqua Terrace Roof-Top Bar to the delight of those seeking seasonally inspired menus and contemporary Southern dining.

Returning to the Marriott after a short break, Executive Chef Jeff Robinson credits his travel through Germany, Switzerland and the Czech Republic to visit family with teaching him the proper food and techniques involved for preparation.

"To be a server in Europe you must attend schooling, as they take their food and service very seriously," said Robinson, who brings this approach to the award-winning Saffire Restaurant, along with a culinary career that spans 28 years.

A 1991 graduate of Johnson and Wales University in Providence, RI, Chef Robinson's experience includes service in upscale hotels and beachfront resorts such as the Renaissance Downtown Columbus Hotel, the Radisson Marco Island Resort & Hotel and apprenticeships under Master Chefs Harmut Handke and Victor Gielisse. He has also prepared benefit dinners for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Iron Chef Michael Symon.

Sous Chef Ross McRae Webb brings a different twist to the flavors found inside the hotel restaurant near historic Charleston, adding even more mystique to the menus and fine dining experiences of this prominent hotel near Mt. Pleasant.

"My cooking style comes from 20-plus years of Spanish, Southwest and Mediterranean cooking with a splash of American regional and classic French influence," said Webb. "I like simplistic dishes with worldly ingredients."

Born in Westerville, Ohio, Webb began his cooking career at the age of 10 in his family's establishment -- the Nazareth Restaurant, which is still in operation today, before moving to Charleston in 2000 where he earned a bachelor's degree in Food and Beverage Management. His past experience includes chef's duties at the Leaf Café, Charleston Harbor Resort and Red Drum Gastropub.

About the Charleston Marriott

The Charleston Marriott welcomes South Carolina visitors with luxurious accommodations, gracious Southern hospitality and lavish amenities for a distinctive hotel experience on the waterfront near historic Charleston. Impeccable accommodations complimented by a charming outdoor courtyard and welcoming lobby present guests with a relaxed and inspiring atmosphere ideal for both business and leisure travel. Featuring an expansive offering of guest rooms and suites, all boasting marble bathrooms, luxurious bedding and room service, guests may upgrade their accommodations to the concierge level for pampering services and added amenities. All rooms also feature Plug-In technology, premium movie channels and options for high speed or enhanced high-speed Internet access.