Deer Path Inn, located in Lake Forest, Illinois, appointed Jeff Vucko as its executive chef in mid-July, tasked with overseeing the property’s three on-site culinary outlets—The English Room, White Hart Pub, and The Bar. His hiring comes during the hotel’s celebration of its 95th anniversary this year.
“Chef Jeff’s passion for flavors and elevated presentations is palpable,” says James Barnett, general manager of the hotel, in a prepared statement. “It has been exciting to see him embrace this role with curiosity and an appetite for innovation, inspiring members of his culinary team to serve our dishes with pride indicative of our 95-year history. Chef Jeff’s dedication to culinary excellence will ensure our guests are able to indulge in divine dining and legendary libations across our restaurants.”
Vucko’s culinary roots took hold in 2011 when he studied at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Chicago, with his graduation followed by a line cook position at Cibo Matto, a former dining establishment at theWit Chicago, A Hilton Hotel. He then moved on to The Pump Room at the former Public Hotel, after which he opened The Langham, Chicago, under Chef Tim Graham and steadily moved his way up to chef de cuisine at the property’s Travelle restaurant. He took on his first executive chef role at Pendry Chicago where he oversaw all culinary operations for the hotel.
“I love being part of Chicago’s culinary prowess, elevating experiences at hotel restaurants to they attract both travelers and locals,” says Vucko. “I enjoy building on traditional dishes like what’s on offer at the Deer Path Inn, maintaining familiarity while introducing new spins and flavor profiles. It’s an honor to helm the inn’s exceptional restaurants, and I look forward to working with my extraordinary team of chefs to serve our guests memorable dishes and exquisite hospitality.”
Deer Path Inn features 57 guest rooms and 7,000 square feet of function space. The English Room can host private dining experiences and events, while The Bar and White Hare Pub offer attendees a chance to grab drinks and English pub fare between meetings.
