Destination Kohler hired Chef RJ Cooper, a James Beard Award winner, as its new culinary director.
Cooper will lead all aspects of food and beverage experiences at Kohler including Immigrant Restaurant, The Wisconsin Room, The Horse & Plow, Tavern on Woodlake, Blackwolf Run Restaurant, Whistling Straits Restaurant, and River Wildlife Restaurant. Cooper will create innovative, new menus and dishes while managing a team to help execute flawless cuisine and five-star service.
“Growing up in the Midwest, I’ve always known Kohler as a luxury destination, so having an opportunity to lead the resort’s entire F&B operation, including the esteemed Immigrant Restaurant, is a dream come true,” said Cooper. “I’m excited to hone the next chapter of culinary craft, quality, and elegance at Kohler and share new elevated food and beverage experiences for all our guests.”
With a focus on culinary excellence, innovation, seasonal ingredients, and regional flavors, Cooper designed a new menu at Immigrant Restaurant centered on a chef-curated eight-course experience or five-course menu with options. All menus are accompanied by optional chefs’ or Immigrant reserve pairings.
Cooper is a recipient of the prestigious James Beard Award, recognized in the category of Best Chef, Mid-Atlantic. Cooper has held several prominent roles throughout his career including culinary and beverage director at the Forbes Five-Star, Wheatleigh Hotel. He also served as executive chef and owner of Saint Stephen and Acqua in Nashville and helmed the kitchens at Rogue 24, Vidalia, and Bistro Bis in Washington, D.C.
