Culinary Arts
James Coogle – Levy Restaurants
Stacey Craig – Oliver's Chop House
Christopher Dylan Morris – Hotel Distil
Nick Stilger – Le Moo Steakhouse/ Belle Noble Entertainment Group
Dalton Thomas – Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse
Otto Wallach – Omni Louisville Hotel
Rose Award Voting will begin at 12:01 am on October 10th and end on October 18th at midnight on louisvilleroseawards.com.
Only one vote in each of the 11 categories will be counted from an individual email address.
Please share on your social media, louisvilleroseawards.com, and encourage your family & to read about these inspiring finalists and vote!
James Coogle
Levy Restaurants
Chef James exemplifies effective leadership by leading through example, demonstrating dedication, work ethic, and passion in his daily actions. He meticulously manages every detail and assists his team during busy hours, fostering a collaborative and motivated environment. His willingness to support other Levy properties and the Kentucky International Convention Center showcases his commitment to teamwork and success. Beyond his culinary skills, Chef James balances his career with being a dedicated dad and husband, integrating personal values with professional practices. His exceptional dedication, leadership, and support make him a deserving candidate for recognition, significantly impacting the entire culinary team.
Stacey Craig
Oliver's Chop House
Chef Stacey is a dedicated leader who prioritizes her team’s well-being and consistently sacrifices her own needs for their benefit. She inspires excellence, setting high expectations and fostering pride, respect, and cooperation. Her specialty menus, such as Prix Fixe and Bourbon Dinners, have expanded Oliver’s brand in Louisville. Stacey’s personalized mentoring approach adapts to each team member’s learning style, resulting in a cohesive and well-trained team.
Christopher Dylan Morris
Hotel Distil
Dylan joined Hotel Distil from a small establishment in Lexington and commutes daily to create inspiring dishes. He refined the catering menu to embody a farm-to-table feel, sourcing the freshest local ingredients and demonstrating a commitment to quality and sustainability. His passion for crafting unforgettable wedding menus has elevated guest experiences and increased catering revenue and satisfaction metrics. Dylan’s mentorship has transformed associates into confident leaders, fostering a culture of support and growth within the team. His exceptional leadership and dedication have significantly impacted the success and morale of the banquets department, making him a true example of hospitality in the culinary world.
Nick Stilger
Le Moo Steakhouse/ Belle Noble Entertainment Group
Chef Nick exemplifies pure hospitality with his passion for creating and helping others, preferring to work behind the scenes. He goes above and beyond in his daily tasks, keeping the kitchen clean and organized, and ensuring staff development. Known for his problem-solving skills, Nick has orchestrated Le Moo’s famous drag brunch for several years, maintaining high standards. His calm demeanor, wisdom, and humor have earned him the trust and respect of his team. Chef Nick’s dedication and humility make him a deserving candidate for the Louisville ROSE Awards.
Dalton Thomas
Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse
Dalton started with Repeal as a Cook almost three years ago and was promoted to Culinary Supervisor. He has taken on tasks to ensure his team is set up for success, including leading the implementation of a new phone application. Dalton’s growth mindset and willingness to learn have been evident, as he was the first to complete this task across three hotels and three restaurants. He joined the Leadership Development Series program, which helped him enhance his leadership skills and gain new perspectives. Dalton is level-headed in the kitchen, effectively coaching his team and addressing any issues with guest meals.
Otto Wallach
Omni Louisville Hotel
At just 23 years old, Otto has demonstrated remarkable talent, leadership, and dedication, significantly contributing to the success and reputation of the Banquet culinary department. His attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills have consistently resulted in memorable dining experiences for the guests. Beyond his technical skills, Otto is a natural leader who inspires and mentors his team, fostering a collaborative and positive work environment. His ability to lead the kitchen team with poise and precision under high-pressure conditions is impressive for a young chef.