It only takes a few minutes with Banquet Chef Lucio Garnica to know he is passionate about two subjects; food and reducing Sunriver Resort's carbon footprint. “I want to blow people away. I want to take products from our great local sources, give it an elegant twist, and give our customers something they have never seen at a banquet.”
Chef Lucio is one of an innovative breed of green-conscious chefs who are committed to serving sustainable local food while minimizing the use of products sold through global distribution chains. Like other chefs across the globe, Lucio has become a bit of gatekeeper in the chain of food distribution. He commands a unique influence over the purchase, trade and consumption of food. In conjunction with Sunriver Resort's Destination Earth program, he has made it a personal mission to bring the corporate philosophy of sustainability to life at Sunriver Resort.
Sunriver Resort recognized the need to create initiatives that reduce the impact on the earth’s resources, while at the same time providing guests the excellent experience they’ve come to expect. As part of that commitment to eco-friendly practices, a big part of Lucio’s role is finding and purchasing the best, freshest and most sustainable local food. This practice is made easier by the rich supply of products available in and around Central Oregon. In addition to the bountiful produce found in the Willamette Valley, there are 8 different beef providers, 7 dairy companies like Tumalo Chesse Company, and a wide variety of mushroom picking sites - all within a 250- mile radius of Sunriver.
All these abundant food sources have inspired Lucio to create intriguing new tastes and “push the envelope” in the kitchen, especially in the area of vegetarian cuisine and moving away from the traditional three-point presentation of plated meals. When asked to describe Lucio's number one goal at Sunriver Resort he replies, " I want to be known as the best and most sustainable banquet kitchen in the Northwest. Hand’s down.”
Luke, you are quite the inspiration. The resort is blessed to have you as their Chef! Wishing you continued success and happiness. Love, Robin
- Posted by - Feb 7, 2010
Lucio, Having been on the "frontline" at Sunriver Conventions, I heard firsthand the comments from guests about what comes out of your kitchen. I remember the lady from the UK who was a vegatarian who just raved about the "quality and intelligence" of the food that was served during her meeting. You are a smart and innovative chef. I think you are going places. Keep up the good work!!
- Posted by - Feb 5, 2010
Lucio . Not a day goes by that I am not proud of you. Glad to see other"s notice your dedication as well -Love you with all my heart- Mom
- Posted by - Jan 31, 2010
good job Lucio! I'm so proud. -Katie McKay
- Posted by - Jan 25, 2010
I am proud of you Lukie. Love, LesLee
- Posted by - Jan 25, 2010
This is awesome!!!
- Posted by - Jan 24, 2010