Elevating Culinary Excellence at L’Auberge de Sedona
In a significant move for the luxury resort industry, L’Auberge de Sedona has appointed Drew Anderson as its new Director of Food & Beverage. With extensive experience in high-end hospitality and culinary operations, Anderson is poised to enhance the resort’s dining experiences amidst its recent $30 million renovation.
A Journey Through Culinary Leadership
Drew Anderson brings a rich background to his new role, having spent nearly two decades managing dining operations at top-tier hotels and resorts across the Mountain West. His most recent position was at Brush Creek Luxury Ranch Collection, where he oversaw multiple dining outlets and crafted trend-forward menus that delighted guests.
At L’Auberge de Sedona, Anderson will manage the renowned Cress on Oak Creek, as well as develop a new in-room dining program and banquet services for the resort’s expansive event spaces.
What This Means for Guests
Anderson emphasizes that dining at L’Auberge is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that connects guests to the stunning natural surroundings of Sedona. “Whether enjoying a creekside dinner at Cress or indulging in in-room dining, guests will find a culinary program rooted in local flavors and a commitment to quality,” he states.
- Signature Dining: Cress on Oak Creek is set to elevate its culinary offerings, focusing on locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.
- In-Room Dining: The new program aims to bring the luxury of L’Auberge directly to guests’ accommodations, offering a range of gourmet options.
- Event Catering: With over 16,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event space, Anderson’s expertise will ensure that every banquet is a memorable one.
Anderson’s Vision for Culinary Trends
With a proven track record of implementing Forbes Five-Star service standards and developing culinary partnerships, Anderson plans to introduce innovative trends to L’Auberge’s dining experiences. His approach will include:
- Farm-to-Table Initiatives: Emphasizing local produce and sustainable practices.
- Interactive Dining Experiences: Engaging guests through classes and culinary events.
- Exclusive Wine and Spirits Programs: Curating unique beverage pairings to complement the culinary offerings.
Real-World Examples of Success
During his tenure at Brush Creek, Anderson implemented a 33,000-bottle wine program and hosted events with Michelin-starred chefs. Such initiatives not only enhance the guest experience but also build brand loyalty and reputation, crucial in the competitive luxury hospitality market.
His culinary leadership extends beyond food; it encompasses creating memorable experiences that resonate with guests long after their stay. This holistic approach is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in today’s hospitality landscape.
The L’Auberge Experience
Nestled along the banks of Oak Creek, L’Auberge de Sedona is not just a place to stay; it’s a destination that offers a variety of luxurious accommodations, including:
- Luxury Cottages with outdoor cedar showers.
- Creekside Dining at Cress on Oak Creek.
- Wellness Retreats at L’Apothecary Spa.
As L’Auberge continues to grow and evolve, the culinary experiences led by Anderson will be pivotal in attracting discerning travelers looking for an unforgettable getaway in Sedona.
Call to Action
For food and beverage professionals, Drew Anderson’s appointment is a reminder of the importance of strong leadership in the culinary space. What initiatives would you like to see in your own establishments? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
To stay updated on industry trends and insights, don’t forget to check out our other articles on culinary trends and luxury hospitality insights.
Written by Michael Politz, Author of Guide to Restaurant Success: The Proven Process for Starting Any Restaurant Business From Scratch to Success (ISBN: 978-1-119-66896-1), Founder of Food & Beverage Magazine, the leading online magazine and resource in the industry. Designer of the Bluetooth logo and recognized in Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Top 40 Under 40” for founding American Wholesale Floral, Politz is also the Co-founder of the Proof Awards and the CPG Awards and a partner in numerous consumer brands across the food and beverage sector.





