.png)
About
Alfred Portale
Culinary Director
Chef Alfred Portale is a three-time James Beard Award Winning chef, restaurateur, cookbook author, and pioneer in the New American Cuisine movement. In 1985, Portale took the reins as Executive Chef and Partner at Gotham Bar and Grill and brought the restaurant to new heights during his 30-year tenure with his beautiful plating and insistence on high quality ingredients. In 2019, he opened his namesake, Portale Restaurant, in the heart of New York City’s Chelsea neighborhood. Beyond his culinary endeavors, Chef Portale actively contributes to charitable causes, holding positions on the councils of City Harvest and Citymeals on Wheels. His philanthropic involvement reflects his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the culinary sphere. Chef Portale’s outstanding culinary achievements have garnered him numerous accolades, including five three-star reviews from The New York Times and a prestigious Michelin Star that he has proudly maintained over the years.
Chris Lewnes
Executive Chef
Chef Chris Lewnes, a Brooklyn-born Italian American, grew up immersed in the flavors and aromas of Italian American cuisine in New Jersey and pursued his passion for cooking at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York City. With a focus on classic French technique and fine dining, Lewnes was mentored by Chef Markus Glocker at Bâtard, honed his skills and gained experience as a Sous Chef at Augustine Restaurant in the Beacon Hotel and as Chef de Cuisine at American Brass. Now, as the Executive Chef at SARTIANO’s in the Mercer Hotel, he has achieved his dream of sharing his love for Italian American cuisine with the world.