Unlike many Vancouver-born chefs, who may train abroad before headlining a local restaurant, Chris Savino enrolled in Vancouver Community College's culinary program, where he completed his Red Seal. From there, he cut his teeth at local institutions including The Boathouse before joining the Westin Grand as head chef in 2013. Amidst temptation to cook abroad, Savino has always stayed true to his roots. "I think I'm one of the only chefs at the Westin who was born in Vancouver," he says.
And, inside the Westin Grand lies one of Vancouver's best-kept secrets – Hendricks Resto-Lounge, an upscale eatery on one of the hotel's topmost floors. Renovated, renamed and rebranded in 2017, Hendricks offers delicious West Coast eats in a 1970s-inspired space with intriguing views of downtown. "We're going for an upscale lounge with good food and good music," explains Chris. "But definitely with better quality food than a traditional lounge," he adds with a grin.
