PINE CREEK COOKHOUSE - Key Persons
David's fascination with all things culinary began at a young age-inspired by his grandmother, an Italian immigrant who was also a professional chef.David trained at Johnson & Wales University in Charleston, South Carolina. Working and training under many French Master Chefs and hospitality benchmark companies helped to build a diversified repertoire that includes French, Japanese, Mediterranean, Mexican, Alpine & Italian cuisines as well as plant-based concepts.Throughout his 25+ year culinary career, David's passion for turning first-rate ingredients into clean creative cuisine is what has earned him critical acclaim and hospitality awards which include articles in Gourmet, Spectator, Philadelphia Magazines and The NewYork Times & NY Newsday. David also has received the Dirona Award of Excellence and appeared as guest chef for NBC and CBS Philadelphia.
In 2012 David fulfilled his lifelong dream of opening his own restaurant in Northport, NY, a suburb of NYC. The Purple Elephant was a restaurant that was the first of its kind on Long Island. The menu featured an equal showing of plant-based cuisine as well as global cuisine using local organic ingredients. In 2017 David sold the restaurant to a colleague to move to Nosara, Costa Rica to work on a project in the beautiful surf town. The Purple Elephant continues to run with its original concept and menu.
Johnny has been in the Ashcroft Valley since day one. Having grown up at the end of this stunning valley, Johnny has never stopped having a passion for the experiences and wonders this place has to offer. After returning from 7 years in Los Angeles working for MotorTrend, Johnny dove in deep on outdoor adventure, hunting, fishing, dirt biking, and creating unique experiences for guests at Pine Creek Cookhouse and Ashcroft Ski Touring. Johnny leads the outfitting and restaurant teams, ensuring a great experience from the horseback ride through the lunch experience. Johnny knows every inch of this valley and loves to share everything he can with guests about this place!