JW Marriott Houston Downtown has announced that Chef Jelle Vandenbroucke has joined the hotel’s culinary team. He will serve as executive sous chef, assisting Executive Chef Erin Smith in developing and executing seasonal fare for the hotel’s Main Kitchen restaurant, 806 Bar & Lounge and the banquet services.
Vandenbroucke is a native of Belgium. He began cooking at 12 years old and started training to be a chef at the age of 15. Classically trained in French cuisine, Vandenbroucke worked at two Michelin-awarded restaurants (Hertog Jan in Bruges, Belgium, and Mulberry Restaurant in Charlton House, Shepton Mallet, UK), Four Seasons Resort Provence at Terre Blanche, Four Seasons Westlake Village, Four Seasons Seattle and most recently Four Seasons Boston, prior to joining the JW Marriott Houston Downtown. He is known for working with local ingredients and adding fresh, creative flair to his menus.
“Jelle shares our passion for working with local purveyors and creating fresh, seasonal menus,” said Erin Smith, JW Marriott Houston Downtown executive chef. “He is a great addition to the Main Kitchen and 806 Bar & Lounge culinary team.”
Named Main Kitchen to reflect its location on Main Street, the restaurant has become a staple on Houston’s culinary map since its opening in September 2014. The restaurant seats 120 and boast an exhibition kitchen providing guests with insight into the creative culinary process. The open planned concept provides a seamless transition to the hotel’s 806 Bar & Lounge. The welcoming décor will pay homage to the building’s rich history, evoking the understated elegance and approachable luxury that has become synonymous with the JW Marriott brand around the world.
