Key Staff Profiles

John Eckstadt

Senior Sous Chef

A New Jersey Native, John began his career as a cook and soon realized how much he loved food and joined the Culinary Institute of America where he graduated and began his culinary career.  John has worked in New Orleans, Boston, and Colorado at Marriott hotels as well as The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company.

Jim Goodman

Sous Chef

A New Jersey native, Jim began his career by attending the Culinary Institute of America and graduating into the Marriott Management Program.  Jim started with Marriott at the Seaview hotel in New Jersey and soon after moved to New Orleans then Hawaii.  Jim joined the Grande Lakes pre-opening team and has been cooking great food here since.  Jim is also the master mind behind the resort’s vinegar and brewing programs.

Omar Torres

Sous Chef

A Puerto Rico native came to us from Hard Rock Café where he was the chef of various aspects of their operation.  Omar initially began a career as a pilot and soon realized his passion for food.  Omar has cooked for some of the music and film industries most outstanding members.  Omar’s creativity and passion are what really make him stand out. 

Andrew Bernier

Sous Chef 

A native of St. Thomas USVI, Andrew began cooking at a young age.  Andrew realized his calling and in 2000 graduated from Johnson and Wales University in Rhode Island.  After graduating, he joined the Marriott team in his home town at the Frenchman’s Reef Marriott.  Andrew joined the Grande Lakes in 2006 and since then has been consistently showing his passion for excellence.