Bennett adds culinary flair to the property’s new and refreshed dining concepts.
SARASOTA, FL (Jan. 28, 2025) – Florida’s Gulf Coast premier luxury resort, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, is pleased to introduce Specialty Chef Joe Bennett as the latest addition to its esteemed culinary team. Chef Bennett will oversee culinary operations and offerings at the property’s newly opened Rufa, as well as the recently refreshed Jack Dusty Coastal Cuisine and Crafted Cocktails.
Originally from Port Charlotte, Florida, Bennett’s culinary journey began after a knee injury ended his football career. While discovering his passion for hospitality at Coral Creek Club in Placida, he was fortunate to be mentored by a renowned French chef who passed down expertise and techniques from the best culinary schools in Europe. Bennett then went on to gain valuable experience at notable Sarasota establishments, including The Capital Grille and Connors Steak & Seafood, where he honed his craft in upscale American cuisine. With a dedication to crafting memorable dishes, Bennett’s pursuit of culinary innovation is driven by the joy and satisfaction his creations bring guests.
“I’m excited to join such a talented culinary team at The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, a resort that already has an outstanding reputation for its food and beverage offerings,” Bennett said. “I look forward to exploring Sarasota’s distinctive flavors, and blending my worldly experience and techniques with the resort’s elegant coastal cuisine.”
Bennett joins The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota at an auspicious time for the property’s culinary offerings. The newly unveiled al fresco dining and lounge experience, Rufa, offers guests a grand view of Florida’s Gulf Coast waters to complement a robust menu of elevated small plates and handcrafted cocktails. At the resort’s signature restaurant, Jack Dusty, a recent revitalization of the space unveiled a refreshed interior adorned with exquisite artworks that capture Sarasota’s coastal charm. Along with the new space, guests will find a refreshed menu and new culinary experiences, including the local favorite Sushi Thursdays and a new “Lites” lunch special, featuring a prix fixe, multi-course menu crafted from the freshest local ingredients.
For more information or reservations, please visit http://www.ritzcarlton.com/sarasota.
About The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
A luxury landmark on Florida's central Gulf coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is conveniently located near the city center overlooking Sarasota Bay, just minutes from premier arts venues, nature sanctuaries, distinctive shopping, fishing and watersports. Named one of the Top Golf Resorts in the World by Condé Nast Traveler, this destination resort is also home to The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Sarasota, named the #3 Spa in the U.S. and Canada by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. In addition to a Gulf-front Beach Club, Tom Fazio-designed Golf Club, Spa and Wellness Center, children’s recreation programs and 276 guest rooms with Ritz-Carlton Club Level accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota offers 291 Residences and a private country club-style Membership.
Muzammel Huque Chy
Makkah, Saudi Arabia