Naples Grande Beach Resort is pleased to announce the appointment of Juan Carlos “JC” Mendez as Executive Chef.
As the new Executive Chef, Mendez will oversee all of Naples Grande Beach Resort’s culinary offerings, including The Catch of the Pelican, Mantra Lounge, Rhode’s End, Aura Restaurant, Gulfcoast Oasis Pool Bar, Spressi Marketplace, and The Sunset Veranda. Mendez will lead the Naples Grande Beach Resort culinary teams, oversee creative ideation and programming, and manage the operations of all food and beverage establishments.
Originally hailing from Mexico City, Mendez moved to Minnesota to start his culinary career, where he spent ten years moving up the ranks in the kitchen. After returning home to train in Mexican cuisine, his next venture brought him to Naples, Florida where he served as Executive Chef at Café Alfredo serving authentic Northern Italian cuisine. Throughout his culinary journey in the Sunshine State, Mendez has worked at mom-and-pop restaurants, golf clubs, and with Emeril Lagasse at Emeril Orlando.
“I am honored to be leading the extraordinary culinary team at Naples Grande Beach Resort, where I have been able to meet and serve guests from all over the world,” said Mendez. “I look forward to crafting innovative dishes inspired by the many cultures and cuisines I have experienced throughout my travels.”
With a passion for fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Mendez hopes to bring a farm-to-table concept to Naples Grande Beach Resort with their very own fresh garden on property.
