Frederic Kieffer

Corporate chef and partner, l’escale

Frederic Kieffer

Growing up in the idyllic countryside west of Paris, Frederic Kieffer discovered his passion for cooking while spending summers working in local restaurants. Pursuing his calling, he enrolled at the prestigious L’Ecole Supérieure de Cuisine Française, Ferrandi, in Montparnasse, Paris, where he was classically trained in the art of French cuisine. Upon graduating, Kieffer embarked on an illustrious culinary journey, honing his craft through apprenticeships at world-renowned establishments such as Taillevent, Le Chiberta, and the Lutetia Hotel. His career took off in New York City at Tentation Caterers, where he managed catering for The Museum of Natural History. He also played a key role in the opening of the Los Angeles Music Center in California.

As Chef Kieffer’s reputation flourished, he achieved one of the greatest honors of his career: re-opening the legendary Windows on the World alongside famed restaurateur Joseph Baum, the owner of the Rainbow Room. This iconic project held a profound significance for Kieffer, leaving an indelible mark on his career and his heart, especially in the wake of 9/11. Kieffer’s journey continued with roles at New York City’s Water’s Edge and as the opening chef for the celebrity-owned Man Ray Restaurant. He later took on the transformative opportunity to open l’escale at the Delamar Greenwich Harbor Hotel. Reflecting on this milestone, Kieffer shared, “The l’escale opportunity was an exciting project, rivaling the scale of those in New York City. With an exquisite waterfront hotel, it gave me the chance to return to my French roots.”

Throughout his career, Kieffer has championed the farm-to-table philosophy, valuing the quality and source of ingredients long before it became a mainstream movement. This dedication to sustainability and excellence remains a cornerstone of his cooking. Today, Chef Kieffer serves as Corporate Chef and Partner at multiple distinguished restaurants in collaboration with Greenwich Hospitality Group’s founder and CEO, Charles Mallory. These include l’escale at the Delamar Greenwich Harbor, Artisan Southport at the Delamar Southport, Artisan West Hartford at the Delamar West Hartford, Artisan Traverse City at the Delamar Traverse City, MI, La Plage Restaurant at the Inn at Longshore, La Plage Restaurant & Oyster Bar at Delamar Mystic, and Dandelion Restaurant at Delamar Westport.

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Interior of l'escale restaurant

Founded in 2003, l’escale has since reached institution status. Located at Delamar Greenwich Harbor Hotel, the restaurant's intimate decor, along with its wrought iron tonelle covered waterfront terrace and exquisitely designed menu by award winning Executive Chef Frederic Kieffer will deliver the Côte d’Azur right to your table.