Executive Chef, Ivesant Geigel

“I love the experiences that we create in every single bite.”

Tell us a little bit about yourself!

I’ve worked in the industry for over 20 years, including restaurants in Disney World, Wyndham, Dellagio Plaza, and more. I have experience in French, Asian, Polynesian, Caribbean, African, and Indian cuisine and really enjoyed bringing them all together for the new Wellborn menu!

What do you love the most about being a chef?

I love the passion, time, and dedication I put into every dish for the delight of our customers at The Wellborn. I love the experiences that we create for every single bite.

What’s your favorite dish to prepare at The Wellborn?

The red snapper pinchos! It is a really nice, tender, and meaty fish from the Atlantic coast. At The Wellborn, we marinate it in our miso-tamarind sauce for over 4 hours! Once it’s marinated, you get all the flavors in a nice glaze sauce. It’s also served with onion soubise, another favorite sauce of mine, so you have savory and sweet components in the entire dish.

Where is your favorite vacation destination?

My home island, Puerto Rico! With the beaches, food, and vibe, it’s always a good time! It inspires and influences me to develop and use those techniques in every dish I make.

What connection do you have with our Floribbean menu?

I love being by the coast and eating fresh seafood. Our Floribbean menu is inspired by the diversity of cultures from the Caribbean islands, such as Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic.