As an integral part of Castle Hill Inn’s culinary program for nearly 20 years, Chef Lou Rossi leads all food and beverage operations across the Relais & Cheateaux property’s restaurants, bars and event venues.
Growing up in a predominately Italian household, Rossi learned at an early age to appreciate food as the centerpiece of daily life and continues to have a passion for ensuring all guests at Castle Hill Inn enjoy thoughtfully prepared cuisine that is creative, delicious and approachable.
Rossi’s history with Castle Hill Inn began with childhood summers spent in Newport, RI. Intrigued by the property’s rolling grounds and reputation for luxury, Rossi was committed to securing a place in its kitchen. He began his culinary career with a culinary internship at Castle Hill Inn in 2005, while attending the New England Culinary Institute in Montpelier, VT, where he graduated with a degree in Culinary Arts. Shortly after, Rossi immersed himself in the Manhattan culinary scene where he worked as a cook at Thomas Keller’s three Michelin Star restaurant, Per Se. Missing the charm of New England, Rossi made the decision to return to Newport and Castle Hill Inn in 2010. Since then, Rossi has held the roles of chef tournant and sous chef, before being named Castle Hill Inn’s Executive Chef in 2015. This year, in January 2023, Rossi stepped into his current role as Director of Food and Beverage.
Inspired by the view and working closely with the land, Rossi takes pride in Castle Hill Inn’s harvest garden, which he was integral in bringing to life. Spanning nearly 40 acres, the harvest garden is an all-organic practice, growing a variety of produce from edible flowers to herbs, berries and vegetables, enabling Castle Hill Inn to serve what it grows. Authentically farm-to-table, Chef Lou and the culinary team at the Inn are proud to source ingredients from meters, not miles, away. The produce grown on site serves as the centerpiece of the dishes at Castle Hill Inn with an ever-changing menu of what’s in season.
With the support of Executive Chef Andy Taur and Chef de Cuisine Dylan Cadrette, Rossi continues to influence and elevate Castle Hill Inn’s renowned food and beverage programs to new heights.