Holiday Delights
THIS DECEMBER , WITH CHRISTMAS JUST AROUND THE CORNER , NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB CHEFS ARE FILLING NEW ROLES TO MAKE YOUR HOLIDAY DINING DREAMS COME TRUE .
BY ASHLEY RYAN
Two familiar faces from Newport Beach Country Club recently gained new titles , with well-deserved promotions elevating them to the next level . In early November , Graeme Blair , formerly the property ’ s executive sous chef , took over as executive chef , fulfilling a dream that he has been working toward for 20 years .
In 2000 , Blair left his career as a software engineer to embark on a culinary journey that would ultimately bring him to NBCC in 2016 . “ The cooks , chefs and mentors I ’ ve worked alongside for the last 20 years have all provided invaluable kitchen , restaurant and life skills … that have helped me get to this title ,” he says .
Before coming to NBCC , Blair studied culinary arts in Scottsdale , Arizona , working for roughly a decade at The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa . He then took a sous chef position at the former St . Regis Monarch Beach in nearby Dana Point , where he worked for another four years .
Now , in his new role , Blair will continue to lead the diverse and talented team that the prestigious club has put in place . “ My hope is to continue to lead , train and inspire our culinary team to achieve their goals , as well as … [ offer ] my food and wine knowledge to assist our servers and restaurant team members to a place of better understanding … and to help our members make informed dining choices ,” he explains .
Taking his place as executive sous chef is another friendly face , chef Colin McGinley . The pair first met at the St . Regis , though Blair says he was able to convince him last fall
BE OUR GUEST
CLOSE OUT 2020 RIGHT WITH A SMALL HOLIDAY PARTY OR INTI- MATE FAMILY DINNER AT NEWPORT BEACH COUNTRY CLUB .
With the challenges brought on by the pandemic , this year has been difficult for many . Bid it adieu the right way : with a small , safe experience in an intimate setting .
Known for our superb holiday gatherings and catering , Newport Beach Country Club is the perfect place to celebrate this holiday season . The covered terrace at Seahorse Grille provides lush views of the stunning golf course and can accommodate groups of various sizes for everything from brunches and luncheons to small holiday parties , wine dinners and receptions . A private room is also available for groups up to 12 .
The Ocean Boardroom is another spot ideal for parties and dinners , looking out toward the ocean . With another spacious patio here , groups of 20 to 40 can take advantage of this beautiful indoor / outdoor space .
To book your intimate holiday gathering , chef-curated wine dinner or brunch / lunch with friends , all in a safe setting , please contact Rachel Putnam at 949-514-8110 or rputnam @ newportbeachcc . com .
46 BAY WINDOW