Scottsdale's dining scene is experiencing a shift as The Americano steakhouse, renowned for its Italian-inspired cuisine, welcomes triple-champ Food Network chef Peter McQuaid as the new executive chef. Announced earlier today, this move brings fresh expertise to the high-end establishment, as reported by Phoenix Business Journal.
McQuaid leaves his mark at Cala to join forces again with Beau MacMillan, a familiar face from several Food Network programs including "Chopped," where McQuaid has notched three wins and is set to appear on “Chopped Legends,” airing today, according to a Scottsdale.com interview.
The partnership between MacMillan and McQuaid is not a new development, the duo having previously teamed up at the Senna House's Cala, Elements at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain and at Money, Baby! in Las Vegas, as they rotate into their new roles, they're in the process of overhauling the menu which aims to blend innovation with tradition and is slated for a late September debut.
"I’m honored to join The Americano and for the opportunity to continue to work alongside Beau," McQuaid told Phoenix Business Journal, praising their shared vision and past collaborations that have been pivotal in his culinary journey, a sentiment echoed by MacMillan who sees McQuaid as a "culinary legend in the making," his talent, dedication, and passion for the craft being unmatched; in his expanded role with Creation Hospitality, MacMillan looks forward to further elevating the dining experience at both The Americano and Mora Italian which he also oversees, adding a new layer to his longstanding partnership with David Sellers and Bob Agahi of Phoenix-based Creation.
The Americano is part of a burgeoning trend of restaurants in the Valley bringing celebrity chef prowess to the table, joining the ranks of Richard Blais and Giada De Laurentiis who have recently set up shop in the area and in the interim, Scott Conant, the previous face behind The Americano and Mora Italian, will be focusing on new ventures and maintaining leadership of The Americano by Scott in Atlanta, secure in the knowledge that his Scottsdale venues remains in capable hands, expressing confidence in MacMillan, a feeling of mutual respect that promises a seamless transition in these gastronomical havens, as they stay true to their original conception under MacMillan's stewardship.
