Virgil Emmert has been the Executive Chef at Oak Ridge Hotel and Conference Center in Chaska, Minnesota for 4+ years.
Chef Virgil graduated from Mankato Technical College and then began his career at L’Hotel Sofitel in Bloomington, MN where he worked alongside Chef Daniel Hubert. Over the past 18 years, he has held culinary positions at the Embassy Suites in Bloomington, MN, the Marriott Southwest in Minnetonka, MN and the Sheraton Park Place in St. Louis Park, MN where he gained knowledge and experience in French, American and Kosher Cuisine.
Before joining Dolce Oak Ridge in November 2002, he was the Executive Chef and Food and Beverage Director for the historic Rosewood Room at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Minneapolis, MN. He received the “DeRona Award” (Distinguished Restaurant North America) 3 years in a row (1999-2001).
With his endless creativity, Chef Virgil enjoys working with individual groups and the Oak Ridge Catering department to plan events that are extraordinary. His two favorite events include the Culinary Team Building Program and the Chef’s Tables.
Culinary Team Building allows companies a culinary experience while bringing their team members together in a way that they cannot do at other meeting facilities. Participants thoroughly enjoy practicing their cooking skills in a friendly competition among peers. A panel of team member judges is assembled for the tasting of their creations. Some competitions even include a “secret” ingredient!
The Chef’s Tables are thematic dinners bringing together businesses from many different backgrounds for a networking encounter. Themes vary from Asian to Caribbean to Northwoods Ice Fishing. Chef’s team takes the initiative to research not only the food but the history and culture native to the theme to create a unique and enriching experience.
Chef Virgil is a member of the local chapter of the American Culinary Federation. He and his culinary team take pride in growing their own herbs in an on-site garden. Currently, he is working with local vendors and growers to develop a network for fresh and organic products to meet the request of the guests.
Chef Virgil lives in Shakopee, Minnesota with his wife and two children. He enjoys bicycling, hiking, camping and an occasional hunting trip.
The entire Food and Beverage team at Oak Ridge is just as attentive to detail as Chef himself. Please feel free to ask them questions and give us your feedback. It is our privilege to serve you.
