The inn At Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island has named Joseph Nardo as the property’s executive chef.
In that role, he leads the culinary team in developing innovative menu offerings for the resort’s on-property venues and catering event menus. Nardo focuses on sourcing local products from Michigan and the Great Lakes, setting a foundation for his farm-to-table vision for the hotel’s dining outlets.
Having previously worked at Michelin-starred restaurants including The French Laundry, Lazy Bear, and The Dabney, Nardo brings 12 years of culinary expertise to the reimagined property. As part of the reopening team, he has played a crucial role in developing the resort’s culinary direction and menu offerings. Nardo began his career in 2013 at the famous No. 9 Park in Boston. Most recently he was a Relais and Châteaux executive chef at Camden Harbour Inn and Natalie’s Fine Dining in Maine.
“I am excited to join the culinary team at The Inn at Stonecliffe,” says Nardo. “Being a part of the team at this destination property has allowed me to explore my passion for local ingredients and be creative in forming new menus that showcase the truly one-of-a-kind flavors of the Great Lakes. I’m looking forward to sharing these special menus with guests as they rediscover the historic property.”
The Inn at Stonecliffe offers four unique dining concepts that Nardo will oversee, including The Straits, The Backyard, Horsey’s Pub, and The Lawn & Patio. The Straits is the property’s fine-dining restaurant inspired by the Great Lakes and focusing on an elevated farm-to-table approach. Many ingredients will come from local Michigan vendors, as well as grown on-site in the property’s garden orchard. The Backyard is a casual outdoor restaurant, featuring a variety of pizzas, as well as daily themed specials ranging from BBQ and burgers to seafood. Located inside The Mansion, Horsey’s is the perfect spot for a craft cocktail, pint of beer, or snack, while The Lawn & Patio is ideal for an after-dinner cocktail while roasting s’mores around the firepit or morning coffee with a view.
