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Covey Kitchen + Cocktails Announces New Executive Chef

By: Jane W / 25 Jan 2023
Chef Niedenthal stands under Covey sign

Covey Kitchen + Cocktails, located at Hotel ELEO at the University of Florida, welcomes Chef Andy Niedenthal as its Executive Chef. Chef Niedenthal will launch new Covey menus and will introduce inspiring catering menus for groups and special events. Niedenthal brings a Southern-influenced, Florida-inspired approach to the food and beverage program at the popular lakeside restaurant.

 

A graduate of Baltimore's International Culinary Arts Institute and a member of the American Culinary Federation (ACF), Chef Niedenthal brings more than 30 years of experience creating irresistible menus for restaurants in the Caribbean and Florida Keys. In Islamorada he was the Executive Chef for the elegant Pierre's Restaurant and its sister culinary outlet the casual and colorful Morada Bay Beach Cafe. Over his more than ten years in the Florida Keys, he also led the culinary programs at The Green Turtle Inn, Cheeca Lodge and most recently the Islander Resort. His career includes lead positions at The Marshall House in Savannah, GA; Peter Island Resort and Scrub Island Resort in the British Virgin Islands; and Martineau Bay Resort in Vieques, Puerto Rico. 

 

Traveling has influenced Niedenthal's culinary philosophy, which has a focus on local ingredients while delivering creative culinary concepts that are sure to delight locals and visitors alike.

 

"For the best flavor, sourcing regional ingredients is key to the success of every dish," says Chef Andy Niedenthal, "North Florida has so much to offer from the coast to the farms, all the freshest ingredients are easily accessible. Gainesville is the perfect location. Close enough to the clams of Cedar Key and right in the heart of incredible farms growing tomatoes, blueberries, micro greens and so much more. I am looking forward to developing seasonal dishes featuring these impressive, flavorful ingredients from the area."

 

A fan of culinary competitions and fundraising events, Niedenthal secured first place in the 2008 Florida Keys Iron Chef Competition, competed in the 2007 Vieques Culinary Competition, earned the 1999 Scovie Award, and participated in many more including the 1999 Sante Magazine Cooking with Wine & Spirits Competition. He has earned numerous ACF medals, has been a guest chef (second) at the James Beard House Dinner, was awarded the Gold Medal for Culinary Excellence by the American Tasting Institute, and served on the British Virgin Islands culinary team. Niedenthal's talents and engaging personality have put him in the spotlight including appearances on the Food Network, Deco Drive, Travel Channel, ESPN, Great Chefs and CBS. For three years while at The Green Turtle Inn, Niedenthal co-hosted a weekly radio show that broadcast from the iconic restaurant. 

 

Niedenthal, his wife, and their two dogs relocated to North Florida in December 2022.

 

For more information on Hotel ELEO at the University of Florida and to make reservations, visit HotelEleo.com or call 1-352-565-3536. 

 

 

 

About Covey Kitchen + Cocktails

Covey Kitchen + Cocktails, named one of the top 100 restaurants in the USA by Yelp, offers a seasonal globally-inspired menu with an American spirit. Favorites include the avocado toast, the burger, charcuterie and the roasted veggie salad. The spacious, contemporary dining room features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Rush Lake. Outdoor seating is available and special events can also be arranged for the outdoor space. The elegant marble-topped bar features thirst-quenching hand-crafted cocktails, award-winning local beers and a small impressive wine list. For images, menus or simply to be social, follow Covey Kitchen + Cocktails on social media @CoveyKitchen.

 

 

About Hotel ELEO at the University of Florida 

Hotel ELEO at the University of Florida, a 173-room boutique hotel, is located in Gainesville, Florida. The hotel is home to Covey Kitchen + Cocktails, offers flexible meeting and event space, and features top-of-the-line equipment in the fitness studio. The hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, theaters and stadiums on the University of Florida campus and UF Health, the University of Florida's academic health center. For more information visit HotelEleo.com or call 352-565-3536. 

 

 

HOTEL ELEO AT THE UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA 

1514 SW 14th St.  Gainesville, FL 32608 

Phone: 352-565-3536 

HotelEleo.com 

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