PARK RIDGE, N.J. (June 27, 2013) – Daniel Ritacco has been named Director of Restaurant Operations at the Park Ridge Marriott, it was announced by Sal Pignio, General Manager. Prior to this position he was Senior Sous Chef at the Renaissance Newark Airport Hotel.
A self-taught chef, Mr. Ritacco gained his passion for food through his mother, where, as a child, he would help her prepare authentic Italian dishes for the family’s Sunday dinner. His first professional culinary experience was at Giordano’s hometown market in Nutley, NJ, where he learned the culinary basics that he still uses today including making home-style soups, sauces, and many other culinary treats.
Mr. Ritacco then began his career with Marriott as a line cook for the Hanover Marriott. There he strove for excellence in every aspect of the kitchen and was promoted several times in the four years he worked there. In 2006, he became culinary supervisor overseeing the Auld Sheeben Irish Pub and Allie’s American Grille at the hotel, and was later promoted to banquet chef.
In 2009, he joined the Renaissance Newark Airport hotel as Banquet Chef and was quickly promoted to Senior Sous Chef in 2010.
Chef Ritacco’s most rewarding experience is when he looks at a dining room full of people with happy faces and full stomachs. He considers his style of cooking to be innovative yet personal – incorporating new local ingredients in traditional recipes.
The Park Ridge Marriott is set in a tranquil urban oasis where guests cross over a scenic bridge overlooking a natural stream with koi fish in a lush tree-filled setting. Each of the 289 newly renovated guest rooms feature Marriott’s signature bedding as well as the latest amenities. Guests can also enjoy The Botanical, a full-service spa onsite; an indoor pool; fitness center; and dining at Allie’s American Grill and Sean O’Casey’s Irish Pub. The property also features an 8,400 square foot ballroom which is ideal for weddings and other special occasions as well as meetings. For additional information, visit www.parkridgemarriott.com.
