Meet Our Team
J. Larkin
A seasoned professional with over 40 years of experience, J. has a rich culinary journey that spans diverse establishments across the United States. Graduating with honors from The Culinary Institute of America in 1991, he earned accolades such as the Francis L. Roth Award for outstanding performance. His career includes notable positions such as Chef at The White Oak Plantation in Florida, Executive Chef/Food and Beverage Director at the Columbus Airport Marriott, and Corporate Executive Chef for Buehler’s grocery store chain.
From 2010 to 2019, J. served as a Corporate Chef/Food and Beverage Director for Heinen’s, contributing to the expansion of the grocery store chain outside Ohio. His role involved overseeing various departments, emphasizing customer engagement, and ensuring food safety. After a brief stint at a sauce manufacturing company, he joined Oak Point Country Club in Michigan in 2021, where he significantly elevated food quality standards and member satisfaction.
In April 2023, J. returned to Columbus as the General Manager of the upcoming Shawnee Station Tap Room | Kitchen, a Maumee Bay Brewing Company establishment. Drawing on his extensive experience, he is committed to assembling and leading a team that delivers the highest quality food, exceptional service, and an outstanding cocktail program, enhancing the culinary landscape in Columbus.
Travis Hyde
Travis started his culinary journey at the age of 14 at a local Italian restaurant in Westerville and has never had a desire to stray from the hospitality industry since his very first day (making salads and appetizers as a garde manger chef).
After culinary school he knew his dedication, passion and drive would push him to be the chef he is today. Travis first worked as a cook in local establishments like Alana’s Food and Wine, Monte Carlo Ristorante, & The Sheraton before moving to New Albany Country Club. His next step was taking the helm of Z Cucina and being recognized as one of Columbus’ top chefs and featured in national food publications, voted by Ohio chefs into BCA.
From there, he opened ELLA Restaurant which was an acronym for Eat Local Love Art. Travis harbored relationships with local farmers, cheese makers, dairies, foragers which fed his passion to support our local farmers and food artisans. Travis has spent time in the kitchen with certified master chefs and renowned celebrity chefs alike on his adventure to hone his culinary prowess.
Travis has a passion for cooking with as many Ohio-made products as he can, helping to support the small farmers and growers that surround us in the Buckeye State. In the ever- evolving world of food and gastronomy, he always finds something to tickle the fancy of every palate.
Amanda Adkins
Born in Florida but raised in Ohio, Amanda grew up in the restaurant industry and stepped into hotels for a little while, as well. She spent time as a nurse when the world was shut down by COVID-19 and returned to the restaurant industry a few years later. Amanda is now settled down with her amazing husband and kids in Dublin, Ohio.
With almost 20 years of restaurant experience, Amanda started in the back of the house but spent most of her time serving or in management. She is most passionate about people having smiles on their faces as they leave and knowing they had a great experience.
Amanda is a big family person and you’ll most likely find her hanging out with those closest to her and having a great time! She also loves to bake and be outdoors when it’s beautiful outside.
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