L'AUBERGE DE SEDONA ANNOUNCES NEW EXECUTIVE CHEF

Arizona's Own David Schmidt to Direct Resort's Culinary Program

SEDONA, Ariz. - March 6, 2008 - L'Auberge de Sedona, one of Arizona's foremost retreats, has recently named David Schmidt as its Executive Chef. In his new role, Schmidt will direct the luxury destination's culinary program, which includes creating new menu options for L'Auberge Restaurant on Oak Creek, considered the most romantic restaurant in Arizona. Additionally, he'll spearhead menu plans for the Resort's corporate meetings, bridal and social events.

Raised in Wisconsin, David was inspired to explore his culinary talents by his beloved grandmother who cooked three squares a day for 16 children. (His first kitchen exploit was baking peanut butter and chocolate chip cookies.) He relocated to Arizona in the mid-1990s where he's been honing his craft for the past decade, creating his own unique flair for fine cuisine.

"I favor using local vendors for produce and other fresh ingredients," says Schmidt. "In the winter months, I like to use a braising technique which keeps the menu savory and seasonal. But throughout the year, we'll feature a contemporary French cuisine with Mediterranean influences. I've always had an interest in the foods of France, Italy, and Spain, and enjoy incorporating many of them into my creations."

Chef David has held positions at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort and T. Cook's at the Royal Palms in Phoenix, as well as served as Executive Chef at the Mobil Four Star, AAA Four Diamond rated Michaels at the Citadel in Scottsdale.

He also was an instructor for his alma mater, the Scottsdale Culinary Institute, now Le Cordon Bleu, from which he earned a degree in 1996.

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About L'Auberge de Sedona

L'Auberge de Sedona is an intimate creekside retreat surrounded by the stunning Red Rocks of central Arizona. The Inn's 11 acres of lush forest grounds offer 56 king bed accommodations; including 19 guest rooms and two junior suites in the European styled Lodge, 31 private cottages and four rooms in the expansive Creek House. The AAA Four-Diamond L'Auberge Restaurant on Oak Creek features the culinary artistry of Executive Chef David Schmidt with breakfast, lunch, and dinner services and a popular Sunday brunch. The luxurious Spa at L'Auberge, a serene retreat offering a tranquil, rejuvenating experience, is surrounded by lush natural beauty, and offers a carefully crafted spa menu designed to soothe and balance. Guests of L'Auberge are treated nightly to an informal, complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres reception in the living room of the Lodge. For more information, please call 800-905-5778 or visit L'Auberge de Sedona Resort and Spa.