Chef Ross McKee’s first weekend as Chef de Cuisine at the Shadowbrook Restaurant was one he will not soon forget, as it was full of pleasant surprises including a last minute visit by Senator Bob Dole. The Senator was in San Jose for a speaking engagement and was staying at The Fairmont Hotel in San Jose. The dining party, which included Dole and two aides, said they greatly enjoyed their experience and meal at the Shadowbrook and were going to thank the Fairmont’s concierge for the recommendation. Senator Dole was a gracious guest who arrived with a big appetite, enjoying Chef Ross’ three course tasting menu and the Shadowbrook’s famous artichoke soup.

Chef Ross discovered a passion for cooking at a young age while working at his family’s restaurant, the famed Pine Inn in Carmel. Chef Ross has since worked with some of the world’s finest chefs, Julia Child among them, and honed his skills at many of the Central Coast’s finest restaurants including Club XIX at Pebble Beach, Marinus, and Pacific’s Edge, as well as partnering in restaurants in Carmel, Hawaii and South Africa.

Chef Ross’ love of food and never ending search for new flavors and techniques has taken him around the world – from our local farmer’s markets to the colorful food markets of Asia. “Asian cooking comes from a totally different philosophy, one of balancing flavors as opposed to the Western tradition of using flavors to accent,” observes Ross. On a recent trip through South America, Ross was particularly inspired by the food of Argentina, a combination of Italian and Spanish cuisine infused with native ingredients. However, it is closer to home that Ross finds the most inspiration. “California markets are by far the most extensive in the world, especially here on the Central Coast. We have practically everything the world has to offer.”

Chef Ross’ travel and culinary experiences are reflected in the Shadowbrook dining experience, one that showcases the best ingredients from around the world... and around the corner.