At the heart of The Drexel’s new menu is the partnership of Chef Jarrod Huth and Chef Derek Carressi, a collaboration rooted in expertise, precision, and a deep respect for seasonality. As Think Hospitality’s COO of Culinary, Jarrod spearheaded the restaurant’s evolution, shaping its vision, designing the kitchen, assembling the team, and crafting a menu defined by technical excellence.

 

To bring this vision to life, Jarrod enlisted Derek, whose mastery of Italian cuisine, especially handmade pasta and pizza, adds depth, authenticity, and a hands-on approach to every dish. Together, they created a menu that celebrates coastal Italian traditions, hyper-seasonal ingredients, and artisanal craftsmanship. Each dish is thoughtfully executed with technical precision, often enhanced by the use of The Drexel’s famous wood-fired oven, which imparts unique flavor and texture. Their approach follows a simple guiding philosophy: let the ingredients write the menu.

 

Jarrod’s career has spanned defining milestone during five years working with Thomas Keller in some of the world’s most renowned kitchens, including The French Laundry and Per Se, where he spent years honing the discipline, precision, and ambition behind every plate he creates. Combined with Derek’s deep Italian expertise and a shared commitment to innovation, their collaboration ensures The Drexel’s menu is not only refined and thoughtful but alive, constantly evolving with the seasons and defined by flavor, technique, and care.