Known for its local, seasonal and Southern-inspired cuisine—not to mention its elegant charm and cozy outdoor seating—the Gables at Chadds Ford is a Chester County favorite. And now, there’s a new addition to the family: executive chef Jose Castillo, who is no stranger to the Brandywine Valley.
Castillo’s journey began in his mother’s kitchen in Mexico. He combines those homemade sensibilities with his culinary school training and experience to bring fresh ideas to the Gables’ menu, while honoring its classics. Castillo attended the culinary school at YTI Career Institute and worked nights at the Mendenhall Inn before finding himself at Kennett Steak and Mushroom Restaurant as kitchen supervisor. He’s been the chef at and managed an impressive array of venues, including Aramark at Widener University School of Law; Winterthur Museum, Garden and Library; Longwood Gardens; St. Joseph’s University; and the University of Delaware’s Goodstay Center.
Fans of the Gables’ rooftop garden’s fresh produce will be delighted to know that it will remain under Castillo’s watchful eye. Gardening is one of his passions; something he learned from his father. According to Castillo, that’s just another way he’ll uphold “the Gables’ good name for quality and professionalism, while putting my own spin on the menu.”
423 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, (610) 388-7700.
