Meet Executive Chef John Luchtel

Executive Chef John Luchtel has a passion for creating uncomplicated dishes using local and seasonal ingredients.  John's passion for food was recognized at an early age when he was lured into the culinary world. He studied the culinary arts at Southeast Community College and The University of Nebraska.  It was here John learned to develop his own unique style and flair. He has perfected his skills at exclusive restaurants and hotels to include The Knickerbocker Hotel on the Magnificent Mile in Chicago and tourist hot spots such as Boca Raton, Florida and Desert Hot Springs, California.

Since joining University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center as Executive Chef, John has infused the menu with Classic French sauces, the heat of the Southwest and flavors of Asia.  Inspired by local ingredients, the menu is derived from fresh produce and seasonal catches to offer an exciting variety of thoughtfully designed and locally sourced specialties.

Second only to cooking is John's passion for people.  He enjoys working with up and coming chefs in discovering their own talents in the same way that he was encouraged. His best advice: listen and learn from other chefs in all walks of life, there are always lessons to be learned. Click here to print Executive Chef John Luchtel's bio.

Join us at the The Terrace Grille to sample some Chef John's creations. Or book your next meeting or event at the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center to enjoy a larger selection of his talents.

The Terrace Grille, One Of The Best  Springfield Missouri Restaurants     

Located just steps from the downtown entertainment district, the University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center Springfield invites you to savor the very finest downtown Springfield MO restaurants – starting with our very own Terrace Grille.