By Alison Bailin Batz / Photo by Debby Wolvos
Ken Arneson is the area executive chef of Driftwood Hospitality, which recently led The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, a Curio Collection Resort by Hilton, in its culinary transformation.
First, tell us about this transformation.
This year, we launched three new restaurants on property: La Fogata, offering modern Sonoran cuisine with global influences; The Social Boardroom, a buzzy spot with a golf simulator focused on small bites and shareables; and Barnaby’s Café + Wine Bar, a coffee shop with pastries and fast-casual items by day that transforms into a wine bar at night. We also debuted The Madam, a speakeasy that will eventually serve food as well.
What are some of the must-order items on your new menus?
At La Fogata, try the Chilean sea bass and the meat and potatoes plate, which features braised oxtail, gnocchi, roasted mushrooms, and truffle-infused pecorino. At The Social Boardroom, order the naked wings, which come with sauces ranging from Louisiana-style barbecue to Sriracha honey.
You and Sriracha have a history, right?
In 2019, I was on Chopped, using the secret ingredients, which included sea water, to make this really cool seafood and frisee salad dish. I thought it needed color so painted the plate with Sriracha. The judges did not love all the spice, and it got me “chopped.” The Boardroom’s Sriracha is my redemption sauce!
What first inspired you to cook?
I was born in Honolulu so food – especially Polynesian cuisine – was always special. I eventually moved to Seattle, where my grandfather and stepfather were both chefs. However, it wasn’t until I took kitchen positions to pay for carpentry school that I found my passion for cooking. That led me to the Culinary Institute of America, and the rest is history.
What is something readers would be surprised to know about you?
While I never became a professional carpenter, I am an avid woodworker, mostly crafting furniture like coffee and kitchen tables.
The Scottsdale Resort & Spa, 7700 E. McCormick Parkway, Scottsdale; 480.991.9000; www.thescottsdaleresort.com.