The Marquesa Hotel Welcomes Travis Lee as Executive Chef: A New Era of Culinary Excellence in Key West, Florida

The Marquesa Hotel, a celebrated destination in Key West, Florida, has appointed Chef Travis Lee as the new Executive Chef of Café Marquesa, its renowned fine dining restaurant. With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality and Michelin-starred kitchens, Chef Lee brings unparalleled culinary expertise and innovation to one of the island’s most distinguished dining establishments.
A Proven Track Record of Michelin-Star Excellence
Chef Lee’s appointment to Café Marquesa marks a significant milestone in the hotel’s long-standing commitment to providing exceptional dining experiences for guests. As Executive Sous Chef at Mujō in Atlanta, Chef Lee played a pivotal role in helping the restaurant earn and maintain its prestigious Michelin Star in both 2023 and 2024. His expertise in elevating fine dining and driving culinary excellence has earned him a stellar reputation in the industry and his arrival at The Marquesa Hotel promises to raise the bar even higher.
Prior to his role at Mujō, Chef Lee served as Executive Chef at Rooftop L.O.A. and Corporate Executive Chef of Research & Development for Mainline Foods and Goldbergs Group. In these positions, he oversaw culinary development for multiple high-profile brands, further enhancing his diverse skill set and understanding of luxury hospitality.
Refined Experience at Prestigious Hospitality Brands
Chef Lee’s extensive experience also includes over a decade with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, where he worked at several of the brand’s most prestigious properties. His time spent at The Dining Room in Buckhead, Georgia (Five Star/Five Diamond) and Maestro by Fabio Trabocchi in Tysons Corner, Virginia (Four Star/Five Diamond), helped refine his classical training and elevate his approach to flavor. Chef Lee also honed his skills at Michelin-starred establishments abroad, including The Fat Duck and The Waterside Inn in Bray, England, as well as Maze Restaurant in London. These experiences have contributed to Chef Lee’s ability to blend classic techniques with modern culinary innovations.
Café Marquesa: A Key West Culinary Landmark
As Executive Chef of Café Marquesa, Chef Lee is poised to continue this tradition of excellence while bringing his personal flair to the restaurant’s menu. Known for its creative contemporary American cuisine, Café Marquesa has long been regarded as one of Key West’s finest dining venues. The restaurant is celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, impeccable service and refined dishes that blend the freshest local ingredients with classic techniques.
Chef Lee’s culinary philosophy aligns perfectly with Café Marquesa’s commitment to highlighting the best of Key West’s rich culinary heritage. With access to the bounty of two seas, his menu will feature local seafood, farm-to-table ingredients and house-baked breads, all of which embody the island’s relaxed elegance. The addition of Chef Lee’s talents promises to enhance the already unforgettable dining experience offered at The Marquesa Hotel.
The Marquesa Hotel’s Continued Commitment to Hospitality Excellence
The Marquesa Hotel, with its rich history and commitment to exceptional hospitality, continues to be a cornerstone of luxury accommodations in Key West. The appointment of Chef Travis Lee signals the hotel’s ongoing dedication to providing guests with world-class experiences that go beyond traditional expectations. With a focus on culinary innovation, personalized service and an unparalleled atmosphere, The Marquesa Hotel remains a top destination for travelers seeking the best of Key West.
Chef Travis Lee’s arrival at The Marquesa Hotel’s Café Marquesa is set to usher in a new chapter of gastronomic excellence in Key West, offering guests a dining experience that is both sophisticated and authentically reflective of the island’s spirit. As The Marquesa Hotel continues to raise the bar in hospitality, its guests can look forward to an unforgettable journey through the flavors of Key West, guided by one of the finest chefs in the industry.
For those seeking a taste of excellence in Key West, Chef Lee’s menu at Café Marquesa is poised to deliver an unforgettable culinary adventure, blending luxury with the island’s timeless charm.
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