John PivarPivar developed a passion for food at a young age while watching his grandmother bake fresh pastries and breads, then launched his culinary arts career in his hometown of Chicago. From there, his passion for cooking took him all over the country and beyond, including the Renaissance Vinoy Resort, St. Petersburg, Fla.; Sanibel Harbor Resort, Fort Myers, Fla.; and Scottsdale Princess Resort, Scottsdale, Ariz. all AAA four-star diamond resorts – Hyatt Regency Curacao Golf Resort, Curacao, Caribbean; Hyatt Regency Indianapolis, Indianapolis, Ind.; and most recently Hyatt Regency Lost Pines, Bastrop, Texas, where he reconcepted the nine seasonal and year-round dining outlets and forged partnerships with local vendors and farms. Pivar authored two books, “Fire It Up: Grill with Flavor, Flair & Fun” and “Taste the Vinoy: Without Reservations,” and was recognized by the James Beard Foundation Dinner’s “Best Hotels Chefs of America” series. When he’s not experimenting with a new dish or brainstorming book ideas, Pivar can be found hiking, gardening, riding his motorcycle or spending time with his wife and daughter.