Gerard Kenny has been appointed as Executive Chef at Hotel Viata
Hotel Viata, a boutique retreat nestled in West Lake Hills just outside of Austin, Texas, announces the appointment of Gerard Kenny as Executive Chef. In this role, Chef Kenny will oversee all food and beverage operations across the property, including the hotel's signature Laurel Restaurant, in-room dining, banquets and weddings, and curated culinary experiences for group and social events.
A graduate of The Culinary Institute of America and one of a select few chefs to complete the prestigious Greenbrier apprenticeship program, Chef Kenny brings a foundation of classical training paired with modern operational expertise. His career includes leadership roles at acclaimed properties such as The Inn at Dos Brisas in Washington, Texas, and Four Seasons Houston, as well as Executive Chef and Executive Sous Chef positions at some of Austin's most respected dining destinations, including La Condesa, Le Politique, and the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center at The University of Texas.
At Hotel Viata, Chef Kenny will guide the continued development of Laurel Restaurant, the property's Italian-inspired dining venue known for its hand-made pastas, seasonally driven menus, and scenic veranda overlooking the hills. His vision emphasizes seasonality, regional influences, and approachable elegance, with menus that balance comforting classics and contemporary technique. Guests can also expect a thoughtful beverage program, including craft cocktails and mindful zero-proof offerings designed to complement the culinary experience from casual evenings to celebratory occasions.
Gerard Kenny is an alumnus of Culinary Institute of America .