Bo Counts has been promoted to Executive Chef at Swissotel Chicago
Swissôtel Chicago, recognized as one of the Best Conference Hotels in Chicago by U.S. News & World Report, has promoted long-time culinary team member Bo Counts to Executive Chef. In his new role, Counts oversees back-of-house culinary execution, menu innovation and kitchen staff management at its signature lounge, Amuse.His leadership focuses on approachable, high-quality cuisine, sustainable kitchen initiatives and menu offerings that align with the hotel’s Vitality brand pillar.
Originally from Ohio, Counts moved to Chicago in 2002 to attend culinary school. He refined his craft in independent restaurants, spent seven years at the Fairmont Chicago and helped open Sophie’s at Saks Fifth Avenue before joining Swissôtel Chicago 11 years ago. Serving previously as Executive Sous Chef of Banquets and Senior Executive Sous Chef, Counts developed a strong foundation in complex operational logistics. During the pandemic, he independently overhauled the hotel’s entire banquet culinary program, writing recipes and updating more than 20 pages of banquet offerings.
Counts’ strategic vision emphasizes environmental responsibility and well-being. Under his direction, the hotel has implemented an on-site food digester to convert organic waste into water and expanded regional sourcing partnerships, including chicken farms across Iowa and Wisconsin. These sustainable efforts support Swissôtel’s Vitality philosophy, ensuring healthy, nutritionally balanced options are seamlessly integrated into in-room dining and everyday menus.
Guests at Amuse will soon sample Counts’ new fall specials, featuring roasted butternut squash ravioli, braised short rib sliders and a seasonal harvest salad. Looking ahead to the winter season, Counts and his team are preparing holiday-themed menus for the hotel’s 13th annual Santa Suite and festive December breakfast offerings.
To learn more about Swissôtel Chicago or Amuse, please visit swissotel.com/hotels/chicago or follow along on Instagram and Facebook.