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The Observatory Sun Valley, A Viceroy Resort, has appointed Nicola Cavicchini as Executive Chef ahead of the luxury mountain resort’s opening in downtown Ketchum later this year.
Cavicchini will oversee the culinary vision and operations of Joan, the resort’s signature all-day American restaurant, where he will lead a seasonally focused dining programme inspired by local ingredients and the character of Sun Valley.
Born and raised in Italy, Cavicchini brings nearly 20 years of experience across luxury resorts and restaurants in Europe and the United States.
Most recently, he served as Executive Chef at CordeValle in Northern California, where he managed culinary operations across several outlets, including the resort’s fine dining restaurant, Il Vigneto. His approach focused on locally sourced ingredients and partnerships with regional producers.
Prior to CordeValle, Cavicchini held the position of Executive Sous Chef at the Forbes Five-Star and Michelin-recognised Rosewood Miramar Beach in Montecito, California, overseeing dining venues and events operations. His previous experience also includes serving as Chef de Cuisine at Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
Throughout his career, Cavicchini has developed expertise across fine dining, luxury resort operations, large-scale events and wine-led culinary programmes.
At The Observatory Sun Valley, he will lead the food and beverage offering at Joan, a restaurant inspired by the legacy of Joan Blank, a well-known Ketchum resident remembered for bringing people together through hospitality, music and community.
Commenting on his appointment, Cavicchini said: “What excites me most about Joan is the opportunity to create a place where people naturally come together. Growing up in Italy, some of life’s most meaningful moments happened around a table shared with family and friends. Joan embodies that same spirit, creating a welcoming space where great food, conversation, and genuine hospitality bring people together. I’m honored to help bring that vision to life in Sun Valley.”
The menu at Joan will focus on seasonal ingredients and a dining style intended to reflect both Sun Valley’s outdoor lifestyle and the atmosphere of a contemporary mountain destination.
The appointment is the latest milestone for The Observatory Sun Valley as it prepares to open its doors, with the resort aiming to establish itself as a new luxury hospitality destination in the region.
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