Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country Announces Acclaimed Chef Dominique Crenn as Partner

FREDERICKSBURG, Texas – Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country and Waldorf Astoria Residences Texas Hill Country proudly announce a culinary collaboration with internationally acclaimed chef Dominique Crenn, who will develop and oversee the signature restaurant at the highly anticipated resort expected to open in 2027. Brought to life by a visionary partnership among Mark Harmon, Robert Radovan, and Tim Sparapani, the resort and residences mark Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts’ debut in Texas—and will also introduce a fresh, independent concept from one of America’s most lauded chefs.  

“Chef Crenn is an extraordinary talent with a rare ability to draw out the essence of every ingredient, crafting a culinary experience unlike any other,” said Mark Harmon, developer of Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country. “We want Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country to be more than a destination; it will be place that honors the land, celebrates culture, and offers guests and residents moments of discovery. With Chef Crenn, we aim to further elevate Fredericksburg’s identity as a leading wine and culinary destination by creating experiences that feel local, inspired and enduring.”

“At Waldorf Astoria, our legacy is built on artistry, in design, in hospitality, and in the culinary experiences that connect guests to a true sense of place,” said Dino Michael, senior vice president and category head, luxury brands, Hilton. “Chef Crenn’s creative vision and deep respect for nature align beautifully with the Waldorf Astoria ethos. Together, we’re creating a destination that reflects the spirit of Texas Hill Country while advancing the next chapter of luxury dining.”

The Crenn signature restaurant at Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country promises to be a destination in its own right where world-class design, inspired cuisine, and unforgettable experiences converge. Chef Crenn’s visionary approach—a harmonious blend of artistry, sustainability, and storytelling—will shape a chef-driven menu rooted in French technique, embracing global flavors, and celebrating the region’s rich terroir while elevating Texas Hill Country’s culinary reputation onto the world stage. Guests and residents can expect dishes that blend locally sourced ingredients with a mix of premium seafood and meats, elevated by avant-garde techniques, reflecting both Hill Country heritage and Crenn’s signature creativity. The second-story restaurant will offer a seamless flow between intimate private dining rooms, lively specialty bars, and expansive terraces overlooking the breathtaking Texas Hill Country vistas.

“The Texas Hill Country has a culinary rhythm all its own,” said Chef Dominique Crenn. “This collaboration is a chance to celebrate the land, the people, and the seasons through a new lens—one that’s deeply personal, rooted in nature, and elevated by imagination. I’m honored to bring this vision to life in Fredericksburg, and to be partnering with such an excellent team of hospitality legends to see it through.”

Dominique Crenn’s culinary journey began in France, inspired by her family’s passion for fine dining and early exposure to top regional restaurants. In 1988, she moved to San Francisco to train under legendary chef Jeremiah Tower at Stars, laying a strong foundation in modern gastronomy. She made history as the first female executive chef in Jakarta, leading the kitchen at the Intercontinental Hotel. Returning to San Francisco in 2008, Dominique earned a Michelin star at Luce before opening Atelier Crenn in 2011, where she became the first female chef in the U.S. to earn three Michelin stars. She expanded her culinary empire with Petit Crenn and Bar Crenn. In addition to her restaurants, Dominique authored the bestselling cookbook Atelier Crenn: Metamorphosis of Taste and served as Chief Technical Consultant on the film The Menu. A James Beard Award winner, World’s 50 Best Icon, and TIME 100 honoree, Dominique is a pioneering force dedicated to innovation, sustainability, and equality in the culinary world.

Chef Dominique Crenn is the visionary behind Atelier Crenn in San Francisco. Atelier Crenn was recently ranked #46 on the prestigious North America’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Her acclaimed portfolio also includes Bar Crenn, a sophisticated cocktail bar adjacent to Atelier Crenn, and Café Dior by Dominique Crenn in Dallas, a thoughtful collaboration with Maison Dior that seamlessly blends art, fashion, and cuisine into a multisensory culinary experience. Chef Crenn will open her next venture in collaboration with Dior, Monsieur Dior by Dominique Crenn, this fall, at the heart of House of Dior Beverly Hills. Celebrated for her innovative approach and global culinary leadership, Chef Crenn continues to shape and inspire the evolving gastronomic landscape.

Designed in collaboration between Studio CABAN, Paul Duesing Partners, FAB Studio, TIPLER Group and The Abernathy Group, Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country will offer an immersive resort experience. Once open, the property will encompass 60 hotel rooms, 37 resort villas, and 50 private branded residences. Guests and residents will have access to five food and beverage venues, ranging from fine dining to casual concepts, with Crenn’s signature restaurant anchoring the resort’s culinary identity. Additional amenities include an 11,000-square-foot spa and fitness center, two resort-style pools and more. The property is located less than one mile from downtown Fredericksburg and is easily accessible from Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas.

Waldorf Astoria Texas Hill Country’s partnership with Chef Crenn builds on the brand’s legacy of collaborating with world-class culinary talent to shape the future of fine dining. Across its portfolio, Waldorf Astoria has worked with celebrated chefs such as Michael Anthony (Waldorf Astoria New York), Michael Mina (Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach) along with Clare Smyth and Daniel Boulud (Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch). Each brings a distinctive vision that reflects the culture and character of their destination. Chef Crenn’s addition to this global roster underscores the brand’s ongoing commitment to artistry, sustainability, and extraordinary dining experiences.

For more information on the hotel or residences, please visit waldorfastoriaresidencestexashillcountry.com.

For more information on Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts, please visit stories.hilton.com/waldorfastoria.