Vesta Brings on New Executive Chef

Not many non-chef-owned restaurants can claim the longevity of their kitchen crew in the way that Vesta Dipping Grill can. The 19 year old staple has just introduced its new executive chef, Nicholas Kayser, just the third chef to hold the title. A Cincinnati native raised in Denver, Chef Kayser received his bachelor's degree at the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of Colorado. His resume includes stints in Las Vegas, New York City where he served as chef de cuisine at Thomas Valenti's Ouest, and Hong Kong where he most recently served as executive chef at BLT Steak. Kayser looks forward to bringing a new and fresh approach to the menu format and culinary style of the restaurant set at 1822 Blake Street.

With one leader joining Vesta's restaurant group, Secret Sauce, another one departed. Bartender and beverage director Randy Layman has left recently to pursue other goals. "It is never easy to say good bye to a guy like Randy," owner Josh Wolkon said. "Over the years, he has taken several positions in our company, but what makes him irreplaceable was that he was a culture builder. You can't turn around and hire someone for that role. It takes time and a special personality to become that," he added.