The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota Appoints Chef Mark Traugutt as Specialty Chef at Jack Dusty and Rufa
With more than 25 years of culinary experience, Chef Traugutt will bring his expertise in fine dining, luxury hospitality and restaurant operations to the Sarasota dining destination
The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is excited to announce the appointment of Chef Mark Traugutt as Specialty Chef overseeing Jack Dusty, the resort’s signature waterfront seafood restaurant, and Rufa, its elevated al fresco dining concept featuring imaginative cocktails, shareable dishes and sunset views. With more than 25 years of experience across luxury hospitality, fine dining and restaurant operations, Traugutt brings extensive culinary leadership experience to the role, including menu development, large-scale event operations and team leadership.
As Specialty Chef, Traugutt will oversee culinary operations at Jack Dusty and Rufa, guiding the restaurants’ culinary programs and creating dining experiences that reflect their waterfront settings and connection to Sarasota.
“The quality of the ingredients is always at the heart of a dish. I’m excited to continue that philosophy at Jack Dusty and Rufa, working alongside our local farmers and culinary team to incorporate seasonal produce and regional ingredients into the menu,” says Chef Traugutt. “There is so much incredible product here in Sarasota, and I’m looking forward to further highlighting the character of the region through thoughtful, seasonal dishes while upholding the high standards of The Ritz-Carlton.”
Prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota, Traugutt held culinary leadership positions throughout Florida, including Chef-Proprietor of Sarasota’s Fork & Hen, as well as roles with Streamsong Resort, Founders Golf Club and The Shore Restaurant Group. A graduate of The French Culinary Institute, he brings classical French culinary training and more than two decades of experience leading culinary teams across hospitality and dining.
Traugutt’s appointment marks an exciting next chapter for The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota’s culinary program as the restaurants continue to evolve their offerings and deepen their connection to the Sarasota community.
For more information or reservations, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/sarasota.
About The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota
A luxury landmark on Florida’s central Gulf coast, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota is conveniently located near the city center overlooking Sarasota Bay, just minutes from premier arts venues, nature sanctuaries, distinctive shopping, fishing, and watersports. Named one of the Top Golf Resorts in the World by Condé Nast Traveler, this destination resort is also home to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Sarasota, named the #3 Spa in the U.S. and Canada by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine. In addition to a Gulf-front Beach Club, Tom Fazio-designed Golf Club, Spa and Wellness Center, children’s recreation programs, and 276 guest rooms with Ritz-Carlton Club Level accommodations, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota offers 218 Residences and a private country club-style Membership.