Celebrating Excellence: Chef Appreciation President’s Award Recipients
Chef Appreciation Week is one of the most meaningful times of the year at Eurest. It is a moment to celebrate the culinary talent behind the more than 900,000 meals we serve every day.
This year, Eurest introduced the Chef Appreciation President’s Award. The award honors a chef from each division of Eurest who stands out for their impact on people, food, and culture. These honorees are not only talented in the kitchen but also mentor, lead, and champion their teams. They set the bar high and show that great food is about people as much as it is about the plate.
Congratulations to the 2025 recipients of the Chef Appreciation President’s Award:
District Chef Rafael Rodriguez
Chef Rafael is a gifted culinarian and a highly respected leader in Eurest’s Eastern Division, overseeing our Puerto Rico business. He is celebrated for the pride he takes in honoring the achievements of his team and for inspiring them to be their best.
Chef Rafael’s dedication to culinary innovation and his ability to partner with clients in complex environments make him an invaluable leader and role model.
Executive Chef Shane Sebesta
Chef Shane has been part of Eurest for 20 years and leads with heart in Everett, Washington. He makes it a priority to know his guests and team members personally, creating an environment where everyone feels valued and supported.
His passion for mentoring, encouraging new ideas, and empowering his team has made his kitchen a model of hospitality and innovation. Every manager in training in the region begins orientation with Chef Shane because his leadership reflects the standard of excellence at Eurest.
Executive Chef Jon Van Wieren
Chef Jon played a vital role in the opening of a new food hall in Frisco, Texas, where his leadership and vision guided his team to deliver memorable experiences to guests, managing a fast-paced environment with calm focus.
Chef Jon brings creativity and joy to everything he does, whether hosting a wine tasting or leading a charcuterie-making class. His enthusiasm is infectious, his leadership elevates those around him, and his contributions have shaped a dining experience that leaves a lasting impression on clients, guests, and team members alike.
Executive Chef Dan Jones
Chef Dan of Boise, Idaho, joined Eurest in 2022 and quickly became a trusted leader and anchor of support for his team. His humility and sincerity create an environment where people feel respected, valued, and able to do their best work.
With a steady presence and food-first approach, he inspires his team to flourish. Chef Dan takes pride in tailoring menus to reflect guest preferences, showing that excellence in the kitchen is also about caring for the people he serves.
Congratulations to Chefs Rafael, Shane, Jon, and Dan – and thank you to all Eurest chefs for everything you do.