Michael Poompan has been appointed Executive Chef at The Slate Denver, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Slate Denver, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Poompan as the property's new Executive Chef.
In this role, Poompan will oversee all food and beverage operations of the new 251-room hotel, located inside the historic Emily Griffith Opportunity School in downtown Denver, including the on-site restaurant - The Teachers' Lounge Food + Drink - and the banquet and catering space. He brings 15 years of experience to his new role, as well as his passion to infuse local ingredients and community partners into his culinary work.
Under Chef Poompan's guidance, the Teachers' Lounge Food + Drink will offer a touch of modern elegance in a relaxed and comfortable historic setting. The menu will include local ingredients and a contemporary take on classic dishes, like his delightful Crispy Bison Meatloaf Bites made from Colorado's Rock River Ranches bison, and his Jumpin' Good Goat Cheese made from cheese produced in the heart of the Rocky Mountains; and of course, will feature The Emily, the property's signature apple-themed cocktail. Opting for shared plates paired with a specialty cocktail program, Chef Poompan wants to create a sense of community among The Slate Denver's visitors.
Chef Poompan is also inviting the local community into his work by partnering with additional Colorado-based vendors. Attimo Wine will be featured in a house wine program, complementing the food, and will be present at all events and represented across restaurant, banquets and retail. Altius Farms, a hydroponic greenhouse in downtown Denver will grow all salad greens for the property, and River Bear Meats will supply charcuterie used across the menus, including the country ham on the breakfast sandwich and olive plate, and the mortadella on the fried "bologna" sando.
Outside of the food and drink, Chef Poompan will also incorporate educational elements, a nod to the historic roots of the property. Teachers' Lounge Food + Drink will take full advantage of Colorado's enviable weather by offering year-round, outdoor patio seating, as well as private salon and meeting spaces for groups.
Prior to The Slate Denver, Poompan most recently served as Executive Chef at The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, where he spearheaded operations at the property's signature restaurant, ELWAYS's Downtown. He began his career at Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, creating the hotel's sustainable food concept and winning Renaissance Chef of the Year, before serving as the Opening Chef at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage then the Executive Chef at Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa.
