Get to know Live! by Loews - Arlington's Executive Chef Robert Carr
Executive Chef Robert Carr celebrates his one year anniversary with Live! by Loews - Arlington. With more than 25 years of five-star international luxury hotel culinary experience, he has made his mark overseeing all aspects of the food and beverage operation for five dining outlets, banquet functions, 24-hour in-room dining, and special events at the iconic 300-room sports resort. Get to know Executive Chef Robert Carr.
1. What inspired your passion for cooking, and how did you get started in the culinary industry?
I loved cooking from an early age. Everyday you are doing something different and continually learning and being creative - which is fun. Most of my family and friends were in the aircraft industry in Kansas. I couldn't see myself doing the same job everyday, so I went my own direction. I started my career as a busser, and one day, I talked to the chef about coming to the kitchen as a prep cook. The chef took me under his wing and helped me grow and climb the ranks in the kitchen. I never looked back from that point, and continue to move forward.
2. How would you describe your culinary style?
Simplicity done at high level. I source premium - local, when possible - ingredients and strive to use them to create truly memorable dishes and exciting dining experiences for our guests. That's the perfect recipe.
3. How does your background and past experiences influence your cooking today?
In my career, I have been extremely fortunate to have opportunities to work in luxury resorts around the world that have influenced my cooking. Traveling to different countries and experiencing new cultures taught me about new cuisines, ingredients and cooking techniques that I have applied to my menus.
4. What role do local and seasonal ingredients play in your menu development?
Local and seasonal ingredients play a big part in my menu development. I want to feature product that is at the peak of the season for enhanced flavor, so we make slight adjustments to dishes year-round. For example, tomatoes are in season in Texas in May through November. So, I may use them on the summer menu and into fall for the highest quality and flavor. I am always on the hunt for new local Flavor by Loews partners to support local farmers and partners in our community.
5. What is the signature dish in Cut & Bourbon that represents the unique identity of this hotel?
We are most known for our steaks. We only use USDA Prime beef cooked at a high temperature to give the meat a perfect crust on the outside, and finish with a touch of sea salt. Additionally, our bison and antelope dishes are very popular among local patrons.
6. What are some unique opportunities and challenges associated with our location within the Arlington Entertainment District?
Live! by Loews - Arlington is situated between iconic sports stadiums - Globe Life Field, home to the World Champion Texas Rangers and AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys. One of the great things about our location is that we stay busy throughout the year between concerts and sports. That gives us unique opportunities to create new dining options and activities not only for locals, but for our guests traveling in for these large-scale events.
7. How do you stay inspired and keep your menu offerings fresh and exciting for both guests and locals?
We do a lot of R&D with new items and cooking techniques to bring to the restaurants. I'm currently working on bringing a locally raised beef to the menu to offer something different to our guests.
8. What is your process for creating memorable dining experiences for guests and locals?
The first step is sourcing quality ingredients. The second step is to train the culinary team to be consistent. When planning out special events we try to innovate and think of new way to surprise and delight the guest.
9. What is your favorite dish to cook for guests? And for yourself?
I really enjoy cooking wild game, smoked meats and desserts for guests. For myself, I like to make either chicken or pork adobo with steamed rice.
10. Are there any foods you won't eat?
I will try any food at least once. Although, I do try to stay away from food that are high in cholesterol.
ABOUT LIVE! BY LOEWS – ARLINGTON
Live! By Loews – Arlington brings an upscale hospitality experience to the Arlington Entertainment District. Centrally located between Dallas and Fort Worth, and just 10 minutes from the DFW International Airport, Live! by Loews – Arlington, TX is a 14-story hotel featuring 300 guest rooms and luxury suites, each outfitted with custom décor and floor-to-ceiling windows. The complex also houses five chef-curated food & beverage outlets including a classic steakhouse, Cut & Bourbon; lobby lounge, Bar Bourbon; outdoor mixology bar, Arlington Clover Club; poolside bar and lounge, SOAK; and organic, grab-and-go market, River Market. The property’s central location offers easy access to popular attractions such as AT&T Stadium and Globe Life Field. For more information and to make reservations, please visit www.loewshotels.com/live-by-loews-arlington-texas or call 1(888)-986-3294.
Press Inquiries: Lisa Garland, Area Director of Public Relations | lisa.garland@loewshotels.com
