Chef Samake combines French cooking techniques with an enviable talent for putting a fresh spin on regional specialties.

Named “Chef of the South” by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (January 1997) when he was spa chef at Chateau Élan in Braselton, Georgia, he authored a recipe book of spa cuisine while still maintaining his affinity for great Southern foods. Chef Samake has worked at Ritz-Carlton resorts in Montego Bay, Jamaica; Dubai, UAE; and Half Moon Bay. He is a native of Le Mans, France.

Recognized as one of the newest stars on the city's culinary horizon, Chef Hollberg recently won recognition in two magazines:

• "Rising Star Chefs," Atlanta Magazine (August 2007)
• "Hot Chefs of 2007," Atlanta Peach Magazine (Summer 2007)

A native Atlantan, Chef Hollberg's affinity for southern foods comes naturally. After graduating from the culinary school at the Art Institute of Seattle, he boldly applied for a position in the renowned Dining Room at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead. After four years and many promotions, he was sous chef at the Mobil Five Star restaurant, an impressive feat for a young chef.

Now leading the culinary team at Atlanta Grill, Chef Hollberg is focused on incorporating the best of local and regional ingredients into the menu, offering guests a taste of the best of the south.

Silvio Garcia, sommelier and wine director, brings enthusiasm and a keen sense of wine and food affinity to the culinary team at The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta.

He tastes more than 300 wines each year with the world's finest winemakers, and his wine list reflects discernment, a sense of adventure and a strong focus for selecting wines that pair beautifully with the menu at Atlanta Grill.

Mr. Garcia also created a superb list of more than 30 wines-by-the-glass which changes regularly depending upon the season, new releases, his point-of-view or new discoveries.

Under his direction, Atlanta Grill consistently receives awards from noteworthy publications and organizations, including:

• Best Award of Excellence, Wine Spectator magazine (2003-2007)
• Excellence in Wine Hospitality, Sante magazine (2005-2007)
• Grand Award, DiRoNA (2003-2007)
• Unique Distinction, Wine Enthusiast magazine (2005-2007)

Mr. Garcia was born in Italy and raised in Argentina. He graduated at the top of the class from the Servicio de Gastronomia Service de la Restaurateur and then immigrated to the U.S. to study to become a sommelier. His excellent resume includes Seeger's and The Abbey restaurants in the city.