Settlers Hospitality Announces New Talent

Settlers Hospitality recently announced the hiring of personnel for two key roles. James Kelly came on board as Corporate Executive Chef and Hannah Stachlewitz will serve as Executive Pastry Chef.

Since he launched his culinary career 15 years ago at The Settlers Inn, James Kelly’s position as Corporate Executive Chef is a homecoming of sorts. He credits the experience with not only developing a passion for creating and executing high quality meals, but also for teaching and mentoring young cooks. He honed his skills in State College and Pittsburgh before taking a position at the acclaimed New York City restaurant, Babbo. There he helped the team reclaim their reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in the country, even earning a Michelin Star. Kelly’s love for Italian cuisine grew with chef positions at In Vino and Danny Meyer’s Maialino. That work laid the foundation for his success as Executive Chef at Babbo’s sister restaurant, Lupa Osteria Romana. Under his tenure, Lupa became a mainstay for pasta-focused Roman food, and was recognized by the New York Post and Eater. His renown even gained the attention of the Food Network, which provided the opportunity for Kelly to compete on the popular series, “Chopped.” In his role as Corporate Executive Chef, Kelly will lead a team of executive chefs to craft menus and oversee operations at all Settlers Hospitality restaurants and special events.

Hannah Stachlewitz joins the Settlers Hospitality team after working in some of the finest restaurants and bakeries in the Pacific Northwest. Most recently she served as Pastry Chef for Kingtide Fish and Shell in Portland. Stachlewitz hails from Ann Arbor Michigan and earned a Certificate in Baking and Pastry Arts from Schoolcraft College in Livonia, Michigan. As Executive Pastry Chef, Hannah will create desserts, pastries, and breads for all the restaurants within the collection of Settlers Hospitality properties as well as custom order celebration and wedding cakes.

“We are thrilled to add this depth and breadth of talent to our team at Settlers Hospitality,” explained CEO/Owner Justin Genzlinger. “In their respective roles James and Hannah will carry on the tradition of high quality and elevated cuisine people expect from us, while adding their own unique flavor. We’re excited about what they’ll bring to the table.”