Tastefully Tantalizing: Two New Chefs at Norfolk Marriott Waterside Make For a Delicious Stay

    /24-7PressRelease/ - NORFOLK, VA, December 22, 2007 - Norfolk Marriott Waterside is proud to introduce Frank R. Lang and C.R. Thomas to the already outstanding culinary team at the hotel.

Norfolk Marriott Waterside Hotel has always been known for its impeccable service and classic style, but now it is being hailed for its cuisine. From breakfast through dinner, there are three distinctive restaurants and lounges to choose from, and with two new Executive Chefs, guests will delight in the creative culinary experience housed in each restaurant.

Frank R. Lang III, the new Executive Chef of Shula's 347 downtown Norfolk restaurant, originally began his culinary career in Clearwater and Tampa, Florida at several major hotel chains. "The large-scale professional atmosphere is what captivated me as a culinarian," explains Lang.

Caught by a desire to pursue cooking professionally, Lang then transferred to the Richmond area, where he continued his education at The Virginia Crossings Resort. He regards this four-star resort as the turning point in his professional career. After some time in Richmond and a three-year stint in Washington DC, he decided to move his family back to the Tidewater/Norfolk area, where he and his wife have extended family.

Lang is now the Executive Chef at Shula's 347, where his team specializes in working with the best beef money can by. This acclaimed restaurant in Norfolk exclusively serves certified Angus beef burgers and steaks, alongside an array of other upscale entr e options

C.R. Thomas is the new Executive Chef of the entire hotel. Originally from Bridgeport, West Virginia, Thomas began cooking at a very young age. Thomas attended West Virginia University for Biology and Marshall University for Psychology and Sociology before coming to the realization that what he really wanted to do was become a chef. Having always enjoyed cooking for friends and family, especially around the holidays, he decided to finish up his degree at Johnson & Wales University in Norfolk, Virginia, where he received his Associate's and Bachelors' Degrees.

Thomas then moved to New York, where he had the opportunity to work at the Rhiga Royal Hotel alongside great gourmet chefs like Charlie Trotter, Alan Wong, and Alessandra Strata. While there, Thomas also worked on special events and movie premiers, including the premier for the legendary film, Titanic.

"I believe that if done correctly, cooking comes from the soul and is one of the universal languages," states Thomas.

After a six-year stint in New England, where he worked at L'imaj and traveled to Europe and the Mediterranean to learn an array of diverse, regional cuisines, he returned to the Tidewater/Norfolk area and worked at various inns and country clubs before being offered the Executive Chef position at the Marriott Norfolk Virginia Beach hotel.

Thomas oversees The Dining Room, which serves breakfast daily, as well as The Piano Lounge, which is known for its signature cocktails and appetizers. He has also created imaginative menus for business and social events, as well as new room service options. Needless to say, C.R. Thomas has prepared himself well for this demanding role.

Both Lang and Thomas come to Norfolk seasoned with years of culinary experience. Please help the Norfolk Marriott Waterside in welcoming Frank R. Lang III and C.R. Thomas to the culinary team.

About Norfolk Marriott Waterside
Immerse yourself in comfortable luxury of the beautifully stunning Norfolk Marriott Waterside Hotel. Set in the heart of the historic district, this award-winning downtown Norfolk hotel is just steps from the vibrant, revitalized waterfront, as well as an abundance of entertainment options, such as world-class shopping, delectable dining, and unforgettable museums. Detailed with beautiful antiques, marble accents, and eclectic artwork, this Norfolk, VA hotel offers plush accommodations that expertly blend traditional charm with modern conveniences. Dine at the incredible Shula's 347 Steakhouse, boasting the best Certified Angus Beef money can buy. Connected to the Waterside Convention Center, this hotel in Norfolk, Virginia provides an unparalleled choice for successful business engagements with 45 conference rooms and 60,000 square feet of enhanced meeting space. Experience an extraordinary hotel in Norfolk, VA providing spectacular views of the sparkling waterfront at the Norfolk Marriott Waterside Hotel. For more information or to make a reservation call 757-627-4200 or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/orfws-norfolk-marriott-waterside/.

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