Margaritaville Lake Tahoe announced the appointment of Fermin Rouque as Executive chef. Fermin brings a global culinary approach and an innovative approach the resort’s food-and-beverage programming. With a career spanning luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, and international culinary experiences across the U.S., Spain, Curaçao, and Mexico, Chef Roque brings an ingredient-driven philosophy, deep respect for seasonal flavors, and a passion for experiential dining to Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe.
In his new role, Chef Roque will oversee all culinary operations at Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe’s five distinct dining venues, including JWB Prime Steak and Seafood, LandShark Bar & Grill, License to Chill Bar, Come Monday Café, and Joe Merchant’s Coffee & Provisions. Under his leadership, Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe will introduce a new line-up of immersive dining options. These include quarterly themed and brand dinners, cooking classes for kids, and special menus for holidays and season celebrations.
Chef Roque stated, “I think that the foundation of every great dish is respect for the ingredients. They tell a story. Throughout my professional career, I have fostered creativity and collaboration through teamwork. I am excited to bring this philosophy Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe. I will introduce new culinary offerings that combine the resort’s signature Island spirit with the vibrant flavor of the Sierra Nevada Region.”
Chef Roque joins Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe after serving as Complex Banquet Sous-Chef at Davenport Hotels, Spokane (WA), where he was responsible for large-scale banquets, special events and VIP dining in multiple properties. His previous experience includes executive roles at Courtyard Mexico City Airport, Le Méridien Mexico City, and JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa, where he specialized in menu development, culinary innovation, and guest-driven dining.
Chef Roque has a wealth of experience in fine dining, hotel and resorts kitchens, and large-scale events. He is also known for his collaborative leadership and ability to create memorable, engaging dining experiences. His vision for Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe’s cooking program will embrace the vibrant seasonal ingredients of the region while infusing the laid-back island-inspired flavors of the brand with fresh, elevated touches.
