Greg Vernick, a renowned chef with deep roots in the Philadelphia culinary scene, helms the award-winning Vernick Food & Drink. His journey, from his grandfather’s butcher shop to the acclaimed kitchens of Jean-Georges Vongrichten’s empire, shaped his unique approach to New American cuisine.
Greg Vernick’s culinary journey began in Cherry Hill, NJ, influenced by his family’s deep connection to the food industry. His grandfather owned a Philadelphia butcher shop, providing early exposure to quality ingredients, while his mother, Beth, owned a local restaurant. This upbringing instilled a passion that led him to pursue a degree in hospitality management from Boston University and a culinary degree from the Culinary Institute of America.
After honing his skills at Boston’s Clio under Chef Ken Oringer, Vernick immersed himself in the world of Jean-Georges Vongrichten. He rose through the ranks, serving as sous chef at prestigious establishments like Jean-Georges, Nougatine, and Spice Market. His expertise extended globally as a chef trainer in various locations, including Qatar, Tokyo, Vancouver, and Park City, Utah. His final role before returning to Philadelphia was as chef de cuisine at New York’s Tocqueville.
In 2012, alongside his wife Julie, Vernick opened Vernick Food & Drink in Philadelphia. The restaurant embodies his culinary philosophy: honest, unpretentious New American cooking with a focus on quality ingredients and precise execution. The menu reflects Vernick’s dedication to creating dishes that are both innovative and approachable.
The restaurant quickly garnered critical acclaim, earning accolades from esteemed publications like Food & Wine, Bon Appetit, and The New York Times. In 2016, The Philadelphia Inquirer named Vernick “Chef of the Year,” and restaurant critic Craig LaBan awarded Vernick Food & Drink a coveted four-bell rating, declaring it the “Best Overall Restaurant” in Philadelphia.
Further recognition came in 2017 when the James Beard Foundation bestowed upon Vernick the title of Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic. This prestigious award coincided with the restaurant’s fifth anniversary, marking a significant milestone in Vernick’s career. He was the first Philadelphia chef to receive this honor since 2011.
Building on his success, Vernick partnered with the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center. In 2018, he launched Vernick Coffee Bar, a modern cafe offering expertly crafted coffee and pastries. Following this, Vernick Fish opened in 2019, showcasing his innovative interpretations of classic American oyster bar fare. Vernick Fish further solidifies his position as a leading figure in the culinary world.
Vernick’s culinary journey is a testament to his passion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Vernick Food And Drink, along with his other ventures, continues to redefine the dining landscape in Philadelphia and beyond.
