C.E.C. Executive Chef, Burnt Store Marina Golf & Country Club
Chef Werner Dietrich’s culinary journey began in his mother’s kitchen in Germany, where he first discovered his passion for bringing people together over family meals.
This early love for cooking blossomed into a distinguished career, spanning decades, continents, and five-star establishments.
After completing a three-year culinary apprenticeship in Germany, Chef Werner honed his craft in upscale Swiss restaurants before taking his skills to the high seas. He sailed around the world three times as a chef de parties aboard the Royal Viking Sun, a renowned five-star luxury cruise ship. His global culinary pursuit also led him to prominent kitchens in Auckland, New Zealand, and Toronto, Canada.
In March 2000, Chef Werner brought his international expertise to Southwest Florida, initially serving as the Chef for a premier German restaurant in Naples.
His reputation for culinary excellence quickly paved the way for a position at the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Beach Resort in 2005. By September 2007, he was named Executive Chef at the Olde Hickory Golf and Country Club, where he successfully led the culinary team and elevated the member dining experience for 15 exceptional years.
Most recently Werner was acting Executive Chef at Bernwood Catering in Bonita Springs, where he was preparing food for high end private events, weddings, and was hired as “Personal Chef” for many family celebrations and business dinners.
Now residing in Punta Gorda, Chef Werner is thrilled to bring his talents to the Burnt Store Marina Golf & Country Club as Executive Chef. Deeply committed to culinary synergy, his primary goal is to build a high-performing back-of-house team that works seamlessly, together, with the front-of-house staff.
“We are looking forward to a vibrant and eventful season,” says Chef Werner. “Our focus is on creating unforgettable moments for our members through expertly curated wine dinners, themed interactive dining nights, and elegant carving stations, alongside flawless execution for our signature golf tournaments and awards banquets.”
