02 Oct Meet Our New Chef: Manuel Lizardi Joins The Carolina Inn

We’re proud to welcome a new culinary leader to our community, Manuel Lizardi, Director of Culinary Services.

A Fayetteville native, Chef Lizardi returns to his hometown bringing decades of experience and a passion for fresh, from-scratch cooking. His culinary journey began right here at the former Steak and Ale on Grove Street and has since taken him through some of the most respected kitchens and high-volume dining venues in the country.

In addition to his culinary accomplishments, Chef Lizardi achieved the distinction of being the youngest first mate on the Mississippi River, a reflection of his drive and discipline.His professional experience includes leadership roles at renowned establishments such as Calypso, where he successfully retained his entire kitchen staff for four consecutive years, a remarkable achievement in the industry.

He has also worked across various well-known steakhouses, chop houses, and high-profile hospitality ventures, including the opening of NASCAR cafés.

A Fresh Approach to Dining

Since joining The Carolina Inn, Chef Lizardi has been working diligently to enhance the dining experience for our residents. He is focused on delivering meals made from scratch with high-quality ingredients, while accommodating diverse dietary needs.

New menu offerings include fresh shrimp and grits, homemade stuffed peppers, and nutrient-rich salads featuring superfoods like watercress and kale. His culinary philosophy centers on not just great food, but also the joy and connection that come from sharing meals together.

We are excited about the journey ahead, and look forward to the creativity and care Chef Lizardi brings to our table.

Welcome home, Chef Lizardi!