SkyBeach Resort in Florida Welcomes Ryan VanDusen as Executive Chef to Enhance Culinary Operations in St. Petersburg, Here is the Update

Published on December 8, 2025

SkyBeach Resort, the newly reimagined beachfront destination located on the southern tip of St. Petersburg, Florida, has recently announced the appointment of Ryan VanDusen as the resort’s new executive chef. With a career spanning over two decades in the culinary industry, VanDusen’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter for the resort’s dining experiences. His extensive background and innovative approach to coastal cuisine make him the perfect fit for this role, as he aims to elevate the resort’s culinary offerings to new heights.

A Seasoned Chef with Global Experience

Ryan VanDusen, a Michigan native, brings a wealth of experience to his new position at SkyBeach Resort. His culinary journey began in Kalamazoo, Michigan, in a farm-to-table kitchen, where he developed his passion for fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Over the years, he has expanded his expertise with roles in notable cities such as Chicago and Florida, where he honed his skills at esteemed properties, including Soho House and the Don Cesar Hotel. VanDusen’s leadership in these high-profile establishments has prepared him for the unique challenge of managing the diverse culinary needs of SkyBeach Resort.

A Vision for Coastal and Global Culinary Fusion

At the heart of VanDusen’s philosophy is the ability to blend coastal ingredients with global techniques, a quality that has been recognized by Allie Singer, the vice president of commercial strategy and asset management at Willner Realty & Development Co. Singer praised VanDusen for his innovative vision and his ability to craft dishes that are not only seasonal and simple but also reflective of the resort’s commitment to quality and sustainability. This approach will be central to his role as executive chef, especially at Luma, the resort’s Mediterranean dining destination.

Luma: The Signature Dining Experience at SkyBeach Resort

Luma will serve as the centerpiece of SkyBeach Resort’s culinary offerings. Set to debut later this month, Luma will offer guests an unforgettable dining experience overlooking the resort’s marina. VanDusen’s leadership will ensure that every dish served at Luma reflects the restaurant’s commitment to seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, with a focus on Mediterranean flavors. His goal is to create an effortless yet deeply considered dining experience for every guest, combining creativity with consistency.

In addition to his work at Luma, VanDusen has also spearheaded a transformation of the resort’s oceanfront restaurant, SkyBar + Grille. He introduced a new menu that emphasizes lighter, more health-conscious dishes designed to complement the resort’s beachfront location. This menu overhaul is a testament to VanDusen’s ability to adapt to the needs of the resort’s diverse clientele while maintaining his culinary philosophy of simplicity and seasonality.

Commitment to Excellence in Culinary Operations

Beyond his culinary expertise, VanDusen’s role at SkyBeach Resort extends to shaping the broader hospitality vision. He is dedicated to fostering a positive and respectful atmosphere among staff while ensuring the highest standards of quality across all dining outlets. His leadership is expected to enhance the overall guest experience at SkyBeach Resort, positioning the resort as a top destination for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts in St. Petersburg, Florida.

SkyBeach Resort’s commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences will undoubtedly be strengthened by Ryan VanDusen’s appointment as executive chef. With his extensive background and dedication to quality, VanDusen is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the resort’s culinary landscape.

Conclusion

As SkyBeach Resort continues to enhance its offerings in St. Petersburg, Florida, the appointment of Ryan VanDusen as executive chef represents a significant step forward in the resort’s culinary evolution. With his leadership, the resort’s dining experiences, including the debut of Luma and the transformation of SkyBar + Grille, will set a new standard for hospitality in the region, combining innovation with a deep respect for seasonality and quality.