CARLSBAD'S BEST CHEFS
Innovative and understated, Chef Teri McIllwain’s menu features California cuisine expertly crafted with fresh, farm-to-table ingredients to satisfy the foodie in all of us.
Highlighting North County’s coastal culture, fresh seafood has a superior place in the Chandler's Restaurant kitchen. Teri’s team takes advantage of locally sourced ingredients, readily available here in SoCal, for a seasonal approach to everything from apps to desserts. Delight in dynamic presentations that are familiar but never ordinary, and give a sense of coastal San Diego in every bite, with stunning sunsets served daily.
“I want each guest to taste the essence of the coast through their palate. Food is so much more than fuel for the body; we create memories every time we gather around the table. Every meal is a memory, and it should reflect of our laid-back, SoCal vibe.” ~ Chef Teri McIllwain
Meet Chef Teri and Her Team
Chef Teri’s culinary knowledge and familiarity with the north county San Diego lifestyle give her a unique perspective on crafting and delivering truly flavorful and eclectic California cuisine. It is the love of the kitchen that drives Chef Teri to experiment, teach and lead as the culinary director at Cape Rey, promising to bring incredible dining experiences to the coast.
A Look Back
Prior to joining Cape Rey, McIllwain served as chef de cuisine at Omni La Costa Resort and Spa working in nearly all of the resort’s culinary outlets, including Diversions Sport Lounge, Bluefire Grill, catering and banquets. While at La Costa, she also served as a nutritional chef for the on-site, wellness-focused Premier Fitness Camp and Chopra Center. McIllwain attended the San Diego Culinary Institute after entering the field as a private chef and Bon Appetit culinary instructor for Sur La Table stores in San Diego.
After travelling throughout Southeast Asia, Chef Vishmark developed a passion for creating new menu offerings with Asian flavors. A graduate from San Diego Culinary Institute, his past experience also includes working at Roy’s of La Jolla.