Executive Chef Susan Goss, Zinfandel Restaurant, Chicago, IL

Susan Goss and her husband, Drew, compliment each other with their talents as seen in their line of successful restaurants. Already known throughout Indianapolis for their critically acclaimed Something Different (1987) and Snax (1991) restaurants, Susan and Drew decided to face the challenge of opening a restaurant in a much larger market. Today they own and operate Zinfandel restaurant located in Chicago's River North. Zinfandel and the Goss' have received numerous accolades since the restaurant's inception in 1993 including: the Wine Spectator (Awards of Excellence from 1994-2000), Gourmet Magazine, Wine Enthusiast, Esquire and Chicago Magazine. Zinfandel also received the prestigious DiRona Award in 1999 and 2000.

Fascinated with America's culinary heritage, Susan and Drew attended The New York Restaurant School in New York City, where an emphasis was placed on American style cooking. Their education and passion is reflected in Zinfandel Restaurant, which features a warm, arts-and-crafts-inspired space of oak furnishings and rustic colors and is famous for celebrating American foods, wines and spirits. Although both Susan and Drew are trained chefs, Susan's culinary talents shine through Zinfandel's menu, while Drew oversees restaurant operations and is responsible for the award-winning collection of the fine American wines accumulated at Zinfandel since the restaurant's inception in 1993.

Susan shares her knowledge of ethnic American cuisine with Zinfandel diners through the ingredients and presentation of her meals. Her offerings invite guests to explore the regional flavors of our country using a wide variety of flavors including spicy California Mission dishes, sweet and tangy Pennsylvania Dutch cooking and the French-influences of Creole and Acadia.