The Drayton Hotel, a Curio Collection by Hilton, announces an exciting new chapter for its destination restaurant, St. Neo’s Brasserie – welcoming longtime Lowcountry resident Stephen Sleyo as Executive Chef. Sleyo brings a wealth of experience and knowledge as well as a fresh approach to the brasserie, aiming to lead a successful, innovative culinary program while fostering long-term relationships with team members, purveyors, and guests through food.   

Sleyo’s culinary endeavors began with his Irish-Italian family as a young apprentice in his uncle’s restaurant known for classic Northern Italian dishes. The experience ignited his culinary studies at Johnson & Wales in Rhode Island, and later his career path in Cincinnati at historic, AAA Four-Diamond hotel, Omni Netherland Plaza, as well as Mobil Four Star and AAA Four-Diamond hotel, The Cincinnatian Hotel. 

Prior to officially taking the reins at St. Neo’s Brasserie, Sleyo led the kitchens at Westin Spa and Resort in Hilton Head and Country Club of Hilton Head, respectively. Through these experiences, he consistently took inspiration from the locale’s traditions and architecture, as well as his relationships with local purveyors, and will continue to do the same at The Drayton Hotel.  

“I look forward to getting back to my roots in the kitchen at a fusion-focused, seasonally driven restaurant,” said Sleyo. “Savannah’s Historic District is one of the most inspiring places in the Lowcountry, and I feel so lucky to get to cook in the heart of it all, sharing my love of food with locals and visitors alike.” 

As Executive Chef at St. Neo’s Brasserie, Sleyo’s goal is to champion seasonal flavors and ingredients, spotlighting Savannah as one of the country’s most progressive food cities. On the horizon for the menu, Sleyo will be adding a Braised Short Rib with Celery Root Puree and Fig Bordelaise, alongside Diver Scallops with Local Pea Succotash and Tomato Au Jus.

We are excited to share St Neo’s will be a participant during Eat It and Like It’s Restaurant Week coming January 26th through February 4th. Read more here.

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