Parkway Prime introduces new executive chef, menu launch

Parkway Prime Steakhouse & Lounge is a casual steakhouse located in the DoubleTree by Hilton Niagara Falls. The restaurant is excited to introduce Brandon Benitez as the restaurant’s new executive chef.

Benitez boasts 27 years in the industry. For the past 10 years, he was the training chef overseeing corporate store openings for The Cheesecake Factory. Prior to his position there, he had been the executive sous chef at Hyde Park Steakhouse and Black & Blue Steakhouse, the executive banquet chef at Salvatore’s Italian Garden Banquets and the executive chef for Morton’s Steakhouse in Buffalo and Rochester. Benitez started his career working at restaurants such as Romenello’s Roseland and Fryers Table, where he honed his kitchen skills – which, in turn, sparked his interest in pursuing a career in the culinary field.

Benitez was born and raised in Buffalo and said he is looking forward to working in the Niagara Falls area. He stated that, when he isn’t in the kitchen, his hobbies include gardening and trying out ethnic and global cuisines.

In an interview, Benitez stated, “I am very excited to be working in the Niagara Falls market. I look forward to bringing the restaurant more upscale and sourcing more local and regional products to put on the menu. My goal is to become a trendsetter in the Niagara Falls area offering spectacular food and amazing service.”

Ultimately, Benitez said he wants to see Parkway Prime turn into a place where guests can celebrate milestones or enjoy an upscale dining experience. He stated he is a hands-on chef and very team-oriented and is excited to dive in to create a diverse culinary team.

Having said that, Parkway Prime is launching a brand-new menu put together by Benitez. Selections feature appetizers, salads, sandwiches, entrées and a grill section.

The DoubleTree by Hilton Niagara Falls also focuses widely on being a destination for weddings and special events. During this time, it has been difficult to celebrate weddings to their fullest potential with the threat of COVID-19 looming in the background. With that being said, the property has been successfully organizing small, intimate parties for 50 people and under while keeping in line with all social distancing protocols.

Those interested in learning more about hosting a party and designing a custom menu for an event with Benitez can reach out to wedding specialist Sarah Bubar at [email protected].

The restaurant features a large seating area, which allows for properly social distanced tables. Reservations are recommended and can be made at www.parkwayprimenfny.com. The full menu is featured on the website.