Alec Gropman

Years of Participation

2019-2023

Born in Glen Cove, New York, Alec Gropman spent most his childhood in Fairfield, Connecticut. From a young age, he was inspired by his parents to explore different cultures through cuisine. From dishwashing to deli slicing to his current role as the director of culinary operations for Uptown Hospitality Group, Alec has always immersed himself in the back-of- house restaurant culture. Alec studied culinary arts at the Culinary Institute of America where he discovered his inherent desire to learn the “why”behind kitchen and restaurant operations, not just the “how.” Prior to Uptown Hospitality Group, Alec held a number of positions in the Fairfield area such as lead grill cook at ThePatterson Club; sous chef at Fish; and executive chef at Tomato and Basil.

As partner and director of culinary operations at Uptown Hospitality Group, Alec is responsible for the growth and
strategy of the group's food and beverage departments at Uptown Social, Share House and Bodega. Alec’s role includes everything from designing menus to hiring chefs and determining pricing. Alec recently married Lindsey Gropman, Uptown Hospitality Group’s director of events. In his spare time, Alec enjoys spending time with the couple’s two Australian Shepherds, Sullivan and Roux, as well as gardening and enjoying craft beers.