‘Cleveland Chef to Watch’, Vinnie Cimino, has built a reputation for
combining culinary talent and entrepreneurial spirit to drive team
goodwill and industry progression. His restaurant Cordelia embodies
“Midwest Nice” hospitality where the team and guests come first and
the focus is on bringing a bounty of farm-fresh ingredients to the
table.
In 2023, Cordelia was voted “Best New Restaurant” by Cleveland
Magazine and one of the “Top 22 New Restaurants in The U.S.” by
Tasting Table. Vinnie was recently named Plate Magazine’s “Chef to
Watch” and Certified Angus Beef’s “Chef of the Year”.
Growing up in Ohio, cooking was a family affair. Time with his grandpa
meant enjoying traditional comfort foods and bonding over oysters on
the half shell. His Midwest influences led him to develop a deep
appreciation for the land, our farmers and what they provide. From
there, his fascination with cooking began.
Before Cordelia, Vinnie was Chef de Cuisine at The Greenhouse
Tavern, where his vision and love of produce and seasonality
contributed to the restaurant’s James Beard award. During this time,
Vinnie worked closely with Andrew Watts, General Manager, and they
established the most successful and positive working environment of
the restaurant’s era. Today, that relationship has come full circle and
blossomed into a strong partnership at Cordelia.