Cirque Lodge is proud to welcome internationally acclaimed chef and farm-to-table professional Chad Sarno as the newest leader of our culinary program. With more than 25 years of experience transforming how the world understands food, wellness, and sustainability, Chad brings an extraordinary depth of expertise to the Cirque Lodge food service program and dining experience, one that supports recovery, nourishment, and whole-body healing at the highest level.

A Global Culinary Innovator

As an international leader in farm-to-table, and wellness cuisine, Chad has spent his career pioneering healthier, more sustainable approaches to cooking in both professional and home kitchens. He is the Co-Founder of Chefra, a groundbreaking company where culinary artistry intersects with AI innovation to elevate food systems worldwide. His leadership has extended across multiple global brands in the food industry, including Wicked Kitchen, Good Catch Foods, and global organizations such as Whole Foods Market and Rouxbe Culinary School.

Chad’s impact reaches far beyond product development and brand leadership. He has launched restaurants throughout Europe and the Middle East, built large-scale food-service initiatives, and developed the world’s first accredited online plant-forward culinary programs, now used by universities, culinary institutions, and healthcare professionals around the globe. His expertise is sought after by high-profile clients, celebrities and touring musicians who trust his guidance in creating food that supports longevity, performance, and well-being.

A celebrated author, Chad has co-written numerous award winning cookbooks in the plant-forward movement, including The Wicked Healthy Cookbook, Crazy Sexy Kitchen, and The Whole Foods Cookbook. His work continues to shape the global conversation around sustainable eating and mindful nourishment.

At Cirque Lodge, Chad brings this unparalleled experience to a new purpose: crafting a culinary program that supports restorative healing in a setting dedicated to transformation. His menus, rooted in whole ingredients, vibrant cultural flavors, and nutritional integrity reflect a belief that food is not only fuel, but an essential part of emotional and physical recovery. Under Chad’s direction, residents can expect a dining experience that is both elevated and deeply nurturing.

With Chef Chad Sarno at the helm, Cirque Lodge continues its commitment to offering world-class care in every detail, delivering a culinary journey that inspires wellness, comfort, and lasting change.

Culinary Philosophy at Cirque Lodge

At Cirque Lodge, food is an integral part of healing. Our culinary philosophy reaches far beyond simply preparing meals; it is a mindful, wellness-driven experience designed to nourish the body, support emotional balance, and reinforce the connection between what we eat and how we feel. Every dish is crafted with purpose, aligning with our belief that quality nutrient rich ingredients are the foundational to sustainable recovery.

We embrace a farm-to-table philosophy, rooted in freshness, seasonal variety, and thoughtful sourcing. In season, much of our produce is grown in our own Cirque Lodge gardens or sourced directly from local farms and trusted partners who share our values. Our menus highlight vibrant plant forward dishes and sustainably sourced proteins that embrace the farm-to table approach. This approach celebrates food as a source of pleasure, comfort, education, and vitality, never deprivation.

Elevating the Standard

Under the culinary leadership of Chef Chad Sarno, Cirque Lodge is expanding this culinary philosophy into its next evolution.

Chad’s approach to food mirrors the values that define Cirque Lodge: wellness, innovation, sustainability, and respect for ingredients. His work in culinary development, sustainable food systems, and international restaurant innovation will help deepen and enrich our dining experience. Under his guidance, residents will experience an expanded variety of menus, elevated flavor profiles, and recipes that support both physical restoration and emotional well-being.

He will play a key role in advancing our sourcing practices, strengthening relationships with local growers, and integrating even more seasonal and responsibly produced ingredients. His expertise in culinary education and program development will also help shape new food-centric wellness initiatives, offering residents a deeper understanding of how nourishment influences recovery.

At Cirque Lodge, Chef Chad Sarno’s leadership represents more than a culinary upgrade; it is a meaningful investment in our mission. By aligning world-class cuisine with compassionate care, we continue to create an environment where every detail supports healing, dignity, and lasting transformation.