Keven McDonald is a seasoned chef with more than two decades of experience in the restaurant industry. Throughout his career, he has held various positions and has been instrumental in launching several successful eateries. Keven’s passion for food and his dedication to his craft have earned him a reputation as a sought-after chef in the culinary world. His ties to Il Giorgione go back to 2012 as the first employee hired when the original owners, The Kesslers, opened the restaurant.
One of Keven’s most notable achievements was his contribution to the opening of the High West Distillery and Saloon in Park City, Utah. As a key member of the opening team, Keven’s expertise and guidance were crucial to the success of the restaurant as Executive Sous Chef. Not to mention, where he met his wife, Meagan, who was leading retail for High West. His efforts helped High West earn a nomination for the James Beard Outstanding Bar Program in 2012 and 2013.
Keven’s training under James Beard semifinalist James Dumas has also played a significant role in shaping his culinary skills. Later, when Dumas left High West to establish his own brand, Keven was handpicked to assist with the opening of One0Eight Bistro in Salt Lake City, UT.
Keven and Meagan originally landed in Columbia when Meagan was accepted to a graduate program at the University of South Carolina. When she finished her coursework, they briefly returned to Utah. But after the arrival of their daughter in 2020, they realized that Columbia was their true home and they returned to South Carolina.
Keven’s extensive knowledge of the food industry, combined with his creative flair, has led to a successful career in the culinary world while Meagan’s addition of experience in retail and hospitality make them the perfect team. The couple purchased Il Giorgione in 2022 and continue to carry on the legacy of Gios.