Follow 5 Reasons to Visit® on Google News for the latest travel articles + guides
5 Reasons to Visit® sat down with Executive Chef John Creger of The Tillery at Marriott Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland.
Executive Chef John Creger of The Tillery at Marriott Metro Centre
Where did you grow up, and where have you traveled to that has helped inspire and shape your cooking philosophy?
I was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland and then moved to New York City in search of furthering my career. I stayed in New York City for nearly twenty years.
The Tillery at Marriott Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland
Tell our readers an interesting fact or two about yourself.
Everyone in my family was in some type of food service at some time in their life. I am also a musician.
Tell us about your absolute favorite food and why readers should try it if they haven’t already.
Toro tuna; fatty tuna—it’s so decadent and full of umami flavor. White truffles have an amazing scent you can never forget.
The Tillery at Marriott Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland
What are three ingredients that you simply couldn’t live without?
Butter, garlic and potatoes.
We love the art behind plating. What do you love about designing the perfect dish?
I’m all about bringing together everything from taste, texture, acidity, salt, and making that all shine in a plate.
The Tillery at Marriott Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland
Share your most recent awards and accreditations with us?
I won “Best Grilled Cheese” two years in a row and I hosted a lunch at the James Beard House.
Tell us about one of the most creative dishes you’ve created?
A smoked and grilled watermelon that looked and had the texture of an amazing steak.
The Tillery at Marriott Metro Centre in Owings Mills, Maryland
