Gavin Kaysen
Chef Gavin Kaysen is the award-winning chef and owner of Soigné Hospitality Group in Minneapolis, MN, transforming the Twin Cities dining scene with acclaimed restaurants including Spoon and Stable, Demi, and Mara Restaurant and Bar. Since returning to his Midwestern roots in 2014, he has redefined dining in the region while mentoring the next generation of culinary talent. Now renowned for his leadership and commitment to culinary excellence, Kaysen continues to broaden his impact with new partnerships and openings in fall 2025. The next evolution of his concept Bellecour will open as a bakery and daytime café in Edina, MN, and as a bakery, daytime café, and evening bistro in the bustling North Loop neighborhood of Minneapolis. The Merchant Room at Naples Beach Club, a Four Seasons Resort is also opening in fall 2025, and is Kaysen’s first restaurant outside of Minnesota.
Kaysen is a two-time James Beard Award winner (Rising Star Chef 2008, Best Chef: Midwest 2018). In 2024, Food & Wine magazine featured Kaysen saying “How One Chef Has Changed the Midwestern Culinary Landscape.” His restaurants also continue to receive national and international recognition—Demi joined the prestigious Relais & Châteaux collection in 2024, while both Demi and Spoon and Stable were nominated for James Beard “Best New Restaurant.” His restaurant Mara at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis was named “Restaurant of the Year” by The Star Tribune when it opened in 2022.
Beyond restaurants, Kaysen co-founded KZ ProVisioning with Chef Andrew Zimmern, is President of Team USA for Ment’or, and has served as a producer and judge for multiple TV shows. His first self-published book “At Home” debuted in 2022. His second self-published book, “The Synergy Series,” debuted in May 2025. Both books are available on GavinKaysen.com.
