Fire, Seasonality & Culinary Storytelling
Rooted Stories shares the people, places, and passions behind our regional food community. In this edition, Chef Regina Monaco of Hillbrook Inn reflects on the inspiration behind Ember & Earth, working alongside local farmers, and how cooking over an open fire creates a deeper connection between food, history, and place.
How did the idea for Ember & Earth first come to life?
The idea for Ember & Earth first came to life through conversations about how we could further embrace the historic landscape and the deep appreciation for craftsmanship that has always been part of Hillbrook Inn & Spa. Ember & Earth is a celebration of the relationship between food and the earth, a reflection of the same values that Hillbrook embodies. Through seasonal ingredients from local farmers and the timeless tradition of preparing food over fire, the experience brings guests back to the timeless connection of food, fire, and the land. More than a dining experience, I feel Ember & Earth really invites guests to reconnect and learn the history that has shaped the land around The Hillbrook Inn.
How does working directly with local farmers influence the menu and guest experience?
Working directly with local farmers influences the menu by allowing us to create dishes that truly reflect the season. The ingredients are determining the story we will be sharing as the overall guest experience. At the peak of the summer, the menu highlights ingredients such as heirloom tomatoes, sweet corn, and locally raised proteins that showcase the abundance of the region. These ingredients feed us the stories of the season, the farmers who nurture them and the deep connection they create between the us and the land.
What can guests look forward to when experiencing open-fire cooking?
At Ember & Earth, we will be cooking over an open flame, which brings out the natural sweetness of caramelized ingredients, the depth of smoke, and the contrast between charred edges and tender textures. Guest are not only able to enjoy the finished dish, but really experience the craft behind it!
What parts of Ember & Earth require the most planning behind the scenes?
What guests may not always see is just how many people needed to come together to bring the concept of Ember & Earth to life. It’s not just us, the chefs in the kitchen, but also the farmers who carefully grow and harvest each ingredient by season, as well as the team behind the scenes who help develop the logistics and create the entire experience. There are a surprising number of people involved, and it sometimes feels like we are weaving together the whole spirit of West Virginia through everyone involved, all working in subtle ways behind the scenes.
As a young chef, how has Ember & Earth influenced your approach to cooking?
As a young chef in training, I’m still learning every day, and Ember & Earth has been a constant source of inspiration for me, especially the way it connects fire, seasonality, and simple ingredients in such a thoughtful way. It’s shaped how I think about cooking, reminding me that great food is really about patience, attention, and respecting where everything comes from.
