Chaz Restaurant & Lounge, the iconic jazz-era dining destination on the Country Club Plaza, announces the return of acclaimed Kansas City chef Charles d’Ablaing as Executive Chef. A respected culinary leader with more than 20 years of experience, d’Ablaing oversees all menu development and culinary strategy as Chaz enters its next chapter as a modern American restaurant rooted in timeless style and technique.
Chef d’Ablaing is widely recognized for his refined culinary sensibility, collaborative leadership style, and ability to build high-performing kitchen teams. His approach blends classical technique with seasonally driven ingredients, resulting in menus that are both sophisticated and approachable.
Long celebrated for its intimate atmosphere, nightly live jazz, and elevated approach to American cuisine, Chaz has been a fixture of the Kansas City dining scene for decades. Under Chef d’Ablaing’s leadership, the restaurant will sharpen its identity as a destination that honors its legacy while introducing a refreshed, contemporary culinary perspective
“Returning to Chaz feels like coming home,” said Chef d’Ablaing. “This restaurant has always had a strong personality, great food, live music, and an unmistakable sense of place. I’m excited to build on that foundation and create a menu that feels current, confident, and deeply connected to Kansas City.”
A Career Defined by Culinary Leadership & Excellence
Chef d’Ablaing’s career includes leadership roles at some of the region’s most respected hospitality concepts. Most recently, he served as Culinary Director at J. Rieger & Co., overseeing multiple food operations, large-scale private events, and culinary programming for one of Kansas City’s most dynamic brands.
As Chef/Owner of Brookside Poultry Company, d’Ablaing developed a beloved neighborhood restaurant from the ground up, managing all aspects of operations, menu development, branding, partnerships, and community engagement.
Additional leadership roles include Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Director at The Fontaine Hotel, Executive Chef at The Webster House, and Executive Chef positions within The Marcus Hotels & Resorts organization in Kansas City and Milwaukee. Throughout his career, d’Ablaing has been recognized for elevating dining programs, improving operational performance, and mentoring culinary talent.
Awards, Recognition, and Community Impact
Chef d’Ablaing’s career includes memorable experiences such as cooking for celebrities including:
- Paul McCartney
- former First Lady Laura Bush
- Co-hosting a radio show with Nigella Lawson
- Representing Kansas City at the James Beard House
He has earned multiple awards including the Golden Fork and Taste of Elegance honors.
d’Ablaing been featured in numerous fundraisers and culinary events, including:
- Be Head Strong fundraiser at The American Royal since 2009
- Harvesters Kansas City
- ShuttleCork at The Nelson Atkins Museum of Art
- Chef’s Classic at St. James Academy
- Corks and Forks fundraiser
- Treads and Threads
- 1st Place Chef’s Challenge 2010
Chaz Restaurant & Lounge is located on the Country Club Plaza, owned by and attached to the upscale, historic Raphael Hotel. Chaz operates as an independent dining destination open to the public while also providing food service for the hotel.