Promontory, a private mountain community in Park City, Utah, announced the appointment of Phelix Gardner as Chef de Cuisine of Sage, the club’s Italian restaurant inside The Hills clubhouse. Bringing more than 30 years of culinary and hospitality experience, Gardner will lead Sage’s culinary program, further elevating the dining experience for Promontory members and their guests.
Born in Spain and classically trained, Gardner began his culinary career in Orlando, Florida, where he honed his craft at Walt Disney World and the Peabody Orlando. These early experiences laid the foundation for a career distinguished by exceptional hospitality, culinary excellence, and leadership in luxury and visionary dining environments.
Throughout his career, Gardner has played an influential role in shaping Utah’s dining scene. As Executive Chef and partner of Salt Lake City’s well-known Pago Restaurant Group, he helped pioneer the state’s farm-to-table movement, overseeing acclaimed concepts including Pago and the Spanish-inspired Finca, while leading the launches of East Liberty Tap House and Emigration Café. His impressive résumé also includes leadership positions in establishments that helped define Salt Lake City’s emerging foodie scene, including Stanza Italian Bistro, Current Fish & Oyster, and The Grand America Hotel, Utah’s only Forbes Five-Star hotel.
At Sage, Gardner will bring his Mediterranean-inspired perspective, dedication to seasonal ingredients, and commitment to creating memorable dining experiences that reflect the warmth and sophistication of Italian hospitality.
“What drew me to Promontory was the extraordinary sense of community,” says Gardner. “During my first visit to Sage, I watched members circulating from table to table, sharing stories, connecting with friends, and enjoying wine together. It was clear that this is much more than a restaurant – it’s where sophisticated families gather, friendships are strengthened, and lasting memories are made. I immediately recognized what a privilege it would be to serve this community and help create experiences that make their time at Promontory truly special.”
Known for his collaborative leadership style, Gardner believes that exceptional hospitality begins with a standout team.
“I believe in leading from the front,” he says. “My role is to inspire and support the team through daily effort, a commitment to excellence, and a willingness to do whatever is needed to ensure our collective success. When the team thrives, our members receive an unforgettable experience.”
This summer, members can look forward to thoughtful enhancements to Sage’s lunch offerings, including a selection of house-made focaccia sandwiches crafted with premium seasonal and imported ingredients, as well as several new pasta dishes that celebrate the restaurant’s Italian roots. Members can enjoy a preview of the sandwich program at the Hills Turn House before it debuts at Sage.
“Chef Phelix brings an exceptional combination of culinary talent, leadership, and genuine hospitality,” says Jonathan Fillman, Promontory’s General Manager. “His passion for creating meaningful dining experiences aligns perfectly with Promontory’s commitment to delivering world-class amenities and unforgettable moments for our members. We are excited to welcome him to the team and look forward to the vision he will bring to Sage.”
Sage is one of Promontory Club’s signature dining destinations, offering an elevated interpretation of Italian cuisine in a warm and inviting setting. Under Gardner’s leadership, the restaurant will continue to celebrate exceptional ingredients, authentic flavors, and the connections that bring members together around the table.
