LOCKWOOD HOTEL APPOINTS MATTHEW ZITA AS EXECUTIVE CHEF OF FRONT & MAIN

Lockwood Hotel is pleased to announce the appointment of Matthew Zita as the new Executive Chef of its restaurant, Front & Main. Chef Zita’s appointment marks an exciting new phase for the hotel’s culinary program, with refreshed menus and new dining programs to launch throughout the year. Guests and locals alike can look forward to dishes inspired by Zita’s extensive culinary journey and passion for exceptional cuisine in the new spring menu.

“With his culinary expertise and dedication, Chef Zita has quickly stepped into his role as the new leader of Front & Main’s kitchen, already bringing fresh ideas and energy to the team,” said David Beaudoin, General Manager of Lockwood Hotel. “His blend of artistry and passion aligns seamlessly with our mission to elevate the dining experience here in Waterville. We are confident Chef Zita’s innovative approach will captivate our guests and the local community, continuing to make Front & Main a beloved dining destination.”

Under Chef Zita’s leadership, Front & Main will introduce new seasonal menus that highlight locally sourced ingredients and inventive flavor combinations, showcasing Maine’s finest produce and fresh seafood. Guests can expect dishes that marry nostalgia with contemporary flair, such as handmade pastas, vibrant plant-forward creations, and elevated takes on New England classics.

From elevated casual lunches to elegant dinners and exclusive culinary events, diners can look forward to menus thoughtfully crafted with passion, expertise, and a genuine appreciation for Maine’s culinary traditions.

Hailing from Rochester, NY, Chef Zita’s culinary story began with cherished childhood moments in his grandparents’ kitchen, where he learned the art of crafting arancini, meatballs, and calzones. These formative experiences ignited a lifelong passion for food, leading him to embark on a culinary career right after high school. Over the years, his journey has taken him across the United States, from Portland, OR, to Venice, CA, and New York City, where his work at a Bib Gourmand-rated Italian restaurant cemented his reputation as a chef to watch.

Chef Zita’s diverse experience includes overseeing the opening of three restaurants at New York’s Hudson Yards, managing Neiman Marcus culinary locations in Dallas, and collaborating with a plant-based restaurant group on a nationwide scale. His deep appreciation for regional American and Italian cuisines, paired with his flair for innovative flavors, brings a unique touch to the new menus at Front & Main.

To book a reservation at Front & Main, please visit https://www.frontandmainwaterville.com/.