Chef Info

Executive Chef: Dernier "Nelly" Buleje

July 26, 2013, Hilton Head Island, S.C. – Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island has named Dernier “Nelly” Buleje as its new executive chef. Buleje is a seasoned culinary professional with nearly a decade of fine dining and hospitality experience. In his new position, Buleje will oversee guests’ dining experiences throughout the new resort’s four venues, with emphasis on Sonesta’s ‘Food is Art’ philosophy, which treats each meal as a detailed masterpiece for the senses.

Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, which reopened in May after a $30 million renovation, offers guests a variety of both indoor and outdoor dining options at Heyward’s Restaurant, Seacrest Terrace and Patio, Bayley’s Bar and Terrace, and Sweet Cane Bar and Grille.

Buleje, who describes his culinary point of view as a cultural fusion for the palate, first discovered his passion for cooking at the age of 13. Since then, he’s received numerous culinary distinctions, including receiving first and second place in Iron Chef Milwaukee competitions, and second place in the 2010 Lake Geneva Wine Festival Iron Chef, as well as serving as a celebrity chef at the 2010 Lake Geneva Wine Festival. Buleje also served as the head of food production for Marcus at the 2012 Milwaukee Air and Water Show and at the 2012 Indy Fest Milwaukee.

Previously, Buleje served as executive chef at the Richmond Marriott and banquet/interim executive sous chef at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center.

“Nelly is an excellent addition to our team, and brings with him the culinary experience and expertise to help position Sonesta as a standout dining choice for locals and guests,” said Jay Wiendl, general manager of Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. “We’re looking forward to sampling his culinary creations and bringing a fresh perspective to Lowcountry dining.”

The Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island is located at 130 Shipyard Drive in Hilton Head Island, S.C. For more information about Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island, visit www.Sonesta.com/HiltonHeadIsland.