'Iron Chef America' Challenger Lee Hillson Heads To The Phoenician

Former Iron Chef America challenger Lee Hillson has been named executive sous chef at The Phoenician in Scottsdale, Ariz. Hillson was the executive chef at T. Cook's at the Royal Palms Resort and Spa in Phoenix and had a notable battle with Iron Chef Cat Cora on the Food Network show Iron Chef America.

Hillson has cooked at the James Beard House in New York, created meals for former President George W. Bush, singer Barbra Streisand, the late Princess Diana, and singer Billy Joel, and created the First Class menu for British Airways' Phoenix to London flights.

Hillson will oversee the 150-member culinary staff and contribute to menu creation and preparation at resort restaurants Il Terrazzo, Relish Burger Bistro, the Café and Ice Cream Parlor, and the Oasis Grill. Hillson begins his post Sept. 17.

Located at the base of Camelback Mountain, the Phoenician includes the 583-room resort and 60-room Canyon Suites plus nine kitchens. Hillson is known for creating house-made products while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

Lauren Mack is the Travel Editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @lmack.