Who says you can't go home again? Chef Tarver King will return to the rolling hills of Virginia when he takes the reins as executive chef for The Goodstone Inn & Estate and Hilltoppers Restaurant October 6th. Simon Smith, general manager for the Goodstone Inn & Estate, made the announcement. "I am thrilled to welcome Tarver to The Goodstone Inn's culinary team," said Mr. Smith. "He is an immensely accomplished chef who has cooked at some of the very best restaurants in the United States and Europe. He brings significant talent and culinary expertise to our property and to our restaurant." A native of Virginia, Chef King began cooking at the age of 15 inspired by his grandmother, and a Julia Child cookbook. He had no idea that the world of food could be so infinite and exciting. His passion to develop his own style of cooking took him to some of America's greatest kitchens including the French Laundry, Le Bec Fin, and Roy's in Philadelphia before landing at The Inn at Little Washington in 2002. It was there that he was mentored by renowned chef Patrick O'Connell. Reflecting on his vision for The Goodstone Inn and Hilltoppers, Chef King said he intends to serve "approachable cuisine that involves the guest in bold, straight-forward and rounded flavors," stimulating all five senses. "My food will be extremely fresh – what is growing in the kitchen gardens and what is in season locally. This is how I love to cook… fresh, aromatic and tender vegetables, herbs, fruits, fish and meats. I want to bring what's growing outside on The Goodstone's estate inside to Hilltoppers' table, creating a seamless sensory experience for our guests." Mr. King, who has been hailed as a "Chef to Watch" by both The Wine Spectator magazine and Esquire is passionate about sustainable cooking and cuisine prepared with the freshest, most natural ingredients, He has found a kindred spirit in The Goodstone Inn & Estate, and in its restaurant, Hilltoppers. The property launched an important farm-to-table cuisine initiative in the spring of 2008, featuring vastly expanded organically maintained kitchen gardens, orchards, and herb gardens. Future plans for Hilltoppers and The Goodstone Inn & Estate include monthly wine dinners, cooking classes as well as featured special events in and around The Goodstone.