A Bittersweet Farewell to Chef Zoilan Ruiz
After completing the two-year commitment that brought Chef Zoilan Ruiz to Sheridan and Le Rêve, Zoi and Le Rêve have mutually agreed not to extend that commitment.
For most of the past two years, Zoi has lived apart from his wife, Lani, and much of his family in California. While his time in Sheridan has been professionally rewarding, that separation has also placed a significant burden on Zoi and those closest to him. We are happy that he will now be able to return home and once again be with his wife and family full-time.
Zoi’s contribution to Le Rêve cannot be overstated. His extraordinary culinary talent, creativity, and artistry have helped define the restaurant and establish its reputation in Sheridan and beyond. He built a culinary program unlike anything previously offered in our community and demonstrated what is possible when exceptional food is approached with ambition, technical skill, and artistry.
As owners of Le Rêve, we are deeply grateful to Zoi for his contributions to the restaurant and the Sheridan community. This is a bittersweet farewell. We will miss him greatly, while also being genuinely happy for Zoi, Lani, and their family as they begin this next chapter together.
As Chef Zoi prepares to depart, Chef Jeff Armstrong will become Executive Chef of both Le Rêve and The Warehouse Gastropub and will assume direct leadership of the Le Rêve kitchen.
Chef Jeff brings many years of experience from distinguished kitchens, including years at Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole. Throughout his career, he has gained experience working in culinary environments associated with celebrated chefs such as Daniel Boulud, Thomas Keller, Michael Mina, and others.
Chef Jeff will continue the culinary foundation Chef Zoi established at Le Rêve while gradually adding his own experience, perspective, and style. Zoi and Jeff will work together during the transition to ensure that Le Rêve continues moving forward with the same commitment to culinary excellence, hospitality, and professionalism.
Chef Zoi’s final evening of service at Le Rêve will be Saturday, August 8.
We also invite our guests to join us for Chef Zoi’s Farewell Tasting Dinner on Tuesday, August 4—a special evening celebrating his culinary artistry, his accomplishments, and the lasting contribution he has made to Le Rêve and Sheridan.
Le Rêve is now accepting reservations for this special event. Seating is limited.
With gratitude,
Christer and Gina Johansson
Owners, Le Rêve Restaurant & Raw Bar