
A passion for food and pleasure in entertaining people started it all.
WestChase was formed by combining two friends' names – John Westerhaus and Chase Wilcox. John and Chase met in Albuquerque, NM and became close friends. Whenever they spent time together, the conversation always turned to their shared love for food and the dream of being a restaurateur. No matter where life's path took them they remained close and WestChase Grille began as a combination of their names and efforts. While Chase has since moved onto other restaurant opportunities, he will always be remembered and remain with WestChase Grille in spirit.
If it related to food or people, John has done it all. His outgoing, gregarious social nature paired with a savvy head for business, is a career match made in heaven for a restaurateur. Whether he was waiting tables in high school or running a six location Subway franchise in Albuquerque, NM, John was in his element. He even volunteered to be the Entertainment Director for his apartment complex in Houston, TX where he learned to slow smoke meats to tender perfection.
But a love for food does not a Chef make. John knew that it was going to take a serious dedication to learning the craft in order to distinguish himself from the crowd of new restaurants that seem to pop up overnight on every corner in America. So he sold his Subway franchises and packed for Paris. He was accepted into Le Cordon Bleu, where he studied cuisine and pastry. Living close to the Sorbonne and Norte Dame, John cultivated an appreciation for sidewalk cafes serving beautiful wines and artisanal cheeses. You can see, hear, and taste all of these influences when you dine at WestChase Grille. His experiences and passion shine through in the creative, yet delightfully simple dishes and the warm, energetic ambiance. He is uncompromising in his standard for guest service and satisfaction.
Noted business man and best selling author, Harvey MacKay once said, "Find something that you love to do and you'll never have to work a day in your life." John Westerhaus has done just that. He found his passion in food and in entertaining people. Following his passion, led to creating WestChase Grille.