Executive Chef Eric Benedict

Innovative and comfortable; familiar and exotic: Chef Eric Benedict combines the excitement of international fusion with the elegance of French culinary technique and the simplicity of classic comfort food. From his childhood on an organic dairy farm in Northwestern Wisconsin, this former Wisconsin Badgers football offensive lineman brings a love of the land into casual gourmet cooking. Working his way through the kitchen from washing dishes at age 15, to cooking at Culina Mariana in La Cross, to sous chef and then executive at Ocean Grill, Eric’s culinary journey has given him a passion for simplicity and clarity in flavors, stylish presentations, and multiple layers of taste. Inspired by the bounty of the seasons, Chef Benedict can often be found at the Capital Square farmer’s market in search of the perfect touch to his latest culinary creations.

His signature dishes highlight the versatility of his culinary palate—from potato wrapped sea bass in a rich béarnaise to Wisconsin style slow cooked short ribs.

Eric invites you to make your self at home at Ocean Grill and join him on a culinary adventure that will excite your senses and satisfy your curiosity.