Nantucket’s American Seasons Changes Ownership

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Michael and Orla LaScola have announced that they’re selling their acclaimed Nantucket restaurant, American Seasons, to chef Neil Ferguson, formerly the executive chef at Galley Beach. The restaurant’s 2015 season will mark it’s 28th anniversary, and the first under Ferguson’s stewardship.

The LaScolas, both of whom have worked at American Seasons since the mid-1990’s, have ushered in the restaurant’s most celebrated era with multiple accolades in Food & Wine, Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and Boston magazine. The duo purchased the restaurant in January of 2004, with Michael recognized with James Beard Award nominations in 2009 and 2010 for Best Chef: Northeast.

“American Seasons was founded in 1988 on the ideas of culinary great James Beard, serving regional American cuisine, promoting the diversity of American cooking, and celebrating the small and local farmers of America through our choice of ingredients,” said Michael LaScola, via a press release. “I feel so fortunate to have been able to continue on in that tradition as an owner for over 10 years, but after literally spending my entire culinary career in the American Seasons kitchen, it’s time for me to explore other opportunities and continue my own culinary growth.”

The LaScolas will continue to run The Proprietors, their other Nantucket eatery on India Street, which opened in 2013. They’ll also be doing home catering for some their former customers.

American Seasons will open for the season in April 2015.

80 Centre St., Nantucket; 508-228-7111 or americanseasons.com.