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MEET THE TEAM

Expertise at The Oaklander Hotel Restaurant

AN ENSEMBLE CAST

At the forefront of Pittsburgh’s celebrated dining scene, the team at Spirits & Tales brings creativity, precision, and genuine warmth to every dish, pour, and guest experience, elevating our hotel restaurant at The Oaklander into something far more exciting.

MEET THE MAKERS
chef andrew alvarez executive chef at spirits & tales

ANDREW ALVAREZ

EXECUTIVE CHEF

With more than 15 years of culinary experience, Chef Andrew Alvarez leads the dynamic, seasonal menu at Spirits & Tales. His career includes leadership roles at Gaucho Parrilla Argentina, Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink, The Vandal, Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh, Or The Whale, and more. A Pittsburgh native, Andrew has a passion for bringing people together through food, creating dishes inspired by the city’s diverse communities while balancing creativity with the familiar warmth of a neighborhood restaurant.

a man in a white chef's coat

SETH RANCK

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF

With a culinary career spanning upscale hotels, resorts, restaurants, and large-scale events, Seth Ranck brings a wide range of hospitality experience to Spirits & Tales. His background includes work at Virginia Beach resorts, Snowshoe Mountain Resort, and eight years with Aramark Sports & Entertainment, where he supported events of up to 2,500 guests at stadiums and arenas across the country. His combination of culinary and front-of-house experience brings a well-rounded perspective to the Spirits & Tales team.

a woman standing in front of a sign

BRYONY HENSEL

SOUS CHEF
IN LOVING MEMORY

Chef B began her culinary journey at Bayona in New Orleans under Chef Susan Spicer, developing an appreciation for global flavors through a Southern lens. After working alongside multiple James Beard Award-winning chefs, she later helped open Fire + Smoke in Knoxville before joining Spirits & Tales. A mentor, creative force, and cherished member of The Oaklander family, Chef B brought generosity, grit, and soul to the kitchen. Her influence continues to live on through the team and culture she helped shape.

a man in a suit

CHARLES PATTON

FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Discovering his calling in hotel kitchens in 1996, Charles Patton has built a career centered on restaurant, banquet, and bar operations. With deep roots in hospitality and service, Charles brings a strong focus on team leadership and creating exceptional guest experiences. He is equally passionate about developing and supporting the people around him. Outside of work, Charles is a proud husband and father of three and a lifelong Pittsburgh Steelers fan.

a woman with arms crossed

FRANCES NIZNIK

ASSISTANT FOOD & BEVERAGE MANAGER

Bringing together hospitality leadership and a creative background, Frances Niznik worked her way from lead bartender to Assistant Food & Beverage Manager through a people-first approach to service. Her experience in film, photography, fashion, and visual arts continues to influence her attention to detail and the guest experience at Spirits & Tales. Outside of the restaurant, Frances stays connected to the creative community through a gallery project supporting emerging artists and bringing people together around new ideas and local talent.

COLLABORATION IS KEY

Proudly a sustainable Pittsburgh restaurant, our team relies on the dedication and expertise of the local farmer and producer community to support environmentally responsible practices. We’re grateful to the partners who continue to help make every meal possible:

  • Tabbara Chocolates
  • Basciani Farms
  • Great Lakes Growers
  • Spring Valley Garden
  • Yarnick’s Farms
  • Footprints Farm
  • Schneider’s Dairy
  • Mediterra Bakehouse
  • Mancini’s Bakery