New Vibe. New Chef. New Menu. Same Great Restaurant.
Over the past three months, Vernales has been busy refreshing every corner of the restaurant. Each dining room and all common areas have been thoughtfully renovated to elevate the guest experience.
The Sports Bar now features brand-new Samsung TVs, updated sports memorabilia, new carpet, tabletops, and more. The Wine Cellar feels warmer and more inviting with new chairs, fresh woodwork, a redesigned back bar, new carpet, and curated artwork that creates a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere. The Chop House leans into a classic chophouse feel, complete with a rustic mantle, barn door, updated lighting, new carpet, and carefully selected artwork and décor.
And that’s just the beginning.
Our sole proprietor, Joe Guthrie, is thrilled to announce that Chef Kulin Froelich has joined Vernales as Executive Chef for the entire organization. Joe, along with Chef Kulin and his wife Ashley Froelich, owners of Nomi Kitchen, have been thoughtfully assessing and working on a way to bring this collaboration to life. Fortunately, that time is finally here!
Chef Kulin brings more than 20 years of culinary experience to the role. He began his journey at the Great Lakes Culinary Institute before honing his craft at Trattoria Stella in Traverse City, where he developed a deep appreciation for traditional Italian cooking. He later refined his skills at the renowned Tapawingo Restaurant in Ellsworth and spent ten years locally at Chandlers Restaurant in Petoskey. His background spans traditional Italian, classic and ethnic cuisines, with extensive knowledge of New American and French-style cooking.
Owner Joe Guthrie, General Manager Nikki Gray, and Event Sales and Operations Manager Ashley Cook are excited about the depth, creativity, and leadership Chef Kulin brings to Vernales in Harbor Springs, Salvatore’s Market & Oven in Bay Harbor, and Vernales Events & Catering. Uniting our many years of experience and dedication to great food and great service with Nomi Kitchen’s culinary and hospitality services expertise is going to do wonderful things for each of these entities and the customers and clients served.
At Vernales, we remain focused on what we do best: constant improvement, consistency, and offering something for everyone. Stop in soon to explore our refreshed spaces, try the new menu, and help us welcome Chef Kulin to the team.
We hope to see you soon!
Nikki Gray
General Operations Manager, Vernales Restaurant
