The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, a bastion of luxury and elegance on Florida’s stunning northeastern coastline, is welcoming a new chapter in its culinary history. On January 7, 2025, the iconic beachfront resort will unveil SALT, a fine dining restaurant designed to redefine the gourmet experience for discerning guests and food connoisseurs alike. The opening of SALT promises to blend world-class flavors with the serene natural beauty of Amelia Island, offering an extraordinary gastronomic journey.
Located in the heart of the resort, SALT is not just a restaurant—it is an immersive culinary destination that takes inspiration from its surroundings. Drawing on the natural resources of the island and the rich culinary traditions of the region, SALT is poised to become a signature dining experience at The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, one of the most prestigious luxury destinations on the East Coast of the United States.
A Vision of Culinary Excellence
The vision behind SALT is to create an extraordinary dining experience that highlights the region’s freshest ingredients, while also paying homage to Florida’s abundant coastal bounty. The restaurant’s design, menu, and ethos are a celebration of local flavors, sustainability, and the art of fine dining.
Chef Okan Kizilbayir, an accomplished culinary talent known for his innovative approach to fine dining, is at the helm of SALT. Chef Kizilbayir’s diverse background, which spans nine years at the Grand Cayman Ritz Carlton under the mentorship of Eric Ripert, uniquely positions him to lead SALT in its mission to create exceptional, transformative dishes. He brings a refined sense of technique, creativity, and passion to every plate, ensuring that each dish tells a story of the land, sea, and culture of Amelia Island.
Born in Turkey, Chef Kizilbayir’s culinary journey began at a young age. He trained under some of the most influential chefs in Europe, honing his skills in the kitchens of some of the most celebrated restaurants. His passion for innovation and technique was recognized early, earning him several prestigious accolades and placing him at the forefront of the modern culinary scene. Chef Kizilbayir’s ability to fuse classical techniques with contemporary sensibilities has become his hallmark, and at SALT, he crafts each dish with precision, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
SALT’s menu reflects the natural bounty of the island and the surrounding Atlantic waters, focusing on sustainably sourced seafood, local produce, and the unique flavours that characterize Amelia Island’s culinary identity. The restaurant offers an evolving menu that changes with the seasons, showcasing the finest ingredients at their peak.
The Essence of SALT
The name SALT is not just a reference to the restaurant’s prime location near the Atlantic Ocean, but also a tribute to the elemental ingredient that is central to all cooking. Salt has long been the cornerstone of culinary traditions, and at SALT, it plays a starring role in the dishes as well as the overall dining philosophy.
The restaurant’s commitment to highlighting the unique qualities of salt extends beyond its culinary uses. The decor of SALT reflects the island’s close relationship with the sea, with design elements that evoke the soft curves of the shoreline and the shimmering reflections of the ocean’s surface. The soft palette of sea greens, sandy neutrals, and cool blues, paired with contemporary, natural textures like reclaimed wood and stone, invites guests to relax and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.
A Five-Diamond Dining Experience
The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island itself has earned the prestigious AAA Five Diamond rating, a rare and highly coveted distinction that recognises the finest in hospitality. This esteemed rating reflects not only the resort’s unparalleled accommodations and exceptional service but also the culinary excellence of its dining offerings—particularly SALT. To earn this prestigious rating, a property must meet rigorous standards across every aspect of its service, amenities, and facilities. The AAA Five Diamond criteria are based on an evaluation of service excellence, attention to detail, and the overall guest experience. The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, with its breathtaking location, exceptional accommodations, and unparalleled dining experiences—now epitomised by SALT—exemplifies what it means to be a Five Diamond destination.
In achieving the AAA Five Diamond status, The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island continues to set a high bar for excellence in the hospitality industry. The property’s dedication to superior service, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering a memorable experience make it a true leader in the luxury resort space. As part of this esteemed resort, SALT continues to push the boundaries of fine dining, offering guests an unforgettable experience that reflects the Five Diamond standard in every aspect—from the quality of ingredients to the level of craftsmanship in each dish.
A Sustainable and Local Approach
One of the key pillars of SALT’s culinary philosophy is its commitment to sustainability. The restaurant sources its ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, and artisans, ensuring that every dish is a celebration of Florida’s natural resources. Whether it’s fresh seafood caught just offshore or vegetables from nearby farms, the focus is on quality, seasonality, and responsible sourcing. By partnering with local purveyors, SALT is able to ensure that its dishes reflect the vibrant flavors of the area, while also supporting the local economy and promoting environmental stewardship. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond sourcing—it is integrated into every aspect of its operation, from reducing waste to minimizing its carbon footprint.
In addition to using local and sustainable ingredients, SALT also places a strong emphasis on minimizing its environmental impact. The restaurant implements eco-friendly practices in every aspect of its operation, from waste reduction and energy conservation to sourcing biodegradable packaging. As part of the Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island’s broader commitment to sustainability, SALT is dedicated to leaving a positive impact on both the community and the environment.
A Dining Experience Like No Other
The dining experience at SALT is designed to be a celebration of culinary artistry. The open kitchen layout allows guests to see the chefs in action, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. The kitchen is a place of innovation, where each dish is carefully crafted with precision and care.
For the full experience, guests can indulge in the tasting menu, which offers a curated journey through the restaurant’s most innovative and beloved dishes. Each course is designed to be an exploration of flavor, with bold combinations that surprise and delight the palate. The wine pairings, carefully chosen by SALT’s sommelier team, are crafted to complement each dish and enhance the overall experience.
In addition to the tasting menu, SALT offers à la carte options that allow guests to curate their own dining experience. The restaurant’s signature dishes include locally sourced oysters with lemon and seaweed, perfectly seared Florida snapper, and a decadent salted caramel mousse that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Ritz-Carlton Experience
At its core, SALT embodies the excellence and elegance for which The Ritz-Carlton brand is renowned. Known for its impeccable service, luxurious accommodations, and world-class amenities, The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island is the ideal setting for a restaurant that aims to set new standards in fine dining.
From the moment guests enter the restaurant, they are greeted with the unparalleled warmth and attention to detail that defines the Ritz-Carlton experience. Whether it’s a celebratory dinner for two, a special occasion, or a casual meal, SALT promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience that is second to none. The Ritz-Carlton’s signature warmth and hospitality are evident from the moment guests arrive, with attentive service and an atmosphere that makes every meal feel like an occasion.
The restaurant also features an exclusive private dining area, perfect for intimate gatherings or corporate events. With its unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean and personalized service, SALT offers the perfect venue for those seeking to elevate their dining experiences.
A New Culinary Landmark
The opening of SALT marks a bold and exciting new chapter for The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island and for the Amelia Island dining scene as a whole. As the first fine dining restaurant of its kind on the island, SALT is set to become a culinary landmark for both locals and visitors from around the world. With its emphasis on local ingredients, sustainability, and culinary innovation, SALT will undoubtedly become one of Florida’s premier dining destinations.
As guests dine on expertly prepared dishes and sip on expertly paired wines, they will experience not only the best of what Amelia Island has to offer but also the highest level of hospitality and luxury. With its stunning location, world-class cuisine, and unforgettable ambiance, SALT is more than just a restaurant—it’s a destination that promises to captivate the senses and elevate the culinary landscape of Amelia Island for years to come.
As SALT opens its doors on January 7th 2025, it invites guests to experience the finest that Amelia Island has to offer—an exceptional blend of nature, luxury, and world-class cuisine. Whether you are a local or a visitor, the journey through SALT’s menu is bound to be one that you will remember long after the last course.
For reservations and more information about SALT at The Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island, visit Salt Amelia Island.
Written By: Jennifer Lu
Published: 8th January 2025