Matt Weinstein is the Executive Chef of Oak Steakhouse, a modern take on the classic steakhouse at Skyline Lodge in Highlands, NC. Embracing the beauty of the property and the surrounding nature, Weinstein is driven by the seasons of Western North Carolina and the local produce available throughout the year, from ramps and fava beans in the spring to tomatoes and watermelon in the summer. Describing his cuisine as new American with worldly influences, Weinstein loves the challenge of running a smooth service and takes pride in every dish that leaves his kitchen.
Weinstein comes to Highlands from the Oak Steakhouse team in Atlanta, where he worked as Executive Chef since 2021. Over the past decade, Weinstein helmed acclaimed kitchens across Atlanta including Biltong Bar, Woodfire Grill, TWO Urban Licks, Bully Boy, and ONE Midtown Kitchen. Weinstein is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, and prior to moving to Atlanta, he worked in restaurants along the East Coast and trained under renowned chefs such as Bryan Voltaggio.
Leaving the city life behind to join the team at Oak Highlands, Weinstein is enjoying the slower pace that comes with the mountain lifestyle. He lives in Highlands with his wife, Markie, who also works as a chef at Oak. When not in the kitchen, Weinstein loves exploring the outdoors and traveling to new places.