Hilton Honors™
Hilton Honors members get immediate benefits like free standard Wi-Fi, digital check in and more when they book direct. Start earning points and enroll today!
On May 17, 2024, we celebrate World Baking Day, a perfect occasion to honor the incredible talent and dedication of our Executive Pastry Chef, Thomas Gorczyca. With a rich background that spans states and culinary specializations, Chef Thomas brings unparalleled expertise and passion to our kitchens here at LondonHouse Chicago.
Chef Thomas is the mastermind behind the 'sweet' top tier of our Afternoon Tea tower. He brings creativity and skill to every seasonal interation of this popular culinary experience. He also comes up with seasonal desserts, like the "Love is Love" dessert for Pride Month, festive options for fall, light and bright flavors for summer, and stunningly romantic creations for Valentine's day. Keep reading to learn more about his background, and his favorite ingredients.
A Journey from Central Pennsylvania to ChicagoThomas Gorczyca's culinary journey began in Central Pennsylvania, where he spent his early years. His love for baking was kindled in the warm kitchens of his mother and grandmother, where he learned the art of making pies — countless, delicious pies. These early experiences laid the foundation for a lifelong passion for pastry arts.
Thomas pursued his culinary education in Baltimore, Maryland, earning degrees in both cooking and baking. His professional career took off with the Baltimore Orioles, followed by various roles in the Washington DC area. However, it was his 12-year tenure at The Hotel Hershey in Hershey, PA, that truly shaped his expertise in chocolate — a skill he continues to refine and celebrate.
In 2013, Chef Thomas made the move to Chicago, where he served as a Pastry Chef at the Intercontinental Magnificent Mile before joining us at LondonHouse Chicago. His journey is marked by continuous learning, having attended advanced classes with world-renowned chefs such as Amaury Guichon, Antonio Bachour, and Frank Haasnoot.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Thomas is an avid gardener and houseplant enthusiast, with around 50 houseplants adorning his condo. Married since 2020 and a proud pet parent to a dog named Adele, Thomas brings a touch of home and heart to his professional life.
When it comes to his culinary preferences, Thomas's favorite ingredients to work with are vanilla beans and gold leaf, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to his creations. Personally, he can't resist anything with peanut butter— a testament to his down-to-earth and approachable nature.
Thomas's talent and dedication have not gone unnoticed. His accolades include:
On this World Baking Day, we invite you to join us in celebrating the flavorful creations of Chef Thomas Gorczyca. His dedication to his craft and his unwavering pursuit of excellence continue to elevate the culinary experiences at LondonHouse Chicago. And, he is always mindful of allergans and dietary preferences, making sure everyone can enjoy a truely delightful dessert!
The three desserts below can currently be found at LH Rooftop:
Mississippi Mud Pie | VG, V, & GS
Vegan chocolate mousse, dark chocolate cake, chocolate pudding, whipped cream, raspberries
Lemon Tiramisu
ladyfinger sponge, limoncello, mascarpone mousse, lemon curd, blackberry sorbet
Loaded Carrot Cake | V & GS
pineapple, coconut, walnuts, golden raisins, cream cheese icing, salted caramel sauce, coconut gelato
E. sales@londonhouse.com P. 312.357.1200
