Meet the Team
We want to be on a first-name basis with you.
The Annie Gunn's team is more than just a group of coworkers; we're a family of professionals who really, really love food and hospitality.
Executive Chef Lou Rook III
Executive Chef Lou Rook III
Lou Rook III is the executive chef at Annie Gunn’s. Lou joined Annie Gunn’s in October of 1993 after the Great Flood of ‘93. Under his 26 year leadership the restaurant has earned many accolades, among them are three James Beard Award Nominations. Many of our legendary recipes can be found in his famous cookbook, “Rook Cooks” Simplicity at it’s finest.
Wine Director Glenn Bardgett, CS, CSW
Wine Director Glenn Bardgett, CS, CSW
Glenn has been in the wine business since his days studying wine at the University of Hawaii. He has been with Annie Gunn’s and the Smoke House Market since 2001. His wine program is a two time James Beard Award National Semi-Finalist and the Annie Gunn’s Wine List has received the Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence for 17 consecutive years. He is an active wine judge in regional, national and international competitions and is well known for his choice of pants.
Hospitality Manager Ryan Krassinger
Hospitality Manager Ryan Krassinger
Ryan has had an impressive career working around top restaurants in St. Louis. His passion for guest experience is always in the forefront of his mind.
Hospitality Manager Mike Veninga
Hospitality Manager Mike Veninga
A 25 year veteran of the St. Louis restaurant scene. Mike has been with Annie Gunn’s for 15 years.
Hospitality Manager Kelly McDevitt-Robbins
Hospitality Manager Kelly McDevitt-Robbins
We are pleased to welcome Kelly McDevitt-Robbins to our managerial staff at Annie Gunn’s. She brings with her 23 years of skill and knowledge of Annie Gunn’s Sense of Hospitality. She enjoys a well earned reputation for individual strength with a great focus on team spirit, Welcome Kelly!
Sommelier John Cain, CS, CSW
Sommelier John Cain, CS, CSW
John has been our wine sommelier for eight years at Annie Gunn’s. He brings more than thirty-eight years of restaurant and management experience & exemplifies leadership qualities and professionalism.
Chef Eddie Rickert
Chef Eddie Rickert
Eddie has been Chef Lou’s “right and left hand man” for 20 years. Yes is his favorite word.
Sous Chef Jared West
Sous Chef Jared West
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