Cornelius Ward’s story begins where the Pacific meets the shore. Born in Kailua, Hawaii, he grew up with food defined by bright citrus, slow-simmered broths, and ingredients so fresh they needed little to shine. His respect for what the sea and land provide became a career path when. Ward attended culinary school at the Art Institute in San Bernardino. Ward went on to become the Executive Chef at Kona Grill in Denver and then at Catch Steak in Aspen.
After his time as a personal chef in Utah, Ward now serves as Executive Chef at the Purple Sky Restaurant and Winery. His expertise now colors the menu, blending Hawaii’s instinct for balance, California’s bright, fresh flavors, culinary-school discipline, and leadership shaped in high-end dining in Denver, Aspen, and now Ogden. The aim isn’t complexity for its own sake, but food that feels clear, thoughtful, and memorable by being seasoned precisely, textured smartly, and executed cleanly. Ward also created the recently launched Big Kahuna Spice Company, which produces a finishing salt now used on every steak served at Purple Sky.
Nate brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in hospitality, wine, restaurant operations, and sales to Purple Sky Winery. Throughout his career, he has led luxury and upscale dining concepts across North America, specializing in guest experience, team development, operational excellence, and elevated hospitality.
With a background spanning fine dining, restaurant consulting, wine importing, and distribution, Nate combines a deep operational knowledge with a genuine passion for wine and service. He has held executive leadership roles overseeing more than 60 locations and has successfully helped lead and open a great number of restaurant concepts throughout his career.
Nate has continued his wine education for more than two decades while working throughout the hospitality and wine industries. He has completed a Sommelier Certification and continues pursuing advanced wine education and certifications, bringing a thoughtful and approachable perspective to wine service, pairing, and guest education.
Known for his hands-on leadership style and commitment to creating memorable guest experiences, Nate is dedicated to elevating Purple Sky Winery as both a culinary destination and a welcoming place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy exceptional food, wine, and hospitality.
