Dellshire Resort, the first-of-its-kind medieval-themed resort opening in late spring 2026 in Wisconsin Dells, announces the promotion of Justin Draper as Culinary Director, where he will lead and oversee the resort’s food and beverage program across its six distinct dining venues.
The resort will also reopen the Dawn Manor restaurant on May 1, 2026. Together, these announcements offer an early taste of the culinary program taking shape at one of the Midwest’s most anticipated new hospitality destinations.
When Dellshire Resort opens this late spring, guests will step into a fully immersive fantasy realm that goes far beyond the seventy-foot, fire-breathing dragon at the entrance. Dining is central to the experience, offering a curated mix of gourmet and more casual options across six distinct venues.
The culinary program is anchored by the signature restaurant Blade & Barrel, featuring Wisconsin classics, alongside The Thirsty Dragon, a cozy fireside lounge; Scale Cove at Serpent’s Bay, a poolside swim-up bar; Kettle & Keep, a café and marketplace; and Gilded Spouts, located within the resort’s entertainment hub, Hero’s Hall. Complemented by the beloved off-site Dawn Manor, each outlet, from tavern-style dining to cocktails and hidden speakeasy moments, is designed to deepen the sense of exploration that defines the Dellshire experience.
Leading Dellshire Resort’s culinary vision is Justin Draper, a third-generation Wisconsin Dells chef. Draper joins the resort from Dawn Manor, the Wisconsin Dells restaurant he guided as Executive Chef and Co-Culinary Director, now part of the Dellshire Resort collection.
In his new role as Culinary Director, Draper will oversee all six food and beverage venues both on- and off-site, working closely with chefs to develop menus, guide kitchen teams and ensure that each outlet delivers creativity, consistency and a lasting experience for every guest.
“Dining at Dellshire is designed to feel like part of the adventure,” said Michael Lucero, General Manager of Dellshire Resort. “From the first bite to the last cocktail, each venue sparks a sense of discovery and creativity. Justin brings not only exceptional culinary expertise, but also a deep understanding of the Wisconsin Dells community and a genuine passion for storytelling through food. His ability to blend imaginative concepts with high-quality, thoughtfully sourced ingredients will be instrumental in shaping a culinary program that surprises guests while remaining authentic to the region. We’re thrilled to have his leadership as we bring this vision to life.”
Draper’s hospitality journey began early, inspired by his father and grandfather, both chefs. After graduating from Wisconsin Dells High School, he attended Le Cordon Bleu in Minneapolis, before working in kitchens across the country from Key West, Florida, and Vail, Colorado, to Portland, Oregon. He later returned home to Wisconsin Dells to co-found High Rock Café, which became a local favorite in downtown.
Over the course of two decades, he built a reputation for inventive dishes, bold flavors and a welcoming atmosphere that helped cultivate a vibrant restaurant scene in Wisconsin Dells. Most recently, he oversaw Dawn Manor as its Executive Chef and Co-Culinary Director, where he established its reputation for timeless American cuisine.
“Dellshire Resort is bringing something entirely new to Wisconsin Dells, and that’s what makes this opportunity so exciting,” said Draper. “Having been part of Dawn Manor, I’ve seen firsthand how much this community values great dining, and now we have the chance to build on that in a way that’s more immersive and experience-driven. Across the resort, we’re creating culinary moments that feel unexpected, unforgettable and truly part of the story for both locals and guests alike.”
Dellshire Resort will welcome guests back to Dawn Manor on May 1, 2026. Located just minutes from the resort in a restored 19th century mansion overlooking Mirror Lake, Dawn Manor is set to become a cornerstone of the Wisconsin Dells dining scene, known for classic supper club-style fare.
Guests can also enjoy Uphoff’s Rotunda, a speakeasy which offers Prohibition-era cocktails, fine wines and live entertainment in an intimate setting. With five period-themed private dining rooms, Dawn Manor will continue to be a cherished destination for cozy dinners, celebrations and business gatherings.
As part of Dellshire Resort’s food and beverage collection, the restaurant will preserve its signature menu, interiors and character while introducing a new chapter within the resort’s enchanted world. Reservations are available on OpenTable.
With Dellshire Resort’s late spring opening, visitors will enter a one-of-a-kind escape blending layered storytelling with modern comfort. They will be able to embark on mixed reality quests, unwind across five indoor and outdoor pools, and explore a lively entertainment center for all ages. The resort features 208 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites alongside a dynamic collection of dining venues that anchor the experience. Located minutes from downtown Wisconsin Dells, it offers convenient access to the area’s top attractions while delivering a stay that is both transportive and memorable.
