Meet the ARAKA Staff
Brad Beracha, Owner
After emerging into the scene with Miso on Meramec in 2001, Clayton's premier sushi restaurant and lounge, owner Brad Beracha waited 6 years to open his second venue in 2007, ARAKA Restaurant. Working with New York City Architect/Designers, David and Eve-Lynn Schefer, St. Louis's award winning atmosphere was created on the eastern part of Clayton in the newly developed Crescent Building. Brad's passion for food and hospitality has helped ARAKA to be noted as one of the best restaurants in Clayton, and in St. Louis.
Brian Hornbeck, General Manager
With almost 20 years of experience in restaurant management, Brian Hornbeck has thrived in the role as the GM of ARAKA since its inception. Accruing his management experience at Westborough Country Club, Harvest, and Cafe Mira, Brian had opened the successful 12 North restaurant in the heart of Clayton in 2002. Brian's love for the business has helped shape him to be the effective leader of the ARAKA staff, with an inherent sense of always taking care of our guests.
Michael Burnau, Executive Chef
After cooking for 20 years in the kitchens of some of the top tier restaurants in St. Louis, including The Cheshire Inn, 12 North, and Josephs downtown, Executive Chef Michael Burnau has put his culinary stamp on ARAKA - in a big way. Chef Michael joined the ARAKA team during our first year of business, and his culinary expertise has been a catalyst, in creating memorable dishes with outstanding flavors.
Ryan Cooper, Chef de Cuisine
The Chef de Cuisine position at ARAKA is one of high importance, and Chef Ryan has proven that he is up for the challenge. With a culinary degree from California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, and 10 years of kitchen experience including Blacksburg Country Club and Boudreauxs Cajun Kitchen in Virgina, Zuppa in San Francisco, and local hot-spot eateries, Niche and Brasserie. Ryan has been a catalyst in keeping the diversity of the menu approachable and fresh, while consistently maintaining the highest food quality that people have come to love from ARAKA.
Mark Tombs, Sous Chef
Graduating from L'Ecole in 2007, and with the Boathouse, Lesters, and The Raquet Club on his resume, Chef Mark Toombs joined the ARAKA staff at the start of 2011.
Sharon Hornbeck, Special Events Coordinator
Making the planning of your private event seamless, Sharon's attention to detail, and warm personality, all contribute to an enjoyable experience. A lifer in the hospitality business, Sharon has the unique ability to make you feel confident and comfortable setting up your party, and consistently satisfied with the outcome.
