Chef Jake Olson’s versatility is clear in the multiple talents he brings to the field as a chef, restaurateur, nightclub manager, and beverage director.
Jake discovered his culinary identity later in life, hitting the ignition in the kitchen
in 2004, and taking a very museum approach to begin his culinary journey—self-learning. This included devouring hundreds of cookbooks, online courses, and honing his skills through practice and trial.
The zest for learning brought him to The Palace Theater in Louisville as a server and bartender, where he quickly realized the opportunity to create an approachable, elevated menu that included a fun dose of creative genius to capitalize on special events. Further pitstops on his resume during this era included owning and operating Bowling Green, KY, restaurants such as On the Bone Chop House and Burger and Bun, along with roles as Food and Beverage Director and Chef at Indian Hills Country Club and the Bowling Green Country Club.
Like Corvette, the blending of form and func-on fueled Olson’s interest in the back of the house. Attending Western Kentucky University as an Art major with a concentration on sculpture, before graduating with a double major in Psychology and Sociology.
Olson began his tenure at the National Corvette Museum’s lauded Stingray Grill in July of 2022. He is responsible for overall management and service at the restaurant, along with expanding the menu with bold flavors like the Jalapeño Crunch Burger and Curried Chickpea Salad, along with oversight of catering for Museum events and special holiday-themed menus.
When not creating new menu items, Chef Jake lives in Bowling Green with his wife of more than 20 years Cristen, and sons Rohan, 10, Elijah, 14, and Elek, 17.
Located within the National Corvette Museum, it is a journey through the iconic history of Corvette, served with a side of culinary excellence. The menu features an array of American classics, an enticing choice of desserts, and a hand-picked assortment of beers. Every dish is prepared with the same passion and precision that goes into every Corvette. Featured on the second season of Food Network’s Guy Fieri’s All American Road Trip, the Stingray Grill is open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 pm CST.
The Stingray Grill is the perfect stop for a lunch that is as memorable as the cars that inspire it. Click the button to make a reservation and view the menu.
