Our Story
Kari grew up in nearby Front Royal, Virginia. She earned her culinary training from L’Academie de Cuisine, afterward cooking under James Beard and Michelin awarded chefs, she settled back in her hometown with her husband and two small children, and opened Vault & Cellar in a 120 year old bank. She is also a Stave & Thief Society certified bourbon steward, curating the restaurant’s collection of over 300 bourbons, and earning it a spot on Bourbon Review’s Best Bourbon Bars in America in 2022.
Kari Rushing
Owner, Executive Chef
Amanda Siever
Chef de Cuisine
Amanda loves coffee, red wine, dogs, her family,and the outdoors. if she could live off tacos she would. Her work has been featured in Northern Virginia Magazine.
Tarah Fuhrken
Sous Chef
Tiffany Landes
Prep Ninja & Sfoglina
Erica Brown
Bar Manager
Dan Kurzenknabe
Bourbon Steward & Lead Server
Dan is a certified Bourbon Steward and self-proclaimed whiskey nerd. You may find him in the cellar guiding a tasting, behind the bar experimenting with new ingredients, in the kitchen annoying the poor souls behind the line, or when he's not at work, fronting the Dan James Band. He loves to learn, taste new things and share his passion for flavor with the community.
From THE PRESS
1
Happy Diner
“The food at Vault & Cellar is absolutely delightful. Every dish tells a story of the region, and the flavors are simply amazing. Can’t wait to visit again!”
2
Local Foodie
“Vault & Cellar is a hidden gem! The ambiance, the food, and the bourbon selection are all top-notch. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates Appalachian cuisine.”
3
Food Critic
“I had the pleasure of dining at Vault & Cellar and I must say, it exceeded all expectations. The attention to detail in every dish is remarkable, and the service is impeccable.”