Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton, a landmark seaside property located in the heart of scenic La Jolla Shores, has appointed Ernest Lopez as its new Executive Chef. In his new role, Chef Lopez will oversee the hotel’s culinary program, including banquets and catering for the property’s 1,600 square feet of events space, as well as its penthouse level restaurant and lounge, Sea & Sky, a restaurant celebrated for its breathtaking ocean views and elevated California coastal cuisine. The appointment arrives on the heels of a 2024 multi-million-dollar renovation of the hotel, encompassing all 110 guestrooms and suites, and 11th floor dining and private events rooms.
With more 25 years of culinary leadership experience at esteemed luxury hotel properties and restaurants, deep Southern California roots, and relationships with the area’s most prominent farmers and fisherman, Chef Lopez brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and creativity to his new role. His expertise in crafting innovative, seasonal menus and leading diverse culinary teams aligns perfectly with Hotel La Jolla’s commitment to providing guests with unforgettable dining experiences that celebrate the flavors of the region.
“With abundant experience at luxury coastal resorts and restaurants where sustainable seafood is a key focus, Chef Lopez is a perfect fit for Hotel La Jolla,” said Adam Lund, general manager at Hotel La Jolla. “We look forward to seeing how his vision will enhance our culinary offerings and continue to catapult Sea & Sky to the upper echelon of La Jolla dining in its first full fiscal year of operation.”
Chef Lopez joins Hotel La Jolla from Water View Restaurants, operators of several key outlets in San Diego’s acclaimed Seaport Village waterfront shopping and dining complex. During his tenure with Water View, he served as Executive Chef, overseeing multiple outlets, including most recently, Edgewater Bar & Grill. Prior to that role, he helmed the kitchen of the Auberge Resorts Collection’s Five Star Mauna Lani, named the number one resort in Hawaii by Travel + Leisure magazine. Additionally, he previously served as Executive Chef at Malibu Farm, at the chain’s original Malibu outpost, while opening four additional restaurants across several states and was also a member of the culinary team at Four Seasons Lana’i City. Chef Lopez was also part of the opening culinary team at the acclaimed Grand Del Mar resort.
At Sea & Sky, Chef Lopez plans to evolve the existing menu built on fresh, locally sourced ingredients highlighting the unique coastal flavors of La Jolla and surrounding areas. Guests can expect vibrant new dishes and a continued focus on sustainability, seasonality, and exceptional service.
Hotel La Jolla, Curio Collection by Hilton is located at 7955 La Jolla Shores Drive in La Jolla and is managed by Aimbridge Hospitality, a leading global hospitality management company and the world’s largest third-party hotel operator. For more information visit www.hotellajolla.com.
