San Diego’s premier luxury retreat, Rancho Bernardo Inn, has unveiled an exciting new development in its storied culinary journey with the appointment of Chef Jonathan Kinsella as Executive Chef. Nestled in the rolling foothills of San Diego’s North County, this award-winning resort is renowned not only for its serene ambiance and golf courses but also for its acclaimed culinary offerings. Kinsella’s arrival signals a bold and flavorful evolution in the resort’s hospitality experience.
From Seattle Roots to Global Recognition
Chef Kinsella brings over 20 years of international culinary expertise, having sharpened his skills in some of the world’s most prestigious kitchens. His journey began in Seattle at the celebrated Campagne, where his foundation in French technique took root. He then moved through elite establishments such as The Maisonette in Cincinnati, the Michelin-starred TRU in Chicago, and The Peninsula Chicago, establishing a reputation for precision and elegance.
His career highlights include over a decade as Executive Chef at db Bistro & Oyster Bar at Marina Bay Sands in Singapore—an icon of luxury where he shaped the restaurant’s acclaimed culinary direction under the banner of Daniel Boulud’s restaurant group, one of the most revered names in fine dining globally.
Homecoming to San Diego With Global Perspective
Before joining Rancho Bernardo Inn, Kinsella served as Culinary Director at AB Properties and Executive Chef at Juniper & Ivy, one of San Diego’s most celebrated contemporary restaurants. His leadership helped position the restaurant as a local gem, known for its inventive use of Southern California’s seasonal bounty. This blend of local reverence and global finesse will now define the next chapter at Rancho Bernardo Inn.
A New Culinary Vision at Rancho Bernardo Inn
As Executive Chef, Kinsella will oversee the culinary direction of the resort’s flagship AVANT restaurant, known for its forward-thinking menus and use of locally sourced ingredients. With a philosophy rooted in seasonal, sustainable, and elevated cuisine, he is expected to introduce refined dishes that balance classic French techniques with modern Californian creativity.
Beyond AVANT, Kinsella will also guide the Veranda restaurant, a Mediterranean-inspired all-day dining venue that blends casual sophistication with regional ingredients. Guests can expect a renewed focus on farm-to-table freshness, as well as engaging menus that evolve with the changing seasons.
A Garden-Driven Approach
One of Rancho Bernardo Inn’s most unique features is its Chef’s Garden, which supplies the kitchens with hand-harvested herbs, heirloom vegetables, and edible flowers. Under Kinsella’s guidance, this garden-to-plate concept will be elevated further—allowing diners to enjoy dishes infused with the very essence of the resort’s natural surroundings.
By embracing the Inn’s existing strengths and infusing them with his international approach, Kinsella is poised to reinvent the guest dining experience, creating menus that are thoughtful, inspired, and reflective of San Diego’s culinary promise.
Leadership Excitement and Industry Anticipation
Jamie Lemon, General Manager of Rancho Bernardo Inn, shared his excitement over the new appointment:
“Jonathan’s incredible background in French culinary tradition and his experience working in kitchens across the globe make him the ideal leader to take our dining offerings to new heights. We’re thrilled to welcome him and can’t wait for our guests to experience his vision.”
The resort is already seeing a buzz within the San Diego culinary community, with food writers and chefs anticipating the creative changes that Kinsella will bring to North County’s fine dining landscape.
Enhancing San Diego’s Luxury Tourism Appeal
Rancho Bernardo Inn’s investment in culinary talent further enhances San Diego’s growing reputation as a food-forward travel destination. As visitors seek immersive, experiential travel, gourmet offerings at resorts like Rancho Bernardo Inn play a central role in attracting luxury travelers from across the U.S. and abroad.
According to Visit California, culinary tourism has become one of the top motivators for domestic travel in the state, and Rancho Bernardo Inn is now better positioned than ever to attract discerning epicureans seeking relaxation, golf, and gourmet dining all in one picturesque location.
A Flavorful Future Ahead
Chef Jonathan Kinsella’s appointment marks the beginning of what promises to be a transformative era at Rancho Bernardo Inn. With a dedication to culinary artistry, seasonality, and world-class service, the Inn is preparing to raise the bar for what luxury dining can offer in Southern California.
Guests and locals alike can look forward to a refreshed menu at AVANT, deeper connections between garden and kitchen, and an unmistakable signature of sophistication in every dish that leaves the pass.
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a gourmet weekend, or a local evening out, Rancho Bernardo Inn—now under Chef Kinsella’s culinary leadership—invites you to savor something truly exceptional.
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