Executive Chef Ethan Brown Brings Personal Ties and Decades of Skill to the Culinary Program
SAN DIEGO (April 3, 2024) – Kona Kai San Diego [1], a world-class
Noble House Hotels & Resorts [4] property defined and inspired by its
island location, distinction, and soul, today celebrates the appointment
of Ethan Brown as its new executive chef. A culinary veteran bringing
nearly two decades of passion and expertise in his role, Brown oversees
the kitchen at the property’s signature dining experience, Vessel
Restaurant + Bar, in addition to meetings, weddings, events and in-room
dining.
“The culinary program at Kona Kai San Diego plays a key role in the
experience we offer locals and resort guests and we’re lucky to have a
leader with the passion and connection to the property that Ethan
has,” said Scott Ostrander, general manager at Kona Kai San Diego.
“He has a clear vision for the next phase of our culinary experience
and we look forward to the future of dining at Kona Kai.”
A native of Austin, Texas, Brown pursued his passion for cooking
following time serving in the United States Marine Corps infantry during
Operation Enduring Freedom. Brown attended the California Culinary
Academy and following his 2005 graduation, he trained at Michelin-rated
restaurants in the Bay Area and Napa Valley and progressed through the
culinary programs at resorts including L’Auberge Del Mar in Del Mar,
Calif.; the Sonnenalp Hotel in Vail, Colo.; The Portofino Hotel & Marina
in Redondo Beach, Calif., and the St. Julien Hotel & Spa in Boulder,
Colo. Prior to joining the Kona Kai San Diego team, Brown served as the
executive chef at Reikart House, Buffalo, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, in
Amherst, NY.
“My uncle has had a boat in the Kona Kai San Diego marina for as long
as I can remember, so being able to lead the resort’s culinary team is
a full-circle moment for me,” said Brown. “Kona Kai has played a
major role in my own story and I am excited to bring that inspiration to
the culinary program for years to come.”
At Kona Kai, Brown oversees and manages all culinary operations
inclusive of the Vessel Restaurant + Bar dining experience, as well as
in-room dining and offerings for meetings, events, and weddings. He has
plans to elevate Kona Kai’s partnerships with local purveyors and
other partners to bring fresh flavor to the resort’s menus. He is also
working to further the connection between the resort’s wellness and
spa experiences and its culinary offerings through creative new vegan
and gluten-free options, elevated meat alternatives, and a rotating
collection of freshly squeezed juices.
When he’s not concepting his next menu, Brown enjoys spending time
with his wife and stays active through surfing, Bikram yoga, CrossFit,
and distance running. He is also a passionate philanthropist involved
with organizations including Turning the WHeel and Toys for Tots.
For more information about Kona Kai San Diego, visit
www.resortkonakai.com [5] and follow along on Facebook [6] and Instagram
[7].
About Kona Kai San Diego
Set to the backdrop of the majestic Point Loma hillside and the
magnificence of the San Diego Bay, Kona Kai San Diego is a world-class
destination defined and inspired by its island location, distinction and
soul. The resort exudes Southern California vintage charm and pays
homage to the past without sacrificing the luxuries of the present. With
a collection of 170 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites;
SpaTerre, the resort’s full-service luxury spa; a sprawling collection
of meeting and event spaces, multiple food and beverage outlets
including the coastally inspired Vessel Restaurant + Bar and a rotating
calendar of on-property programming, Kona Kai distinguishes itself as a
sought-after haven for locals and visitors alike. Located just minutes
away from San Diego International Airport, the historic downtown Gaslamp
Quarter, and the city’s top attractions, Kona Kai San Diego is the
perfect choice for an island-inspired getaway.
About Noble House Hotels & Resorts
The Noble House Hotels & Resorts [4] portfolio is a collection of 24
luxury and upscale hotels, resorts, and experiences across North
America—all designed for discerning travelers seeking to escape the
daily routine. Noble House can be trusted to unlock the most authentic
experiences in the most compelling destinations. This promise is
delivered through their carefully curated collection that pairs boutique
local charm with consistently high service and comfort standards. All
concepts within their collection offer immersive, active adventure
experiences that bring out the best of their destinations. Headquartered
in Seattle, their family-owned business philosophy creates value for
each concept’s community, environment, ownership, staff, and guests.
The portfolio includes: over 75 restaurants, bars, and lounges; the Napa
Valley Wine Train; a collection of spas, marinas, and private residences
throughout the U.S., and Mexico; a range of beachfront resorts from
California to Florida; luxury retreats in Jackson Hole, Wyo. and
award-winning urban hotels in Seattle and San Francisco. For more
information, visit www.noblehousehotels.com [8] or call 877.NOBLE.TRIP
