Sam Madrid has been appointed as Executive Chef at Kimpton RiverPlace Hotel
Kimpton RiverPlace is pleased to announce the appointment of Sam Madrid as the new Executive Chef, effective January 5, 2026.
Sam brings more than a decade of culinary leadership experience in luxury hotels and restaurants, where he has earned a strong reputation for cultivating talented teams, inspiring menu innovation, and upholding exceptional operational standards.Throughout his career, Sam has led large and diverse culinary teams across multiple IHG and Kimpton properties, most recently serving as an Executive Sous Chef on Task Force. In this capacity, he consistently delivered outstanding food quality, improved kitchen efficiencies, and achieved targeted food cost goals.
His dedication to guest satisfaction shines through his passion for creating seasonal and conceptual menus, elevating banquet offerings, and fostering collaborative, high‑performing kitchen environments. Sam's expertise spans upscale dining, high‑volume hotel restaurants, and large-format banquets. He is well‑known for his commitment to locally sourced ingredients, regional flavors, and modern culinary techniques that bring creativity and authenticity to every dish.
Fun fact: A Phoenix native, Sam loves reading science fiction and fantasy and has spent the past four years traveling—an impressive shift considering he had never flown before then.