Jaime Olivares è stato nominato Executive Chef presso Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark
Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark is pleased to announce the appointment of Jaime Olivares as Executive Chef, where he will lead the hotel’s dynamic culinary program across its three distinctive dining venues. A San Diego native with nearly three decades of culinary leadership experience, Olivares brings a guest-first philosophy rooted in seasonal ingredients, bold regional flavors, authentic hospitality, and a deep commitment to sustainability. In his new role, he will lead the hotel’s culinary vision across the property’s three distinctive dining outlets, Tortuga Pool & Rooftop Bar, Ace Porter, and Fres.co, through innovative menus and elevated dining experiences that celebrate Southern California’s rich agricultural heritage and vibrant culinary identity.
Inspired by generations of family cooks, Olivares discovered his passion for the culinary arts at an early age, learning alongside his father, grandfather, and grandmother before beginning his hospitality career in front-of-house operations and ultimately finding his calling in the kitchen. Over the course of nearly 30 years, he has steadily risen through the ranks—from line cook and sous chef to banquet chef, executive sous chef, executive chef, and director of food and beverage—building a reputation for operational excellence, collaborative leadership, and guest-centered culinary experiences.
Prior to joining Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark, Olivares served as Director of Food & Beverage and Executive Chef at Andaz San Diego, following additional leadership roles with Hyatt Mission Bay Spa & Marina and other respected hospitality brands throughout Southern California. Throughout his career, Chef Jaime has had the opportunity to create memorable culinary experiences for high-profile guests and notable figures across entertainment and hospitality, showcasing his ability to deliver exceptional dining experiences at every level.
Now leading the culinary program at Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark, Olivares oversees the hotel’s collection of dining destinations, including Tortuga Pool & Rooftop Bar, the rooftop oasis offering handcrafted cocktails, coastal-inspired fare, and sweeping views of Petco Park and the downtown skyline, Ace Porter, the hotel’s lively restaurant and bar serving elevated American classics alongside local craft beer and cocktails, and Fres.co, the hotel’s grab-and-go café featuring artisanal coffee, fresh pastries, and convenient breakfast and lunch offerings.
Looking ahead, Olivares plans to continue evolving the hotel’s culinary program through seasonally driven menus, creative presentations, and meaningful partnerships with local farmers, producers, and minority-owned businesses. From the hotel’s signature dining venues to customized menus for meetings, weddings, and special events, his vision centers on delivering elevated yet approachable cuisine, warm hospitality, and memorable experiences that celebrate the vibrant flavors and spirit of San Diego.
Jaime Olivares is an alumnus of The Art Institute of California-San Diego – Class of 2014.