Kwan to Bring a New Wave of Culinary Expertise to the Iconic, Luxury Inclusive Property in the Heart of Big Sur
BIG SUR, Calif. (Nov. 10, 2023) – Alila Ventana Big Sur, an intimate luxury retreat along the Pacific Coast Highway, is pleased to announce the appointment of Alan Kwan as the new Executive Chef. In this role, Chef Alan will oversee daily operations and menu curation at The Sur House – the dining centerpiece of the resort perched high above the trees, with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean – along with culinary offerings for groups and weddings, poolside menus, and in-room dining. With over 20 years of experience in the luxury hotel industry and vast background working both internationally and in major cities across the United States, Chef Kwan brings a globally-minded perspective to his kitchen to further elevate the Alila Ventana Big Sur guest experience through an innovative culinary approach.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Kwan to Alila Ventana Big Sur, where his international expertise and passion for connecting to the destination through locally-sourced products and purveyors will surely make a memorable impact on our culinary program,” shared Anthony Duggan, General Manager. “We look forward to working with Chef to execute his vision, highlighting the rich bounty of California’s central coast and curating new menus that pay tribute to the miles of coastal wilderness that surrounds us.”
A California native born and raised in Irvine, Executive Chef Alan Kwan prides himself on drawing inspiration from his travels and the roles he’s held across the globe. He began his journey at The Culinary Institute of America and most recently served as executive chef at the renowned Soho House Group – overseeing the culinary approach at Cecconi’s Dumbo Restaurant, and the exclusive Dumbo House Membership Club. In addition, Chef Kwan has held various executive chef roles including at Atlantis Paradise Island Resort in the Bahamas, CENTARA Hotels & Resorts in The Maldives and Bangkok, The Mulia Resort in Bali, and more.
“Big Sur is an iconic and inspiring destination that I’m excited to now call ‘home,’ said Chef Kwan. “Connecting with local purveyors and the Big Sur community is my biggest priority as I begin this new journey at Alila Ventana Big Sur,” he shared. “So I’ve been visiting local farmstands, sourcing new produce from our region, and getting to know the nearby farmers in order to properly showcase the incredible bounty of the Central Coast on our menus to share with guests and locals alike at Alila Ventana Big Sur.”
