Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark appoints Jaime Olivares as Executive Chef
San Diego Native to Lead a New Chapter of Locally Inspired Dining at the City’s Premier Ballpark-Front Hotel
San Diego, CA (July 14, 2026) – 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.
“Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark sits at the center of one of the city’s most exciting neighborhoods, and our culinary program should reflect that same energy,” said Jaime Olivares. “Whether guests are joining us before a Padres game, relaxing on the rooftop, or attending a corporate event, we’re creating menus that celebrate local ingredients, bold regional flavors, and the welcoming hospitality San Diego is known for.”
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.
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About Omni San Diego Hotel
Nestled in the heart of San Diego’s Gaslamp Quarter, Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark is a AAA Four Diamond award-winning destination offering an urban retreat within the bustling downtown district. The newly renovated property boasts 511 refreshed, modern guestrooms with stunning views of San Diego Bay and the skyline, three innovative dining outlets at Tortuga Pool & Rooftop Bar, Ace Porter, and Fres.co, a reimagined rooftop pool deck, an exclusive pedestrian Skybridge to Petco Park, and more than 32,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. Blending upscale amenities with the energy and culture of downtown San Diego, Omni San Diego Hotel at the Ballpark delivers an authentic sense of place for business and leisure travelers alike. Imagery may be found HERE (credit: Omni Hotels & Resorts)
For more information, visit https://www.omnihotels.com/hotels/san-diego and follow along on socials @omnisandiego.
For more information, please contact:
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