INNOVATIVE DINING GROUP (IDG) ANNOUNCES CREATION OF NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER POSITION, APPOINTING NICOLAS KURBAN TO OVERSEE CURRENT OPERATIONS AS WELL AS DOMESTIC & INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION
This month, Kurban joins IDG, as the renowned hospitality group invests in opening new locations of core concepts, including Katana Chicago opening in Winter 2016
Los Angeles-based Innovative Dining Group (IDG), known for its diverse collection of iconic concepts including Sushi Roku and BOA Steakhouse, welcomes new COO Nicolas Kurban to the executive team. As IDG approaches its 20th anniversary in 2017 and continues to expand its portfolio of restaurants, Kurban will oversee current operations as well as domestic and international operations for the brand. IDG created the position in anticipation of impending growth both at home and abroad, including the opening of Katana Chicago in Winter 2016. Kurban will be based in Los Angeles, and began work with IDG on June 2, 2016.
“Kurban possesses an invaluable combination of restaurant-level operating experience, brand and corporate-level management expertise, as well as thoughtful, focused, hands-on leadership,” says Lee Maen, IDG Founder/Partner. “As we enter our next chapter of innovation and expanded growth, Kurban will play an integral role in our evolution, drawing on his extensive knowledge and connections in international markets.”
Prior to his appointment as COO for IDG, Kurban served as Corporate Vice President of Food & Beverage of Four Seasons Hotels in Asia Pacific. During his tenure he oversaw F&B operations, as well as concept development for new restaurants and bars, and assisted the Four Seasons brand in growing its portfolio across the Asia Pacific region. Kurban previously held similar senior leadership roles with Crown Casino in Melbourne, Australia and Borgata Casino and Hotel in Atlantic City, as well as Wynn Casino and Resort in Las Vegas. Additionally, Kurban brings extensive operational experience with celebrity chefs, such as Wolfgang Puck and Thomas Keller, managing some of the most iconic restaurants in Las Vegas, including Spago and Bouchon Bistro.
“I am very honored and humbled to join IDG as their new COO,” says Kurban. “I’m confident that my unique approach to leadership and mentoring will be a seamless fit with the company culture, and look forward to working closely with the partners and team to continue to refine the IDG brand, prepare for future growth, and strive for even greater excellence.”
ABOUT INNOVATIVE DINING GROUP:
Founded in 1997, Innovative Dining Group (IDG) is known for its success in reimagining concepts including the steakhouse, sushi bar, and robatayaki restaurant. IDG operates seven of the most popular and successful restaurants and lounges in Los Angeles: Sushi Roku (with locations Santa Monica, and Pasadena), BOA Steakhouse (with locations in West Hollywood and Santa Monica), Katana in West Hollywood, Robata Bar in Santa Monica, and the brand’s new flagship concept, ROKU in West Hollywood. The company also operates a Sushi Roku at the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, one at the W Scottsdale, and a newly opened location at Fashion Island in Newport Beach. In addition to its renowned brick-and-mortar locations, IDG opened two concepts at LAX airport: B Grill by BOA Steakhouse in partnership with Areas USA, and Luckyfish in partnership with Star Concessions. Internationally, IDG operates BOA Steakhouse in Abu Dhabi, as well as Katana in Dubai. Additionally, IDG is set to debut Katana Chicago this Winter 2016. All of IDG’s venues reflect bold, modern interpretations of traditional concepts, reflective of the company’s dynamic partners. For more details please visit IDG’s website, Facebook page, Twitter, or Instagram.
