Pacifica Hotels is proud to announce the appointment of Michael J. Vaughn as its new Corporate Executive Chef. With over 20 years of experience spanning luxury resorts, high-volume city hotels, private clubs, and acclaimed restaurants, Vaughn has held multiple Corporate Executive Chef roles, leading culinary teams and shaping innovative dining experiences. In his new position, he will oversee all culinary operations across Pacifica Hotels’ portfolio.
Vaughn’s extensive background includes directing large-scale food and beverage programs, developing creative dining concepts, and curating elevated guest experiences. Most recently, he served as the Executive Chef at the La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, where he led three distinct kitchen operations, including the Marine Room Restaurant, recognized for its upscale fine dining.
Before his role at La Jolla Beach and Tennis Club, Vaughn held executive positions with Omni Hotels and Resorts, where he was instrumental in launching Fres.Co Market & Café and reimagining culinary programs to emphasize local, seasonal ingredients. During his tenure at Hilton Worldwide, he served as Director of Culinary for the Americas and Executive Chef at Hilton San Francisco Union Square. Vaughn’s innovative leadership has garnered numerous accolades, including Hilton’s Innovate & Elevate Banquet Experience award.
“Michael’s unique combination of creativity, innovation, and a results-driven approach will elevate our culinary offerings to new heights,” said Scott Roby, President at Pacifica Hotels. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and look forward to seeing how his vision will redefine the dining experience for our guests.”
Vaughn is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America and is deeply committed to growth and mentorship. He has played a pivotal role in fostering team collaboration, implementing innovative menu designs, and driving guest satisfaction at every property he has led.
“I am honored to join Pacifica Hotels and bring my passion for culinary artistry to this impressive portfolio of lifestyle and boutique hotels,” Vaughn said. “I look forward to working with the team to create memorable dining experiences that celebrate local flavors and inspire travelers and local diners alike. I’m especially excited about Pacifica Hotels’ partnerships with organizations like the California Restaurant Association (CRA), including their ProStart Culinary Cup, CRA Clash Competition, and CARE initiatives. Additionally, Pacifica’s alignment with CORE (Care of Restaurant Employees) demonstrates a meaningful commitment to supporting the hospitality industry and fostering the next generation of talent.”
Vaughn will also lead Pacifica Hotels’ ongoing “Meet Your Makers” Series. The latest sold-out event on January 23 featured the newly unveiled Pacifica Hotels Private Barrel Selection of Buffalo Trace at Marina del Rey Hotel. Each month, the team collaborates with distillers and storytellers to give guests an inside look at the artistry and dedication that goes into every bottle, creating a sensory experience that highlights exceptional flavors and the captivating stories behind them.
Pacifica Hotels was also recently named a finalist in the 2025 VibeVista Awards, recognizing the top performers in the beverage industry through the creation, training, execution, management, and on-going positive results of beverage programs.
For more information on Pacifica Hotels, please visit www.pacificahotels.com.
About Pacifica Hotels:
Pacifica Hotels was formed in 1993 to consolidate the hospitality operations of Invest West Financial Corporation, which has been involved in the acquisition, development, refurbishing and operating of quality hotel properties and other commercial real estate properties for nearly 30 years. Today, Pacifica Hotels is the largest owner and operator of boutique hotels on the Pacific coast. Pacifica Hotels’ numerous independent and flagged properties in key California cities from San Diego to San Francisco, as well as Hawaii, feature outstanding locations, AAA 3 and 4-diamond ratings, upgraded amenities and high standards of guest service. For complete hotel descriptions and reservations, please visit www.pacificahotels.com.
