Little Italy’s Juniper and Ivy Welcomes New Executive Chef Jonathan Kinsella

Juniper and Ivy, Little Italy’s trailblazing restaurant, is starting its second decade with a big announcement: Jonathan Kinsella has joined the team as the new Executive Chef.

Known for his work at iconic establishments like the legendary Chateau Marmont and Daniel Boulud’s renowned restaurants, Kinsella is set to bring fresh energy and creative dishes to this celebrated dining destination.

Juniper and Ivy's new executive chef Jonathan Kinsella

A Decade of Culinary Excellence

Since opening its doors in 2014, Juniper and Ivy has been a cornerstone of San Diego’s culinary scene, earning its place as a leader through its commitment to local ingredients, impeccable technique, and playful innovation.

Over the years, the Little Italy restaurant’s core team—founder Michael Rosen, Director of Operations Dan Pena, and Culinary Director Jon Sloan—has nurtured a culture of excellence while mentoring talented chefs who now lead kitchens locally and globally.

Fresh Leadership in the Kitchen

With decades of experience—including time as Executive Chef at Épicerie Boulud in New York and db Bistro & Oyster Bar in Singapore—Kinsella joins Culinary Director Jon Sloan to craft a menu that builds on Juniper and Ivy’s hallmark of ingredient-driven creativity.

Guests can look forward to new dishes showcasing Kinsella’s vision while continuing to highlight the finest offerings from local farmers, fishers, and ranchers.

Together, Kinsella and Sloan are kicking off a new chapter for this iconic Little Italy restaurant, promising a dining experience that’s as exciting and inventive as ever.

Juniper and Ivy's new executive chef Jonathan Kinsella

See you there!

Juniper and Ivy’s new Executive Chef Jonathan Kinsella is already making waves in the kitchen, so now’s the perfect time to revisit this impressive Little Italy restaurant. Located at 2228 Kettner Blvd, Juniper and Ivy serves dinner nightly, offering a dining experience that blends creativity, technique, and the freshest local ingredients.

Explore the menu and make your reservation here, or follow them on Instagram for a peek behind the scenes.

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
Celebrate the Craft festival at The Lodge at Torrey Pines
Celebrate the Craft is back for its 23rd year, and honestly, it just keeps getting better. This is The Lodge at Torrey Pines’ signature culinary...
World-Class Waves at Supergirl Surf Pro
Check out this week’s Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend and make your plans! Catch the action at the Super Girl Surf Festival,...
3rd Annual College of Taste Area
Discover hidden gems along El Cajon Boulevard at the Taste of College Area. Enjoy a variety of cuisines all in one delightful route.
top concerts in san diego this week
Here are the top concerts in San Diego this week! Catch Grammy-winning R&B star Ne-Yo, rising country singer Tucker Wetmore, the unforgettable live show of...
Jackalope Art Fair
Experience the vibrant jackalope artisan fair in Liberty Station with a diverse array of makers and an interactive butterfly garden.
MAKE After Hours
Join us for MAKE after hours, an evening pop-up featuring Afrobeat music, dance classes, and local culture in Normal Heights.
Recently Featured Restaurants
Zuma has spent nearly 25 years taking over the world – Hong Kong, Istanbul, Rome, Miami, Madrid, and more. Now they’re open in San Diego,...
Doug and Lara Hamm spent years traveling through the French Riviera, Greek Isles, and Amalfi Coast. By The Sea is what happened when they decided...
Little Italy has a new dinner spot, and it’s one that makes the whole evening feel like an occasion. Maranello just opened at 2101 Kettner...
Moniker General is coming downtown, and honestly, it makes all the sense in the world. The coffee and cocktail concept that helped shape Liberty Station...
Little Italy is getting a new coffee spot this summer, and it’s coming from one of the neighborhood’s most respected kitchens. Cloak & Petal –...
Downtown San Diego is getting exactly the kind of neighborhood spot it deserves. Pear Plum is an all-day café, specialty coffee shop, and wine bar...