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
things to do in san diego this weekend
Check out this week’s Things to Do in San Diego This Weekend and make your plans! Browse incredible local artists at ArtWalk Liberty Station, support...
top concerts in san diego this week
Here are the top concerts in San Diego this week! Our music scene is in full swing, with unforgettable performances from some of today’s biggest...
North Park Putt-oberfest
Mini golf and bar hopping in one event? North Park really did that. Putt-Oberfest is back, and it’s exactly as fun as it sounds –...
Guest List Volume 001 exhibit
Guest List Volume 001 is turning Good Night John Boy into a contemporary gallery for one night only, showcasing original work from 15+ women artists...
Little Shop of Horrors is turning 40, and Balboa Theatre is celebrating the only way that makes sense: with a screening hosted by the woman...
Gillie's Auto Lounge
Join the fun at Gillie's Auto Lounge events this summer! Experience the Cars & Coffee series for car enthusiasts in San Diego.
Recently Featured Restaurants
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...
Something genuinely intriguing opened along the 101 in Encinitas, and it’s not giving much away. Anigma is a new hidden cocktail bar from the owners...
À L’ouest San Diego
TRUST Restaurant Group just opened À L’ouest, their 13th restaurant and most ambitious project to date, on the prominent corner of 30th and University in...