Marisi in La Jolla Has a New Executive Chef and the Kitchen is in Great Hands

La Jolla’s Marisi has a new face leading the kitchen, and it’s a name worth knowing. The Italian hearth-driven restaurant has appointed Kaitlyn Smith as Executive Chef. She brings a depth of experience and a genuine passion for seasonally inspired Italian cooking to one of the city’s most beloved dining destinations.

Marisi in La Jolla new executive chef Kaitlyn Smith

A Culinary Background Built on Italian Roots

Smith arrives at Marisi with over a decade of experience in seasonal, Italian-influenced cuisine. Most recently, she served as Chef de Cuisine at Wildland. In addition, her career has taken her through some seriously well-regarded kitchens – including Pitfire Artisan Pizza, Scopa Italian Roots, and Rose Café.

She also helmed the kitchen as Executive Chef at Salt Fish House in Northern California. Moreover, she worked alongside acclaimed Chef Eric Bost at Auburn, his lauded Los Angeles debut.

What to Expect on the Menu

Smith’s approach at Marisi is one of evolution rather than overhaul. She plans to introduce gradual seasonal updates – particularly across the antipasti and hearth-cooked entrées. At the same time, she will keep the restaurant’s elevated handmade pasta program firmly intact.

Her focus is on thoughtful sourcing and restraint, letting quality ingredients do the talking.

That kind of philosophy fits right in at a restaurant built around a live fire hearth. In particular, this is where technique and simplicity go hand in hand.

A Strong Team All Around

Smith steps into a kitchen supported by some serious beverage talent. Beau du Bois, formerly of Roma Norte and The Restaurant at Meadowood, leads as VP of Bar + Spirits across Marisi and Puesto.

Sommelier Chris Plaia is credentialed through the Court of Master Sommeliers. With past experience at Zuni Café, Central Kitchen, and Flour + Water, he rounds out a front-of-house team that matches the kitchen’s ambitions.

A New Chapter for a La Jolla Favorite

For those of us who already have a soft spot for Marisi, this appointment feels like a natural next step. And for anyone who hasn’t made it out to La Jolla to check it out yet, this is a good reason to get a reservation on the books.