The Lodge at Torrey Pines Gets a Fresh Culinary Chapter With Executive Chef Eric Sakai

Few spots in San Diego carry the kind of culinary prestige that The Lodge at Torrey Pines has built over the years. So when a new Executive Chef steps in, it’s worth paying attention – and Chef Eric Sakai is someone worth getting excited about.

A Michelin-Trained Chef Brings His Vision to La Jolla

Sakai arrives with serious credentials. Michelin-trained and deeply rooted in the philosophy of letting quality ingredients do the talking, he’s stepping into the role with a clear sense of purpose: to honor what The Lodge has always stood for while pushing its culinary identity forward.

His vision centers on the kind of California cuisine The Lodge has long been celebrated for – seasonal, crafted with care, and deeply connected to local producers. Think farm-to-table not as a buzzword, but as a genuine commitment baked into every dish.

A Whole New Team in the Kitchen

Sakai isn’t coming in alone. He’s joined by two new chefs who are equally exciting additions to the lineup. Owen Beatty takes over as Chef de Cuisine at A.R. Valentien, one of San Diego’s most beloved fine dining rooms, while Michael Moritz steps into the same role at The Grill at Torrey Pines.

Together, the three form a culinary team that feels both fresh and well-suited to the Lodge’s elevated standards. It’s a meaningful moment for one of San Diego’s most iconic dining destinations.

What This Means for the Table

For those of us who love a long, unhurried dinner with views of the Torrey Pines golf course and the Pacific in the distance, this news is a reason to revisit – or visit for the first time. The Lodge has always been a place where the setting and the food feel equally considered, and this new chapter looks to deepen that experience.

Whether it’s a special occasion or simply a good excuse to treat ourselves, now feels like the right time to get a reservation on the books.

See you there!

Head to The Lodge at Torrey Pines to explore menus and snag a reservation with the new team at the helm. This is a culinary lineup worth experiencing firsthand, and with a setting like Torrey Pines, any excuse to go works just fine.

📍 11480 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla
ℹ️ Visit their website here for more details

See you there, San Diego!