Chef John Brand has taken over as vice president of culinary operations for San Antonio’s Hotel Emma, following the recent departure of previous culinary director Geronimo Lopez, officials with the a Michelin Two-Key property said Monday.
In his new position, Brand will oversee the culinary vision and hospitality strategy across Emma Hospitality Group, which includes Supper, Sternewirth, Larder and future restaurant and bar concepts tied to the historic Pearl property.
Brand brings a longstanding connection to Hotel Emma and Pearl. He was part of the hotel’s original opening team in 2015, serving as the first chef and culinary director, according to officials with the hospitality operation.
In the years since, Brand has continued to shape Pearl’s culinary landscape, most recently as director of culinary endeavors at restaurant-development group Potluck, whose Pearl properties include Best Quality Daughter and the recently shuttered Carriqui.
“Returning to Hotel Emma feels like coming back to the kitchen where it all began — where we set out to prove that San Antonio could define its own standard of world-class hospitality through food, craft and place,” Brand said in a statement. “Hotel Emma and Pearl have always been at the heart of this city’s culinary identity, and as the destination continues to earn global recognition, it’s a privilege to help lead what comes next.”
One of Brand’s central focuses will be the continued evolution of Hotel Emma’s culinary programming, including the reintroduction of Supper as a cornerstone of the Pearl dining experience. The restaurant’s next chapter will emphasize seasonality, local partnerships and a strong sense of place, while remaining integrated into the hotel’s overall guest experience.
Beyond the dining room, Brand will prioritize kitchen leadership and team development, with an emphasis on mentorship, collaboration and cultivating the next generation of culinary talent across Emma Hospitality Group.
“My focus is on honoring the producers, makers and teams who built this community,” Brand said, “and on shaping thoughtful, consistent food and beverage experiences that reflect the soul of Hotel Emma.”
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