DANA POINT, Calif. (SEPTEMBER 17, 2025) – Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club ushers in a new era of culinary excellence with the appointment of two acclaimed chefs to lead its renowned dining program. Michelin-starred Chef Steve Benjamin joins as director of culinary (executive chef), while Chef Nicole Encarnacion has been promoted to executive chef at Bourbon Steak Orange County, the resort’s signature steakhouse. Together, these two visionary talents will shape the future of the resort’s culinary identity, emphasizing refined technique, creativity, and timeless Waldorf service.
Chef Steve Benjamin brings with him a distinguished background rooted in French culinary tradition and Michelin-recognized excellence. A Paris native, he began his culinary career at age 14 and trained under the legendary Joël Robuchon. He was then hand-selected to open L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Paris and later served as executive chef at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, where the restaurant earned a coveted Michelin star under his leadership.
Over his career spanning nearly 25 years, Chef Benjamin has cultivated a reputation for technical precision, culinary innovation, and exceptional team leadership, training staff in Michelin standards of preparation and presentation. In addition to leading high-volume fine dining and banquet operations, he has developed and executed menus that balance culinary artistry with thoughtful business strategy. A Master Chef of France (Maître Cuisinier de France) since 2012 and a winner of Food Network’s “Chopped” in 2013, Chef Benjamin brings a global perspective and deep operational expertise across both back and front-of-house processes. He is a passionate mentor and advocate for developing strong kitchen culture and is known for fostering operational efficiency without compromising creativity or quality. In his role as director of culinary, Chef Benjamin will oversee all dining experiences across the resort, driving culinary innovation while mentoring the next generation of talent.
Further elevating the resort’s culinary talent, Chef Nicole Encarnacion steps into the role of executive chef at Bourbon Steak Orange County, where she will lead the day-to-day culinary operations of the acclaimed Michael Mina steakhouse concept. Originally from the Philippines, Chef Encarnacion brings more than 15 years of global luxury hospitality experience. A Le Cordon Bleu graduate, she has held culinary positions at The Langham Pasadena and Edelweiss Lodge in Bavaria and joined the Monarch Beach team in 2018. Most recently, she served as Chef de Cuisine at AVEO Table + Bar at the resort, where she was recognized for her strong leadership and passion for exceptional guest experiences.
In an industry historically underrepresented by female executive chefs, particularly within fine dining and steakhouse kitchens, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach continues to prioritize internal development and champion women in culinary leadership. Chef Encarnacion’s career, which led her through kitchens across Europe and ultimately to Waldorf Astoria, is a testament to that approach. Her path exemplifies the resort’s commitment to identifying exceptional talent, nurturing growth, and promoting from within. She credits her Filipino heritage and time abroad with shaping her appreciation for diverse cuisines, bold, cross-cultural flavor profiles and local sourcing – positioning Bourbon Steak for an exciting new chapter under her guidance.
“We are proud to welcome Chef Steve and congratulate Chef Nicole as we continue to elevate the culinary program at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach,” said George Munz, general manager, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club. “Their individual talents, global roots, and diverse experiences, combined with a steadfast dedication to excellence, will ensure our dining venues not only meet but exceed the expectations of today’s luxury traveler.”
Guests and members can look forward to a refreshed culinary program that honors both the spirit of Dana Point and the legacy of the Waldorf Astoria brand. From curated beachfront dining to immersive tasting experiences and elevated service at every touchpoint, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach continues to set the standard for refined coastal cuisine in Southern California.