Benjamin Martinek

The Climb

Precision in a large-house setting is the throughline of Benjamin Martinek’s early work at Montage Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, California. As Executive Sous Chef, then Head Chef at Studio at Montage Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, California, he worked in roles that demanded discipline, consistency, and control at the pass. Since 2023, that operational range has carried into Culinary Director work at Pendry Newport Beach and The Elwood Club. Benjamin Martinek’s remit there is less about a single dining room than about setting standards across two properties and keeping the kitchen’s tone clear from the top down.

Today

Since 2023, he has served as Culinary Director of Pendry Newport Beach and The Elwood Club in Newport Beach, California. Benjamin Martinek framed the move this way: "This role presents a singular chance to curate distinctive culinary experiences. The Elwood Club’s Southern California essence, combined with Pendry’s ethos, will translate into cuisine emphasizing fresh, local ingredients."

In Their Words “This role presents a unique chance to curate culinary experiences. The Elwood Club’s Southern California essence, combined with Pendry’s ethos, will translate into cuisine emphasizing fresh, local ingredients.”