InterContinental Mark Hopkins San Francisco Welcomes New Culinary Leadership
The InterContinental® Mark Hopkins San Francisco is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Christian Luxton as its new Executive Chef and John McDaniel as the hotel's new Director of Food and Beverage.
Chef Christian Luxton - Executive Chef
Chef Christian Luxton brings more than a decade of experience in restaurant and hotel management, with expertise in food and labor budget management and leading high-performing culinary teams. Known for his innovative approach to menu development and operational efficiency, he is passionate about delivering exceptional dining experiences and driving success in the hospitality industry.
In his new role, Chef Christian will oversee all culinary operations, ensuring the highest standards of quality and service. His responsibilities include developing creative menus for the hotel's restaurants, banquets, and special events, as well as managing business operations, inventory control, and staff scheduling.
Previously, he served as executive chef at Left Bank Brasserie, where he created daily specials that earned high praise from guests while maintaining financial targets. He also served as Chef de Cuisine at Rollati Restaurant, where he helped launch a new dining concept. His experience includes two tenures at the Shattuck Hotel in Berkeley, where he revitalized its food and beverage program post-COVID. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for crafting seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients.
Beyond the kitchen, Chef Christian is a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, which he also teaches. He is actively involved with the Sprouts Program, mentoring high school students interested in culinary careers. He also enjoys cooking for his 16-year-old dog, Rexx, who has a refined palate for handmade pasta.
He studied biological sciences at the University of Rhode Island.
John McDaniel - Director of Food & Beverage
John McDaniel brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in food and beverage, specializing in operations, profitability, and team development. He is known for enhancing large-scale hospitality operations through strategic initiatives that improve efficiency and guest satisfaction.
At the InterContinental Mark Hopkins, John will oversee multiple teams, kitchens, and dining outlets, catering to up to 500 guests. He will work closely with the finance team to set and refine budgets, drive revenue, and foster a positive, collaborative work environment. He is dedicated to ensuring a seamless and elevated guest experience through strong communication and service excellence.
Before joining the hotel, John was Director of Food and Beverage at the Clift Royal Sonesta, where he helped generate $2.5 million in revenue while revitalizing the hotel's culinary operations. He previously led food and beverage operations at the Holiday Inn Golden Gateway and played a key role in testing and implementing brand-mandated breakfast and dinner programs at Holiday Inn Express Fisherman's Wharf.
Originally from New England, John splits his time between San Francisco and Camp Meeker, a small community in Sonoma County, where he serves on the Camp Meeker Recreation and Park District Board of Directors. He enjoys hiking with his dog, Mike, as well as reading history, visiting museums, gardening, and cooking for friends and family.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from Bridgewater State University in Massachusetts.
For more information on the InterContinental Mark Hopkins, Chef Christian Luxton, or John McDaniel, please contact us.
With its rich legacy of impeccable hospitality and grand architectural style, the InterContinental® Mark Hopkins San Francisco is a beloved landmark and a quintessential San Franciscan experience. Its location at the crest of celebrated Nob Hill combined with historic charm, modern amenities, and breathtaking views make this premier hotel one of the city's most sought-after destinations for luxury accommodations, meetings, weddings, and Bay Area exploring.
Offering 383 guestrooms, including 33 suites, all rooms face outward, boasting spectacular views of the city or bay. The hotel's six specialty suites are reminiscent of a fine home or estate, with each furnished in a unique style, filled with luxury appointments and original art representing the city's diverse cultural heritage. Crowning the historic building is the legendary Top of the Mark, a sky-lounge famed for its mesmerizing views of the everchanging City skyline and Bay. The InterContinental Mark Hopkins was named one of the Top 5 Hotels in San Francisco in the Travel + Leisure 2022 World's Best Awards. It is also ShareCare VERIFIED™ with Forbes Travel Guide and holds a AAA Inspector's Best in Housekeeping badge in recognition of the hotel's stringent sanitizing and cleaning protocols.
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