Marea Beverly Hills, the celebrated coastal Italian restaurant from Altamarea Group, announces the appointment of Tim Lu as Executive Chef, further strengthening the restaurant’s culinary vision and continued commitment to refined hospitality, seasonality, and elevated coastal Italian cuisine.
“Tim brings an extraordinary level of culinary technique and experience to Marea Beverly Hills,” said Ahmass Fakahany, Founder & CEO of Altamarea Group. “Having been part of the Altamarea luxury dining program for years and most recently leading the kitchen at Marea Aspen, he has a deep understanding of the brand and its clients. Marea Brand Chef PJ Calapa and I are delighted to bring him to Beverly Hills as we continue evolving the Marea experience in Los Angeles and beyond.”
Chef Tim Lu joins Marea Beverly Hills following his most recent role as Chef de Cuisine of Marea Aspen, located in the St. Regis Aspen resort, where he oversaw the culinary program and brought a refined, seasonal perspective to the brand’s coastal Italian identity in an alpine setting.
Prior to Marea Aspen, Lu built a distinguished career across some of the country’s most celebrated culinary institutions, including Nobu57, Ai Fiori, Le Coucou, and Beckon. In 2022, he launched Noisette, his own French restaurant in Denver celebrating cuisine bourgeoise, which earned a Michelin Guide recommendation in the inaugural Colorado edition. A graduate of the French Culinary Institute in New York City, where he earned his Grande Diplôme in 2008, Lu’s background spans Michelin-recognized restaurants and award-winning kitchens nationwide.
At Ai Fiori, part of Altamarea Group, Lu contributed to the restaurant’s early success during its inaugural year, helping earn three stars from The New York Times and one Michelin star. He later served as Executive Sous Chef at Le Coucou, where the restaurant received numerous accolades, including a James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant, one Michelin star, and recognition on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list.
As Executive Chef of Marea Beverly Hills, Lu will oversee the restaurant’s culinary program under the direction of Marea Executive Chef and Brand Executive Chef, PJ Calapa, bringing his disciplined technique, global perspective, and thoughtful approach to seasonality to the kitchen.
“Marea has always represented a balance of precision, elegance, and hospitality,” said Chef Tim Lu. “I’m honored to join Marea Beverly Hills and continue building upon the restaurant’s celebrated foundation while introducing thoughtful seasonal expressions that reflect both the brand and the energy of Los Angeles.”
Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, Marea Beverly Hills is known for its refined interpretation of coastal Italian cuisine, exceptional seafood program, and sophisticated dining experience. Under Chef Lu’s leadership, guests can expect a continued emphasis on ingredient-driven cooking, seasonal evolution, and the culinary excellence that defines the Marea name.
Chef Lu’s arrival marks an exciting period for the restaurant, with forthcoming seasonal offerings and menu additions designed to complement Marea Beverly Hills’ signature dishes while further evolving its culinary experience.
Image courtesy of Marea Beverly Hills
