Executive Chef

Gilbert LaurieRecently named as Top Chef of Huntington Beach, Executive Chef Gilbert Laurie brings over 23 years of hospitality experience, extensive knowledge, skills and fresh creativity to Pacific Hideaway. As Executive Chef, Gilbert is responsible for curating colorful, modern menus, inspired by Pacific flavors of Southeast Asia and Latin America while overseeing daily operations at the popular coastal restaurant located inside Kimpton Shorebreak Resort.

Chef Gilbert joined Pacific Hideaway in 2017 as Sous Chef and was quickly promoted to Executive Sous Chef. Prior to his role at Pacific Hideaway, he spent 11 years leading Opah Seafood Grille, where he aided in the successful growth of the restaurant group and provided leadership and direction.

Chef Gilbert began his journey as a culinary student and apprentice at a private club in Newport Beach. Seeking new inspiration, Gilbert ventured to Valencia, Spain where he worked at a two-star Michelin restaurant for one year before returning to Orange County. With his business knowledge combined with Latin and Californian coastal background, Chef Gilbert is dedicated to creating a vibrant and one-of-a-kind dining experience that pairs perfectly with the ocean breeze.

Lead bartender

jc drake

JC Drake, who most recently worked at the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach, has joined the Pacific Hideaway team as Lead Bartender. Before taking his seat behind the bar a little more than five years ago, he had more than 12 years of experience in the craft beer market. Since making the switch, JC has been able to improve his talents in building an in-depth understanding of the service sector, beverage programming, and perfecting an EPIC tropical style cocktail (his favorite to mix). When JC is not behind the bar, you can find him camping along the coast with his Australian Shepard Jet, or having an adventure filled day at a theme park.