Paso Robles hotel promotes new executive chef
Casey McMinn joined the hotel as chef de cuisine before its August 2025 opening
Casey McMinn joined the hotel as chef de cuisine before its August 2025 opening– The Ava Hotel Paso Robles has promoted Casey McMinn to executive chef, placing him in charge of culinary operations for the property’s dining venues, banquets, and catering services.
In his new role, McMinn will oversee EMRE, Esperanza on the Rooftop, and Pine Street Bistro, as well as banquet and catering operations.
McMinn joined the hotel as chef de cuisine before its August 2025 opening and has helped shape the property’s culinary program.
EMRE was concepted by local chef Julien Asseo, owner of Les Petites Canailles and S’Aranella in Paso Robles, and former executive chef of the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Guy Savoy in Las Vegas. The restaurant features a menu inspired by Asseo’s French roots and the coastal regions of the Mediterranean.
As executive chef, McMinn will continue to lead the kitchen with support from Asseo.
Before joining The Ava Hotel, McMinn served as chef de cuisine at several restaurants, including State Bird Provisions in San Francisco and The Hatch Rotisserie & Bar in Paso Robles.
A former paramedic, McMinn brings more than a decade of culinary experience to the position.
