The Mastermind Behind Monterey's Award-Winning Cuisine

Executive Chef Steven Patlan grew up in Firebaugh, California, where his love of cooking was ignited by his mother. Reflecting on his culinary journey, Chef Patlan recalls, "When I was 10 years old, standing on a kitchen stool beside my mom, I had my 'ah-ha' moment—I knew I was destined to become a chef." Encouraged by his mother and inspired by his surroundings, Patlan embraced his culinary path early on.

Chef Patlan’s journey began at the Institute of Technology in Clovis, California. After culinary school, he spent 12 years advancing to management roles and leading kitchens in country clubs, fine dining resorts, and casual to high-end venues. He ascended to new heights at the renowned Marché Bacchus in Las Vegas under Executive Chef Joseph Swan. He later refined his skills with banquet teams at Silverton Casino and crafted specialty dinners on a private yacht. Returning to the Monterey Peninsula in 2012, he joined Solaire Restaurant at Hotel Paradox as sous chef.

With an impressive resume that includes roles at The Inn at Spanish Bay, Quail Lodge & Golf Club, Sardine Factory, Ventana Big Sur, Wild Fish, Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro, and Executive Chef at Venus Spirits Cocktails & Kitchen in Aptos, Chef Patlan brings 17 years of expertise to Estéban Restaurant.

Chef Patlan is actively involved in philanthropic initiatives such as Meals on Wheels, Rancho Cielo, and the Prevedelli Farm Dinner in Watsonville each September. In his free time, you can catch him and his wife mountain biking and discovering new restaurants.