About the Chef Jesus De Leon

Chef Jesus De Leon’s passion for cooking has been a lifelong journey that began at the age of two when he expressed to his mother his dream of becoming a chef and owning a local taco restaurant. Growing up in a home where food was the heart of family gatherings, he learned the art of cooking from his mother and grandmother. Their influence has shaped his culinary style, blending traditional Mexican flavors with the bold techniques and tastes of Asian cuisine. This fusion is both innovative and deeply rooted in his heritage.

Now, as the Executive Chef at the Hyatt Regency Valencia, Chef De Leon brings over 15 years of culinary expertise to his work. A proud graduate of the Culinary Arts program at Los Angeles Mission College, he honed his skills in diverse kitchens across Southern California, continually pushing boundaries while honoring his roots. His cuisine celebrates the beauty of cultural convergence, using fresh, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that tell a story with every bite.

Outside of the kitchen, Chef De Leon is an avid golfer and sports enthusiast who cherishes the time spent with his wife and two children. He believes that maintaining balance-in both life and cooking-is essential for creating memorable experiences, not just for his guests, but for his family as well. For Chef De Leon, food is more than a career; it represents a lifelong passion and a means of connecting with those around him.