Joachim Splichal
Joachim Splichal | |
|---|---|
| Born | Spaichingen, Germany |
| Occupation | Celebrity chef |
| Known for | Patina restaurant, Pinot restaurant brand, Patina Restaurant Group |
Joachim Splichal is a celebrity chef operating out of Los Angeles, California. He received the title of "Best California Chef" from the James Beard Foundation in 1991 and was honored with induction into their "Who's Who of Food & Beverage in America" in 1995. Splichal is widely recognized for his upscale dining establishment Patina located at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, as well as for his Pinot restaurant brand and leadership of the Patina Restaurant Group.
Early life
Splichal was born and grew up in Spaichingen, Germany. His hospitality career began at age 18, with roles in hotels throughout Canada, Morocco, Israel, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland. In his early twenties, he completed saucier training at the Michelin-starred La Bonne Auberge in Antibes, France. By 23, he advanced to sous chef under Jacques Maximin at the Chantecler restaurant within the Hotel Negresco in Nice. During this mentorship, Splichal received multiple culinary honors, including recognition as the "Youngest and Most Creative Chef" by the Cercle Epicurean Society.
Culinary experience in the U.S.
In 1981, Splichal relocated to the United States to serve as Executive Chef at Los Angeles’ Regency Club. Subsequently, he held positions at Seventh Street Bistro and founded Max Au Triangle. Alongside his wife Christine—an expert in international business—he established Patina in Hollywood in 1989. The venue moved to the Walt Disney Concert Hall in 2003 and was awarded a Michelin star in 2007. Patina permanently closed its doors in 2020. From 1994 until its closure, it consistently earned the distinguished Wine Spectator Grand Award.