David Ruiz, acclaimed chef and James Beard winner, is named executive chef at Overland Park Convention Center, promising innovative, sustainable dining experiences.
OVERLAND PARK, KAN. – The Overland Park Convention Center announce the appointment of David Ruiz as the venue’s new executive chef. Chef Ruiz, a James Beard Foundation competition-winner and International Produce Associations Chef of the Year, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh, innovative approach to the dining experience at the convention center.
He joins the Overland Park Convention Center with an impressive culinary background. Chef Ruiz has honed his skills in award-winning restaurants in Aspen, San Jose, Yosemite, and Albuquerque, drawing inspiration from mentors like Chef Scott Baumann of the Bay Area and Boris Revilla of Albuquerque at the intersection of culture, creativity, and consistency.
“I am excited to bring my culinary expertise to the Overland Park Convention Center and create exceptional dining experiences for our guests by taking ordinary food and making it extraordinary,” said Chef Ruiz. “OPCC’s strong investment in its culinary operation and its alignment with my values of sourcing local produce and proteins were key factors in my decision to join. I look forward to incorporating this philosophy into our menus and branching out in a larger city.”
Throughout his career, Chef Ruiz has been recognized for his culinary talents on national platforms. In 2024, he was named the International Fresh Produce Association’s, Fine Dining Chef of the Year. His accolades also include winning the James Beard Blended Burger Contest in 2018, a competition created in an effort to expand into and recognize more sustainable foods via a partnership with the Mushroom Council. He was also the winner of Food Network’s “It’s CompliPlated” in 2022 and has been featured on shows like “Chopped” and “Guy Fieri’s Family Road Trip.”
Of Mexican and Jewish descent, Chef Ruiz’s culinary roots are inspired by summers at his grandmother’s northern California farm. A graduate of the California Culinary Academy, he is an active proponent of food education and the connection between food and farming.
“Chef Ruiz is a remarkable talent with a diverse and impressive culinary background,” said Jessica Corona, Director of Food and Beverage at the Overland Park Convention Center. “OPCC has always prioritized investing in our culinary operations because it’s the powerhouse behind our business and success. We are confident that his innovative approach and dedication to sustainability will greatly enhance our in-house offerings and leave a lasting impression on our clients.”
At the Overland Park Convention Center, Chef Ruiz will be responsible for elevating the menu and introducing new culinary concepts for high-profile banquets and catering events, ranging from small meetings to large galas of over 3,500 guests.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
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