Name: Steve W.
Position: Executive Sous Chef
Hotel: The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

Some people leave their mark quietly, and some do so in full‑blown color and flavor. The latter feels more accurate for Steve, Executive Sous Chef at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel, who is also a passionate (and very talented) graffiti artist. 

If you’re wondering how this genuine artisan not only navigates but truly thrives in this duality, we are too. And he explains it better than we ever could. “The Ritz‑Carlton culture is built on empowerment and inclusivity. When you are trusted and supported, creativity becomes part of how you show up every day,” says Steve.

Keep reading to see how, when you’re empowered to bring your whole self to work, that magic comes to life.

When guests experience your food or your art, what do you hope they feel? 

I hope they feel a quiet moment of connection. Comfort, curiosity, or even surprise. Whether it is a dish or a piece of art, I want it to evoke emotion without the need to know who created it. If something stays with them, even subtly, that feels like success to me.

Do you remember when graffiti first caught your attention?

Growing up in Los Angeles, graffiti surrounded me. I was drawn to the mystery of how these pieces appeared overnight, almost like magic. Over time, I came to appreciate the subculture behind it. The styles, the color combinations, the energy. Eventually, it stopped being something I admired and became a form of expression that felt natural, almost necessary.

“When you are trusted and supported, creativity becomes part of how you show up every day.”

steeve w. – Executive Sous Chef

What is your favorite dish to cook? 

I do not have a single favorite, but I love cooking seafood. The passion comes from childhood memories of fishing and a lifelong connection to the ocean. There is something honest and grounding about seafood, it keeps you humble as a cook.

Do you see similarities between graffiti and cooking?

Choosing a color scheme for a piece is a lot like choosing ingredients for a dish. How they complement one another, how they contrast, and how they look together. Both require balance, intention, and rhythm.

How does working at The Ritz-Carlton challenge you creatively?

It challenges me to be modern, sophisticated, and polished, while still finding room for a little edge. It pushes me to refine my creativity and think about how it fits into a luxury environment where every detail matters.

Your favorite part of your role?

Being part of a team dedicated to excellence. Working alongside people who push to be better, not just for themselves, but for each other and for our guests

What would you say to someone who wants a job like yours?

Do what you really want to do and do not settle. Passion will take you places, but only if you are honest with yourself about where you want to go.

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