This is the fourth edition of a new regular feature, Chef’s Corner – shining the light on those who help shape Delaware North’s vast culinary team.
We recently caught up with Paul Lee, executive chef at Patina – the namesake restaurant of Patina Restaurant Group, which in May 2014 became part of Delaware North.
Located in the spectacular Walt Disney Concert Hall in downtown Los Angeles, the Patina Restaurant 
Group’s flagship restaurant expresses the highest culinary ideals of Patina Restaurant Group Founder and Chef Joachim Splichal. The only property in Los Angeles that is part of the exclusive Relais and Chateaux global fellowship pampers its guests with seasonal tasting menus, gourmet cheeses, caviar service, and an award-winning wine list. Patina's elegant al fresco dining, stylish late night cocktail bar and always-impeccable service define luxury dining on the U.S. West Coast.
Words that describe you
Quiet but determined. Sometimes stubborn.
Words that describe your food
I use all different ingredients around the world to execute dishes that fit Southern California dining. I am also making a transition from imitating to self-expressing.
Favorite moment at Patina Restaurant Group
Being able to travel to Spain and spend time at Martin Berasatagui (a restaurant that has received three Michelin stars since 2001). Or being able to represent the company to do an event with Glenmorangie (producers of a single-malt scotch) in Taiwan.
The challenges of being a chef at Patina
Creating food to keep older clientele comfortable, while also keeping younger clientele interested.
Your favorite food(s)
No favorites, but I love all major ethnic food – French, Italian, American, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Indian and Middle Eastern. I believe everything is good if it's done right – even junk food!
Your least favorite food(s)
Vegan or Gluten Free.
Cooking or other heroes
I idolize Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant for their dedication on the craft of basketball. It's very hard to be still so focused and dedicated after what they have achieved. I would like to do the same for my career.