CHEF MIN KIM JOINS AYYA HOSPITALITY GROUP AS PARTNER AND HEAD OF FOOD & BEVERAGE AND GLOBAL EXPANSION
Kim to Oversee Culinary Programs for AYYA Hospitality Brands Including Pine Bistro; Siempre, J.B.; Crust & Roux and More
AYYA Hospitality Group proudly welcomes Min Kim as Partner and Head of Food & Beverage and Global Expansion. In this role, he will oversee multiple AYYA culinary concepts including Pine Bistro, Crust & Roux, Thick & Thin Treat Bar and the forthcoming Siempre, J.B.
Kim’s journey spans the globe, leading kitchens in Michelin-starred and Forbes Five Star restaurants across Korea, Japan, Australia and China. He managed and oversaw multiple Michelin recognized restaurants in Macau with Wynn Resorts before joining Wynn Las Vegas, where his cuisine garnered widespread acclaim.
“We’re proud to welcome Min Kim to our team and bring his exceptional skills to AYYA Hospitality’s food & beverage concepts,” said Lowell Raven, Partner and Vice President of AYYA’s Global Operations and Brand Experience. “His mastery in the kitchen coupled with a deep understanding of our industry will propel AYYA Hospitality to new heights as we continue to craft distinctive and memorable experiences for our guests in Las Vegas and beyond.”
Kim said, “As an experienced chef, my 19-year journey has always been defined by a passion for culinary excellence and a relentless pursuit of innovation. Transitioning into entrepreneurship within the hospitality industry has always been my end goal, driven by a desire to create memorable experiences for guests beyond the boundaries of the kitchen and the white jacket. I am aligned with AYYA in our collective vision to create unforgettable dining experiences that exceed expectations. I have a deep appreciation for Las Vegas as a top culinary destination, and I look forward to contributing a fresh perspective to AYYA’s impressive collection of restaurants while continuing to expand the brand in innovative ways.”
As Head of Food & Beverage and Global Expansion for AYYA Hospitality Group, Kim will oversee and direct all aspects related to the food & beverage offerings within AYYA’s concepts. Through innovation, sustainability and a commitment to excellence, Kim aims to set new standards in the industry by going above and beyond with each individual venue.
Kim stated, “By leading a talented F&B team, I aim to curate spaces where every element, from ambiance and service to cuisine, harmonizes to tell an unforgettable story. It’s about cultivating the right culture, sharing passion, and pushing the boundaries of culinary artistry. This transition allows me to not only showcase my culinary skills but also to build a community that shares my vision of elevating hospitality to a true art form.”
AYYA’s Las Vegas F&B concepts include:
- Pine Bistro, a toast to the Mediterranean in Southern Highlands featuring elevated family style dishes, a Strip-caliber cocktail program and craft hookah inspired by the region’s flavor profiles;
- Siempre, J.B., a contemporary Mexican eatery set to spice up UnCommons this summer;
- Crust & Roux, a haven of gourmet pizza pies, pot pies and dessert pies, dedicated to reviving home-style comfort recipes through a skilled culinary lens in Town Square;
- Thick & Thin Treat Bar, a unique blend between a juice bar and ice cream parlor in Southern Highlands offering a range of smoothies, protein-based shakes, signature-blended ice cream bowls and more.
Kim spent years learning from the masters—first from his father, from whom he inherited his love of the restaurant industry, and later from legendary chefs in Japan who taught him to differentiate himself by being innovative and creative. From his mentors and his personal experience, Min has developed a world-class work ethic and brought traditional Japanese training and cuisine to Las Vegas.
Upon his arrival at Wynn Las Vegas, Min was soon recognized as a notable culinary pioneer in town with multiple notable accolades including the 50 Best Discovery list by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and Vegas 40 under 40 in 2023.
Chef Kim said, “It’s more than just a career choice for me; it’s life, and I am excited to embark on this beautiful journey of innovation, creativity and adventure.”
About AYYA Hospitality Group
Based in Las Vegas, AYYA Hospitality Group is a collective of entrepreneurs, creatives and visionaries who lead the industry in experiential hospitality. The AYYA team works together to deliver pinnacle brand experiences rooted in elevated service and quality products. AYYA’s brands excel through creating unforgettable moments for guests that resonate beyond each individual concept. In Las Vegas, AYYA’s concepts include Pine Bistro, IVI Performance, Thick & Thin Treat Bar, Crust & Roux and the upcoming Siempre, J.B. For more information, visit ayyahospitalitygroup.com.