With almost 10 years of culinary experience, Chef Umit’s passion for the culinary arts has taken him from his homeland of Turkey to Michelin-rated kitchens around the world. As Executive Chef, Chef Umit oversees all functions of the main kitchen, including jer-ne restaurant + bar.

Fostering the belief that “life is simple, keep it simple,” Chef Umit created jer-ne’s menu as a foundation to continuously build on. “I am inspired by Mediterranean and French cuisine since they have played a strong role in my background. I love to experiment and combine this cuisine with elements of North African, Indian and Asian cooking styles,” said Chef Kaygusuz.

Having a Grand Diploma from Cordons Bleus and a degree in architecture, Chef Umit is a proven artist in constructing dishes to delight any palate. He creates every dish with love, respect, and knowledge, a trait attributed to his grandmother, who was also a chef. He enjoys travelling to the Far East and African countries, wine tasting, cheeses, and different types of pâtés and cured meats.

Joining jer-ne restaurant + bar from his hometown of Barcelona, Spain, Chef de Cuisine, Javier Bravo brings a rich background of culinary arts. From Restaurant Chef of Marina at Hotel Arts Barcelona to Sous Chef in Michelin Star Restaurants, Chef Javier has nearly 15 years of experience in some of Europe’s top kitchens.

Native to Spain and a speaker of Spanish, Catalan and English, Chef Javier plans to incorporate his love for traditional Spanish-Mediterranean cuisine with a variety of California’s finest local and organic offerings. “Cooking alongside my Grandmother back in Barcelona has given me the inspiration to carry the essence of traditional Spanish cuisine into the new California delights on jer-ne’s menu. I’m looking forward to incorporating al fresco dining and tapas into the restaurant’s new plates.”

Chef Javier Bravo joined the culinary team of jer-ne restaurant + bar in early March 2012 and has since added his authentic Spanish-Mediterranean flare to every dish. With a passion for cooking and a love for locally-grown ingredients, Chef Javier will continue to bring new delights to The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey.