wine & culinary arts festival

chefs

John Brand
Chef Brand brings more than a dozen years of culinary experience at luxury properties to Las Canarias and Ostra. A Midwest native, Brand was raised on a farm tending livestock and nurturing gardens and as a result brings his passion for locally sourced ingredients to his position as executive chef at the Omni La Mansion del Rio and Mokara Hotel and Spa. His vision for Las Canarias introduces a broader variety of Hill Country game; such as buffalo flank steak (a signature Brand dish) and oxtail. While a wholesome 'lifestyle cuisine' approach is part and parcel to the menu at Ostra. Brand's enthusiasm for the rich history and vibrant culinary scene of San Antonio is captured in his menus at both properties, continuing to delight locals and visitors alike.