Centerplate, Sodexo Announce New Executive Chef for the San Diego Convention Center
SAN DIEGO, Calif. (June 9, 2021) – Centerplate, a Sodexo company and the leading hospitality partner to North America’s premier entertainment venues and convention centers, today announced Sufi Karaien as the new Executive Chef for the San Diego Convention Center (SDCC), beginning this month. Karaien previously served as SDCC's Senior Executive Sous Chef under Executive Chef Daryl O’Donnell.
"This is a dream role for me. I love our team, our city and the events we execute for our loyal clientele here in San Diego. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to step into this leadership position and continue to develop new and creative approaches to catered experiences that truly reflect the thriving local culinary scene,” Karaien said.
Since joining Centerplate in 2017, Karaien has helped lead food and beverage service for countless receptions, festivals, plated dinners and community events. Catering multi-course meals for tens of thousands of guests requires a special blend of culinary and managerial skills, and Chef Sufi ensures a careful attention to detail every step of the way.
“Sufi has built a strong rapport with our employees, partners and clientele through his excellent work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to supporting extraordinary events,” said Bobby Ramirez, Centerplate and Sodexo’s General Manager. “His emphasis on ingredient sourcing and local flavors will continue to highlight the best of the San Diego region and promote sustainability—building on the successful foundation that Chef Daryl established here."
Daryl O’Donnell, also known as “Chef D,” worked at Centerplate for 22 years, serving as Executive Chef since 2013. He moved to Tennessee this month to reside closer to his family.
"I have been proud to be a San Diegan and represent the San Diego Convention Center for more than two decades. I’ll miss the sushi, tacos, the views of the Pacific Ocean and our longtime client partners.” O’Donnell said. “After supporting hundreds of meetings and conventions, and then serving the emergency shelters in our building during the pandemic, I leave with great pride for the levels of service, teamwork and community spirit we established here.”
