They are accomplished chefs in their own right, and are now being recognized in the private club and resort industry.
Our Assistant Director of Culinary Greg Guevarra was recently named a Class of 2026 40 Under 40 Honoree by Club + Resort Chef. This list recognizes young, outstanding culinary talent in the club and resort industry.
For Chef Guevarra, the recognition marks what he calls “the biggest milestone in my career thus far,” a reflection of both his personal journey and his impact on the club culinary space.
What makes his approach distinctive is a leadership style rooted in people first. He has built his reputation on fostering communication, collaboration, and respect, while prioritizing mentorship and clear expectations within his team. This commitment to culture has helped shape an energized kitchen environment where growth and accountability go hand in hand.
Chef Guevarra’s path to the club industry wasn’t traditional. He notes that he didn’t grow up working in clubs or resorts, but credits his experience at Desert Mountain as transformative — an opportunity that reshaped both his career and perspective.
That perspective is deeply influenced by his upbringing. Raised in a Filipino-American family in Oklahoma, Guevarra developed an early appreciation for the role food plays in storytelling and connection. For him, cuisine is more than presentation — it’s about shared experience. As he reflects, “food is the gateway to heart and home,” a philosophy that continues to guide his work today.
This mindset carries into his culinary ethos here at Desert Mountain, where simple, authentic, and healthy dishes are valued just as much as innovation. Guevarra emphasizes that “happy cooks make good food,” underscoring his belief that a positive kitchen culture ultimately translates to exceptional member experiences.
As a 40 Under 40 honoree, Chef Guevarra represents the next generation of club culinary leadership — one that blends operational excellence with emotional intelligence, and technical skill with genuine hospitality. At Desert Mountain, his influence continues to elevate not only the cuisine, but the culture behind it.
Click here to read the full profile done by Club + Resort Chef. Learn more about the dining experience you can find right here at Desert Mountain.
