Oak + Violet Named New Executive Leadership
Chef Joseph Humphrey and manager Kaitlin Mitza have joined the Menlo Park restaurant at the Park James Hotel.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Hospitality
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Oak + Violet at the Park James Hotel in Menlo Park has appointed Joseph Humphrey as its new executive chef. Kaitlin Mitza has also joined the establishment as the new food and beverage manager.
Why it matters
The leadership changes coincide with a visual refresh of the restaurant space led by Parisa O'Connell Studio to realign the dining experience. These updates aim to integrate seasonal ingredients and locally inspired cocktails into the guest offerings.
The restaurant currently serves dinner Monday through Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., while the associated cafe offers coffee starting at 4:30 a.m. and meals beginning at 6:30 a.m. daily.
The players
Joseph Humphrey
He is the new executive chef at Oak + Violet who previously earned Michelin stars at Meadowood and Murray Circle.
Kaitlin Mitza
She has been appointed as the new food and beverage manager for the restaurant.
Parisa O'Connell Studio
This design firm was responsible for completing the recent aesthetic renovation of the restaurant interior.
The details
The updated menu at Oak + Violet now features a selection of ingredients highlighting the transition from late summer to early autumn. Additionally, the venue has debuted a new cocktail list that draws direct conceptual inspiration from various local landmarks.
Timeline
October 2018 marked the opening of both the Park James Hotel and the Oak + Violet restaurant.
In 2008, Joseph Humphrey previously launched the Murray Circle restaurant at Cavallo Point Lodge.
Market Landscape
The addition of an experienced executive chef signals a broader push by regional boutique hotels to capture local luxury dining market share. This shift positions Oak + Violet to compete more aggressively against established upscale establishments in the Menlo Park area.
Patrons visiting the restaurant can expect a refreshed menu focused on seasonal transition ingredients and themed cocktails. Guests should note the current dinner service hours remain fixed from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
The takeaway
The appointment of veteran leadership reflects a strategic effort to elevate the dining profile within the Park James Hotel. Local residents looking for seasonal cuisine can now access updated offerings that emphasize regional identity.
Further reading
For more background on the local dining scene, visit the Hospitality section.
More information
View the complete menu and property details at the Park James Hotel website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by San Jose Mercury News.
Live Poll
Would you choose to dine at a restaurant specifically because of a celebrity chef's involvement?
