Gary Obligacion is the General Manager of El Encanto -- the legendary luxury hideaway perched in the hills of Santa Barbara’s American Riviera. With more than four decades of experience in the hospitality and restaurant industries, Mr. Obligacion brings a deep-rooted passion for service, a track record of operational excellence, and a personal connection to California.

Mr. Obligacion’s distinguished career began in 1984 at Alice Waters’ iconic Chez Panisse while he was attending the University of California, Berkeley. He has since held senior leadership roles across luxury hospitality, including The Alinea Group in Chicago, where he helped guide the restaurant to recognition on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants lists and the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Restaurant. As General Manager of Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur, he oversaw operations while the property was recognized as Travel + Leisure’s #1 Resort in California.

He has also shaped food and beverage strategy for Aparium Hotel Group, debuting nine new restaurant concepts across the U.S., and provided executive leadership for Auberge Resorts Collection properties such as Mauna Lani in Hawaii, The Madeline in Telluride, and Stanly Ranch in Napa. 

“In hospitality, it’s not the value of the coin that’s most important, it’s the warmth between the hands exchanging it,” says Mr. Obligacion. “After more than 40 years in luxury hospitality, I’ve learned that the most valued service is never about perfection alone — it’s about connection, joy, and even a bit of whimsy.”

PARTICIPATING EVENTS:

The Synergy Series Lunch with Gavin Kaysen & Friends

Food and Wine Seminar: Afternoon Decadence, The Heavenly Desserts of Eunji Lee & Sweet Wines