Best of People & Personalities 2026
Meet the winners of Ranch & Coast’s Best of People & Personalities 2026
TV Personality
Kimberly Hunt, ABC 10News
Raoul Martinez, Fox 5 San Diego
Radio Personality
Ben & Woods, 97.3 The Fan
Jagger & Kristi, Magic 92.5
Athlete
Manny Machado, San Diego Padres
Fernando Tatis Jr., San Diego Padres
Executive Chef
Chef Jason Knibb, Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar
Brandon Sloan, Pendry
Bartender
Irving Gonzalez, Snake Oil Cocktail Co.
Luis Tovar Zarate, Estancia La Jolla Resort & Spa
Equal parts creativity, craftsmanship, and hospitality go into the glass when Luis Tovar Zarate is behind the bar at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa. Known for inventive cocktails showcasing seasonal ingredients, house-made elements, and artful presentation, Zarate has also contributed his talents to Estancia’s Remedy Lounge, where the beverage experience takes a wellness-minded approach with thoughtfully crafted, functional drinks. His ability to bring imagination and intention to what he pours — whether a spirited cocktail or wellness-inspired creation — raises the bar in the very best sense. estancialajolla.com M.P.
Restaurateur
David Cohn, Cohn Restaurant Group
Busalacchi Restaurant Group
Sommelier
Chris Russo, Nine-Ten Restaurant & Bar
Dan Cools, Juniper & Ivy
Maître d’
Marko Dedic, Mille Fleurs
Hadrian Paquet, Bistro du Marché
Philanthropist/Volunteer
James Mutter
Sheila WirickLocal Nonprofit
Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA
Rancho Coastal Humane Society
Featured image —
Editor’s Pick, Three Star Distinction: Chef William Bradley
William Bradley is Chef/Director of Addison by William Bradley, Southern California’s first three-Michelin-star restaurant. Since 2006, Bradley has showcased California Gastronomy through a precise, refined approach celebrating regional ingredients and influences, earning global recognition for Addison and his San Diego hometown. Addison is among fewer than 100 Relais & Châteaux restaurants worldwide and the first and only San Diego restaurant honored by La Liste. In 2026, it debuted at No. 31 on North America’s 50 Best Restaurants, another first for San Diego. Committed to cultivating the next generation of culinary talent, Bradley has served on the Ment’or Culinary Council for the Bocuse d’Or Team USA since 2013. addisondelmar.com M.P.
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