Kings Island Adds New Executive Chef & Restaurant for 2023 season

New Executive Chef Joseph Perez will lead Kings Island’s culinary experiences at Kings Island. He previously served as the Executive Chef at Ameristar Casino and Hotel in Kansas City, Missouri.

“I’m excited to join the talented Food and Beverage team here at Kings Island and looking forward to helping the park continue to grow its menu options with fresh, locally sourced items,” Perez said. “I want families and friends visiting the park to be able to gather together around a table, have an excellent dining experience, and make lasting Kings Island memories.” Mike Koontz, Kings Island vice president, and general manager state “Our guests continue to tell us that the park’s culinary offering is such an important part of their visit to Kings Island. Our reputation as a place where they can come together and enjoy unique food offerings and traditional amusement park favorites is in good hands with Chef Perez.”

The park’s previous Executive Chef, James Major, will continue to be involved in Kings Island’s food and beverage program in his new role as a regional chef for the park’s parent company, Cedar Fair Entertainment, where he’ll oversee multiple parks. Kings Island also adds Grain & Grill to the park’s restaurant lineup for the 2023 season. The new fast-casual dining location will feature Eastern European and Mediterranean flavors. Fresh, healthier options will include grilled and rotisserie meats like Moroccan Chicken, Glazed Pork Shoulder, Shrimp Skewers, and fresh seasonal sides. Select menu items will be included in the park’s dining plans.

KICentral and its members are excited to see the new tastes Chef Joseph Perez brings to the park.  Adding Grain & Grill adds more value to the meal plans. This new location will also allow Chef Perez to expand his talents with the Kings Island culinary team.  Located on International Street next to Starbucks®, Grain & Grill will feature indoor dining with views of the Royal Fountain. The restaurant will open in the Spring.

Additional discussions about the additions can be found here: https://kicentral.com/forums/index.php?/topic/46118-grain-and-grill-new-for-2023