Chef and restaurateur Charbel Hayek brings his signature Mediterranean artistry to San Clemente with the debut of ILYA on December 4, 2025. Known for his dynamic, modern take on Mediterranean cuisine at Los Angeles favorites Ladyhawk and Laya – and for his celebrated appearances on Top Chef – Hayek blends the relaxed elegance of Orange County with the sun-drenched flavors of the Mediterranean coast.
“Orange County is home to some of the most beautiful coastal communities, including San Clemente,” said Hayek in a statement. “This incredible city drew me in – it is fresh, lively and welcoming – reflecting everything I love about coastal dining. I’m grateful for the opportunity to share my vision and passion with this vibrant community.”
FROM BEIRUT TO LOS ANGELES TO SAN CLEMENTE
Known for his charismatic creativity and deep culinary heritage, Chef Charbel Hayek has captivated audiences and diners alike through his acclaimed restaurants, Ladyhawk and Laya
With ILYA, Hayek continues his evolution – this time focusing on Western Mediterranean cuisine, inspired by the vibrant coastlines of Southern France, Spain, Italy, and coastal North Africa, infused with California’s seasonal bounty and a subtle nod to his Lebanese roots.
A CULINARY ODE TO THE WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN
The ILYA menu opens with a selection of mezedes designed for sharing: Baked Feta with sourdough, Patata Bravas with smoked paprika, Escargot with herb butter, and Fried Calamari with squid ink cocktail sauce. The ILYA Mezze Platter showcases house-made hummus, muhammara, babaghanouj, and warm, freshly baked pita – a Mediterranean staple elevated with Californian freshness.
Wood-fired and grilled dishes take center stage: Grilled Tiger Prawns with black lime butter, and Australian Rack of Lamb with ancho and chorizo butter highlight the region’s love for flame and flavor. Seafood lovers will find depth in the dry-aged King Salmon with sauce vierge, and Mussels with tarragon curry, while pasta selections reflect coastal Italian sensibilities – from Lobster Spaghetti in bisque, to Spicy Rigatoni with Calabrian chilis.
Seasonal produce drives cold dishes such as the Truffle Market Salad, Endive & Goat Cheese Salad, and a bright Greek Salad with ripe tomatoes, feta, and olives. At ILYA, the Western Mediterranean is more than a region – it’s a rhythm of fire, sea, and simplicity, reimagined through the lens of Hayek’s global culinary journey.
“This menu captures my journey – from my roots in Lebanon to my time in France and Los Angeles,” said Hayek. “I wanted to create dishes that are comforting yet surprising – where the diner feels both at home and transported.”
A NAME ROOTED IN PEACE & ABUNDANCE
In Greek, Elia means “olive tree” – a symbol of peace, wisdom, strength, and abundance throughout the Mediterranean. The evolved name ILYA was chosen for its grace and subtle exoticism. “It feels light and effortless when spoken,” Hayek said. “It embodies the serenity of coastal life – and the spirit of our kitchen.”
SPACE & DESIGN: CYCLADIC CALM
The design at ILYA channels the Cycladic islands – airy whites, ocean blues, and natural textures – creating a setting that feels both elegant and effortless. A striking open kitchen showcases wood-fire cooking as performance, while the vibrant bar serves coastal wines and season-driven cocktails inspired by the Mediterranean shoreline.
