Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk, an award-winning contemporary hotel on the banks of the iconic San Antonio River Walk,
today announced the appointment of David Arciniega as Executive Chef. A native of San Antonio, Chef Arciniega has been a member of the hotel’s culinary team since he joined as Executive Sous Chef in 2022, responsible for the concept design and execution of all private events. In his new role, Chef Arciniega will oversee the hotel’s culinary program, from weddings and events to its signature dining venues, The Moon’s Daughters and Cenote Pool Deck, which offer Mediterranean-inspired menus.
Prior to joining Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk, Chef Arciniega served as Taskforce Chef at Hyatt’s renowned Hana Maui Resort, where he successfully managed the three-meal restaurant. Previously, he was the Executive Chef at Texas State University, planning banquet menus and overseeing private events, and also held the role of Manager & Sommelier at Maverick Texas Brasserie. Chef Arciniega has been honored with numerous awards for his culinary expertise and dedication. During his time as Chef and Owner at Amaya’s Cocina, his accomplishments were celebrated by San Antonio Magazine, San Antonio Express-News, and placed in the Top 15 Best Restaurants to Eat in 2015 by San Antonio Current. Additionally, while serving as the Beverage Director at Botika at The Pearl Brewery, acclaimed by the San Antonio Express News as one of the best new restaurants of 2016, he played a key role in hiring and training the restaurant’s entire opening team.
Chef Arciniega’s appointment as a Sous Chef at Oloroso in San Antonio led him to pursue a Level 1 Sommelier certificate from The Court of Master Sommeliers. Through his various roles in the culinary industry, Chef Arciniega gained a profound understanding of operations at every level while continuing his education at St. Phillips Community College, where he graduated with a degree in Culinary Arts.
