The partners behind Traveler Street Hospitality—Chef / Partner Colin Lynch, Partner Heather Lynch, Partner Jefferson Macklin, Managing Partner for Black Lamb, Ben Kaplan, Managing Partner for Shore Leave and Beverage Director, Ryan Lotz—announced the appointment of Sam Olivari as the new Executive Chef of their acclaimed Boston restaurant group. With a decade of experience at some of Boston’s most celebrated kitchens, Olivari will serve as the group’s first Executive Chef, working closely with Chef Colin Lynch on garnering efficiencies, implementing ideas and technology and improving processes at the coastal Italian staple Bar Mezzana, tropical tiki hideaway Shore Leave, hidden sushi bar No Relation, and American brasserie and raw bar, Black Lamb.

“Sam has been an integral part of the team since we opened Shore Leave and we look forward having more guests recognize his unique culinary craftsmanship,” says Colin Lynch. “We’re confident Sam’s enthusiasm, leadership skills and creativity will help our brand evolve while executing the standards we’ve set for our team.”

Before joining Traveler Street Hospitality, Olivari held numerous positions that allowed him to learn the extensive and rigorous daily operations of both the front and back of the house teams. After a year in New York working as a Sous Chef at Madalin’s Table, Olivari began his rising career in Boston working as a bartender at the distinguished No. 9 Park, alongside Ryan Lotz and former Executive Chef Colin Lynch. From there he moved to the South End’s Stir as Chef de Cuisine and General Manager. Shortly thereafter, he took on a role as a Line Cook at Little Big Diner, followed by working alongside Chef Carl Dooley and his wife, pastry chef Mary Olivari, at Cambridge’s Table at Season to Taste. He reunited with his former colleagues and joined Traveler Street Hospitality in 2018. As opening Chef de Cuisine of Shore Leave, Olivari proved himself to be instrumental in the restaurant’s development and ongoing success, making him a natural fit for the role of Executive Chef.

“I am overjoyed for the opportunity to grow within such an iconic team here in Boston, who I am also proud to call my friends. I look forward to collaborating with Colin to highlight the culinary traditions and culture of each restaurant’s unique concept,” says Olivari.