Today we’d like to introduce you to Patrick Sarte.
Hi Patrick, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Food was always at the center of my life. My parents are both great cooks, and in our house, everything seemed to revolve around the next meal. Looking back, it’s no surprise I ended up in this industry. My first job out of high school was at a pizza shop, and later I bartended — where I found the discipline, creativity, and connection that define hospitality for me.
After a stint as General Manager at a steakhouse, I joined Omni Hotels & Resorts in Carlsbad, serving as Director of Food and Beverage and later as Resort Manager. I was part of the team that reopened the resort after its closure during COVID — one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my career. It taught me grit, empathy, and the value of teamwork in uncertain times. My years there shaped my understanding of leadership and what it truly means to serve both guests and teams with intention.
Opening a restaurant had been a dream for as long as I can remember. It’s why I ultimately left Omni — a company I deeply respect. The years of work leading up to this moment prepared me and gave me perspective on what it really takes to run your own business.
That’s what led to Rosewood Social — a place built from everything I’ve learned along the way. Our food is soulful, inspired by travels, experiences, and family recipes that carry meaning. We keep it simple: high-quality ingredients, honest cooking, and flavors that resonate. It’s not too serious — just good food made with care. I like to think Rosewood Social is warm, unpretentious, and rooted in genuine hospitality. My hope is that when people walk through our doors, they feel that same sense of connection that inspired me from the beginning.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It was a path full of challenges. Not long after we opened, we lost our Chef due to circumstances beyond our control. It was a moment that was tough both professionally and personally, but it was a defining one. I hadn’t planned on going back in the kitchen, but sometimes the path chooses you. Taking the reins allowed me to really connect with the food and the culinary team. We were definitely short-staffed and there were nights when I found myself cooking alone – until friends and colleagues stepped in to help, including a great friend and chef from Northern California who flew in without hesitation. Others came to lend a hand anyway they could.
Through it all, our service staff was incredible. They showed up every day, cared deeply about the restaurant and stayed committed when it would have been easy to walk away. Their belief in what we were building was incredible.
At the same time, my wife and I were expecting our first child. Balancing the opening of a restaurant and preparing for fatherhood wasn’t easy, but it gave everything more meaning. Those moments tested me, but they also deepened my appreciation for the people around me. I’ll be forever grateful to everyone who stepped up – and to my wife, who carried so much herself. It wasn’t easy for her, but her patience and support kept me going.
As you know, we’re big fans of Rosewood Social. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Rosewood Social sits on a rooftop in Downtown San Juan Capistrano overlooking the Mission.
The idea for our restaurant was simple: A place that lets you step away for a bit — somewhere that feels like a getaway, even if it’s just down the street. Whether it’s locals dropping by for a casual night out or visitors discovering it for the first time, we just want it to feel welcoming.
The space leans into that — travel, texture, a little nostalgia. It’s meant to feel familiar, like somewhere you’ve been before, even if you haven’t. There’s something about it that takes you somewhere else — a small escape, the kind that makes you slow down and stay a little longer.
The food? It’s soulful and honest. We’re not trying to reinvent the wheel or make a statement — just cook with care and meaning behind every dish. Some come from past travels through Asia, others from family recipes or moments that stayed with us. It’s food that feels familiar, but always with a little twist to keep it interesting.
Music plays a big part too. It sets the rhythm. Some nights it’s mellow, others it builds a little energy — the way a night can start as dinner and slowly turn into something more alive.
I am especially proud of our team — they’re everything. Genuine people who care. Service standards are important, but authenticity matters more. Our team cares about the guests, about each other, and about what we’re building together. That’s what makes the place special.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
The city of San Juan Capistrano has been incredible to us — the support, the warmth, the sense of community. It’s a proud town, and we’re lucky to be part of it. We love collaborating with local businesses, artisans, and creators who share that same commitment to quality and connection. Whether it’s hosting events, pairing dinners, or showcasing local products, we’re always open to ideas that bring people together.
The best way to support us is to come experience Rosewood Social for yourself. Bring friends, celebrate something special, or just stop in for a good meal and conversation. That’s what we’re here for.
And for anyone who’s worked in hospitality — or simply loves it — we’re always looking to connect with passionate people who care about great service and genuine hospitality.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rosewoodsocial.com
- Instagram: @rosewoodsocialsjc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568132276471&mibextid=wwXIfr
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/rosewood-social-san-juan-capistrano?osq=Rosewood+Social
