Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter is launching Le Petit Chef & Friends, and if you’ve never experienced projection-mapped dining, this is genuinely different from anything else happening in San Diego right now.
Created by Belgian artist collective Skullmapping, the experience uses advanced projection-mapping technology to bring animated chefs “to life” on your tabletop while you eat a multi-course meal. It’s the only location in San Diego hosting this internationally acclaimed concept.
Photo credit: Le Petit Chef
How It Actually Works
As you’re seated, animated characters appear on your table through projection mapping, telling a story that unfolds across multiple scenes. Each scene corresponds to a course designed to match the narrative.
The animation isn’t just decorative – it’s synchronized with what you’re eating, creating a connection between the visual story and the actual food arriving at your table.
The technology is precise enough that the animations interact with your plates, silverware, and the table itself in ways that feel immersive rather than gimmicky. You’re watching a tiny chef prepare your meal on the table in front of you, and then the real version appears moments later.
It’s whimsical without being juvenile, which is the balance that makes this work for both families and couples.
The Menu and Options
Le Petit Chef & Friends offers multiple menu selections, including vegetarian and children’s options. Everything is presented in sync with the animated narrative, so the pacing matters – you’re not rushing through courses or waiting awkwardly between scenes.
The culinary journey takes you through global flavors, with each course tied to a different location or theme within the story.
Francesca Ramirez, General Manager of Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, describes it as “a one-of-a-kind, immersive dining experience that combines gourmet dinner, storytelling and stunning visuals.”
That framing is accurate – this isn’t just dinner with a show playing in the background. The meal and the animation are designed as a unified experience.
Why It’s Worth Experiencing
Le Petit Chef & Friends has built an international reputation by doing something most restaurants can’t or won’t attempt – merging entertainment and gastronomy in a way that elevates both rather than compromising either.
The technology is impressive, but it’s in service of an actual dining experience with quality food and thoughtful pacing.
This works for date nights, family dinners, or anyone looking to do something memorable in the Gaslamp Quarter. It’s entertainment that happens to involve excellent food, or fine dining that happens to include a show – depending on how you want to frame it.
Limited Seating, Reservations Required
Seating is limited, which makes sense given the technical requirements and the fact that everyone needs a clear view of their tabletop for the projection mapping to work. Reservations open November 1, and given that this is the only San Diego location, it’ll likely fill quickly once word gets out.
See You There!
Reserve your spot, show up ready for something genuinely different, and experience dining the way very few restaurants can pull off.
📆 Reservations available now
📍 401 K St, San Diego
🎟️ Reservations: lepetitchef@hiltongaslamp.com
ℹ️ More info here
See you there, San Diego!
Dining and Cooking