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Eric Leitstein

Founder & CEO at OMG Hospitality Group ♦ Backyard Kitchen & Tap ♦ Union Kitchen & Tap Encinitas & Gaslamp ♦ PB AleHouse

Eric Leitstein is a prominent restaurateur and entrepreneur based in San Diego, California. He is the founder and CEO of OMG Hospitality Group, which he established in 2008.23 The company name is derived from the initials of his three children: Olivia, Mason, and Gavin.2

Leitstein's career in the hospitality industry spans several decades. He began his journey as a teenager clearing tables at resorts in the Catskill Mountains of New York.4 After working in various roles across different locations, including Florida, Hawaii, and Australia, he moved to San Diego in 1989 to pursue management opportunities in the restaurant business.14

Some key aspects of Eric Leitstein's career and achievements include:

  1. Founding OMG Hospitality Group in 2008, which now manages multiple restaurants in the San Diego area.23

  2. Opening Backyard Kitchen & Tap in Pacific Beach in September 2014, which he describes as a "chic, yet cozy, coastal American eatery".3

  3. Owning and operating several other successful establishments, including:

    • Union Kitchen & Tap (locations in Encinitas and Gaslamp)
    • Pacific Beach AleHouse
    • The Fish Shop (co-owner, with locations in Pacific Beach, Encinitas, and Hermosa Beach)3
  4. Previously owning Canes Bar and Grill from 1996 to 2008, a popular oceanfront venue known for hosting live music performances.3

Leitstein's approach to the restaurant business emphasizes creating unique dining experiences, focusing on quality ingredients, craft beverages, and excellent customer service.12 He is known for his passion for the hospitality industry and his commitment to supporting local communities.2

As of 2025, Eric Leitstein continues to lead OMG Hospitality Group, overseeing operations for multiple restaurants and employing approximately 500 people.4 His LinkedIn username is ericleitstein, as mentioned in the query.3

Highlights

Mar 11 · lchaimmagazine.com
1000 Words: Eric Leitstein, Restaurateur - L'CHAIM MAGAZINE
1000 Words: Eric Leitstein, Restaurateur - L'CHAIM MAGAZINE

Related Questions

What inspired Eric Leitstein to start OMG Hospitality Group?
How does Eric Leitstein balance his multiple restaurant ventures?
What makes Backyard Kitchen & Tap unique compared to other OMG restaurants?
How has Eric Leitstein's background in New York influenced his restaurant style?
What are some signature dishes at Backyard Kitchen & Tap?
Eric Leitstein
Eric Leitstein, photo 1
Eric Leitstein, photo 2
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Location

San Diego, California, United States