Longtime hospitality executive Teresa Chen was recently named the general manager for Hotel MOHI by Appellation, a luxury hotel and resort set to open in downtown Morgan Hill later this year.
Chen will oversee all facets of the resort’s performance, including guest experience, operational excellence and team development, says a press release from Hotel MOHI.
“Teresa brings an exceptional depth of operational experience, with a deep understanding of the Bay Area hospitality landscape and what it takes to successfully open and operate chef-driven hotels in highly competitive markets,” said Christopher Hunsberger, Co-Founder and COO of Appellation.
“Her leadership across complex openings, food and beverage programs and large teams makes her an ideal fit to guide Hotel MOHI by Appellation as we prepare for its debut,” Hunsberger added.
Chen brings a decade of leadership experience in the luxury and lifestyle hotel industry, the press release says. Her past experience includes senior positions with Hyatt, Calistoga Motor Lodge and Spa, Hotel De Anza and more. No stranger to Appellation, Chen most recently served as a project manager for the opening of Appellation Healdsburg, which debuted in September 2025, says the press release.
As general manager of Hotel MOHI by Appellation, Chen will work closely with culinary leadership to bring Hotel MOHI by Appellation’s signature Charlie Palmer restaurant, bars and gathering spaces to life while cultivating strong relationships within the Morgan Hill community.
“Hotel MOHI by Appellation is an exciting opportunity to introduce a new level of hospitality to Morgan Hill,” said Chen. “I’m honored to be an integral part of Appellation, leading this property from the ground up, and look forward to building a resort that feels deeply connected to its community while delivering thoughtful, memorable experiences for every guest.”
Set to open in the second quarter of this year, Hotel MOHI by Appellation comes from Frank Léal, entrepreneur and founder of Léal Hospitality, in partnership with Appellation, the culinary-first hospitality brand co-founded by Michelin-starred chef Charlie Palmer and hospitality veteran Hunsberger, says the press release.
The resort will feature a 215-seat signature Charlie Palmer restaurant and bar, a terrace pool, a modern spa, and event spaces—including a 7,482-square-foot ballroom and an additional 5,224 square feet of dedicated function space. Offerings also include a marketplace, flower shop and a café that transitions into a cocktail and wine bar by night.
“Teresa’s depth of operational leadership and experience guiding complex, chef-driven openings make her the ideal leader to bring the resort to life, and we’re excited to welcome her as we prepare to open this landmark property,” Léal said.
