Kayla Karp Hagar: A Life Defined by Flavor, Heart, and Hospitality

For Kayla Karp, food has always been more than just sustenance,  it’s been a language of love, discovery, and connection. Her passion for hospitality traces back to her mother’s gentle encouragement to try everything. From a young age, Kayla learned that every meal had a story, every flavor a rhythm, and every restaurant a personality all its own.

It was during one of her first experiences dining at a Stephen Starr restaurant and tasting the unforgettable edamame dumplings that Kayla realized: this just tasted different. Something about the energy, the precision, and the harmony of service and flavor left an indelible mark. From late-night dinners in New York on school nights, to picking out her own lobster at Bookbinders, to savoring picnic spreads of Starr’s best dishes before overnight camp, Kayla grew up immersed in the magic of the dining experience. Each restaurant she visited seemed to move with its own waltz, an elegant choreography she couldn’t wait to be part of.

At just 17, Kayla took her first step into the industry, applying to be a host at Gullifty’s in Villanova. Over the next two years, she learned the rhythm of the restaurant floor, working her way from host to runner, then server, and eventually bartender. When she moved to Center City for college, she knew exactly where she wanted to be: in a Stephen Starr restaurant. She started as a host at Route, then became a Maitre’d and Server at The Dandelion Pub, a Manager at El Vez, and later, Parc — one of Philadelphia’s most iconic dining destinations.

When COVID-19 disrupted the hospitality world, Kayla was one of the few managers who returned right away to help reopen Starr Restaurants. Her commitment, resilience, and deep understanding of both people and operations made her an essential part of bringing hospitality back to life during a time of uncertainty.

Beyond Starr, Kayla continued to expand her expertise, stepping into the role of Food and Beverage Manager at the members-only Fitler Club. Yet, her story has recently come full circle, returning to Starr Restaurants, where she now runs LMNO and assists with other exciting ventures across the group.

Somewhere along the way, amid the late nights, menu tastings, and organized chaos of restaurant life, Kayla also found love. She fell for someone who shared her passion for the craft. A man who worked behind the line with the same dedication she brought to the floor. Today, that man is her husband, the Executive Chef at Parc, proof that her love story, much like her career, has always revolved around good food and even better company.

Recently named Rookie Manager of the Year by Starr Restaurant Group, Kayla’s recognition comes as no surprise to those who’ve seen her in action. Her leadership style blends grace, efficiency, and heart,  and her ability to create memorable experiences for guests and staff alike is unmatched.

Still, no award can truly capture what makes Kayla exceptional. Her magic lies in the details. The way she anticipates needs before they’re spoken, how she connects with every guest, and how she sees hospitality not as a job, but as an art form.

Kayla Karp is, quite simply, redefining what it means to lead with warmth and excellence in Philadelphia’s dining scene, one beautifully orchestrated service at a time.