Chef Giuseppe "Pino" Lavarra Appointed as New Culinary Director at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

Chef Giuseppe "Pino" Lavarra Appointed as New Culinary Director at Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 19, 2024

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, nestled in the captivating Empty Quarter, is delighted to announce the appointment of Italian national Giuseppe "Pino" Lavarra as its new Culinary Director. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades, Chef Pino, a Michelin-starred chef, brings a new era of culinary excellence and innovation to this iconic desert destination.

Chef Lavarra's culinary journey began with a rigorous three-year program at Ipssar A. Perotti, an esteemed Italian hospitality kitchen management school in Castellana Grotte, Bari, Italy. In 1986, he took on his first role as Chef de Cuisine at The Marina Mandarin Singapore Hotel Group and Penang Mutiara Beach Resort's Restaurant, La Farfalla. Following this, he assumed a leadership position at Palazzo Sasso in Ravello, Italy, with Virgin Group Hotels as Executive Sous Chef.

His career then took him to the acclaimed 2 Michelin-starred restaurant, Le Manoir Aux Quat'Saisons in Oxford, UK, where he served as Sous Chef from 1998 to 1999. During this time, Chef Lavarra had the notable opportunity to hone his skills under the guidance of Celebrity Chef Raymond Blanc. Continuing his career trajectory, Chef Lavarra joined Park Hyatt The Carlton Tower's Grissini Restaurant in London but returned to Palazzo Sasso with Virgin Group in 2001, where he excelled as Executive Chef until 2013. During this tenure, he led the kitchen to earn 2 Michelin stars at the fine dining restaurant Rossellinis, and managed other outlets including The Lounge & Bar, Room Service, The Beach Club Restaurant, and Selected Banquets events.

In 2013, Chef Lavarra began a new chapter at The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong as the Culinary Director of Tosca Restaurant, where he earned a Michelin star in just six months and held it until 2018. He subsequently held the position of Executive Chef at The Luxury Collection Resort & Spa in Doha between August 2018 and 2023. In 2020, he had the honor of being selected to plan, set, and deliver an exquisite dinner for Mr. Mattarella, the President of the Italian Republic, during his visit to Doha.

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Chef Pino's journey also includes notable projects such as leading the opening of Zilos Restaurant in Jeddah earlier this year and contributing as Culinary Coach and Trainer for various international ventures, such as Nolita Restaurant in Naples and Dorothea in Budapest. Moreover, his role on Marriott International's Advisory Board for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa underscores his influence in shaping global culinary standards. His leadership excellence was also showcased during the Qatar FIFA World Cup, where he curated bespoke menus for VIP lounges and exclusive events, solidifying his reputation as a culinary luminary.

Jean-Paul Dantil, General Manager of Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara, commented on this new appointment, stating, "We are delighted to welcome Chef Pino Lavarra to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. His expertise and commitment to culinary innovation align perfectly with our vision of providing exceptional dining experiences amidst the breathtaking desert landscape."

"We are particularly excited about the new restaurant concept he will be leading, set to launch in Q4. Chef Pino is currently immersed in every detail, from menu development to staff training, ensuring that our guests will enjoy a truly unique and unforgettable dining experience. We look forward to revealing more details very soon."

Chef Pino's impressive list of accolades includes consecutive Michelin stars, Best Chef honors, 3 Forks Gambero Rosso, and Best Italian Restaurant distinctions. His strategic leadership, wealth of experience, and meticulous approach are expected to elevate the resort's reputation as a premier destination for luxury hospitality and gastronomy.


Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Appoints Vikash Kumar as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty Appoints Vikash Kumar as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage

By Hariharan U

Published on December 25, 2025

Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty has announced the appointment of Vikash Kumar as its new Assistant Director of Food & Beverage, further reinforcing the hotel’s focus on operational excellence and elevated guest experiences across dining and events.

In his new role, Vikash will oversee food and beverage operations, banquet performance and service delivery, supporting the hotel’s continued emphasis on consistency, quality and guest-focused innovation. With over a decade of experience across F&B service, banquet operations and large-scale event planning, he brings a strong blend of operational depth and people-led leadership.

Vikash began his hospitality journey in 2014 with Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Center and Courtyard by Marriott, where he developed a solid foundation in food and beverage service and guest engagement. Over the years, he progressed through several leadership roles, gaining hands-on experience in managing high-volume operations and complex event environments.

He joined the Hyatt family in September 2022 as Events Planning Manager at Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty, where he played a key role in executing high-profile events and strengthening banquet operations. He later moved to Sheraton Grand Bengaluru Whitefield Hotel & Convention Center as Banquet Manager and was promoted to Assistant Food & Beverage Manager in March 2025.

A graduate in Hotel Management and Catering Technology, Vikash is known for his disciplined, collaborative approach and his commitment to building high-performing teams. His return to Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty reflects the hotel’s continued focus on nurturing internal talent and developing leaders aligned with Hyatt’s values of care, consistency and service excellence.

About Grand Hyatt

Around the world, Grand Hyatt hotels bring travel dreams to life by celebrating the iconic in small details and magnificent moments. Located at the crossroads of local culture and global business within major gateway cities 


Hospitality in 2026: Nksha’s Growth Plans and Key Dining Trends to Watch

Hospitality in 2026: Nksha’s Growth Plans and Key Dining Trends to Watch

By Hariharan U

Published on December 20, 2025

As the hospitality industry in India prepares to step into 2026, operators are reflecting on a year marked by recovery, refinement, and renewed ambition. According to Pranav Rungta, Co-Founder & Director of Nksha Restaurant and Vice President of NRAI Mumbai, 2025 proved to be a strong year both for his brand and for the wider dining ecosystem.

“Nksha had a strong 2025, earning high praise for its modern North Indian cuisine, elegant ambience, and innovative cocktail programme,” Rungta shared. “Our patrons truly valued the overall experience, from exceptional service to thoughtful presentation, even within the premium dining segment.”

Operating in Mumbai’s highly competitive fine-dining space, Nksha’s ability to deliver consistent quality and value helped it stand out as a destination restaurant. The positive response has also encouraged the brand to look beyond its current footprint.

Looking ahead, Rungta revealed that Nksha is actively exploring expansion plans for 2026. “We are evaluating a new location in Mumbai and also studying opportunities in the GCC region, where we have received very encouraging feedback for the concept,” he said.

From an industry standpoint, Rungta believes 2026 will be shaped by a clear shift in demand patterns. Tier II and Tier III cities such as Pune, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Raipur, and Indore are emerging as strong growth markets. “The demand in these cities is growing faster, and there is a massive appetite for established metro brands, provided menus are localised,” he noted.

Premiumisation is expected to continue, particularly in fine dining and craft cocktails, as Indian diners increasingly seek elevated, experience-led outings. At the same time, Gen Z-driven personalisation is set to play a larger role. “AI-powered chatbots, customised health-focused menus such as low-carb or vegan options, and immersive experiences like virtual tastings will become more common,” Rungta added.

As restaurants balance expansion with innovation, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where thoughtful growth, technology-led personalisation, and premium experiences define the next phase of India’s hospitality journey.


The St. Regis Goa Resort Welcomes Culinary Maestro Roberto Zizi as Italian Chef de Cuisine at Oliveto

The St. Regis Goa Resort Welcomes Culinary Maestro Roberto Zizi as Italian Chef de Cuisine at Oliveto

By Hariharan U

Published on December 19, 2025

The St. Regis Goa Resort, the premier luxury destination on South Goa’s pristine coast, is delighted to announce the appointment of celebrated Culinary Maestro Roberto Zizi as Italian Chef de Cuisine at Oliveto, the resort’s signature Italian restaurant.

Chef Roberto, a native of Sardinia, brings an impressive international background with leadership roles across renowned hotel brands worldwide. In his new role, he will oversee the complete culinary experience at Oliveto, infusing authentic Italian flavors with his refined techniques to create an elevated gastronomic journey for guests.

“With Chef Roberto joining Oliveto, we are excited to offer an enhanced Italian dining experience that reflects the finest in craftsmanship and authenticity,” said a spokesperson from The St. Regis Goa Resort.

Guests at Oliveto can now look forward to innovative menus, classic Italian preparations, and a luxurious dining ambiance designed to transport diners to the heart of Italy while enjoying the breathtaking coastal views of South Goa.

This appointment underscores The St. Regis Goa Resort’s commitment to exceptional culinary experiences as part of its world-class hospitality offerings.

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