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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.
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."
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.
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By Hariharan U
Published on May 18, 2026
Pataaka has appointed Prrateek Chaudhary as its new Director of Beverage, further strengthening the restaurant’s leadership team and premium dining experience in the United States.
Recognised for its contemporary approach to Indian hospitality and elevated dining experiences, Pataaka continues to expand its focus on curated beverage programmes and guest engagement through this strategic appointment.
Prior to joining Pataaka, Prrateek Chaudhary served as Director of Beverages at Kiran's and earlier worked as Beverage Manager at Sanjh, where he played an instrumental role in beverage innovation and guest experience enhancement.
With a hospitality career spanning luxury hotel brands and restaurant concepts across India and the United States, Prrateek Chaudhary brings extensive expertise in beverage management, restaurant operations, revenue growth, culinary innovation, and concept development.
Before moving to the United States, he was associated with Crowne Plaza Gurgaon as Assistant Director – Food & Beverage. During his tenure, the department’s revenue reportedly grew from ₹26 crore to a projected ₹31 crore within nine months.
He also led the successful pre-opening and launch of multiple dining concepts including Kaansa, an Indian fine-dining restaurant; Terrace Garden, a Mediterranean grill concept; and Artisan's Atelier, a premium patisserie and lounge.
Over the years, Prrateek Chaudhary has worked with globally recognised hospitality brands including Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Hyatt Hotels Corporation, IHG Hotels & Resorts, The Leela Palace New Delhi, Taj Hotels and The Lodhi, building a strong reputation within the luxury food and beverage industry.
His professional journey also includes involvement in five major pre-opening projects including Fairmont Jaipur, Hyatt Centric Janakpuri New Delhi, Perbacco at The Lodhi, Kaansa Gurgaon, and Sanjh Dallas.
Speaking about his appointment, Prrateek Chaudhary said, “I am excited to join Pataaka and contribute to its vision of delivering exceptional Indian hospitality and innovative dining experiences. My journey across luxury hospitality brands and international restaurant projects has provided me with valuable experience, and I look forward to creating memorable beverage experiences while strengthening guest engagement at the restaurant.”
With this appointment, Pataaka aims to further elevate its beverage programme and reinforce its position as a premium Indian dining destination in the United States.
Published on May 15, 2026
Charcoal Concepts, the multi-brand restaurant platform under K Hospitality Corp, has announced the appointment of Rohan Sable as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a significant leadership move for one of India’s leading food services groups.
In his new role, Rohan Sable will oversee the strategic direction, growth, and operations of a diverse portfolio of more than 45 restaurants across India and international markets including London, Colombo, Kuwait, and Dubai. His responsibilities include driving brand vision, business expansion, and operational excellence across marquee brands such as Copper Chimney, Bombay Brasserie, Bombay Borough, and Wagamama India, while also leading new concept development and incubation within the group.
With over 25 years of experience in the hospitality and restaurant industry, Rohan brings a strong track record in operations, brand building, and business expansion. His career includes leadership roles such as Regional COO (South India) at PVR INOX Ltd and Area General Manager Delegate at Accor, along with extensive experience across both Indian and international hospitality formats.
His appointment comes at a time when Charcoal Concepts is entering an ambitious growth phase. The company aims to evolve into India’s premier multi-brand, multi-format, cuisine-driven restaurant powerhouse by 2033. The strategic roadmap includes scaling its footprint from its current presence of 35 outlets in India and 5 international outlets to over 272 outlets across India and global markets over the next eight years.
Under Rohan’s leadership, the company will focus on accelerating expansion, strengthening existing brands, and introducing new dining formats aligned with evolving consumer preferences. His approach is expected to balance operational discipline with innovation, ensuring scalability while maintaining strong brand identity and guest experience.
The leadership transition reinforces Charcoal Concepts’ commitment to innovation, growth, and delivering distinctive dining experiences across markets, further strengthening its position in India’s rapidly evolving food and beverage industry.
For more information, visit K Hospitality Corp
Banyan Tree Krabi has announced the appointment of Chef Chander Prakash as part of its culinary team, strengthening the resort’s Indian dining offerings with authentic North Indian and Arabic cuisine expertise.
Chef Chander joins the luxury beachfront resort with over a decade of experience across India and Thailand, specialising in traditional Indian curries, biryanis, kebabs, tandoori preparations, and Arabic cuisine. At Banyan Tree Krabi, he will contribute to the culinary experiences at The Naga Kitchen, further expanding the resort’s international dining portfolio.
Speaking about his culinary philosophy, Chef Chander said cooking goes beyond preparing food and focuses on creating memorable dining experiences through fresh ingredients, balanced flavours, and attention to detail. He added that his culinary journey has always been deeply connected to traditional spices and the art of tandoor cooking.
Known for signature dishes such as Dal Makhani, Butter Chicken, and Paneer Butter Masala, Chef Chander brings extensive experience from premium hospitality brands across Thailand and India. Prior to joining Banyan Tree Krabi, he worked as Indian and Arabic Chef at Sinae Phuket and earlier at Keemala Hotel in Phuket. His previous experience also includes Hotel Germanus Springs in Kodaikanal and De Karavali restaurant in Bengaluru, where he developed his expertise in tandoor cuisine.
Commenting on the appointment, Porntip Narangsiya, Director of Food & Beverage at Banyan Tree Krabi, said the addition of Chef Chander would help strengthen the resort’s culinary identity through authentic Indian cuisine. She added that the resort welcomes a significant number of Indian guests, including destination weddings and celebratory groups, making elevated Indian dining an important addition to the overall guest experience.
Located along Tubkaek Beach in southern Thailand, Banyan Tree Krabi features 72 pool suites and villas overlooking the Andaman Sea. The luxury resort offers multiple dining experiences, wellness facilities, spa therapies, and curated luxury hospitality experiences rooted in wellbeing and personalised service.
The property has also received global recognition, earning Two MICHELIN Keys in 2024 and 2025, while being featured in Fodor’s Travel 2026 list of “The 100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World.”
For more information, visit Banyan Tree Krabi
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