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.


Rosetta Hospitality Appoints Chef Sufeeyan Khan to Lead Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ in Goa

Rosetta Hospitality Appoints Chef Sufeeyan Khan to Lead Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ in Goa

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2025

Rosetta Hospitality has announced the appointment of Chef Sufeeyan Khan as Chef de Cuisine at Ouzo Delmar Bar Beach BBQ, the group’s signature world-cuisine beachfront dining destination at Varca Beach, Goa. Known for his creative flair and luxury hospitality experience, Chef Sufeeyan will spearhead the restaurant’s culinary journey as it reopens on September 1st after the annual monsoon closure.

Chef Sufeeyan’s career spans renowned properties like W Hotels and The Leela Goa, with his most recent role as Executive Chef at São by the Shore. His unique approach combines global culinary techniques with coastal flavours, delivering experiences that are refined, memorable, and deeply guest-centric.

At Ouzo Delmar, Chef Sufeeyan will work alongside Chef Somnath Porel, Executive Chef at Elements by Rosetta, to curate a contemporary menu highlighting coastal and barbecue-inspired creations with authentic Goan influences. From fresh local produce to flavourful grills, every dish will tell a story of tradition meeting innovation.

I am truly delighted to join the Rosetta Hospitality family”, said Chef Sufeeyan Khan. “This role allows me to blend my passion for world cuisine with Goa’s rich culinary heritage. Our menu is designed to honour timeless traditions while embracing local authenticity—every dish will be crafted with care to create an unforgettable beachfront dining experience”.

Welcoming the new appointment, Abhishek Dhar, General Manager, Elements by Rosetta, Varca, said, “With his expertise and vision, Chef Sufeeyan will play a pivotal role in establishing Ouzo Delmar as one of Goa’s most distinguished dining destinations.”

Adding to this, Chef Milan Gupta, Corporate Chef & EVP, Rosetta Hospitality, noted, “Chef Sufeeyan’s ability to balance global flavours with Goan authenticity resonates perfectly with Rosetta’s culinary vision. His leadership will set new benchmarks of excellence in Goa’s dining scene”.

With this appointment, Rosetta Hospitality reinforces its commitment to creating immersive dining experiences that celebrate sustainability, innovation, and regional authenticity. Guests at Ouzo Delmar can look forward to an elevated culinary era where beachfront dining meets world-class hospitality.


Sharath Rajan Appointed General Manager of Fortune Airport Road, Kochi

Sharath Rajan Appointed General Manager of Fortune Airport Road, Kochi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 21, 2025

Fortune Hotels, a member of the ITC Hotels’ Group, has announced the appointment of Sharath Rajan as the General Manager of Fortune Airport Road, Kochi. In this new role, Rajan will oversee the hotel’s operations, including guest services, team leadership, quality assurance, and overall property performance.

With over 18 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Sharath Rajan has built a strong track record in driving operational excellence and delivering outstanding guest experiences. His career includes leadership positions across globally renowned hospitality brands such as Accor, Hyatt Regency, Crowne Plaza (IHG), Hilton, and Marriott, with experience spanning both India and overseas markets.

Rajan’s expertise lies in room division operations, guest experience enhancement, revenue optimisation, and hotel promotions. His dynamic and guest-focused approach is expected to bring fresh energy and innovation to Fortune Airport Road, Kochi, further strengthening the hotel’s commitment to service excellence and quality hospitality.


Gurnoor Bindra Appointed General Manager of The St. Regis Goa Resort

Gurnoor Bindra Appointed General Manager of The St. Regis Goa Resort

By Hariharan U

Published on August 20, 2025

The St. Regis Goa Resort has announced the appointment of Gurnoor Bindra as its new General Manager, effective June 30, 2025. With over 14 years of leadership experience across Asia and the Middle East, she brings a wealth of expertise to one of India’s most prestigious resorts.

Before moving to Goa, Gurnoor served as General Manager of Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel, Dubai, the largest Sheraton in the Middle East. Under her leadership, the property underwent a major transformation, launching innovative dining concepts that won industry recognition. Her work has earned her several honours, including ‘Middle East General Manager of the Year’ and a spot among the ‘30 Best GMs in the UAE.’

Her career in hospitality follows an impressive start in finance across the manufacturing and service sectors. Gurnoor holds a degree from Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi, an Executive Master’s from IIM Lucknow, and has completed executive programs at Cornell University in Strategic Hospitality Management and Hotel Real Estate Investments & Asset Management. A certified Six Sigma Black Belt, she has led several high-impact projects across regions to improve guest experiences, boost productivity, and enhance operational efficiency.

Sharing her excitement, Gurnoor Bindra said, “I am truly honoured to join The St. Regis Goa Resort at such a pivotal moment. With the resort’s stunning transformation and the elevated hallmarks of the St. Regis brand, we are poised to craft an experience that is both timeless and world-class. My vision is to place this resort firmly on the global map – making it one of the most sought-after destinations Asia. I look forward to working with our exceptional team to create unforgettable moments for our guests, and to carry forward the legacy of the St. Regis with grace, excellence, and a spirit of celebration”.

Outside of work, Gurnoor is an avid traveller, a trained classical dancer, and a passionate food enthusiast, a balance that reflects her creative and dynamic leadership style.

The appointment highlights Marriott International’s continued focus on strengthening its luxury portfolio in India. With Gurnoor at the helm, The St. Regis Goa Resort is poised to build on its legacy of world-class hospitality while setting new benchmarks in the region.

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