Meliá Pattaya Hotel has appointed seasoned hospitality professional Thaneht "Keng" Naovarat as its new executive chef. With an impressive career spanning three decades, Naovarat brings extensive experience from Thailand’s top luxury hotels and international establishments.

As executive chef, Naovarat will oversee the hotel's vibrant culinary landscape, which reflects Pattaya’s diverse cultural influences. His responsibilities include leading the culinary teams at Lay Beach Club, the rooftop Yitong Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar, the all-day dining restaurant Sanehh Sarae, which specializes in fresh seafood, and Den, a Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei restaurant.

Before joining Meliá Pattaya Hotel, Naovarat served as executive chef at Marriott Chiang Mai and Holiday Inn Chiang Mai. He was also the culinary director at W Hotels Bangkok and has worked as a consultant for renowned establishments such as The Firm Club and Restaurant and The Cured Chamber in Bangkok. His career has taken him to North America and Europe, where he honed his skills in international cuisine aboard major cruise lines.

Naovarat’s return to Thailand saw him rise through the ranks at several five-star properties, eventually becoming the first Thai culinary director at a Starwood property in the country. His leadership style emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and sustainability.

“Keng’s many talents include his exceptional ability to create a one-of-a-kind experience that truly connects guests to the local culture through food,” said Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s General Manager, Javier Gimeno. “He takes pride in using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring our dishes reflect Pattaya’s rich heritage and supporting local farmers and sustainable seafood farming practices.”

Naovarat himself is deeply committed to culinary innovation and mentorship. “I place a strong emphasis on fostering creativity and collaboration among my team. The kitchen is a space where all team members contribute ideas, and everyone is encouraged to experiment and innovate while staying mindful of our ecological footprint,” he shared.

With his extensive expertise and dedication to sustainable, high-quality cuisine, Naovarat’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for Meliá Pattaya Hotel’s culinary offerings.