What initially sparked your passion for the culinary arts and hospitality industry?
As a person of Greek descent, I started my professional journey at a hotel belonging to my family, working every summer since I turned 12. Over the years, I gained experience in various departments from a busboy to a concierge, before eventually finding my passion in the world of culinary arts and Food & Beverage. Despite my initial academic pursuit in computer programming and a stint at IBM, I came to the realization that it did not resonate with me. This restlessness got me to reconnect with a chef I had collaborated with during my education, marking the inception of my gastronomic journey. Even now as an F&B director, I remain deeply connected to the kitchen. Once a chef, always a chef; it becomes a part of who you are.
How has your career journey shaped your leadership style and approach to managing diverse food and beverage teams?
Leadership is developed through experiential learning and overcoming errors. My leadership style emphasizes setting a precedent through personal actions. When individuals lack knowledge, I provide guidance, address their obstacles, and serve as a mentor. Merely giving commands is not effective. Embracing innovation is significant; I have recently finished a master’s program that concentrated on this aspect. It is crucial to continually seek fresh approaches to enhance leadership.
How do you balance preserving culinary traditions with introducing innovative dining concepts to cater to evolving guest preferences?
As chefs and F&B directors, we keep track of international trends, utilizing social media to stay updated on global culinary advancements. Our goal is to blend tradition with innovation, offering a distinctive dining experience. For example, we recently organized a dinner to demonstrate our modern take on classic recipes. The key is to refresh traditional dishes through contemporary presentation while also valuing simplicity and authenticity.
Can you share an example of a successful dish or menu item that blends classic flavors with contemporary techniques?
It is hard to choose just one. However, one standout example of a successful dish that beautifully blends classic flavors with contemporary techniques is my deconstructed Greek salad. This dish takes the basic elements —ripe tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, briny olives, and creamy feta — and transforms them into a modern culinary experience. We liquify some ingredients to create vibrant dressings that burst with flavor, while others are turned into airy espumas, allowing diners to savor the essence of each component in an innovative way.
Another remarkable creation is our purple octopus. We take this classic seafood dish and elevate it using modern cooking techniques, presenting it in a way that captivates the eye as much as the palate. The result is a dish that honors its roots while offering a fresh perspective and presentation. These dishes highlight the beauty of traditional cuisine and demonstrate how contemporary methods can enhance and surprise our guests.
What are the key elements that contribute to a truly memorable dining experience at the InterContinental Hotel?
A truly memorable dining experience at the hotel hinges on several key elements. At the core of our philosophy is the belief that our guests are the heart of the experience. Understanding and respecting their individual preferences is not just a practice; it’s a commitment.
The foundation of our culinary offerings is sourcing only the finest, freshest produce and meats, ensuring that every dish bursts with flavor and authenticity. Simplicity in recipes allows these ingredients to shine, showcasing the natural tastes that make each meal a delight.
Moreover, we treat guests as if they were friends in our home. This personal touch creates a warm and inviting atmosphere where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
Together, these elements create an unparalleled dining experience at the InterContinental Hotel Bahrain – one that leaves a lasting impression and inspires guests to return.
How does the InterContinental Hotel’s unique concept and atmosphere contribute to the overall dining experience here?
The hotel’s unique concept, Rigani, a Greek themed pop-up restaurant, plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall dining experience.
Our commitment to authentic Greek flavors is symbolized in our name, which means oregano in Greek. This dedication to quality is evident in every dish we serve. We source high-quality ingredients to ensure that each bite transports guests straight to the heart of Greece. Although we lack a picturesque Greek sunset or sandy beach, we compensate with the rich, vibrant flavors that define our cuisine.
Guests often share how our food evokes memories of dining in Greece, a testament to our authenticity and passion. It’s not just a meal, it’s an experience that delights the senses and creates connection over shared dishes. By blending an inviting atmosphere with genuine flavors, Rigani delivers an unforgettable journey through Greek culture and cuisine.
How do you ensure that the Intercontinental Hotel’s brand values are reflected in the food and beverage offerings?
To ensure that the InterContinental Hotel brand values are reflected in our food and beverage offerings, we focus on authenticity and quality. We prioritize loyalty and integrity, sourcing ingredients meticulously to ensure authenticity, for example, when we serve Greek feta cheese, it is genuinely sourced from Greece. This dedication to quality enhances the culinary experience and builds trust with our guests.
By consistently providing genuine flavors and high-quality products, we create a dining experience that aligns perfectly with the InterContinental Hotel ethos. This commitment goes beyond meeting expectations, it’s about staying true to who we are. By focusing on authenticity, we create meals that reflect our values and build lasting connections with everyone who dines with us.
How do you envision the future of dining at the hotel, and what strategies are you implementing to stay ahead of the competition?
The future of dining at our hotel focuses on authenticity and quality, setting us apart. We aim to create a culinary experience that highlights great taste and simplicity, meeting our guests’ expectations without compromise. To stay ahead of the competition, we are implementing several key strategies. First, we are continually investing in our talented team, providing them with ongoing training and resources to enhance their skills and creativity. This enriches our menu while nurturing an environment where innovation thrives.
Additionally, our IHG Dining Rewards program plays a major role in enhancing guest loyalty. By offering discounts and points that guests can redeem worldwide, we create a sense of value and exclusivity that keeps our patrons coming back.
By prioritizing authenticity, quality, and the talent of our team, supported by rewarding programs, we are confident that the future of dining at our hotel will exceed guest expectations and set new standards in the hospitality industry.
