Phuket, Thailand, September 15, 2024 / TOP25RESTAURANTS / Introducing Stefano Mori, a passionate Specialty Chef specializing in Authentic Italian Cuisine, whose journey from Rome to the world stage has been nothing short of extraordinary. He brings global culinary excellence to Portofino restaurant at Le Méridien Beach Resort Phuket.

Stefano, a native of Rome, has embarked on an extraordinary culinary journey that spans the globe, shaping him into the remarkable chef he is today. From honing his skills in Michelin-starred restaurants across Europe to leading top kitchens in Indonesia, Barbados, and Abu Dhabi, Stefano’s unwavering passion and expertise have earned him prestigious awards, including the TIMEOUT UAE award for ‘Best Italian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi.’ Now, as he joins our team, we eagerly anticipate the exceptional Italian cuisine he will create.

Born and raised in Rome, Stefano embarked on a daring culinary adventure in 2009, fueled by his deep love for cooking. His journey began in prestigious hotels and restaurants across the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, where he refined his skills and embraced diverse culinary traditions. From the esteemed London Marriott Grosvenor Square to Matijaz in Amsterdam and Baxter Storey, Stefano’s dedication to his craft was evident as he expanded his expertise and fluency in foreign languages.

In 2012, driven by an insatiable desire for growth, Stefano took on the role of Chef Manager at BELLA ITALIA in Indonesia. This experience only deepened his passion for culinary excellence, leading him back to Europe in 2015. There, he secured a position at Barrafina, a Michelin-starred restaurant in London, where his time was instrumental in shaping his professional mindset.

Stefano’s culinary journey then took him to the Netherlands, where from 2017 to 2019, he served as Senior Chef de Partie at THE DUCHESS, a Michelin-starred restaurant in W Amsterdam. He further honed his expertise as Sous Chef at Marriott Amsterdam Arena, before joining Park Plaza art’otel Amsterdam to continue broadening his culinary repertoire.

In 2019, Stefano’s skills and passion brought him to Sandals Resort Barbados, where he excelled as the Italian Head Chef until 2022. Today, Stefano is the esteemed Italian Chef de Cuisine at Rotana Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi, where his culinary talents have been recognized with the prestigious TIMEOUT UAE award for ‘Best Italian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi,’ earned by Stefano and his team in May of this year.

Stefano’s remarkable journey is a testament to his unwavering determination, adventurous spirit, and exceptional culinary prowess. We are honored to have him as part of our team and eagerly anticipate the innovative dishes he will continue to create.

About Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts
Born in 1960’s Paris during an era of glamorous travel, Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts continues to celebrate cultures around the world through the distinctly European spirit of savouring the good life. With over 115 hotels and resorts in more than 35 countries and territories, spanning from Maldives to Monaco and from Santa Monica to Sichuan, Le Méridien’s engaging mid-century designed spaces coupled with chic signature programmes put a playful twist on art, coffee, sparkling cocktails, summer, family, and inspire creative-minded travellers to explore the world in style. For more information, please visit www.lemeridien.com, and stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Le Méridien is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition.

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