Premier lakefront hotel, Crowne Plaza Queenstown, has welcomed two passionate ‘foodies’ to its food and beverage operations.
Chilean-born Alvaro Morales has been appointed Head Chef, while Colombian-born Juan Gomez takes the reins as F&B Manager.
With culinary experience from across the globe, Alvaro is elated to step into the head chef role at threesixty restaurant, following his most recent sous chef position with a global hotel property in Taupo.
Having worked for a number of international hotel chains in South America and Europe, he earlier honed his culinary skills working with renowned chefs Joan Roca and Albert Adrià while interning in three-star Michelin restaurants in Spain.
His passion for delivering banquets stems from fond family memories of enjoying huge feasts with his family in the Chilean countryside.
“Food is family, family is life, and life is family,” he said.
“This is something my grandmother taught me and is still at the heart of my cooking style today.
“Not only is Queenstown a paradise in which to live, it’s foodie heaven, and I’m so excited to be here.
“Food is an integral part of a visitor’s holiday experience and I’m looking forward to creatively showcasing my Spanish heritage, made possible with the exceptional New Zealand ingredients on offer.
Juan Gomez takes the reins as F&B Manager.
For F&B Manager Juan, his desire to challenge himself and progress his career led him to Queenstown.
Joining InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) in 2012, Juan has spent the last five years working in InterContinental Wellington’s Lobby Lounge, working his way up from host to supervisor to managerial positions.
His passion for drinks has naturally progressed into a love for exceptional food experiences, and he’s looking forward to being mentored by general manager Anna Edie.
“I’m really inspired by Anna’s comprehensive international hotelier experience and look forward to working under her leadership,” he said.
“I’m delighted to have the opportunity to lead my team to offer unique guest experiences for visitors and locals dining at threesixty restaurant, as well as conference delegates and business groups.”
General Manager Anna Edie is “delighted” to welcome Alvaro and Juan to the property.
“It’s an exciting time as we’re heading into a busy winter, and I look forward to watching our food and beverage operations grow from strength to strength under their leadership.”
Conveniently located in the heart of Queenstown’s visitor, retail and business district, Crowne Plaza Queenstown’s ground-floor threesixty restaurant is the perfect place to sit back, relax and enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner, High Tea, or a good coffee.
