Strand Palace is delighted to announce the appointment of Alfonso Salvaggio as its new Executive Chef. With 21 years’ experience, Alfonso brings expertise from all over the world and joins Strand Palace from his prior role as Executive Chef at Radisson Blu Portman, London.
Alfonso was literally born into catering – his parents owned a successful Italian restaurant in his home country of Belgium. As a teenager, he spent his free time serving meals to guests and working alongside his Italian father in the kitchen, which inspired him to become a chef.
After catering college, he worked in various fine dining restaurants in Belgium before returning to his parents’ restaurant for five years. He then caught the travel bug and worked in four and five-star hotels in Brussels, China and Romania before his 18-month stint at the Crowne Plaza Dubai Deira Hotel, where he held the position of Executive Head Chef overseeing seven outlets. His travels, combined with Italian family connections, have strong influences on his cooking.
Under Alfonso’s helm and guidance, the food offering at Strand Palace has taken an exciting new direction with the launch of a brand-new art deco restaurant and bar. Alfonso has carefully curated a brand new menu serving well-known British classics, including but not limited to charcuterie boards, a superfood salad and a number of dishes from the grill.
Alfonso Salvaggio, Executive Chef at Strand Palace commented: “I am excited to be joining Strand Palace on this momentous occasion and to start this new chapter in my career.
“I have been heavily involved in the redevelopment of the hotel’s entire food and beverage concept. The new menu will champion modern British cuisine, from well-known classics to a few more unusual dishes inspired by some of the best dishes I have encountered on my travels. I hope the guests will enjoy.”
Alfonso’s arrival coincides with Strand Palace’s multi-million-pound investment that will position the hotel at the top of London’s 4-star hotel offering.
Located in the heart of London, the hotel’s refurbishment includes all 785 guestrooms, a brand-new art deco inspired restaurant and bar, stylish private dining room, and dedicated afternoon tearoom serving British classics with a modern twist.
David MacRae, Managing Director of Strand Palace said: “I am delighted to welcome Alfonso to the Strand Palace family. London has one of the most diverse food and beverage offerings in the world and it is important to innovate, yet be consistent in standards of service and the quality of the offering. 2019 marks a new era for the hotel and Alfonso’s wealth of experience will help take our food and beverage operations to the next level.”