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General Manager Klaus Kabelitz has confirmed the appointment of Isabela Tavares Vaz as Executive Head Chef at The Kensington hotel in London, part of the Irish family-owned The Doyle Collection.
Brazilian-born and from São Paulo, Isabela moved to the UK in 2019, having previously worked at several establishments in Brazil.
Prior to joining The Kensington, Isabela was Executive Head Chef at Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts in London (2022–24), having joined the group in early 2022 as Executive Sous Chef.
Her first London position was at The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences, where she worked as Sous Chef from 2019 to 2021, including during the lockdown, catering to long-stay residential guests.
A graduate in Culinary Arts from Senac SP, Isabela also spent a year in Israel, where she immersed herself in Arabic-inspired cuisine. On returning to São Paulo, she ran her own catering business — Sababa — from 2018 to 2019.
She honed her early culinary skills in two São Paulo-based establishments: at Restaurante 153, where she was Head Chef of the 120-seat venue with its international menus (2016–17); and prior to that, at Kaa Restaurante (2012–16), where she began as Demi Chef and quickly progressed to Junior Sous Chef.
Now fully embracing life and work in London, Isabela is thrilled to join The Doyle Collection’s prestigious hotel, The Kensington. She will lead the culinary direction of the Town House restaurant, and also oversee the K Bar menu, afternoon tea, private and in-room dining, and event catering.
Enthusing about her new role, Isabela said: “The Kensington is a beautiful townhouse hotel in a quintessential part of London, welcoming a mix of local residents and international visitors. Our menus are rooted in seasonality and classic flavours, offering something for those seeking a relaxed meal, with the choice of a more extensive dining experience. I’m also adding a personal touch by incorporating some of my favourite ingredients and influences from my own style.”
Commenting on Isabela’s appointment, Klaus Kabelitz said: “Isabela brings exceptional talent and fresh creativity to our team. With her leadership in the kitchen, we look forward to continuing to enhance The Kensington’s reputation as a valued culinary destination in South Kensington.”
Chef News is sponsored by the the Kitchen Porters Club
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