Paul Hage, executive chef, Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa
ABOUT PAUL
A Lebanese national with a family of chefs and food lovers, Paul developed a passion for cooking at an early age. Starting at the age of 16 as an apprentice chef and undergoing training courses throughout his career, Paul has extensive experience and qualifications in hospitality. Having worked in many of the reputed hotels in Lebanon in esteemed positions, from executive sous chef at the Metropolitan Palace Hotel to head chef at Habtoor Grand, Paul has impeccable leadership and cooking knowledge. After relocating to Dubai as executive sous chef of Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, Paul’s managerial and culinary skills, alongside his determination and hard work, were duly noted and Paul was promoted to executive chef of the hotel in 2005 where Paul is now in charge of 17 outlets.
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WHY WAS HE NOMINATED?
Chef Paul was voted Best Manager in the internal Employee Survey conducted in March 2013, and is very proud to have been voted by his employees. Chef Paul works by an open door policy whereby his staff can approach him regarding any matters that have an effect on the operations of the F&B department. He also hosts a whole host of training sessions throughout the year and is eager to motivate his staff to progress and thrive at their workplace. Chef Paul also recently opened the Villa Romana outlet at the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa. The menu takes the best of St. Tropez delicacies with local food preferences to create specials such as the beef Carpaccio, tuna tartare and copped artichoke salad. Paul has also devised a number of original and classic pasta dishes for this outlet, including a particular favourite of pasta with truffle dressing. Chef Paul has also worked hard to ensure that all costs remain below 30%. In order to achieve this, Paul carries out routine checks of stock in-take and out-take and ensures strict measuring systems are implemented throughout the F&B Department. Paul is able to calculate value for money products while consistently serving the finest and freshest ingredients at all the restaurants and bars.
WHAT DID HIS TEAM SAY?
“Thanks to Chef Paul, I am very proud to recommend all the food and beverage offerings at Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa. Not only does he use the finest ingredients and best recipes, he is also a personable Executive Chef that treats both his team members and customers with the utmost respect.” Peter O’Connor, general manager at Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa.
WHAT DID HIS GUESTS SAY?
“To the Executive Chef of Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa, I dined at Al Basha last night and would like to relay how much our party of 10 enjoyed it. We ordered a mixed grill that could of fed 20 of us - our bellies were duly satisfied! We also requested a mixture of fresh juices that were bursting with flavour. The extensive range of shisha flavours made us want to try out a number of them. Thank you for your hospitality, for the tasty food and great service.” Jason Rafter, guest
Please click through to next page to find out who else has been shortlisted…