New chef de cuisine for Movenpick Hotel JLT outlet

Benjamin Xavier has joined Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers as chef de cuisine at urban bar & kitchen – ubk.

Born and raised in London, Xavier began his culinary journey at the Hammersmith and West London College. He gained his first break in the hospitality industry when he was accepted onto the prestigious Fifteen Foundation training scheme run by Jamie Oliver.

After enjoying a number of successful placements at established restaurants across London, Xavier focused on his training, shadowing the Michelin-starred chef Tom Aitkens, developing and perfecting his techniques and cooking flavours.

Seeking constant growth, Xavier joined Virgin tycoon Sir Richard Branson as senior sous chef where the international culinary team won the “Worlds Best Small Hotel” in an awards ceremony.

Xavier then joined the pre-opening team of Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers as chef de cuisine at the urban bar & kitchen (ubk), the hotel’s modern bar offering a warm ambience while serving grills, roasts and classic comfort food from lunch until the early hours.