Traders Hotel, Abu Dhabi appoints new executive sous chef

Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts has appointed Shammi De Costa as the new executive sous chef of Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi.

De Costa brings 18 years of hospitality expertise to the four-star property, moving to the capital following his two year tenure as Executive Sous Chef at Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa in Oman.  He has eight years of experience within the Shangri-La family, where he has been in-charge of planning, organizing and directing the kitchen operations while ensuring superior quality and consistency in food preparation.

The Sri Lankan chef started his culinary journey as a Commis in a humble café in Rome, Italy.  He continued to hone his skills working in five-star hotels like Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore, Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa in Malaysia, and Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa in Maldives.

His passionate approach has gained De Costa a number of awards like silver for Culinary Art (in the four-course and tapas categories) at the Expogast Villeroy & Boch Culinary World Cup, and silver for five-course gourmet dinner in Dubai’s International Hospitality Championship.

“I am honoured to take up the role of Executive Sous Chef at Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi.  I am excited to lead the kitchen team and aim to bring about a range of new ideas and exciting flavours to Afya, while continuing to promote good quality hospitality that the Shangri-La brand is known for,” De Costa stated.