Show Notes
New Culinary Destinations & Leadership
- Caña at Hyatt Centric Brickell Miami: Executive Chef William Milian is anchoring the property's culinary identity with elevated, communal Cuban flavors and an award-winning menu.
- Luma at The Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne: Following a $100 million resort transformation, Executive Chef Patrizio La Gioia is showcasing authentic Italian cuisine cooked over a signature Josper oven, alongside a vibrant "La Dolce Vita" brunch experience.
- Leadership Updates: Chef Joaquin Estolano takes the helm at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells, bringing ingredient-driven cuisine to the Coachella Valley. Meanwhile, the industry celebrates the legacy of Culinary Director Franz W. Faeh, who is retiring from Gstaad Palace after a near 50-year career defining traditional Swiss cuisine.
Industry Innovations & Technology
- AI ROI in F&B: Operator Mamatha Chamarthi breaks down the billions being spent on AI in the food and beverage space, emphasizing that AI must be "decisively profitable" through cost savings and operational efficiency to be worthwhile.
- Foodservice Trends: A look into leveraging restaurant technology, guest data, and shifting beverage preferences like low-ABV drinks and functional beverages to enhance profitability.
Global Competitions, Awards & Philanthropy
- Bocuse d'Or Europe 2026: Denmark takes home the gold in Marseille, led by chef Christian Wellendorf, securing their spot in the Grand Final.
- Golden Taco Awards: TacoTuesday.com has launched a nationwide, community-driven search to crown America's local "Taco Legends".
- Aspen Snow Ball Gala: Highlights from the 4th Annual Gala supporting the Children's Oncology Support Fund (COSF), featuring honors for Goldie Hawn and critical fundraising for pediatric cancer research.
- Seasonal Retail: Crumbl drops its limited-edition Easter Bundl, driving communal, shareable dessert trends