As a vanguard of the international culinary industry, Conrad O’Riordan joins the critically acclaimed F&B team of The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert as Director of Food & Beverage. Having led multiple Michelin-star winning teams across Asia and Europe, in his new role Conrad will introduce more innovative gastronomic concepts and thought-provoking menus to ensure the continued highest standards of guest satisfaction across the resort’s dining outlets.
Building on his extensive operational experience, Conrad will manage the array of seven lavish dining concepts at the secluded desert resort, including the rustic Farmhouse restaurant, all-day dining at Middle Eastern inspired Kaheela, Moroccan influenced eatery Moorish, and alfresco rooftop concept Moon Bar. Conrad’s focus will be on the development and implementation of strategies that exemplify the Ritz-Carlton brand values, such as incorporating more ethically sourced ingredients and boundary breaking cooking techniques to exceed expectations and strengthen customer loyalty.
With a proven track record as an experienced Operations Manager, in his new role Conrad will take a 360 approach to enhance each outlet’s culinary experience: he will both work with local suppliers to source the best local ingredients and empower the waiting staff to educate customers about the culinary journey of a dish. As the resort’s destination dining is hugely popular with guests, Conrad will also look to see how he can extend this offering.
Equipping Conrad for this new appointment is his vast international experience, which includes leading two Michelin awarded restaurants in Thailand and working for global brands, including Alila Hotels and Resorts across China, Indonesia and Oman. During this time, Conrad built a career dedicated to hospitality excellence, including launching the ‘Dine Good, Do Good’ initiative, after receiving the first and only MICHELIN green star awarded in Thailand, during his time in which he managed one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, PRU.
“In the last year we have fortified our team at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert by welcoming new members who are leaders in their respective industries. In recent times, we appreciate how holidays have become even more important to our guests and therefore we have looked to evolve our offering to ensure we continually surpass customer expectations. I am delighted to welcome Conrad, as not only is he dedicated to delivering the highest standards but he is also a team player who leads by example,” said Tracey Oliver, General Manager at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert and Al Hamra Beach.
“As a life-long admirer and guest of The Ritz-Carlton brand, I am very proud to step into my new role as Director of Food & Beverage. I am looking forward to the new challenges of working in the a new location and the Arabic trendy cuisine hub of the Middle East. The UAE has built an incredible global reputation for setting new standards of hospitality and it is my goal to see The Ritz Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert strengthen its position as the leading luxury desert resort in the region,” said Conrad O’Riordan, Director of Food & Beverage at Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert.
