John Buenaventura has been appointed as Executive Chef of the newly opened Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island.
The 35-year-old Filipino takes the position following senior culinary roles with Hilton and other hospitality brands throughout the UAE. Content contributor of multiple cookbooks and a recipient of countless awards throughout his 15-year professional career, Buenaventura brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his new role.
As Executive Chef, he will oversee culinary operations at Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island’s three bars and restaurants, including Osmo – Lounge and Bar, which overlooks Yas Bay, the outdoor dining venue Capila – Pool Bar and Grill and Graphos Social Kitchen, the property’s all-day dining destination.
Chef Buenaventura says: “To be appointed Executive Chef at the prestigious Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island is undoubtedly a highlight in my career. I intend to make full use of my expertise in multiple cuisines to push the boundaries of food. I see Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island as not just a world-class hotel, but a leading culinary destination in its own right.”
Trained at the Asian Institute of Management and the Center for Culinary Arts, he began his career in the UAE as a Chef de Partie in 2007 and moved his way up the ranks through various hospitality groups. In 2016, Chef Buenaventura decided it was time to open his own concept in Business Bay for a while, before returning to global hospitality chains.
In 2018, Hilton Group appointed Chef Buenaventura as Executive Sous Chef at the Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre. He was then appointed Cluster Executive Chef at Cluster Hilton Al Seef with responsibility for three hotels in Dubai before making the move to Yas Island.
The chef’s specialty is Mediterranean cuisine, and over the last few years, he has been spending his time re-discovering his heritage dishes. He is a driving force in developing not only Yas Island but Abu Dhabi’s culinary footprint, into an evolving culinary destination.
