Seaside Finolhu, Maldives has announced the appointment of a new Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage. The two new appointees are; Memo V. Hernandez, Executive Chef and Benjamin Gouet, Director of Food & Beverage.
Together, they will reinforce Finolhu’s outstanding levels of gastronomy and service. Rounding out the offering of culinary craftsmanship and international talent. From traditional Maldivian fare to modern Japanese cuisine or flavours of the Middle East and North Africa, they will a focus on handmade products, crafted from fresh ingredients.
Memo V. Hernandez, New Executive Chef at Seaside Finolhu
Memo V. Hernandez brings more than 16-years’ experience in managing restaurants and hotel kitchens internationally. He joins Finolhu following his previous role as Executive Chef at The Nautilus Maldives. Likewise, the Costa Rican native brings a wealth of luxury experience, including; training at the three Michelin rated Quique da Costa Restaurant, Valencia.
Hernandez has as a passion for the traditional, including farming, local produce, and the rustic production of cheeses. This is coupled with a modern outlook towards; keto, superfoods, wellness, and vegetarianism and veganism. This also includes ambitions to create a variety of dishes where the vegetable is the star.
With ecological and environmental awareness at the forefront, he’s looking forward to putting his touch on the menus. This includes a focus on seasonality, wholesome breakfasts, and plans to grow thyme, rosemary, basil, mint, and coriander on the island.
Benjamin Gouet, New Director of Food & Beverage at Seaside Finolhu
French-born Gouet has more than 15-years’ experience in the food and beverage industry. He previously held the position of Director of Food & Beverage at Bandos Maldives Resort. Gouet’s earlier work experience in senior roles has taken him to key luxury hotels across the world. This includes the Sheraton Club des Pins Resort, Algeria and Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, French West Indies.
He will manage the resort’s overall food and beverage service operations. Thus, ensuring the highest of standards meet across Finolhu’s six food and beverage outlets. Each outlet offers its own distinct personality and aesthetic to accentuate. As a wine lover and cocktail connoisseur, Gouet will enhance the culinary journey with beverage pairings for each cuisine, ranging from wines and whiskeys to speciality teas.
About Seaside Finolhu
Finolhu opened in June 2016 and boasts of four islands with long beaches. It has 125 beachfront and overwater villas (more than half with private pool) and four restaurants. Whilst popular with honeymooners, the extensive resort is also very family-friendly, with a kids’ club, a wide choice of activities and world-famous entertainment.
