New Chefs to Join St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi

Press release

Published February 7th, 2018 - 09:29 GMT

Olivier Belliard, the new Executive Chef, is overseeing all F&B outlets at the five-star hotel.

Two culinary maestros have joined The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi.

Olivier Belliard, the new Executive Chef, is overseeing all F&B outlets at the five-star hotel, while Ramasawmy Jayada has been hired as Chef de Cuisine at fine-dining steakhouse 55&5^th, The Grill.

Belliard’s career has taken him to Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris and Normandy, as well as deluxe five-star hotels around the world, including The St. Regis San Francisco and The St. Regis Mauritius. Born in France, he has two decades of experience in the culinary field, plus a master’s degree in hospitality management from New York’s prestigious Cornell University.

“There are many things happening. Early next year, we will revamp the menu at 55&5^th, The Grill and create some new dishes for Sontaya, without deviating from its successful Thai-Chinese fusion style,” he said.

Belliard has expressed a desire to see Mediterranean venue Oléa return to its roots and to update its popular theme nights, “to create a buzz about new things happening.” He also has big plans for The Drawing Room, located in the hotel lobby. As one of the first places guests see when they arrive, the elegant venue’s appearance is critical, and he hopes to maximize its visual impact.

“Early next year, I hope to create a monthly event featuring a long table covered with all sorts of sweets and desserts, something very colorful,” he said.

“It’s an amazing place – very well designed – so I want to bring some new, fresh ideas. I want guests to have an amazing experience and remember the time they spend with us.”

Like Belliard, Ramasawmy Jayada moved to Abu Dhabi from Mauritius, where he was born. He joined The St. Regis from a five-star golfing resort in the country; however, the 31-year-old is no stranger to the Arabian Gulf, having previously worked at The St. Regis Doha and W Doha.

“The resort looks beautiful and it is in a great location,” Jayada said, adding that he already feels at home in the UAE capital.

“I am really impressed by the management here, which is very supportive. The whole team has been very welcoming.”

Background Information

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi soars to new heights of splendour and service beyond expectation. Located at the vibrant heart of Abu Dhabi, you are invited to the finest address in the city.
Each of the hotel’s 283 rooms revels in a magnificent view of the alluring Abu Dhabi Corniche. The Abu Dhabi Suite, high on the skybridge between the two Nation Towers has an astonishing 360◦ view.
The signature St. Regis Butler Service is complimentary for every room in the hotel. Remède Spa in Abu Dhabi creates a sanctuary for guests and an experience which borders on mystical.
Our Library with business center ensures guests stay connected, while our onsite helipad allows for timely departures. Moreover, our signature St. Regis Butler Service, Concierge team, and dedicated staff work tirelessly to fulfill each desire as if it were second nature.