Conrad Miami Appoints Virgile Brandel as Executive Chef
Miami, October 15, 2013 - Conrad Miami recently named Virgile Brandel as Executive Chef of the hotel. With more than 25 years of experience, the French native will implement his international flare and ingenuity to the luxurious location. He will oversee all culinary operations including developing a new menu, managing inventory, leading the kitchen staff and monitoring meal preparation for Atrio Restaurant & Wine Room, and catering events at the hotel.
Brandel began his culinary career in France where he apprenticed at a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Champagne region. Following his apprenticeship, he was promoted to Chef Tournant at a French and Italian restaurant named Boccaccio in Nice, where he served 400 customers daily. He also worked in London for five years at The Park Lane Hotel as Senior Chef de Partie and advanced to Junior Sous Chef at The Dorchester Hotel thereafter.
Prior to working at Conrad Miami, Brandel was Executive Sous-Chef at the Eden Roc Hotel in Miami Beach. During his tenure there, he created a variety of innovative menus, coordinated numerous special events and successfully reduced total food cost. Previously, he served as a Senior Banquet Chef at Waldorf Astoria's Casa Marina in Key West, where he contributed to the 4-star rating at the property. Earlier, he was a Banquet Sous Chef for the Loews Hotel in Miami Beach under the supervision of acclaimed “Master Chef of France,” Marc Erlher.
In 1991, the French native graduated from the Hospitality and Culinary School in Sur Marne, France, where he earned his Bachelor degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management and an Associate's Degree of Applied Science in Culinary Arts. He has been featured in Aloha Spirit and also was named “Chef of the Month” in Gulf Shore Life.
About Conrad Miami
More than luxury or location, beyond bold design and stunning architecture, Conrad Miami is about unique guest experiences that redefine hospitality for business and leisure travelers alike in the heart of Miami's business and financial district. Its 203 rooms and 103 residence suites are known for providing the most discriminating traveler with superior comfort and high-tech facilities. Conrad Miami's philosophy of service and meticulous attention to detail permeate the property, from the extraordinary cuisine of Atrio and personalized therapies of The Spa, to the modern conference facilities and rooftop pool area. An ongoing, unobtrusive program of capital upgrades and refurbishment reflects Conrad Miami's commitment to perfecting the guest experience. For more information, visit www.conradhotels.com.
About Conrad Hotels & Resorts
Conrad® Hotels & Resorts is Hilton Worldwide's global luxury brand and the choice for today's modern, sophisticated traveler. By focusing on the individual, Conrad offers guests genuine and personalized experience and a world of style, service and connection. Each Conrad is a dynamic reflection of its city and culture, as well as a showcase for striking design and distinct surroundings. Across five continents, in the world's gateway cities and most sought-after resort destinations, Conrad invites each guest to enjoy The Luxury Of Being Yourself ®. For information on Conrad, please visit http://www.conradhotels.com/. Conrad Hotels & Resorts is one of Hilton Worldwide's ten market-leading brands.