Linda Cooper, Author at Luxury Restaurant Awards

Posted on October 29, 2023October 29, 2023 by Linda Cooper

The 17th Annual World Luxury Awards Gala Ceremony

The World Luxury Awards celebrated its 17^th year of awarding some of the top hotels, spas, restaurants and travel establishments on 28 October 2023. It was a night to remember. This luxurious affair was hosted by Grand Hyatt Athens in Greece and saw almost 300 establishments from around the world awarded for their dedication and commitment to the luxury hospitality industry.

“We are very proud of all of our winners, and being able to celebrate with them on an occasion like this is very special. The ceremony was incredible. The interactive entertainment, The Greek Priestesses and The Famous Zorba, were highlights of the evening and were thoroughly enjoyed by all. We wish to congratulate all our winners, also to those who were not able to be with us. A special congratulations to our overall winners: the Global Hotel of the Year – Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the Global Spa of the Year – Spirit Hotel Thermal Spa, the Global Restaurant of the Year – Le Pavillon and the Global Travel Establishment of the Year – Australia Zoo.” says Jana Stoman, the Executive Manager for the World Luxury Awards.

A brilliant and tantalizing 6-course menu was prepared for all to enjoy throughout the night. We wish to recognize and give thanks to Alpha Wine Estate for providing the Greek wine pairing that complemented each course.

Prior to the Gala Ceremony, on Friday evening, the guests who opted in were treated to a spectacular walking tour of Athens by the Greek Gourmet Tours. After viewing multiple ancient and historical sites and a stunning walk around the Acropolis, the tour culminated in a sumptuous dinner at a delightful and modern, Greek tapas-style restaurant. One can truly say, dining in Greece can be an adventure on its own! Thank you to Anastasia and her team at Greek Gourmet Tours for providing this wonderful experience.

“Travelers today increasingly value experiences over possessions and are willing to invest in unique, authentic, and immersive travel experiences. It is with the unwavering commitment of dedicated staff that guests can enjoy this. We congratulate the 2023 winners, who have worked hard and tirelessly to be successful in a very competitive industry.” says Jana Stoman.

The after party on the Rooftop was blessed with a full moon, a blood moon in fact, rising overhead, and the Acropolis blazing in its glory in the distance. Many guests enjoyed socializing with new and old friends while the DJ enticed them onto the dance floor. It ended a momentous occasion, perfectly.

“The World Luxury Awards would like to recognize and thank France 24, our official partner sponsor for 12 years, for being with us tonight and remaining a part of our family in the hospitality industry.” says Brandon Lourens, Chief Executive Officer of the World Luxury Awards.

Posted on May 7, 2023May 7, 2023 by Linda Cooper

Zahli is a must-visit Lebanese restaurant located in Sydney.

In a recent visit to Australia I spent a few days in Sydney where I had the pleasure of dining at Zahli and was thoroughly impressed with the experience.

I was dining alone, and Mohammad, the owner, personally hosted the evening for me, he was incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home from the moment I arrived.

The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the food. I am not familiar with Middle-Eastern cuisine, so this was all a very new experience for me. I was served an abundance of dishes, a banquet, all of which were beautifully presented and bursting with color. The flavors were robust and authentic, providing a true taste of Lebanese cuisine. I surprised myself by even trying the raw meat dish “Kibbeh Nayye” made from fresh lamb, mixed with crushed wheat and various seasonings, it was rather more-ish. I must admit that in the end it felt like Mohammad was trying to feed me to death with the sheer number of dishes, but this is just a testament to his enthusiasm and passion for bringing ancient Middle-Eastern recipes to life, with a modern twist, there was so much, I just wish I had space for more.

In terms of drinks, I typically prefer beer over wine, and I was pleasantly surprised by the Lebanese beer on offer at Zahli. It was light, refreshing, and the perfect accompaniment to the flavorful dishes.

Overall, I would highly recommend Zahli to anyone looking for an exceptional dining experience in Sydney. The food is outstanding, the service is top-notch, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Thank you, Mohammad and the team at Zahli, for a memorable evening.

Reviewed by World Luxury Awards representative, Angelo Henry.

For more information visit Zahli’s website: www.zahlirestaurant.com

Posted on October 23, 2020May 7, 2023 by Linda Cooper — 1 Comment

For the ultimate food experience, look no further than Gåte at Quoin Rock…

Gåte is a fine-dining restaurant situated at Quoin Rock Wines, a short drive from Stellenbosch, South Africa.

This was hands down the best restaurant experience I have ever had in my life. I have travelled and wined and dined at various places around the world, however Gåte is more than exceptional.

From the stupendous views, to the divine interior and architecture, Gåte is absolutely magical. Their wine is first class, in fact it is some of the best wine I have had. The food encapsulates the true essence of the creative Michelin Starred Chef Rikku’s travel experiences.

I do not even have the words to describe how amazing my experience was. In fact, I left with literal happy tears in my eyes. To all the chefs and staff in general – you are inspirational and more than sensational. I will see you in The World’s 50 Best…

Reviewed by Digital Marketing Manager of The World Luxury Awards: Ms. Kayla Lourens

For reservations, please email reservations@gaterestaurant.co.za or call +27 218884750

Posted on July 8, 2019March 16, 2020 by Linda Cooper — 1 Comment

2019 World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Annual Gala Event

THE 2019 WORLD LUXURY SPA AND RESTAURANT AWARDS: 4^th GALA CEREMONY

6 July 2019

The winners of the annual World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards were announced last night at a glitzy affair at The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel in St. Petersburg, Russia. This was the fourth event of its kind and more than 200 guests flew in from around the world, representing more than 90 countries, 450 spas and 270 restaurants.

This year’s Spa of the Year award went to Bio-Spa Victoria Gran Lujo in Spain, and the Restaurant of the Year award went to Gåte at Quoin Rock in South Africa’s famous winelands. Both winners are highly deserving of these prestigious awards, epitomizing as they do the ethos of luxury and fine service.

The World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards recognize establishments for world-class service excellence. Awards are presented on a country, regional, continental and global basis. Winners are selected by public vote online, providing true recognition that reflects the hard work and dedication exhibited by staff.

“The most coveted awards are the Global category of awards,” says World Luxury Awards Brand and Events Manager, Michelle Creus. “Many factors play a part in determining the winners – brand, location and overall guest satisfaction as fed back via online reviews, among others. This year the focus was on unique design with a touch of classy elegance.”

Masters of Ceremony Anastasia Razzorenove and Timofey Zudin skilfully guided proceedings and entertained guests, who also enjoyed a taste of quintessential Russian culture by way of music by Chopin, Tchaikovsky and others, performed by Marinsky orchestra, while ballet soloists from the Marinsky Theatre performed excerpts from Rimski-Korakov’s Sheherezade, Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty and more.

“We congratulate this year’s winners. True luxury is not easily attained. It takes highly efficient and dedicated staff, who are willing to go the extra mile and stop at nothing to ensure that every guest feels cared for and no challenge goes unresolved. This is the definition of luxury. It is what makes the winners shine,” says World Luxury Awards Group Marketing Director Michael Hunter-Smith.

In his speech to welcome guests, St Petersburg Tourism and Development Committee Chairman Evegeny Pankevich said the luxury hospitality, wellness and restaurant industries are the most promising areas of the tourism sector in the city.

“St. Petersburg is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and has been recognized by various international organizations as a top tourist destination in Europe. I hope tonight’s participants will truly experience our city’s unique atmosphere,” he said.

Guests enjoyed a Russian Imperial-inspired six-course dining experience, paired with the finest of wines, while the Rooftop Bar and Restaurant provided the ideal ambience for the after-party.

Next year’s award ceremony will take place in Bali in July. The event will be hosted by Conrad Bali Hotel. Applications to host the event in 2021 are now open.

The event was sponsored by France 24, Copenhagen Traveller, Caviar Spoon, Destination Golf, Santé Magazine, Singapore Brides, Spa and Wellness International and Healing Earth. The World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards would like to thank them for their continued support over the years. We also thank the St. Petersburg Convention Bureau, The State Hermitage Museum, Hermitage Media and DWFI for their support.

Posted on July 15, 2018March 16, 2020 by Linda Cooper — 1 Comment

2018 World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Annual Gala Event

On 14^th July participants from the World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards gathered at the magnificent Galgorm Resort & Spa in Northern Ireland for the annual event, recognising and celebrating their success for exceptional service in the luxury wellness and fine dining industries. The red carpet was rolled out down the stairs and between the wide pillars and high arches of the impressive venue – The Great Hall. Guests were welcomed at the entrance by the sound of Irish Uilleann pipes and a single reel Irish dance performance as they were led into an ‘Enchanted Forest’ reception area with exotic cocktails and canapes on arrival. The theme for the evening was Irish with a mythical feel, guests were immersed in a truly memorable celebration of Irish culture, fine food and ‘craic’. Over 200 guests from 42 countries across the globe attended this unforgettable occasion filled with opulence, glitz and glamour.

This truly unique experience was enhanced by the symphony of tastes from award winning produce representing the best of Northern Ireland’s cuisine on the flavourful 5-course menu. Resort Head Chef, Donna X with x years of experience, oversees the menu selection of all the resort’s outlets and proudly presented the best on offer for the evening’s enjoyment, this included local goat’s cheese, prawn bisque, followed by lamb (2 ways), locally sourced honey and dairy for the buttermilk panna cotta, and was finished off with a selection of Irish Cream Fudge and Coffee Macaroon’s.

To accompany the sensational food were the awe-inspiring, national and world champion Irish Dancers, The Hooley, who provided world class entertainment which was specially choreographed for the event.

All guests were thrilled to receive a generous gift bag with products supplied by Voya, Bioeffect, Aromatherapy Association, Vita Liberata, Bushmills and Bacardi-Brown Forman.

Galgorm the Resort, in conjunction with their spa partners created a Spa Festival for attendees to enjoy, this included a pop-up Wellness Bar by Aromatherapy Associates and Finishing Bar by Vita Liberata (the world’s first non-toxic and organic tan). Attendees were invited to experience the products, tan before the event and relax with complimentary treatments after their travels, before preparing to attend the evening’s event.

All attending the event were impressed with the entire evening, especially with the representation of each attending country’s flag outside the entrance of the Great Hall. All awards were well received and the evening flowed smoothly from start to finish, culminating with the much anticipated Global awards, followed by the winners of the Global Spa and Restaurant of the Year winners.

The 2018 Global Spa of the Year award was awarded to Este Fitness & Spa. This sought-after award goes to a luxury spa that has stood out among the worlds’ most advanced, respected and trusted treatment centres. The award was accepted by Nadia Halacheva, Spa Director.

The 2018 Global Restaurant of the Year award was awarded to Le Grand Restaurant. This coveted award goes to a luxury restaurant that has showcased outstanding and original creativity, ambience, service and fine dining, among the world’s most respected restaurants. The award was accepted by Yohan Jossier, Restaurant Director and Alexandra Madesclair Freud, Development Manager.

Guests were invited to remain and celebrate their success together in the Grand Hall with lively music from the 7-piece band, The Coves, which rounded off a perfect evening of celebration.

www.luxuryrestarantawards.com

Posted on July 23, 2017March 16, 2020 by Linda Cooper — 1 Comment

2017 World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Annual Gala Event

World Luxury Spa and Restaurant Awards Honour 2017 Winners

The scene is set; it’s a warm, exotic summer’s evening in Vietnam, the sun begins to set over the bustling and intriguing city of Hanoi, excited participants gather at the event of the year, the event that will later that night honour them as the crème da la crème of the luxury wellness and fine dining industries. Champagne flows, canapés travel on beautifully decorated trays to guests, and the air of anticipation grows. Proudly hosted by the spectacular JW Marriott Hotel Hanoi, who with a red carpet welcome invite over 180 guests from more than 50 countries to a dazzling evening of luxury, glamour, and style.

“Over 100,000 votes brought our winners here tonight; 100,000 times the public voiced their opinion on who of the 1,000 entrants are deserving of these accolades. Tonight we honour the staff of these fine establishments, who through their immeasurable service delivery have brought success to the proud brands of which they are a part.” says Marna Lourens, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Spa Awards.

Setting the basis for service industry standards around the globe, the World Luxury Spa Awards and World Luxury Restaurant Awards pride themselves on providing true recognition to luxury spas and restaurants in their relevant categories during its annual voting phase. Votes are garnered through various marketing channels from guests, showcasing yet again the true value of service excellence.

“The most coveted award on the evening is our Global Spa and Global Restaurant of the Year awards. Each year the task to determine these top establishments begins after voting has closed and we announce to our winners if they have been successful. We are six senior managers who take weeks to decide, as voting is not the only criteria we look at to bestow this prestigious award. A multitude of factors come in to play; brand, location, overall guest satisfaction from online reviews, services and facilities, design, and even menu offerings whether spa or restaurant. It is important to look at each establishment as an individual as well, some are on an island, some are in cities or in a desert, it is not always possible to compare apples with apples when defining luxury. This year the focus was on unique design with a touch of classy elegance, and we were as such proud to award Global Spa of the Year to Harnn Heritage Spa at InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, and Global Restaurant of the Year to Ithaa Undersea Restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island. Both of whom encompass the ethos of luxury and supreme service.” says Joanna Evans, Marketing Communications Manager for the World Luxury Awards.

The evening was as glamorous as one would expect from a JW Marriott brand hotel; a delectable 6-course fine dining menu adorned each table throughout the night and was paired with fine wines and champagne from Moët et Chandon. Entertainment fitting of the destination included a Dragon Dance, a Vietnamese based string quartet performance by Độc Cầm – Toxic Quartet, and a local Ao Dai Dance, all of which added to the evening’s Asian flair.

“The food tonight was exceptionally impressive, and has been during our entire stay at the hotel. Executive Chef Brendon Partridge and his team receive full honours from the World Luxury Awards and all our guests for the tireless effort of crafting these delicious plates of exquisite foods we received this evening.” says Linda Cooper, Executive Manager for the World Luxury Restaurant Awards. “I am proud to know that the awards they themselves received tonight are so well deserved.”

After all awards were received and each representative had an opportunity for exclusive photos and interviews on the red carpet, guests were welcomed to the chic and ultra-stylish Cool Cats Jazz Club, a name so apt for the warm red glow it provides, while live musicians entertained crowds late into the night with some fabulous classic jazz music.

Luxury establishments from around the globe are welcomed to participate in these exciting awards, to proudly show the world what they have to offer in terms of luxury and excellence.

www.luxuryrestarantawards.com

Posted on June 19, 2016March 16, 2020 by Linda Cooper

2016 World Luxury Spa & Restaurant Awards Annual Gala Event

2016 WORLD LUXURY RESTAURANT AWARDS ANNUAL GALA EVENT

Hosted at The Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina, Switzerland

The Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina: The 1^st Annual World Luxury Restaurant Awards Event was held at the magnificent Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina on Saturday 18^th June 2016.

Representatives from luxury restaurants and spas from 38 countries arrived to a grand red carpet welcome with champagne from Veuve Cliquot, in anticipation of receiving an award at this special black tie gala event, which was hosted by Kiki Maeder, TV and radio presenter for the Swiss national broadcaster Schweizer Radio und Fernsehen.

The guests were seated in the Grand Restaurant for a much anticipated evening of fine dining and refined entertainment. An impressive 6 course meal presented by Executive Chef, Fabrizio Piantanida, was savoured throughout the evening.

Master of Ceremonies, Kiki Maeder welcomed everyone to relax and enjoy the event proceedings. Thereafter, Linda Cooper, Executive Manager of the Restaurant Awards gave some words of thanks to all involved with the event, including our valued media partners for their ongoing support and contribution, after which, Ariane Ehrat from St Moritz Engadin Tourism Organisation, delivered her keynote address. All Country awards were presented first, followed by Continent Winners and then the much desired Global awards.

The Global Restaurant of the Year Award went to Jahn Restaurant from Conrad Hotel Koh Samui, in Thailand. Jahn received two global awards, one for Thai Cuisine and one for Ambience/Romantic Atmosphere. This restaurant received the most votes overall and certainly did well to shine in Thailand. Thailand is a highly competitive country with a strong passion to deliver the best in all aspects of food preparation and presentation with a special focus on service delivery. Well done JAHN!

Although it was not possible to steal the limelight on the night, the very close first runner up for the Overall Winner awards was Kokkeriet, an extremely popular Danish restaurant which brought in enough votes to easily win the Global award for Fine Dining Cuisine. Kokkeriet was there to receive their award in this highly competitive category.

The most popular category of all the 35 nominated restaurant categories, was that of Luxury Hotel Restaurant; the Global Award for this went to Passion by Martin Berasategui in Mexico. Passion received the most votes overall in this category, although they were not able to join us on the evening, they were a well-deserved winner!

The event was closed with the presentation of a certificate of recognition to the Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Pontresina, for hosting this fabulous inaugural event.

The World Luxury Restaurant Awards has had a very exciting first year and we have only just begun, these awards are still a fraction of what they will be in years to come. Luxury establishments all around the world can compete on an even playing field, together with our positive promotion, support and exposure, we ensure the recognition these venues deserve.

Well done to all our 2016 participants! We look forward to working with you again for the 2017 awards and hope to see you at the JW Marriott Hanoi for the 2017 World Luxury Restaurant Awards!