Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, two premier hotels surrounded by the Walt Disney World Resort, have appointed Jonathan M. Raz as director of food and beverage. With nearly 20 years of experience in food and banquet operations, Raz will manage the culinary program for the entire dual-hotel property, including 12 restaurant and bar outlets, in-room dining for 1,498 guest rooms and the extensive 175,000 square foot banquet facility.
“Jonathan’s collaborative and creative nature coupled with his ability to foster imaginative and inventive leaders will make him an asset to our food and beverage operation,” said Peter Kacheris, managing director, Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. “His extensive experience and passion for innovative cuisine will inspire our culinary team to continue developing unforgettable dishes that solidify our position as one of the leading culinary destinations in Orlando.”
Raz has dedicated the majority of his career to the development of culinary programs at a variety of properties under in Hilton Hotels & Resorts portfolio. Most recently, he served as director of food and beverage for Hilton Orlando, where, under his leadership, the property was awarded Hilton Worldwide’s highest honor, The Connie Award, three times during his five-year tenure – an unprecedented accolade. Prior to this position, Raz assisted with the opening of Hilton Baltimore, the city’s largest and newest convention center hotel and also held the role of assistant director of banquets at Waldorf Astoria New York, where he gained comprehensive experience in complex banquet operations, overseeing the production of presidential dinners, galas and exclusive gatherings for up to 1,800 guests.
Waldorf Astoria Orlando and Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek are renowned for their diverse selections of refined menus at all 12 dining venues, including award-winning signature restaurants Bull & Bear and La Luce, which feature modern, imaginative takes on traditional dishes. In his new role, Raz will work with more than 150 chefs and source quality ingredients to develop unforgettable meals and group menus, all while continuing to drive revenue through restaurant and bar innovations, enhancing the dual-hotel property’s reputation for inspirational environments and customized experiences.
