Kimpton EPIC Hotel, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, is pleased to announce the appointment of Clement Durand as Director of Food & Beverage. An accomplished hospitality professional with a global background spanning Europe and Asia, Durand brings a wealth of international experience and a dynamic approach to culinary and beverage operations.
In his role as Director of Food & Beverage, Durand oversees all culinary concepts and dining experiences across the property, including the acclaimed Area 31 restaurant. He is responsible for driving innovation across menus and programming, elevating service standards, and enhancing the hotel’s reputation as a premier dining destination in downtown Miami. Working closely with the leadership team, Durand focuses on delivering thoughtful, high-impact experiences that reflect both global influences and the vibrant local culture.
Born and raised in France, Durand discovered his passion for hospitality at an early age, leading him to study at École Hôtelière Le Touquet. During his studies, he gained hands-on experience across both front- and back-of-house roles within Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels, including Le Pavillon at the Westminster Hotel, Le Château de Ligny, and Les Fermes de Marie.
His career has been defined by a strong international trajectory. Durand further expanded his culinary perspective through a Chinese culinary program at the Institute of Tourism in Chengdu, followed by his involvement in the opening of a resort hotel and spa in Mallorca, Spain. These formative experiences fostered a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and global cuisine.
Durand later joined Swire Hotels in Hong Kong, where he spent seven years growing within the organization. Beginning as an Assistant Manager at The Continental Restaurant, he advanced into a corporate role overseeing the group’s Food & Beverage portfolio and supporting new hotel openings—an experience that significantly shaped his strategic and operational expertise.
In 2023, Durand returned to property-level leadership as Assistant Director of Food & Beverage at EAST Miami, before most recently serving as Director of Food & Beverage at the newly opened Andaz Miami Beach.
“I’m thrilled to join Kimpton EPIC Hotel and be part of such an iconic property in the heart of Miami,” said Durand. “Food and beverage is a powerful way to connect people and create lasting memories. I look forward to building on EPIC’s strong culinary foundation while introducing new experiences that inspire both guests and the local community.”
Kimpton EPIC Hotel continues to be a leading destination in downtown Miami, known for its waterfront location, design-forward accommodations, and vibrant culinary and social offerings.
