Ritesh Raje has been elevated as the Executive Chef  at DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji

National, July 2025 : DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji is proud to announce the elevation  of Ritesh Raje as the Executive Chef. With over 2 decades of robust culinary experience across leading hospitality brands, Ritesh’s promotion is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and operational excellence in the world of gastronomy.

A graduate of IHM Mumbai and PIC-3 certified by Dubai Municipality, Chef Raje has held key positions across acclaimed brands including Taj Mahal Palace Hotel and towers, Mumbai, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Chelsea Plaza Hotel, Hyatt Pune, and Sheraton Grand Pune. His expertise spans banquet execution, restaurant operations, strategic menu planning, and team development. Notably, during his tenure at Shangri-La, he played a crucial role in the pre-opening phase, defining the menu and putting together a skilled culinary team.

In his previous positions, he had held the responsibility of leading food production operations with precision, curated diverse menus, and championed timely, high-quality service across all F&B outlets. Widely respected for his collaborative spirit and meticulous attention to detail, he is known to balance creativity with consistency. 

“This elevation is both an honour and a responsibility,” said Chef Ritesh Raje. “My focus will be on deepening our culinary identity infusing local flavours with global techniques while nurturing a kitchen culture that values skill, respect, and innovation. Goa’s bounty is inspiring, and I’m excited to reimagine how we serve it to our guests.”

Welcoming this elevation, Harshad Nalawade, General Manager of DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji, remarked, Chef Ritesh has consistently displayed a deep understanding of not just culinary execution, but also the emotional intelligence required to lead a diverse team in a high performance environment. He brings a rare combination of operational excellence, strategic thinking, and hands on passion for the art of cooking. His elevation reflects our belief in homegrown leadership and our commitment to delivering thoughtful, innovative and unforgettable culinary experiences to every guest who dines with us.

This elevation reinforces the hotel’s commitment to recognising in-house talent and delivering elevated gastronomic experiences rooted in quality, consistency, and flair.

About DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji 

DoubleTree by Hilton Goa, Panaji is a premier hospitality destination located in the vibrant heart of Goa. Known for its warm hospitality, modern amenities, and personalized service, the hotel offers a blend of comfort and local charm. With a commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences, DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji Goa is the ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers seeking memorable stays in this coastal paradise.

Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport Appoints Savio Coutinho as New Executive Chef

Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport, developed by Fariyas Hotels & Resorts, is delighted to announce the appointment of Savio Coutinho as its new Executive Chef. A culinary leader with over 22 years of experience, Savio brings a unique blend of creativity, passion, and precision to the hotel’s dynamic food and beverage landscape.

Having helmed kitchens at hospitality giants like Marriott, Radisson, Renaissance, and The Orchids, Savio’s repertoire spans across fine dining, banquets, and menu innovation—delivering not just meals, but meaningful gastronomic experiences. His ability to fuse global techniques with local sensibilities makes him a perfect fit for Hilton Garden Inn’s signature all-day diner, Together & Co, and its diverse culinary offerings.

Cooking is more than a profession—it’s about creating memories on a plate. I look forward to bringing bold flavors and creative dishes to Hilton Garden Inn Mumbai International Airport,” says Savio.

Expressing his excitement for this new chapter, Savio adds, “It’s an incredible opportunity to curate memorable dining moments that reflect the warmth and energy of this city. My vision is to build a food culture that is rooted in authenticity, but isn’t afraid to experiment and evolve.

A true adventurer at heart, Savio’s love for superbikes and strumming the guitar are just another reflection of the passion and spontaneity he brings to his kitchen. His personal motto—‘Cook with soul, serve with flair’—perfectly aligns with the spirit of Hilton Garden Inn.

With Savio Coutinho at the helm, the hotel looks forward to elevating its culinary experiences and welcoming guests to a world where every dish tells a story.