INTERVIEW CHEF DANE FERNANDES EXECUTIVE CHEF THE WESTIN RESORT NUSA DUA, BALI
Congratulations on your new role! How do you feel about being the new Executive Chef of The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali?
Being an island boy, it almost feels like coming back to my roots in a way “homecoming”. The Westin Resort Nusa Dua has an array of restaurants offering world cuisine. I think with my addition into the team we will only soar higher and build a reputation as one of the most talked about F&B in Bali.
Having worked at an array of prestigious properties and restaurants around the world, why did you choose The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali as your new destination?
I think over the years I had always been a part of city business Hotels and with this role it gives me the opportunity to embrace cultures which I absolutely adore. Also, an opportunity to gain more experience with nature through ingredients, travel, and focus on the local cuisine is completely a new level of excitement for me.
What can we expect to see from the menu in all the dining venue at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali
I am someone who believes in simple things done well. “Tradition is evolution” as long as the soul of the dish speaks the language that you want it to speak. We at Westin Nusa Dua will be recreating all our restaurant concept with a focus on sourcing and also, traditional recipes with a twist.
Share with us, the latest update in the food and beverage at The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali
We have on board our exciting new team members who will help us recreate our menus with a focus on new trends. I would say we’re rewriting all our menus so stay tuned we’re cooking up a storm!
What do you think is the most important part of ensuring exceptional customer service?
The only thing you need to believe in that we learn back home in India it’s called “atithi devo bhava” which literally translates to guest is God.
If you could collaborate with a famous celebrity chef, who would that be?
I would love to collaborate with Chef Alex Atala from the restaurant D.O.M in Brazil. I love what he has created in terms of cultural food with an evolved version to it, but still traditional ingredients that makes the difference.
Who is your culinary idol?
Every single person who has made me reach where I am today is an idol for me. No learning is big or small, you win you fail you get back on top and do what’s expected out of you every day. Consistency is the key.
What is your most memorable dining experience?
OH, there are many but none of them are from any fancy Michelin star restaurants. One of my very recent experiences was when I went to Singaraja and meet Chef Yudi at Dapur Bali Mula. It was such a fantastic experience where he lived up to his roots and cooked an absolutely fantastic meal with excellent quality ingredients that he sourced locally.
What do you do in your free time?
Usually sleep!
Ha-ha I’m just kidding. I love to travel mostly to explore and swim. I’m quite a fitness enthusiastic when I have the time so I love early morning runs and cycling. My newly found love is surfing and golf.