Director Food & Beverage at Maya Sanur Resort & Spa
Exquisite Taste: Describe your typical day in a sentence.
Emmanuel: I don’t remember having a typical day since I’ve worked in F&B, especially in my 13 years in Asia, other than starting the day with a morning briefing!
E: So how did you come to be Food & Beverage Director of Maya Sanur Resort & Spa?
E: I knew General Manager Paul Blake and had intended to join Maya Sanur during pre-opening but ended up opening a property in north Bali. Over a year later, I eventually joined the Maya team and love the role.
E: What’s the toughest part of your job?
E: Stopping working to go home, but when I am home I forget all about work!
E: And what makes you smile at work?
E: My staff, they just crack me up daily. Simple things can become something amazingly funny.
E: What motivates you?
E: Making ideas happen. It isn’t always easy, but once the whole process is complete, it’s amazing. This year, we have brought in three guest star chefs: Chef Bansani Nawisampan, Chef Joannes Riviere (in May) and one Michelin-star Chef Eric Bouttee (in June).
E: Would things fall apart if you weren’t around?
E: Of course not, I have a great team.
E: Who in your team deserves more recognition and why?
E: Executive Chef Agus, he can understand my ideas (sometimes they can be a bit crazy).
E: Why should people choose Maya Sanur Resort to dine or drink?
E: It is the place to be in Sanur. We have three outlets each with its own unique culinary identity, paired with relaxed and personalised service; and of course the one and only Tree Bar facing Nusa Lembongan. KUU Izakaya dining is famous for its authentic Japanese food. Graze is an all-day dining gem serving delicious Indonesian dishes, all-day breakfast and the tastiest sweet treats. REEF, our signature restaurant, has a seafood bias and views of Sanur Beach.
E: Away from work, what’s your favourite place to eat?
E: Warung Pulau Kelapa in Ubud. Actually it’s a family vote as it is the only restaurant where we all like to go. Perfect food and company combined.
E: How do you unwind?
E: Family time with my wife and daughter, and a lot of travelling around Indonesia.
E: Finally, any advice for those looking to break into the industry?
E: Jump! Don’t think too much and learn on the job alongside passionate professionals.
Maya Ubud Resort & Spa
Jalan Gunung Sari, Peliatan
Ubud, Gianyar
Bali 80571, Indonesia
T: (+62)361977888
E: foodandbeverage@mayaubud.com
mayaresorts.com
Maya Sanur Resort & Spa
Jalan Danau Tamblingan, Sanur
Bali 80338, Indonesia
T: (+62) 3618497800
