SLS Baha Mar appoints new Director of Food & Beverage

NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS – SLS Baha Mar announces the appointment of Daniel Rivera, renowned for his unforgettable dining experiences, as the new Director of Food & Beverage. With over 20 years of hospitality expertise spanning luxury hotels, award-winning restaurants, and high-profile culinary ventures, Daniel brings an unmatched depth of experience and visionary leadership to the renowned resort.

Daniel’s illustrious career includes collaborating with some of the world’s most celebrated chefs, such as José Andrés, Michael Schwartz, David Chang, and the Voltaggio brothers. Most recently, he served as Complex Director of Food & Beverage at Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach, where he oversaw food and beverage operations, encompassing multiple dining concepts, bars, and event spaces. His leadership was instrumental in elevating the culinary profile of the iconic Miami Beach property.

Rivera’s expertise in curating exceptional dining experiences and fostering innovative culinary partnerships aligns perfectly with SLS Baha Mar’s commitment to providing world-class hospitality and a luxurious experience for its guests. Daniel is already making an impact by leading the resort’s food and beverage operations, including signature venues like Katsuya, Carna, Cleo Mediterráneo, and Skybar.

In his first few months at the resort, he has already introduced exclusive experiences that highlight his fresh approach, such as a specialty 5-course dinner at Katsuya where guests can indulge in exquisite sashimi and sushi, paired with five bespoke Patron cocktails. Additionally, Rivera has implemented Carna’s upcoming Cakebread Wine Dinner promises a luxurious 5-course tasting menu, each dish expertly paired with select Cakebread wines.

Rivera has also brought a new energy to the resort’s nightlife, with exciting additions to the programming at both Skybar and BOND Nightclub. The Live Series at Skybar, featuring the Essence Band, offers weekly live music and expertly crafted cocktails against a backdrop of breathtaking views. Meanwhile, BOND Nightclub’s EDM Nights bring electrifying beats, dazzling lights, and an unforgettable atmosphere every weekend with special guests such as Yung Miami and other notable artists.

“With Daniel at the helm of our food and beverage program, the future of dining at SLS Baha Mar is incredibly bright” said Carsten Wiegandt, newly appointed General Manager of SLS Baha Mar. “His passion for the unconventional and proven track record of success will undoubtedly bring new and elevated dining concepts and experiences to the property for our guests that they can’t get anywhere else, reinforcing SLS Baha Mar’s reputation as a premier culinary destination.”

Reflecting on his new role, Rivera shared, “I am honored to join such an innovative team and look forward to building on the resort’s outstanding reputation. The vibrant culture and culinary diversity at SLS Baha Mar create endless opportunities to deliver extravagant guest experiences. My immediate priority is to look into how we can go beyond simply leveraging current dining trends, and see how we can set some new bars ourselves.”

Rivera’s impressive career spans leadership roles with some of the most prestigious names in the hospitality industry. He has held key positions with global brands such as Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, where he honed his expertise in luxury service, and Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, where he spearheaded culinary innovation. Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the culinary programs at SLS Hotels and Nobu Eden Roc Hotel Miami Beach, developing unique dining experiences and overseeing award-winning concepts that earned critical acclaim.

Rivera’s career highlights include leading BluSky Restaurant & Bar at The Radisson Blu Anaheim to being named the “Best New Restaurant in Orange County” by a James Beard Award-winning critic. He has earned recognition for contributions to properties featured in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards and has guided teams to achieve numerous accolades, including James Beard Award semifinalist honors for outstanding service at The Mansion Restaurant at Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek Dallas. Daniel’s arrival marks an exciting chapter for SLS Baha Mar’s dining and beverage scene.

The article SLS Baha Mar appoints new Director of Food & Beverage first appeared in TravelDailyNews International.