The Appointment of the Executive Chef Vincenzo Squarciafico

Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, 04 December 2025 – Kempinski Al Othman Hotel Al Khobar proudly announces the appointment of Executive Chef Vincenzo Squarciafico, an Italian culinary master with more than 25 years of international experience across Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels and private VVIP estates.

Originally from the Irpinia region of southern Italy, Chef Vincenzo’s culinary journey began in a land where gastronomy is a natural expression of culture and heritage. After completing his studies in culinary arts and F&B management, he trained under Michelin-starred Chef Antonio Pisaniello, a formative mentorship that laid the foundation for a remarkable global career.

Chef Vincenzo’s professional path spans England, Russia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, France and the United Arab Emirates. His distinguished experience includes leading roles at acclaimed establishments such as the historic two-Michelin-starred Royal Clarence Hotel in Exeter by Michael Caines, Chef Nino Graziano’s two-Michelin-starred Semifreddo in Moscow, the iconic Grand Hotel Europe in Saint Petersburg and the award-winning Mriya Resort & SPA in Crimea. He later spent several years on the Côte d’Azur, creating bespoke private dining experiences for VVIP clientele in Saint-Tropez, Antibes and Cannes before relocating to Dubai.

Throughout his career, Chef Vincenzo has prepared exceptional culinary experiences for globally recognised personalities from the worlds of politics, cinema, fashion and music, including Madonna, Leonardo DiCaprio, Giorgio Armani, Sharon Stone, Demi Moore, Andrea Bocelli and Sylvester Stallone. His multicultural background has shaped a culinary philosophy rooted in authenticity, simplicity and a deep respect for the integrity of ingredients.

A luxury brand like Kempinski allows us to create experiences, not just meals,’ says Chef Vincenzo. ‘Guests expect emotion, a story woven into every dish. My goal is to bring a contemporary expression of Italian soul to Al Khobar, built on elegant simplicity, seasonality and the purest form of each ingredient.

In his new role, Chef Vincenzo will oversee the culinary operations of all restaurants and dining experiences at Kempinski Al Othman Hotel Al Khobar. He aims to elevate consistency across kitchens, strengthen team synergy and introduce refined Italian-inspired menus that highlight organic products, handmade pastas, seasonal degustation journeys and modern interpretations of regional Italian classics.

Kempinski Al Othman Hotel Al Khobar proudly welcomes Chef Vincenzo Squarciafico as he embarks on this exciting new chapter, bringing world-class expertise and a renewed culinary vision to the heart of the Eastern Province.