New Executive Chef

Engelberg, August 14, 2025 – Kempinski Palace Engelberg is delighted to announce the appointment of Stefanos Ioannidis as its new Executive Chef. Born in Greece, he brings with him over 15 years' experience in the international luxury hotel industry, and will further develop the hotel's culinary offering with his innovative signature style and strategic finesse.

Stefanos Ioannidis began his career in his native Greece and has since gained extensive experience working in some of the world's most prestigious establishments. These include The Chedi Andermatt
and, most recently, the Mandarin Oriental Palace Lucerne, where he played a key role in the opening
and development of the concept, as well as quality management, in his position as Executive Sous
Chef. He is known for his high quality standards and creative approach to menu development for
sustainable, trend-conscious gastronomic concepts.

‘We are delighted to welcome Stefanos Ioannidis to our team,’ says Andreas Magnus, General Manager of Kempinski Palace Engelberg. ‘His international experience, innovative spirit and deep
understanding of luxury gastronomy will enrich our culinary offerings and provide our guests with
exceptional taste experiences.’

As Executive Chef, Stefanos Ioannidis is responsible for all of the hotel's food outlets. These include
the Cattani Restaurant, which serves French-inspired cuisine with Swiss influences, the stylish The Palace Bar, the Wintergarden, which offers afternoon tea for all ages, and the Chalet Ruinart, which serves Alpine classics such as fondue and raclette during the winter months. He will also oversee the
strategic development of the food and beverage offering, focusing particularly on regional produce and sustainable processes.

'My vision is to create immersive culinary experiences by forging strong relationships with local farmers and artisans. This enables us to develop distinctive seasonal menus that reflect the region's
identity and showcase its produce throughout the year. In addition to our current offerings, I want to
provide our guests with new and unforgettable experiences. These include special tasting menus and exciting seasonal pop-ups, which allow guests to enjoy a personalised culinary adventure," explains Stefanos Ioannidis.

In addition, his Greek heritage will be subtly incorporated into the menu in sophisticated and surprising ways, adding a new dimension to the cuisine. The unforgettable dishes and culinary experiences at Kempinski Palace Engelberg will make it a magnet for foodies and a major reason to visit.

*END*

About Kempinski Palace Engelberg: Situated in the heart of the Swiss Alps, close to Lucerne, Kempinski Palace Engelberg (www.kempinski.com/engelberg) reopened in June 2021 following more than five years of construction. The historic Belle Époque landmark has been reinterpreted for a new generation, combining heritage, nature and contemporary luxury. As the first and only international five-star superior hotel in Central Switzerland’s largest winter and summer destination, Kempinski Palace Engelberg is a year-round alpine retreat. More than a century ago, the historic building gained recognition beyond Switzerland when successful Engelberg hotelier Eduard Cattani (1841–1908) commissioned his brother, Architect Arnold Cattani (1846–1921), to design the original structure. Opened in 1904 as the Grandhotel Winterhaus, it laid the foundation for today’s property. Following extensive renovation and the integration of a new five-story extension, the hotel now forms a unified architectural ensemble. Its 129 rooms and suites feature state-of-the-art amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Culinary experiences include Cattani Restaurant, The Palace Bar with the Habanos Cigar Lounge, the Wintergarden, and in winter the Chalet Ruinart. The property also features an 880 sq m rooftop spa with an infinity pool and panoramic views, a Kids Club and a modern event area with nine rooms plus the historic Kursaal for up to 1,000 guests. The hotel is accessible year-round by car, train or within approximately 75 minutes from Zurich Airport. 
In 2025, Kempinski Palace Engelberg was awarded One MICHELIN Key – ‘A Special Stay’ – by the MICHELIN Guide.

About Kempinski Hotels: Established in 1897, Kempinski Hotels is Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group. Kempinski’s rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today, the Kempinski Group operates 82 hotels and residences in 35 countries and has more than 28 prestigious projects currently under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world’s largest alliance of independent hotel brands.

kempinski.com/engelberg · kempinski.com · www.ghadiscovery.com 

* The Kursaal is managed by Kursaal AG Engelberg (www.kursaalengelberg.ch). This company is not part of Kempinski Palace Engelberg – Titlis Swiss Alps. 

Media Contact: 

Kempinski Palace Engelberg
Alexandra Ellerkamp
Cluster Director of Marketing & Communications
Dorfstrasse 40 · 6390 Engelberg · Switzerland
T +41 41 556 40 57 · [email protected]