4 minute read
Fit for an Instagram table
With the rise of social media, hotels are paying greater attention to their table settings to provide guests with the finest Instagram moments. HN spoke to five hospitality experts to find out how they select their tableware and glassware.
The choice of tablecloths and glassware for a restaurant can affect many aspects of the hotel. We need to match the concept, ambience and location together with the colors and inspirational atmosphere. Furthermore, we need to be conscious of the exposure on social media. What should a procurement manager look out for when purchasing these items?
We need to maintain the efficiency of the operation based on value for money and maintenance of the items. The quality of your tablecloths and glassware must match the level of your restaurant.
NÉSTOR DEL TORO BENÍTEZ
General manager Occidental Sharjah Grand, Sharjah, UAE Barceló Hotel Group barcelo.com/en-ae
NAIM MAADAD
Chief executive and founder Gates Hospitality, Dubai, UAE gateshospitality.com How do you choose the finest tableware and glassware?
While choosing the glassware, tableware, cutlery and crockery, the concept brand ethos needs to be very well defined. The items chosen need to have added value and must be innovative and unique. The focus should be on the brand of tableware and glassware, making sure it is in sync with what the concept represents. How do you select the best tableware and glassware supplier?
Previous dealing with the supplier is vital to ensure that the delivery will be prompt and that the supplier has a good reputation in the market.
At any given point in time, the trend would always be value for money and cohesive quality syncing well with the brand.
It is always your menu that drives food service ware choices. When we develop concepts, we build brand guidelines as well as product presentation guidelines. A mood board is created, leading creative teams and chefs toward a final plating style. While creative presentations and creative tableware is pretty much the norm in this Instagram-driven world, we also need to ensure that the chosen product is food safe, commercially built to last and has the right price point. What should a procurement manager look out for when purchasing these items?
Procurement managers should build longterm relationships with suppliers and visit trade exhibitions abroad to find the best possible options. However, one must keep in mind that the lead time is usually 60 to 90 days to receive shipments of orders. If restaurants are procuring closer to the opening, they have great options with leading local commercial brands like RAK porcelain for simpler, strong and sturdy lines. The procurement manager should plan in advance and ensure samples are checked before orders are placed, the product is food safe, resilient and not over exposed in the market.
GABRIELLE F. MATHER
CEO and founder Restaurant Secrets Inc., Dubai, UAE restaurantsecretsinc.com
Quality, durability, functionality, aesthetics, budget, purpose, quantity and availability together determine the selection. Don’t expect five-star flatware in a two-star hotel; the opposite is also true. It is a matter of guest expectations and creating that wow factor, because one eats with the eyes first. What should a procurement manager look out for when purchasing these items?
It is important for procurement managers to find the material that best suits the establishment’s needs, brand guidelines, style preference and budget. As an example, products that are resistant to knocks are great for everyday use. Are there any new tableware and glassware trends to look out for?
We have been seeing a strong trend toward the use of natural materials in conjunction with porcelain pieces for the presentation of dishes. There is great emphasis on design. Often unusual shapes and sizes, colored glassware and contemporary design are preferred in the right settings to create a distinctive ambience and mood.
LAURENT A. VOIVENEL
Senior VP – operations and development, EMEA and India; Senior VP – group human resources and talent development Swiss-Belhotel International swiss-belhotel.com
JACK YAZBEK
Director of materials Park Rotana, Abu Dhabi, UAE rotana.com/parkrotana How do you choose the finest tableware and glassware for your hotel or venue?
We look for excellent product quality and durability. Everything we use should match the five-star setting at Park Rotana. We follow Rotana guidelines even with our tableware and glassware to ensure great dining experiences for our guests. Also, we choose from reliable suppliers who provide competitive prices and timely delivery. How do you select the best tableware and glassware supplier?
The key factors in choosing the best tableware and glassware supplier for us include product quality, reliability and competitive prices. Our suppliers should be reliable and able to deliver the best quality products in line with market pricing within the agreed timelines. Are there any new tableware and glassware trends to look out for?
We always look into the latest trends while selecting items for the hotel and purchase based on what will match with our requirements. Sustainability, though not a new trend, is something being considered. Products that have been manufactured responsibly — sourcing from local suppliers to support local business — eco-friendliness of products and durability are what we are looking into, even with tableware and glassware in line with our Rotana Earth program.
