Javier Melendez Appointed as New Executive Chef at W Retreat & Spa – Vieques Island
Vieques, Puerto Rico (July 29, 2015) – The renowned luxury hotel, W Retreat & Spa – Vieques Island appoints Chef Javier Melendez as the new executive chef responsible for all beverage and food outlets, including signature restaurant, Sorcé. With more than a decade of hospitality experience, Melendez brings his culinary prowess to guests looking for delectable fusions of Puerto Rican and global fare.
“We’re elated to harness Javier’s robust culinary history for our guests,” said Director of Sales & Marketing, Bahia Husband. “His diverse expertise in luxury fine dining brings a refreshing perspective to our corner of the Caribbean.”
Hailing from Nobu where he spent more than five years as junior sous chef, Melendez pulls from positions held at venues such as Intercontinental. In 2010, he was invited to be part of the opening of W Retreat & Spa – Vieques Island honing his skills to perfect cuisine that embodies the allure of Vieques Island.
Melendez’s culinary technique is inspired by his Puerto Rican roots, while infusing the local characteristics of Vieques Island. In his new role, Melendez is responsible for W Café, in room dining, WET, Living Room bar and Sorcé. As a result of to his mother and grandmother’s culinary fervor, Melendez grew up with flavorful Caribbean fare that aligns well with that of the retreat.
“Partnering my passion for new flavors without losing local tradition, I am eager to add an element of surprise to menus to keep guests and locals alike coming back,” said Javier Melendez. “I believe in 60% creativity and 40% technique when it comes to crafting new dishes. My goal is to continue the legacy of quality that has always distinguished W Vieques.”
The culinary vision focuses on elevating popular local flavors of local with health in mind. Boasting a new garden featuring locally grown fruits, herbs and vegetables, Sorcé will even be incorporating more fresh ingredients without losing the creative touch. Some of his signature dishes are tuna watermelon salad cru, queso de cabra croquettes with homemade dulce de lechoza, churrasco sweet and sour platano maduro, crispy leeks with parmigiano and truffle oil and his acclaimed Bili sorbet.
About W Retreat & Spa – Vieques Island
W Retreat & Spa-Vieques Island opened its doors on March 25, 2010 as the first W Retreat & Spa in North America. Located eight miles off the Southeast coast of Puerto Rico on the peaceful and untouched island of Vieques, the Retreat & Spa features 156 stylish guest rooms and suites, all with private patios and balconies, providing unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean. The hotel offers a mix of serenity and natural beauty, inviting guests to escape to an untainted paradise that blends soft adventure with soothing relaxation. A Caribbean wonderland blessed with two private palm-lined beaches, the property flaunts waterfront leisure spots such as Living Room, Fire Pit, Lawn and Paradise Edge; five scrumptious dining options; an AWAY Spa for ultimate revitalization and relaxation; and a contemporary seaside sanctuary full of natural wonders and pure indulgence. W Vieques is an undiscovered oasis created by an innovative team of designers including lead designer, Patricia Urquiola, of Milan based Studio Urquiola, renowned design firm, Rockwell Group Europe who collaborated with Patricia Urquiola on the spa and public spaces and architectural firms, Sierra Cardona Ferrer and EDSA. For more information, please visit www.wvieques.com.
About W Hotels Worldwide
W Hotels is a contemporary, design-led lifestyle brand and the industry innovator with 40 hotels and retreats in the most vibrant cities and exotic destinations around the world. Inspiring, iconic, innovative and influential, W Hotels provides the ultimate in insider access, offering a unique mix of cutting-edge design and passions around fashion, music and entertainment. W Hotels offers a holistic lifestyle experience that is integrated into the brand’s sensibility through contemporary restaurant concepts, glamorous entertainment experiences, stylish retail concepts and signature spas. With more than 12 years of proven success, W Hotels is on track to reach more than 50 hotels by the end of 2012. W Hotels and W Retreats have been announced for Paris, St. Petersburg, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Bali, Bangkok, Athens – Astir Palace, and Verbier, among other international destinations. For more information, visit www.whotels.com.
