Shangri-La's Mactan has new F&B director

MANILA, Philippines – Undisputedly the wining and dining capital of Cebu, Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa continues to be at the forefront, providing Cebu with a dining experience that evokes a sensory experience beyond taste.

Abdul Hafid bin Mohamed Gaus, a restaurateur and sommelier from Singapore, was recently appointed as the hotel’s food and beverage director.

Hafid has had extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, starting out as restaurant manager for the Raffles Town Club, one of the most exclusive social clubs in Singapore.

At Raffles Town Club, he ensured the delivery of the highest order of culinary requirements of its distinguished members.

He then moved on to be the food and beverage manager for the historic Alkaff Mansion Singapore and began his career in the hotel industry as restaurant manager for the Mandarin Oriental Singapore. A year later, he took on a new challenge and became restaurant manager of the Hilton Singapore.

Recognizing his knack for creative ideas, the Mandarin Oriental invited him back to become its restaurant and beverage manager in 2004, where he led the hotel’s pre-opening team in creating a brand-new dining experience in time for the launch.

Before his post in Cebu, he was food and beverage manager for the Golden Sands Resort, the leading family resort in Malaysia for more than three years.

During his Malaysian stint, he made tremendous improvements to the menu selection, food quality and dining experience for guests of the Golden Sands.

Hafid is enthusiastic about his new post and is currently collaborating with the team of award-winning chefs of Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort and Spa, creating new and exciting offerings for its food and beverage outlets.

Hafid holds an International Diploma in Hotel Management from Institut Vatel, Nimes, France and was also educated in wines and spirits in the Wine and Spirit Education Trust of London.