Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche has appointed Gari Abdel as chef de cuisine.

Most recently Abdel was executive sous chef on the pre-opening team of Nikki Beach Hotels & Resorts in Dubai.

Prior to this, Abdel headed up the kitchen at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa and was part of the pre-opening teams for Sofitel properties in Abu Dhabi, Manama, and Jeddah.

He began his culinary career at Pavillon des Boulevard in Bordeaux, France and has worked with Michelin-starred chefs including Frederic Simonin and Gilles Choukroun.

Kim Gates, executive chef, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche said; “Although perfection is not of this world, there are people like Chef Gari, who take pleasure in always trying to achieve it through dedication and passion.

“Gari Abdel has a natural talent of turning culinary skills into an art form and is an exciting addition to the team.”

Abdel will work closely with Gates to promote the recently introduced menu at Grills@Chill’O, which offers tapas, pasta, burgers, steak and seafood.

Nael El-Wary, general manager, Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche added: “Gastronomy, which is one of Sofitel’s brand pillars, is all about a generous blending of French cuisine with local flavors which produce unforgettable taste sensations. Chef Gari’s food will definitely delight our guests.”

The F&B options at the 280-key Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche are Grills@Chill’O terrace and lounge, Jazz&Fizz bar, French Bakery Corner, and Le Café lobby lounge.