Chef Pedro Samper takes the helm at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands announces the appointment of Pedro Samper as its new Executive Chef. Joining the resort’s esteemed team of culinary talent, Chef Pedro brings over two decades of experience in culinary leadership, creativity, and a passion for excellence, cultivated in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels, resorts, and Michelin-starred restaurants across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.

In his role at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, Samper will oversee the culinary vision for the resort’s seven dining outlets, ensuring the delivery of unique, sustainable, and culturally enriching menu concepts. Additionally, Chef Pedro will manage the destination’s acclaimed culinary collaborations, solidifying The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands as a premier destination for world-class dining that blends global influences with local traditions.

Chef Pedro joins the resort following his most recent position as Executive Chef at Pan Pacific Orchard, Singapore, where he successfully guided the pre-opening team through the launch phase. His distinguished career also includes Executive Chef roles at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, The St. Regis Maldives, The Langham Hong Kong, The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur, as well as at acclaimed Michelin-star restaurants in Spain and Japan.

Born and raised in San Sebastián, Spain, Chef Pedro was immersed in the region’s rich culinary heritage and influential dining establishments. His academic training initially took him into the sciences before he pursued a career in the culinary arts. Inspired by a vibrant gastronomic upbringing and a passion for cooking, he found his professional calling as a chef, a journey that reflects his focus on sustainability and careful sourcing of ingredients.

Chef Pedro began his culinary career in his hometown, honing his skills at Basque Restaurant and Casa Urola, where he deepened his understanding of Basque cuisine. These early experiences provided a robust foundation in classic techniques and local flavours. His international journey includes work in Tokyo under Chef Yamamoto at the three Michelin-starred RyuGin and as Executive Chef for the opening of Zurriola’s first overseas location in Hong Kong, which earned two Michelin stars.

Renato De Oliveira, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, remarked, “We’re thrilled to welcome Chef Pedro to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. With his wealth of international expertise and aligned sensibilities, we look forward to advancing our gastronomic vision.”

Regarding his new position, Samper stated, “I am honoured to join the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and to elevate innovative luxury in the region. The Maldives offers an extraordinary canvas for creativity, and I look forward to curating memorable dining experiences for guests. My ultimate aspiration is to leave a lasting legacy of culinary innovation and excellence.”