Koh Samui, Thailand – 11 November 2025 – Centara Reserve Samui, the flagship of Centara Hotels & Resorts' luxury portfolio, is delighted to announce the appointment of David Morell as Executive Chef.  Bringing over two decades of international culinary experience gained from some of the world's most prestigious kitchens, Chef David will oversee the resort's entire culinary operations, encompassing six distinctive culinary venues and bars, including in-room dining, banqueting, and bespoke guest experiences.

Chef David joins Centara Reserve Samui with an impressive background spanning leading international hospitality brands, including Marriott International, Shangri-La, Banyan Tree, Hyatt International, Dusit Thani Bangkok, and Mandarin Oriental Bangkok. He also honed his craft at Restaurant Lorenz Adlon, the Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant at Hotel Adlon Kempinski in Germany, where he played a key culinary role.

A native of Germany, Chef David's culinary philosophy embraces the concept of Reserve Gastronome delightfully unpretentious, intimate, and driven by genuine passion for flavour.  His vision at Centara Reserve Samui is to elevate the resort's gastronomic identity through refined yet approachable menus inspired by Thai flavours, crafted with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Guests can expect modern dining experiences that celebrate the essence of Samui's rich culinary landscape across the resort's destination restaurants, including Act 5, Sa-Nga, The Terrace, and Salt Society Beach Bar & Kitchen.

“I am thrilled to join the talented team at Centara Reserve Samui and to share my passion for creating memorable dining experiences that resonate with both authenticity and creativity. My philosophy is simple: food should tell a story, one that honours its origins while inspiring the senses.” said David Morell, Executive Chef of Centara Reserve Samui.

Neil Li, General Manager of Centara Reserve Samui, added “Chef David brings a wealth of creativity and leadership that perfectly aligns with our culinary direction. We are excited for our guests to experience his fresh perspective and signature style.”

Guests can look forward to Chef David's debut festive menu at the resort's signature Reserve Celebrations this December, along with a series of curated tasting events throughout the season.

About Centara Hotels & Resorts:

Centara Hotels & Resorts is Thailand's leading hotel operator. Its 84 properties span all major Thai destinations plus the Maldives, Vietnam, Laos, Japan, Oman, Qatar, Turkey and the UAE. Centara's portfolio comprises six brands – Centara Reserve, The Centara Collection, Centara Grand, Centara, Centara Life and COSI Hotels – ranging from luxury island retreats and upscale family resorts to affordable lifestyle concepts supported by innovative technology.

Centara also operates state-of-the-art convention centres and has its own award-winning spa brand, Cenvaree. Throughout the collection, Centara delivers and celebrates the hospitality and values Thailand is famous for including gracious service, exceptional food, pampering spas and the importance of families. Centara's distinctive culture and diversity of formats allow it to serve and satisfy travellers of nearly every age and lifestyle.

Centara aims to become a top 100 global hotel group, while spreading its footprint into new continents and market niches. As Centara continues to expand, a growing base of loyal customers will find the company's unique style of hospitality in more locations. Centara's global loyalty programme, Centara The1, reinforces their loyalty with rewards, privileges and special member pricing.

Find out more about Centara at www.CentaraHotelsResorts.com

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