Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique announces the appointment of Nicolas Piatti as Executive Chef.

Drawing inspiration from Costa Rica’s rich heritage, Piatti will lead the culinary team in crafting dining experiences that celebrate cultural authenticity and locally sourced ingredients.

Under his leadership, the gastronomic techniques at Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique will embody a blend of tradition and innovation. Piatti’s culinary journey spans more than two decades across Europe, Asia and the Americas, as well as esteemed positions at luxury hotels and resorts, including the former Hilton Papagayo Costa Rica Resort & Spa.

He is also an award-winning chef recognised as the Food Waste Champion for Americas in acknowledgment of his commitment to sustainability and waste reduction. Piatti is also the author of La Tierra De Los Platos, a cookbook that weaves together his heritage and passion for locally sourced ingredients, rooted in the culinary traditions of his family. Through his mindful philosophy, at Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique, 25% of all ingredients will be sourced from nearby Guanacaste farms, coastal waters and plantations.

With contemporary dishes placing a spotlight on traditional Chorotega ingredients including yucca, corn and sugarcane, Piatti has reimagined how to honour deep-rooted culinary flavours across each of the hotel’s dining concepts.

Elswhere, exclusive experiences such as beef-cutting classes, chocolate sculpting and tours to local farms will provide an intimate connection to the region’s traditions for guests. Additionally, local collaborations will include the likes of Finca La Josefina, Familia Corso, and Vainilla Mystic Farms.

“Returning to Costa Rica to lead the culinary program is a true honor,” says Piatti. “Costa Rica’s natural bounty and biodiversity present an unprecedented opportunity to create memorable dining experiences that celebrate the richness of this land and culture. I’m thrilled to be part of this extraordinary team and excited to share my passion for locally sourced cuisine and local ingredients with our guests. As we look to the future, I envision the property to take sustainable practices even further, by developing on site farms and keeping our carbon footprint and food waste minimal.”

“Chef Piatti is bringing to life the innovative vision we share at the resort,” says Ruben Gabiño, General Manager of Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique. “His remarkable culinary expertise and dedication to sustainable practices align perfectly with our vision for the resort. Chef Piatti will undoubtedly elevate the guest experience and bring his own dynamic style to Costa Rica’s already vibrant culinary landscape.”

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique  is set to open in spring 2025. Among the resort’s six food and beverage venues, is a signature restaurant showcasing the flavours of the Pacific with an innovative monochromatic gastronomy concept.