Naples, FL, July 24th, 2024 — BALEEN Naples, the acclaimed beachfront restaurant at the newly reimagined LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, is excited to announce the appointment of Michelin-starred Chef Sascia Marchesi as the new Executive Sous Chef.

Chef Sascia Marchesi brings over 25 years of international culinary experience to the table. His journey began at his family’s renowned restaurant, La Taverna, in Italy, which was awarded two Michelin Stars. Trained at the Altopalato Centro di Cultura Enogastronomica in Milan, Chef Sascia is fluent in Italian, English, Spanish, and Croatian.

After moving to the United States, Chef Sascia held prestigious positions at several notable establishments, including:

• Executive Sous Chef at Alfredo the Original of Rome, Disney Epcot Center

• Executive Chef at Donatoni’s, Hilton Waikoloa Village, Hawaii

• Executive/Concept Chef at Nicola’s Ristorante, Plano, TX

• Executive Chef/Director of Restaurants at Marriott’s Gaylord Texan, Grapevine, TX

Most recently, Chef Sascia operated TX Cucina Italiana, a high-end private catering business in Dallas. His career accolades include being named Culinaire Excellent Americas - Chef of the Year for Marriott in 2013-14 and Manager of the Year with Hilton Hotels. His culinary talents have been showcased on major networks like ESPN, FOX, NBC, and the Disney Channel, and he has cooked for celebrities and political figures including John Travolta, Kevin Costner, Tom Cruise, Clint Eastwood, and three U.S. Presidents: Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, and George W. Bush.

“We are delighted to welcome Chef Sascia Marchesi to our team,” said Thomas Haas, VP of Food & Beverage, Noble House Hotels & Resorts. “His exceptional culinary skills and extensive international experience will elevate the dining experience at BALEEN Naples for our guests and local patrons. We are confident that his innovative approach and passion for gastronomy will greatly enhance our guests’ dining experiences. Welcome, Chef Marchesi!”

Situated along the Gulf of Mexico, LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort is a luxurious tropical destination in Naples. The resort, embodying quintessential Florida elegance, offers exclusive amenities such as private beach access, attentive service, and a laid-back ambiance. Guests can enjoy a 4,500-square-foot spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, beach butler service, private poolside cabanas, and exquisite dining experiences at BALEEN.

For more information about BALEEN Naples, click here.

About LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico in Naples, features 189 guest rooms and eight luxurious suites, a 4,500-square-foot spa, state-of-the-art fitness center, beach butler service, private poolside cabanas, and culinary adventures at BALEEN and the Tiki Bar. The resort also offers sophisticated meeting and event spaces and an 18-hole Robert Cupp-designed golf course.

About Noble House Hotels & Resorts Founded in 1979, Noble House Hotels & Resorts owns and manages a portfolio of 15 upscale properties across the U.S. The company emphasizes “location, distinction and soul,” showcasing local culture and history at each of its properties. Noble House operates 43 hotel restaurants, bars, and lounges, contributing to their communities and staying true to their local ambiance.

For more information, visit www.NobleHouseHotels.com.