The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is pleased to announce the appointment of two-star Michelin Chef Pino Lavarra to its fine-dining Italian restaurant, Tosca.  Diners can expect an enticing authentic Southern Italian menu, which takes classical ingredients and presents them in contemporary and innovative ways. This approach reflects Chef Lavarra's passion for crafting delicious culinary creations which will elevate Tosca to new heights, echoing The Ritz-Carlton's campaign, "The Art of The Craft", which brings to life the work of the passionate artisans that enliven the experience of each guest and create a gastronomic memory that will last a lifetime.

Born in Putignano, one of the oldest villages in Puglia, Italy, Chef Lavarra's passion for food originated in his childhood; his mother was the school cook with a cooking style that was simple, yet full of love. His strong desire to explore a career in the culinary world was fully realized at the tender age of 14, when he started his professional training at the catering school in Castelana Grotte. At the age of 20, Chef Lavarra embarked on a long journey aboard, first in Germany and later in England, which enabled him to work with Chef Paolo Simeoni to open The Dining Room, which gained national recognition for its creative Italian cooking style. His career also took him to Malaysia, where he discovered Asian spices and aromatic herbs which further enhanced his precision in balancing flavors. In 1997, he was invited back to Italy by famous Italian chef, Anthony Genovese, to open a hotel on the charming Amalfi Coast, before further advancing his career in Raymond Blanc's "Le Manoir Aux Quat'Sison" in the United Kingdom.

In January 2001, Chef Lavarra returned to the Amalfi Coast as the Executive Chef of Rosellinis, at the Palazzo Sasso hotel. His authentic Italian delicacies prepared in a contemporary and sensory style, have earned him recognition as "one of the best chefs in the world" from the likes of the American Academy of Hospitality Sciences, and in 2002 he was awarded the ultimate culinary accolade, his first Michelin star, followed by second in 2004.

"Moving to Hong Kong is a dream come true," said Chef Lavarra. "The dining scene here has such an enormous gastronomic energy. I am truly excited to be part of this dynamic, where I will introduce guests to Southern Italian food that they have never experienced before. My signature creations, to name a few, include Sea Tiramisu with Mediterranean Red Prawn Carpaccio, Cereal Crumble, Roasted Scallop and Caviar; Spaghetti Alla Chitarra with Basil Chlorophyll, Baby Squid Wrapped in Swordfish Paper; and Mediterranean Tuna with White Eggplant Puree, Potato Souffle and Caper Sauce."

Outside the kitchen, Chef Lavarra enjoys meeting new people, discovering new cuisine and exploring new ingredients, ideas and new concepts which he can bring to life in his gourmet creations.  Nevertheless, he enjoys spending time with his lovely wife and three children who are also excited to be discovering together this new chapter in Asia with him.         

About The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Occupying floors 102 to 118 of the International Commerce Centre, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong is the highest hotel in the world. The 312 guest rooms all providing spectacular city and harbour views. With six dining venues including state-of-the-art designer Italian restaurant Tosca, Two-Star Michelin Chinese Restaurant Tin Lung Heen and The Lounge and Bar that serves a signature afternoon tea. The world's highest bar Ozone is a truly stunning venue at 490 meters above sea level, featuring an outdoor terrace. For those wishing to relax and indulge, The Ritz-Carlton Spa by ESPA located on 116th floor features nine deluxe treatment rooms and two couple's suites, re-defining the urban spa experience in the city and across Asia. The hotel features a 24-hour fully-equipped fitness centre and an indoor infinity pool on the 118th floor with a 28m x 7m LED screen on the ceiling.  The hotel also boasts one of the largest ballrooms in the city at 870sqm. Complemented by an additional four meeting rooms, it has fast become the new social centre for Hong Kong and has set the benchmark for events in the region. For more information, please visit www.ritzcarlton.com/hongkong.

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The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. of Chevy Chase, Md., currently operates 82 hotels in the Americas, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Caribbean. More than 30 hotel and residential projects are under development around the globe. The Ritz-Carlton is the only service company to have twice earned the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award which recognizes outstanding customer service. For more information, or reservations, contact a travel professional, call toll free in the U.S. 1-800-241-3333, or visit the company website at www.ritzcarlton.com. The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE: MAR)