Checking In for Dinner: How Hotels Became World-Class Dining Destinations
Wednesday 27 May 2026
11:30 am - 12:15 pm
The Business Stage - Hotels & Catering
Australian hotels have transformed from afterthoughts to dining destinations, with some of the country’s most exciting restaurants now operating within hotel properties. Our panel explores this shift, discussing how hoteliers are attracting top culinary talent, the operational advantages and challenges of hotel dining, and what this trend means for standalone restaurants.
Speakers

Anna Pavoni
Chief Business Officer
Maestro Hospitality | Cibaria at Manly Pacific

Giovanni Pilu
Chef
Flaminia at Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour

Ben Creek
Vice President Food & Beverage Asia & Pacific
Accor | Global Hospitality & Restaurants

Rebecca Jarvie-Gibbs
COO & Co-Founder
Example

Luke Mangan
Chef & Restaurateur
Luke's Kitchen at Kimpton Margot Sydney