News DeskDubai, UAE – Alessio Colantuono is the newly appointed General Manager of Leña and Smoked Room, stepping into the role with a legacy of redefining luxury dining experiences across Europe and the Middle East. With over a decade of leadership in world-class hospitality venues, Alessio’s journey is marked by his transformative tenure at Pierchic, Dubai’s iconic waterfront dining destination.
During his time at Pierchic, Alessio led the restaurant to unprecedented success, securing titles such as World’s Best Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant and Middle East’s Best Fine Dining Hotel Restaurant. Under his strategic direction, Pierchic saw a remarkable 17% increase in revenue, driven by innovative concepts like La Domenica Italiana, Chic Lunch, Long Table Dinner, and Jazz on the Pier. He also introduced Onda by Pierchic, a stunning rooftop bar with breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab, which rapidly became a must-visit destination for luxury dining enthusiasts.
His commitment to excellence is reflected in the consistent recognition of the venues by Gault & Millau for four consecutive years and its inclusion in the Michelin Guide for three years straight. His managed venues were also named Top 5 European Dining Destination by Forbes, while Alessio himself was nominated as Best Restaurant General Manager. His influence extended beyond daily operations; he spearheaded high-profile collaborations with luxury brands like Cartier, Zimmerman, and Tiffany & Co., further enhancing Pierchic’s reputation as a premier dining venue.
Alessio’s philosophy centres on curating exceptional guest experiences while embracing sustainable practices. His leadership was instrumental in Pierchic’s transition to a plastic-free environment, aligning with global sustainability trends. He also optimized operational efficiencies, achieving a 97% score on the Leading Quality Assurance (LQA) audit, one of the highest in the region.
Holding a degree in International Tourism and Hospitality Management from London Southbank University and Les Roches Marbella, Alessio’s expertise spans hospitality hubs in London, Ibiza, and Dubai. His hands-on approach and strategic mindset have consistently driven growth and innovation, setting new standards in luxury dining.
As General Manager of Leña and Smoked Room, Alessio is committed to weaving the restaurant’s Spanish heritage with modern sophistication. His vision is clear: to craft dining experiences that are not only memorable but transformative, ensuring the venues remainsa flagship of luxury and authenticity in Dubai’s competitive culinary landscape.
