Chef Olivier has more than 30 years of experience at five-star hotels and fine dining restaurants in Europe and Asia. — Photo Courtesy of the resort

KIÊN GIANG — JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, in Phú Quốc Island off the Mekong Delta province of Kiên Giang, has introduced an exciting new chapter in its culinary journey with the arrival of the world-renowned culinary maestro Olivier Elzer at its signature beachfront restaurant, Pink Pearl.

With 30 years of experience and 29 Michelin stars to his name, Chef Olivier brings a sophisticated yet approachable French-Mediterranean concept inspired by his early days on the French Riviera.

The new menu, created under Chef Olivier’s vision, celebrates timeless French coastal cuisine with innovative touches and local Vietnamese ingredients.

Highlights include charcoal-grilled bonito with endive salad and vierge sauce, and the classic Provençal-style Bohémienne with eggplant, tomato and parmesan.

Pink Pearl’s new culinary experience also features elegant social sharing plates and a popular Sunday brunch, enhanced by a curated wine list from Master Sommelier Bertrand Lutaud.

Set in a glamorous pink mansion with only 36 seats and exclusive private dining rooms, Pink Pearl offers guests an immersive dining experience reminiscent of the Gatsby era.

The restaurant is reimagined as the resort’s “Department of French Cuisine,” combining fine dining with the charm of a mythical French university setting.

Chef Olivier, known for his “East meets West” culinary philosophy and entrepreneurial ventures, said he brings the brilliant tastes of the seasons to life through fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, while also honouring classic French techniques.

“This approach allows me to craft dishes that are both innovative and reflective of the rich heritage of the Mediterranean,” he said.

The new menu celebrates the vibrant coastal cuisine of France’s Côte d’Azur: slow-cooked octopus with chickpea sauce, Bohémienne, charcoal-grilled bonito with endive salad, and more. — Photo Courtesy of the resort

John Woolley, the resort’s general manager, said the ‘Department of French Cuisine’ is now open, providing guests with truly exceptional dining experiences.

“Chef Olivier’s talent, creativity and passion are truly inspiring, and his desire to innovate while respecting culinary traditions perfectly aligns with our resort’s sophisticated yet playful concept,” he said.

Pink Pearl is just one of the innovative culinary venues at JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay Resort & Spa, which include Tempus Fugit and Red Rum restaurants.

The resort continues to position itself as a premier destination for luxury and gastronomic excellence in Viet Nam.

JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world.

There are more than 125 JW Marriott hotels in 40 countries and territories worldwide.

Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey.

Marriott International, Inc., based in the US, encompasses a portfolio of over 9,300 properties across more than 30 leading brands in 144 countries and territories. — VNS