Carlo Cirone, Executive Chef at Crowne Plaza Bahrain, talks about developments at the property, his inspiring Italian roots and his signature dish – a traditional coastal creation.

It’s been only a couple of months since you moved to Crowne Plaza Bahrain. Please share major highlights so far.
Since moving to Crowne Plaza Bahrain, there have been several major highlights. Firstly, we have implemented new menu concepts at our restaurants, offering guests a diverse culinary experience. We have also enhanced our banqueting operations, ensuring that events and gatherings are executed flawlessly. Additionally, we have expanded our outdoor catering services, providing customised menus and catering solutions for various occasions. Lastly, we have revamped our in-room dining options, offering a wider range of delicious dishes for guests to enjoy in the comfort of their rooms.

In the coming months, what specific developments do you plan on bringing about?
In the coming months, we have several exciting developments planned. At our restaurants, we will continue to introduce new and innovative menu items, incorporating both local and international flavours. We will also focus on enhancing the overall dining experience by introducing themed nights, live cooking stations and interactive dining concepts. In our banqueting operations, we will strive to create unique and memorable experiences for our guests, offering customised menus and creative event set-ups. For outdoor catering, we plan to expand our offerings, catering to a wider range of events and providing exceptional culinary experiences. Lastly, in-room dining will see further improvements, with an emphasis on convenience, quality and a wider selection of delectable dishes.

How does your native Verona city in Italy, inspire your love for food?
My native city, Verona in Italy, has had a profound influence on my love for food. It is known for its rich culinary heritage and the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Growing up, I was exposed to a wide variety of flavours and cooking techniques. This has instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of using seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and authentic. Verona’s vibrant food culture has shaped my culinary style and continues to inspire me to create memorable dining experiences for guests.

What is your signature dish and how does it reflect your personal style?
My signature dish is a traditional Italian creation called Gamberi alla busara. It originates from the coastal regions of Italy, particularly in the north-eastern part of the country, and is prepared using fresh, succulent prawns (gamberi) cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce. The sauce is typically made with garlic, onions, tomatoes, white grape and a variety of aromatic herbs and spices. The prawns are simmered in this flavourful sauce until they become tender and aromatic. The dish is usually served hot, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by crusty bread or pasta. The combination of the sweet and tender prawns with the tangy tomato sauce creates a harmonious balance. It is a dish that celebrates the freshness of seafood and the simplicity of Italian cooking. Gamberi alla busara reflects my personal style by showcasing my love for using fresh, high-quality ingredients and my passion for creating dishes that highlight the natural flavours of the ingredients. It also represents my dedication to preserving the authenticity of traditional Italian recipes and bringing them to life for guests to enjoy. ✤