Cape Coral, FL – October 10, 2017 – The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village is pleased to announce the appointment of Christiana “Criss” Menassa as Executive Chef. Chef Menassa brings more than 30 years of experience in the culinary world and will be overseeing all of the hotel’s culinary operations, including the property’s two dining venues, Marker92 Waterfront Bar & Bistro and The Nauti Mermaid Dockside Bar & Grill.

“We’re excited to see how Chef Menassa’s creativity and talent – stemming from her rich and diverse culinary background – can continue to honor the vibrant and unique flavors of Florida,” said Michael Tighe, general manager, Westin Cape Coral. “Her commitment to quality and local flavors will provide the guests and visitors with the best that Florida has to offer.”

Born in a family of Greek, Lebanese and Egyptian decent in Massachusetts, Chef Menassa declared her passion for cooking at an early age, inspired largely by her maternal grandmother as well as legendary female chefs Julia Child, Joyce Chen, Julee Rosso and Sheila Lukins. From developing her foundations in cooking in 1984 as a line cook at Rockingham Race Track in New Hampshire, her passion for culinary excellence propelled her to work in kitchens across the United States and globally into Egypt, Turkey and Greece, refining her technique and approach while focusing on local flavors, fresh produce and exotic spices found in each region.

Throughout her career, Chef Menassa has held positions in notable properties around Florida, the Caribbean and South Carolina, including the Sanibel Harbour Marriott, Westin Dawn Hotel in St. Maarten and The Wild Dunes Resort. In her most recent role as executive chef at Sundial Beach Resort & Spa, Chef Menassa based her cooking on her Florida and Caribbean influences, while highlighting fresh, local ingredients.

“I am delighted to lead the culinary efforts at Westin Cape Coral, where I have the opportunity to showcase the diverse flavors of the Caribbean and Florida that deeply inspire my cooking,” said Chef Menassa.

With expansive, versatile functioning event space that accommodates up to 1400 guests, with Chef Menassa will also revamp group catering menus for small and large groups. Menus will feature small bites and tapa-style group catering options so attendees can enjoy multiple offerings at events.

Offering breathtaking views of The Gulf of Mexico, Caloosahatchee River and Tarpon Point Marina, The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village offers luxuriously-appointed one, two and three-bedroom suites.

For more information about The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village, please visit www.westincapecoral.com.