Shangri-La the Shard London announces new culinary appointments

Shangri-La The Shard, London has announced the appointments of Paolo Belloni as executive chef and Leyre Pedrazuela as head pastry chef.

Belloni joins the hotel from the Four Seasons Hampshire, where he was executive chef. He previously worked under Italian chefs Gualtiero Marchesi and Marco Garfagnini.

After developing Italian dishes for Michelin-starred Mio restaurant at Four Seasons Beijing, he nurtured his growing interest in cooking Asian cuisine, learning traditional techniques while living in China – skills he will bring to his new role.

Belloni said: "I'm excited to be able to continue my journey as a chef with one of London's most iconic hotels, further growing my passion for cooking with an Asian twist and focusing on quality, working with local, small organic producers to source ingredients."

Pedrazuela joined the hotel from Wonderland Restaurants Park Row, having previously been head pastry chef at South Lodge Hotel & Spa and sous pastry chef at Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa. She also competed in Bake Off: The Professionals in 2019.

She said: "I'm delighted to have joined Shangri-La the Shard, London and feel privileged to be part of its culinary management team.

"In the food and beverage industry, there is still a way to go when it comes to celebrating female talent. The hotel has been supportive towards me since I started and I look forward to bringing and fresh and friendly approach to the team. It's so important to demonstrate that women in the industry are just as strong, professional and capable as any other."

Photo: Ray Tang/REX/Shutterstock