Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha is delighted to announce the appointment of Erhan Afacan as its new Executive Chef. With over 21 years of experience in the global culinary scene, Erhan brings an exceptional blend of traditional Turkish culinary roots, innovative techniques, and international expertise to lead the hotel’s renowned culinary team.
Throughout his illustrious career, Erhan has held prominent positions in some of the world’s most prestigious hotels and resorts. His culinary journey includes serving as Executive Chef at renowned properties such as Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi, Dusit Doha Hotel, Crown Plaza West Bay Doha, Sheraton Annaba Hotel in Algeria, and the Doha Marriott Hotel. Most recently, he rejoined the Rixos family as Executive Chef at Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, where he is poised to enhance the hotel’s culinary offerings and take the guest dining experience to new heights.
A passionate and innovative chef, Erhan’s international experience spans Kazakhstan, where he served as Executive Chef at a Signature Restaurant in Almaty, and Russia, where he played an instrumental role in the success of the Gorky Gorod Resort during the 2014 Winter Olympics. His exceptional leadership skills also led him to the Rixos Hotel Krasnaya Polyana, Russia’s first Rixos property, and as part of the pre-opening team at Rixos Mriya Resort Crimea.
Erhan’s journey in the culinary world began in Istanbul, where he trained in some of the city’s top restaurants, developing a refined culinary style. Seeking to broaden his expertise, he joined the Rixos family, where he delved into advanced cooking techniques, including Molecular Cuisine. His experience at Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel & Villas further honed his skills in experimental cuisine, exploring global ingredients, tools, and techniques to craft innovative dining experiences.
Erhan’s culinary passion start from his early life in Bolu, Turkey—a region renowned for its culinary heritage. Growing up in an environment steeped in the tradition of high-quality cuisine, he was inspired to pursue a career as a chef. He refined his culinary knowledge at the prestigious Mengen Anatolian Occupational Cookery High School, where he deepened his understanding of Turkish culinary traditions and techniques.
At Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, Erhan is eager to bring his wealth of experience to the property, embracing his commitment to innovation while upholding Rixos’ reputation for excellence. With a focus on delivering exceptional service and culinary creativity, Erhan will lead the hotel’s culinary team in crafting remarkable dining experiences that complement the luxurious, all-inclusive staycation offerings of the hotel.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Erhan to the Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha family,” said Adolph Spiro, General Manager of Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha. “His extensive experience, dedication to culinary excellence, and passion for creating memorable guest experiences are a perfect fit for our brand. We are excited about the innovative culinary journey he will lead, elevating the dining experience for our guests.”