Jacques Geagea, MD at Roberto’s Group, shares insights on the brand’s journey to success, strategies for fostering a high-performing culture across multiple locations, and the evolving future of luxury dining in the Middle East.

What is your vision for the future of luxury dining in the Middle East, and how is Roberto’s preparing to lead that growth?

The Middle East is rapidly emerging as a global hub for luxury dining, with a growing appetite for world-class dining experiences. My vision is to elevate the region’s dining scene by embracing innovation while remaining true to our authentic roots. At Roberto’s, we are preparing to lead this growth by focusing on extraordinary culinary experiences and personalised service, all while strategically expanding our presence in markets where the appetite for luxury dining continues to evolve. Our commitment to quality and creativity will ensure we remain at the forefront of this exciting transformation.

What core strategies have you employed to support Roberto’s expansion into diverse markets like Dubai, Doha, and Porto Montenegro?

Our core strategies revolve around maintaining brand consistency while being adaptable to local tastes. Each new Roberto’s location is thoughtfully designed to respect its surroundings, ensuring we uphold the high standards of cuisine and service for which we are known. Key to our success has been the establishment of strong partnerships within each market, investing in local talent, and creating a seamless guest experience across all locations. By prioritising these elements, we can effectively integrate into diverse markets while delivering the exceptional dining experiences that Roberto’s is celebrated for.

Jacques Geagea

With more than 25 years in the hospitality field, what valuable lessons have shaped your approach to crafting memorable guest experiences?

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that the details truly matter – everything from the ambience and presentation of the food to the quality of service plays a crucial role. Equally important is consistency; guests should be able to rely on receiving the same exceptional experience every time they visit. Finally, I believe that fostering emotional connections through personalised service transforms a good experience into an unforgettable one. By genuinely understanding our guests and catering to their unique preferences, we create moments that resonate long after their visit.

Roberto’s recently introduced concepts like Roberto’s at Home and Roberto’s at Sea – what inspired these initiatives, and how have customers responded?

These initiatives were born from our desire to extend the Roberto’s experience beyond the restaurant walls. We aimed to provide our customers with the luxury dining experience they know and love, whether they are hosting a private event or enjoying a day on a yacht. The response has been overwhelmingly positive; our clients appreciate the flexibility and personalisation these services offer, all while upholding the high standards synonymous with Roberto’s. It’s gratifying to see how much our guests value the ability to enjoy our culinary excellence in their own environments.

How has your work with renowned venues shaped your leadership approach at Roberto’s?

My experience with global brands has underscored the critical importance of attention to detail and maintaining a strong brand identity, regardless of location. It has also reinforced the value of crafting an immersive experience for guests. At Roberto’s, I leverage these lessons by ensuring we uphold the same high standards of quality and experience across all our locations while remaining adaptable to the individual nuances of different markets. This balance allows us to stay true to the essence of Roberto’s while resonating with local cultures and preferences.

What primary challenges does Roberto’s face in expanding into competitive markets, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia?

One of the primary challenges we encounter is balancing brand consistency with the need for local adaptation. Each market has its own unique dining culture, and it’s essential to respect and embrace these differences while staying true to Roberto’s identity. Additionally, as these markets become increasingly competitive, it’s crucial for us to differentiate ourselves by delivering an unparalleled dining experience and cultivating strong relationships with local stakeholders. This strategic approach will help us navigate the complexities of each market effectively.

How important is team development to Roberto’s success, and what steps do you take to build a high-performing culture across multiple locations?

Team development is absolutely critical to our success at Roberto’s. A strong team is essential for upholding our brand values and standards across all locations. We prioritise continuous training and mentorship, fostering a culture of empowerment where team members feel motivated and aligned with the brand’s vision. Additionally, regular communication and dedicated leadership support play crucial roles in building a cohesive, high-performing team that thrives in diverse markets.