Oktay Unlu, General Manager of Zenon Dubai, shares insights on his professional journey, the distinctive design elements of this unique establishment, and the trends or innovations he foresees shaping the future of the F&B industry.

Can you share insights into your professional journey and what led you to your current role?

My professional journey in luxury hospitality spans over two decades, during which I have had the privilege of working in diverse and dynamic environments across the globe. Born in Turkey, my passion for hospitality was ignited early on, leading me to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and Hotel Management from Mersin University. This foundation set the stage for an illustrious career that has taken me to the far reaches of Europe, the GCC, the United States, and even adventures across the Seven Seas.

My journey began with a strong focus on honing my skills in various hospitality roles, which allowed me to gain versatile and globally applicable expertise. One of the pivotal points in my career was my role as Operations Manager at Kaya Palazzo Le Chic Hotel & Residences in Bodrum, Turkey. Here, I managed all hotel and residence operations, overseeing a diverse team of 245 employees and maintaining excellence in services, including the renowned ‘Lacivert’ seafood restaurant. This experience solidified my ability to spearhead successful openings and manage large-scale operations, emphasising meticulous planning, system implementation, staff recruitment, and comprehensive training.

My career is marked by significant achievements, including impressive revenue growth, operational efficiency enhancements, and the successful launch of exceptional brands. As Operations Manager at Nusr-Et Steakhouse (Salt Bae DIFC) in Dubai, UAE, I managed a $45 million budget and oversaw 80 employees, leading the restaurant to be recognised as the Best Steakhouse by two esteemed industry authorities in both 2020 and 2021. These experiences underscored my strategic planning acumen and ability to transform F&B concepts into thriving realities.

Currently, I hold the esteemed position of General Manager at Zenon, a 340-seat Mediterranean-Asian Fusion concept in Dubai. In this role, I bring my wealth of experience and innovative leadership to elevate the dining experience to new heights. Zenon’s vision to revolutionise the dining scene in Dubai aligns perfectly with my commitment to culinary excellence and redefining the art of fine dining. My approach, characterised by creativity, dynamic leadership, and a deep understanding of the luxury hospitality sector, positions Zenon as a must-visit destination for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.

Beyond my professional achievements, I actively engage in indoor and outdoor sports and harbor a keen fascination with different cuisines. My career is a testament to my tireless devotion to the hospitality industry, my commitment to excellence, and my ability to lead and inspire teams to achieve unparalleled success. As a Turkish national with a truly global perspective, I continue to be a driving force in the luxury hospitality sector, elevating guest experiences to new heights.

What are your primary responsibilities in your current position, and what do you find most rewarding about your work?

As the General Manager at Zenon, my primary responsibilities encompass overseeing all aspects of the restaurant’s operations. This includes staff management, budgeting, inventory control, and ensuring a superior customer experience. I also focus on strategic menu curation, financial management, and the integration of innovative AI entertainment systems. My role requires a proactive approach to regulatory compliance and a deep understanding of Dubai’s diverse cultural landscape to ensure seamless operations within legal frameworks and cultural sensitivities.

What I find most rewarding about my work is the ability to create exceptional dining experiences that leave a lasting impression on our guests. Seeing the smiles on our patrons’ faces and knowing that our team has contributed to memorable moments is incredibly fulfilling. Additionally, I take great pride in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, promoting continuous learning and growth, and witnessing my team’s development and success. These elements drive my passion and dedication to excellence in the hospitality industry.

What unique features and design elements make Zenon Dubai’s restaurant stand out in the competitive dining scene?

Zenon stands out due to its fusion of Greek mythology-inspired decor, Mediterranean and Asian culinary traditions, and state-of-the-art AI entertainment. Our restaurant features interactive holographic displays and personalized visuals curated by AI, creating an immersive environment that engages all senses. The design elements, from the elegant interior to the AI-enhanced ambiance, are meticulously crafted to transport our guests into a mythical adventure. This unique blend of tradition and innovation sets Zenon apart from other dining establishments in Dubai.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your work, and how do you address them?

One of the biggest challenges is balancing the integration of advanced AI technology with the traditional aspects of dining. Ensuring that the technology enhances rather than overshadows the culinary experience requires constant innovation and fine-tuning. We address this by working closely with AI developers and conducting regular guest feedback sessions to refine our offerings. Additionally, navigating the fluctuating operational costs and consumer preferences in the dynamic Dubai market requires agility and a proactive approach, which we achieve through continuous market analysis and adaptation.

How do you design and curate the atmosphere of your restaurant to complement the dining experience?

The atmosphere at Zenon is curated to complement the dining experience through a seamless blend of visual aesthetics, sensory engagement, and interactive technology. The decor draws inspiration from Greek mythology, with elegant and thematic design elements that evoke a sense of timelessness. Our AI-driven systems create personalized visuals that respond to guest movements, adding an interactive layer to the dining experience. We also use ambient lighting and carefully selected music to enhance the overall atmosphere, ensuring that every element works harmoniously to create a memorable experience.

How do you incorporate innovation and technology into your projects, and what impact do you believe they have on the industry?

Innovation and technology are at the core of Zenon’s identity. We incorporate AI to personalize guest interactions, streamline operations, and create immersive experiences. AI-driven data analytics help us tailor our menu and services to meet guest preferences, while interactive holographic displays add a unique visual element to the dining experience. These technologies not only enhance guest satisfaction but also improve operational efficiency. I believe that the integration of such innovations is transforming the industry, setting new standards for guest engagement and operational excellence.

What role does sustainability play in your work, and how do you ensure your projects meet sustainable standards?

Sustainability is a key focus at Zenon. We prioritize sourcing ingredients from local and sustainable suppliers to reduce our environmental footprint. Additionally, we implement energy-efficient technologies and waste-reduction practices in our operations. Our AI systems also contribute to sustainability by optimizing resource management and reducing waste. By continuously exploring new ways to minimize our environmental impact, we ensure that our projects meet sustainable standards and contribute positively to the community.

How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with your clients?

Building and maintaining strong client relationships is essential to our success. We prioritize open communication, actively seeking and incorporating client feedback to improve our offerings. Personalized service and attention to detail ensure that each guest feels valued and appreciated. We also engage with our clients through various channels, including social media, events, and loyalty programs, fostering a sense of community and connection. By consistently exceeding client expectations, we build trust and loyalty that translates into long-term relationships.

How do collaborations with local suppliers, chefs, or other F&B professionals contribute to your menu innovation and restaurant identity?

Collaborations with local suppliers, chefs, and F&B professionals are vital to our menu innovation and restaurant identity. These partnerships allow us to incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients and diverse culinary techniques into our offerings. Working with renowned chefs and industry experts also brings new perspectives and ideas, enhancing our menu and dining experience. These collaborations reflect our commitment to culinary excellence and help us stay at the forefront of the industry.

What trends or innovations do you foresee shaping the future of the F&B industry, and how are you preparing for them?

The future of the F&B industry will be shaped by trends such as increased personalisation, sustainable practices, and advanced technology integration. AI and data analytics will continue to play a significant role in enhancing guest experiences and optimising operations. At Zenon, we are preparing for these trends by investing in cutting-edge technologies, prioritising sustainability, and continuously evolving our offerings to meet changing consumer preferences. By staying agile and innovative, we aim to lead the industry in providing exceptional and forward-thinking dining experiences.