InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort has appointed Chef Meril Anthony Aricatt as Executive Chef, strengthening its culinary leadership as the resort continues to redefine luxury dining following its recent transformation.
With more than 30 years of culinary experience, Chef Meril brings expertise in luxury hospitality, menu development, large-scale kitchen operations, international food festivals, and pre-opening projects. In his new role, he will oversee the resort’s culinary operations, leading its restaurants, banqueting, menu innovation, and kitchen teams while enhancing the property’s overall dining experiences.
This appointment highlights the hospitality sector’s emphasis on leadership, aligning with hotel appointments.Three Decades of Culinary Excellence
Chef Meril has built an accomplished culinary career spanning over three decades with leading hospitality brands, primarily across IHCL (Taj Hotels) and IHG Hotels & Resorts.
A Gold Medallist in Hotel Management from Mangalore University and a Physics graduate from Calicut University, he combines academic excellence with extensive operational expertise.
Throughout his career, he has held senior culinary leadership positions at renowned properties including Taj Malabar Resort & Spa, Taj Fisherman’s Cove Resort & Spa, Vivanta Chennai OMR, Taj Connemara, and Gateway Hotel Vijayawada, where he successfully led culinary teams, hotel pre-openings, menu engineering, and large-scale kitchen operations.
International Recognition
Chef Meril’s culinary journey extends well beyond India. He has represented Indian cuisine through food festivals across Europe and the Middle East and also served as Asian Chef aboard the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2, further enriching his international culinary experience.
Among the highlights of his career, he has curated special menus for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping, reflecting the trust placed in his culinary expertise during high-profile state engagements.
Award-Winning Culinary Leader
Over the years, Chef Meril has received several prestigious industry recognitions.
He was honoured as Best Chef of the Year (2009–2010) by the National Tourism Department of India and was also recognised by Hotelier India in 2024 for his contribution to the hospitality industry.
Beyond the kitchen, he is an author, a certified food safety auditor, and an experienced mentor who is widely respected for promoting discipline, teamwork, and professional development within culinary teams.
Leading the Resort’s Culinary Vision
As Executive Chef, Chef Meril will oversee all culinary operations at InterContinental Chennai Mahabalipuram Resort, focusing on menu innovation, culinary excellence, operational efficiency, and exceptional guest dining experiences.
His appointment reflects the resort’s continued commitment to strengthening its food and beverage offerings while reinforcing its position as one of South India’s leading luxury hospitality destinations.
