Ritesh Raje has been promoted to Executive Chef at DoubleTree by Hilton Goa–Panaji, the hotel announced in a statement. The elevation highlights the company’s focus on internal talent and commitment to culinary excellence.
Chef Raje brings over two decades of gastronomic experience. He is a graduate of IHM Mumbai and holds PIC‑3 certification from the Dubai Municipality. His career includes roles at prestigious properties such as Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Shangri‑La Hotels & Resorts, Chelsea Plaza Hotel, Hyatt Pune, and Sheraton Grand Pune.
At Shangri‑La, he played a central role during the property’s pre‑opening, developing the menu and assembling a skilled culinary team. His expertise covers banquet operations, restaurant execution, strategic menu planning, and team leadership.
Chef Raje said, “This elevation is both an honour and a responsibility. My focus will be on deepening our culinary identity infusing local flavours with global techniques while nurturing a kitchen culture that values skill, respect, and innovation. Goa’s bounty is inspiring, and I’m excited to reimagine how we serve it to our guests.”
General Manager Harshad Nalawade welcomed Raje’s promotion, adding, “Chef Ritesh has consistently displayed a deep understanding of not just culinary execution, but also the emotional intelligence required to lead a diverse team in a high performance environment. He brings a rare combination of operational excellence, strategic thinking, and hands on passion for the art of cooking. His elevation reflects our belief in homegrown leadership and our commitment to delivering thoughtful, innovative and unforgettable culinary experiences to every guest who dines with us.”
According to the announcement, Raje’s elevation is expected to further strengthen the property’s F&B offerings and reinforce its standing as a culinary destination in Goa. DoubleTree by Hilton Panaji Goa is positioning itself as a venue for innovative and memorable dining experiences.
Chef Ritesh has consistently displayed a deep understanding of not just culinary execution, but also the emotional intelligence required to lead a diverse team in a high performance environment. He brings a rare combination of operational excellence, strategic thinking, and hands on passion for the art of cooking. His elevation reflects our belief in homegrown leadership and our commitment to delivering thoughtful, innovative and unforgettable culinary experiences to every guest who dines with us. – General Manager Harshad Nalawade
The hotel praised Raje for achieving high levels of creativity and consistency in food production, menu variety and service quality across multiple outlets. He is known for maintaining operational discipline while fostering a collaborative kitchen team environment.
This leadership change comes as part of the hotel’s broader strategy to promote internal talent, strengthen brand identity and enhance guest satisfaction through elevated gastronomic offerings.
DoubleTree by Hilton Goa–Panaji is a premier coastal hospitality destination. The property combines warm hospitality and modern amenities with curated dining offerings that reflect both local and global culinary influences.
