ORLANDO, FL (July 31, 2024) — Orlando’s only AAA Four Diamond all-suite convention resort, Caribe Royale Orlando Resort, has named Luciano Sperduto as its Director of Food & Beverage to oversee culinary operations, banquets operations, menu development, elevated service standards and all dining experiences across the newly reimagined property. With an impressive culinary track record in the Orlando market, Sperduto will work in partnership with Caribe Royale’s executive chef and other culinary leadership to shape the future of the resort’s stand-out restaurants.
Sperduto’s passion for food stems from his Italian roots and rich memories of making wine and tomato sauce with his family. He graduated from the School of Hospitality, Boston University, in 2001 and began his career at the Sheraton Boston. He then moved to the Sheraton Newton and opened Our Lucaya Grand Bahama Island and The Westin Charlotte. Following his time there, he relocated to Orlando where he assumed the role of opening Restaurant Manager of Todd English’s bluezoo at the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, and steadily advanced to General Manager, Director of Restaurants, and Assistant Director of Food & Beverage. For the past five years, Sperduto was the Director of Food & Beverage for Walt Disney World Swan, Walt Disney World Dolphin, and Walt Disney World Swan Reserve. His leadership was instrumental in enhancing guest experiences and developing initiatives such as a Food and Beverage Internship Program, which launched in 2012. An innovator in the culinary space, Sperduto helped create the Swan & Dolphin Food and Wine Classic, which has enjoyed 15 years of success. He is a Certified Sommelier and holds the coveted Beverage Alcohol Resource certification for spirits.
“During our recent property reimagination, our food and beverage offerings were completely overhauled, and we needed a strategic, operations-focused mind to take the reins and usher in our next phase of success,” said Amaury Piedra, managing director of Caribe Royale Orlando. “Our eight restaurants each have personalities of their own, and we needed someone who could create distinctive experiences that bring out the best in each offering. Luciano brings a bounty of culinary know-how that will challenge our talented chefs to color outside the lines, making our restaurants sought-after options for Orlando-bound travelers.”
Sperduto will work closely with executive chef David Hackett to spearhead culinary innovations and programming across Caribe Royale Orlando’s restaurants, including:
- The Venetian Chop House: The upscale AAA Four Diamond steakhouse takes center stage at The Venetian Chop House, a dining experience that celebrates Italian cuisine and sets the highest standard for fine dining in Orlando. Guests enjoy signature steaks and chops and innovative takes on classic Italian dishes are paired with a symphony of wine selections – with impeccable service.
- Stadium Club: Orlando’s most high-tech and immersive sports bar and entertainment destination. Renowned chefs Janine Booth and Jeff McInnis, both “Top Chef” alumni and the creative minds behind the celebrated Root & Bone concept have crafted a menu that features elevated versions of classic favorites, creating a dining experience that perfectly complements the excitement of the game. For added fun, guests can snack on popcorn, cotton candy, and Cracker Jacks, just like a trip to the stadium!
- Calypso’s Pool Bar & Grille: Blending Latin and Caribbean influence with poolside relaxation, Calypso’s is an all-day retreat thanks to its frozen drinks, savory bites, creative plates and open-air ambiance.
- Rum Bar featuring BACARDÍ® Rum: A vibrant, lounge-like bar centered around an extensive selection of BACARDÍ® Rum, this is an ideal locale to sit back, sip on spirited cocktails, enjoy tasty tapas, and even try your hand at a game or two of dominoes.
Sperduto will be responsible for the convention hotel’s extensive banquet operation, further refining the highly tailored F&B services that are offered to the many groups that host their gatherings at Caribe Royale Orlando each year.
“I’m proud to be involved in shaping Orlando’s ever-evolving culinary offerings and have spent my career elevating experiences at hotel restaurants to be on par with the impressive offerings throughout this bucket-list destination,” said Sperduto. “Caribe Royale Orlando’s team is the best in the business when it comes to innovative offerings and a culture of excellence. I’m thrilled to work closely with talented culinary leaders to continue raising the bar and serving up memorable experiences to the highest standards of hospitality.”
