SAN ANTONIO, Texas—The JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa has appointed Sebastian Mena as its new director of food and beverage.
In this position, Mena will oversee the operations of the resort’s outlets: 18 Oaks, Cibolo Moon, Crooked Branch, High Velocity, Nourish Food Trailer, Replenish Spa Bistro, Rivertop Bar & Grill, the onsite Starbucks, in-room dining, la Fresca poolside dining, and the newly opened FIAMME Pizzeria.
Formerly the director of food and beverage at JW Marriott Marquis Miami and the Hotel Beaux Arts, Autograph Collection, Mena led the culinary, event management, and banquet teams along with eight restaurants and bars across two properties. With a robust background in food and beverage operations, he has consistently demonstrated expertise in operational development, market expansion, and financial performance improvement.
Mena held numerous food and beverage leadership roles within the luxury hospitality industry, including 14 years in the Caribbean. His previous roles include director of food and beverage at Curacao Marriott Beach Resort and director of outdoor operations at JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa, among others.
During his many years in leadership, Mena has been actively involved in various pre-opening and task force initiatives, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. He pursued his education in professional hotel management in Santiago, Chile, and has spent more than 20 years in food and beverage for the hospitality industry.
“We are thrilled to have Sebastian join our world-class food & beverage team,” says Doug Gennardo, general manager of JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. “With his extensive background in F&B leadership and experience at different luxury properties across the world, he brings a fresh and innovative approach to our dining operations. We eagerly anticipate his contributions and the exciting enhancements he will bring to our already exceptional dining experiences.”
