Ziya Cikrikci Joins Banana Island Resort Doha as Executive Chef

Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara Welcomes Culinary Visionary Ziya Cikrikci as Executive Chef

Doha, Qatar – Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is elevating its culinary offerings with the appointment of Chef Ziya Cikrikci as Executive Chef. With more than two decades of experience across luxury hotels, cruise liners, and renowned restaurants worldwide, Chef Cikrikci brings a rich blend of creativity, global flavors, and culinary storytelling to this stunning island destination.

Leading the resort’s seven dining venues, including three signature restaurants, Chef Cikrikci is set to introduce a dining philosophy that goes beyond taste. Each dish will be centered around one carefully chosen seasonal ingredient, crafted to delight every sense — from aroma and texture to visual appeal and flavor harmony. Guests can expect mindful dining experiences that merge innovation, sustainability, and nature’s bounty.

A Global Culinary Journey

Chef Cikrikci’s 24-year career spans the USA, Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Turkey. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts from Istanbul’s University of Izzet Baysal, he began in the prestigious kitchens of his home city before joining The Ritz-Carlton Miami and later The Ritz-Carlton, Washington D.C., where he helped launch the celebrated Westend Bistro by Eric Ripert, a partnership with the three-Michelin-starred chef of Le Bernardin, New York.

His career also includes:

• Celebrity Cruises – Mastering fine dining operations aboard luxury liners

• Frankie Istanbul – Founding one of Istanbul’s top culinary destinations

• Hyatt Regency Istanbul Ataköy – Executive Chef role in 2018

• Conrad Istanbul Bosphorus & Hilton Cairo Grand Nile – Driving culinary innovation in iconic hotels

Now at Banana Island Resort Doha, Chef Cikrikci brings his signature approach — culinary artistry blended with tradition and modern craftsmanship — promising unforgettable dining journeys for every guest.

A New Era of Dining in Doha

“Every dish tells a story,” says Chef Cikrikci, whose culinary creations are known for sustainability, innovation, and immersive flavors. With his arrival, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is poised to become a culinary destination in Qatar, offering guests world-class gastronomy in a tropical paradise setting.

Whether savoring oceanfront fine dining or exploring unique themed concepts, guests can look forward to an elevated gastronomic experience crafted with passion, precision, and creativity.