The legendary Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has announced the appointment of Chef Memo Hernandez as its new Executive Chef, bringing a fresh global perspective to the historic luxury hotel’s celebrated culinary program.
With nearly a century of heritage, the iconic hotel continues to evolve its gastronomic offerings while preserving the cultural richness that has made it one of Southeast Asia’s most prestigious hospitality landmarks.
A Global Culinary Journey Comes to Siem Reap
Born in Costa Rica, Chef Memo Hernandez brings over 20 years of international culinary and luxury hospitality experience to Raffles. His remarkable career has taken him across diverse destinations including the Bahamas, Kosovo, Vietnam, Tanzania, Maldives, Fiji, and Dubai.
This global exposure has shaped his culinary philosophy—one that blends authentic cultural influences with modern creativity.
At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, Chef Memo will oversee the hotel’s entire culinary program, including:
Café d’Angkor – The hotel’s signature all-day brasserie serving Asian and international cuisine
1932 – A refined Khmer fine-dining restaurant celebrating Cambodia’s culinary heritage
The Conservatory – Famous for the iconic Raffles Afternoon Tea experience
Banquet and event dining services for weddings, celebrations, and corporate gatherings
His leadership is expected to further elevate the hotel’s already acclaimed dining experiences.
The Legendary Bespoke Temple Dinner Experience
One of the hotel’s most unique culinary experiences is the Bespoke Temple Dinner, a remarkable dining concept located within the ancient temples of the Angkor Archaeological Park.
Launched in 2024 as part of Raffles’ “Curated Journeys” program, this extraordinary experience allows guests to enjoy an exclusive dinner surrounded by centuries-old Khmer ruins.
The evening includes:
A specially curated menu inspired by Raffles’ original 1936 dishes
Blazing torches illuminating the ancient temple setting
Traditional Apsara dance performances
A truly unforgettable atmosphere combining history, culture, and gastronomy
It’s widely considered a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in Cambodia.
Chef Memo’s Signature Style: Nikkei Cuisine
Chef Memo is particularly known for his expertise in Nikkei cuisine, a vibrant culinary tradition that blends Japanese precision with Peruvian flavors.
This fusion cuisine emerged over a century ago when Japanese immigrants settled in Peru, creating dishes that combine Japanese techniques with Latin American ingredients and spices.
Chef Memo’s approach to food reflects a broader philosophy: celebrating the identity of cultures that intersect and evolve, resulting in flavors that are innovative yet deeply rooted in tradition.
Elevating Culinary Excellence at Raffles
According to General Manager Joseph Colina, Chef Memo’s appointment marks an exciting chapter for the hotel.
“We are delighted to welcome Chef Memo to Raffles. He will play a critical role in elevating our culinary offerings and delivering unforgettable, authentic experiences that honour our rich heritage while embracing innovative global influences for our discerning guests.”
His arrival reinforces Raffles’ commitment to world-class gastronomy, heritage experiences, and immersive cultural dining.
A Historic Hotel with Timeless Luxury
Opened nearly a century ago, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor remains one of the most iconic luxury hotels in Cambodia. Located in the heart of Siem Reap, the hotel serves as a gateway for travelers exploring the temples of Angkor.
Guests visiting the property can expect:
Colonial-era elegance and heritage architecture
Award-winning dining experiences
Proximity to the world-famous Angkor temples
Signature Raffles hospitality and service
With Chef Memo Hernandez now leading its culinary vision, the hotel is set to further strengthen its reputation as a premier gastronomic destination in Southeast Asia.
Booking Information
For reservations or more information about dining and stays at Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, guests can call +855 23 982 598 or visit the official website.
