Meet the New Chef at Aria Cayman
At Aria Cayman, every new chapter begins in the kitchen. The arrival of Chef Felice Buonaiuto marks an exciting evolution for one of Grand Cayman’s distinctive restaurant destinations, bringing a fresh perspective to the experience behind the Aria Cayman menu. With Italian roots, Michelin-starred experience, and a history within the Agua Hospitality Group family, Chef Felice joins Aria restaurant Cayman with a style shaped by precision, creativity, and a deep respect for flavour.
His culinary path reflects both discipline and range, drawing from experience in fine dining environments and a background that spans Spanish, Italian, French, and Peruvian influences. At Aria, he brings not only technical excellence, but also a thoughtful point of view that feels naturally aligned with the restaurant’s Mediterranean identity. His approach is refined yet expressive, grounded in technique while always guided by balance, rhythm, and the pleasure of the table.
A New Chapter Behind the Aria Cayman Menu
At Aria Grand Cayman, every menu is shaped by the people behind it. Chef Felice’s arrival brings renewed energy to the kitchen and a fresh layer of intention to the Aria Cayman menu, with a culinary style that complements the restaurant’s Mediterranean spirit while allowing space for evolution. His presence represents more than a change in leadership. It introduces a new chapter defined by craftsmanship, sensitivity to ingredients, and a strong sense of direction for what Aria restaurant Grand Cayman continues to become.
Supporting this new chapter is a team that brings depth, versatility, and valuable international experience to the brigade. Behind the evolution are team members whose stories span different kitchens, cultures, and hospitality traditions, strengthening the foundation of the Aria experience with discipline and collaboration.
Ali Mohtadi brings years of hands-on experience across Beirut’s restaurant scene, with a strong background in Italian and international cuisine. His experience in high-pressure kitchens, combined with his versatility and commitment to consistency, adds important strength to the day-to-day rhythm of the team.
Alongside him, Abdallah Abusalim contributes experience gained across hotels and restaurants in Jordan and the Cayman Islands. With a steady approach to kitchen operations and a collaborative spirit, he helps reinforce the kind of consistency and teamwork that shape every successful service.
Also part of this evolving kitchen is Pankaj Kumar, whose experience spans leading hospitality names in India, Miami, and now Aria. With a background that includes Mediterranean, Arabic, Indian, and banquet cooking, as well as leadership in high-volume and quality-driven environments, he adds valuable operational strength, adaptability, and depth to the brigade.
Together, Chef Felice and the team honour Aria’s foundation while bringing their own perspective to its future. Their combined experience reflects a kitchen culture built on care, precision, and a shared commitment to creating a dining experience that continues to set Aria Cayman apart in Grand Cayman.
Chef's Tasting
Mediterranean Wine Dinner
For one night only, Chef Felice Buonaiuto presents a new chef’s tasting menu crafted to highlight balance, and flavour. Each course is designed to flow into the next, building depth with intention while staying true to Aria’s Mediterranean soul.
To elevate the journey, Sommelier Nico Picco has curated a wine pairing that mirrors the menu’s evolution.
Limited seating. One seating only.
Thursday, March 19th | 6:30 PM
160 CI Per Person – Including Gratuity
To reserve your table, please email us at info@ariacayman.ky.
