Concord Hospitality Enterprises Company today announced the appointment of Stephanie Bisogne, Executive Chef, and Ivan Puente, Director of Food & Beverage, at the Sal Y Mar Rooftop Bar. The two are key additions to the executive team at Sal Y Mar, the stylish new rooftop lounge that will sit atop the highly anticipated dual-branded Aloft and Element Hotel opening in Midtown Tampa later this month.
“We’re pleased to welcome these two outstanding professionals to the Sal Y Mar team, as we prepare for our January opening,” said Evette Torres, Dual General Manager for Aloft and Element Hotel. “Stephanie and Ivan each bring their own unique perspective and expertise, and will play vital roles in the overall success of Sal Y Mar.”
Executive Chef Stephanie Bisogne will direct daily culinary operations at Sal Y Mar, the hotel’s signature rooftop bar. Bisogne has been an Executive Chef for Concord Hospitality for four years, most recently at Embassy Suites Charlotte Uptown. Prior to that, she was a Sous Chef for Marriott International. Bisogne attended Johnson & Wales for her Associate’s Degree in Culinary Arts and a Bachelor’s Degree in Food and Beverage Management. She also completed a hotel hospitality study abroad program in Sarria, Spain, and traveled to several European countries while abroad. Bisogne and her family have relocated to Tampa Bay and look forward to finding and exploring several new hiking locations in Florida.
As the newly appointed Dual Director of Food & Beverage, Ivan Puente will oversee all aspects of the hotel’s food and beverage planning and services, including menu development, and the preparation and presentation of food and drinks. Most recently Puente served as Senior Food and Beverage Manager for Terrace Restaurant and The Rooftop at Exchange Place in Jersey City, New Jersey, where, as part of the leadership team, he was responsible for all food and beverage operations for the prestigious neighborhood two level rooftop venue. Puente has a wealth of hospitality experience, including the Sambuca Restaurant and Lawless Spirits and Kitchen in Houston, Texas, under Expert Restaurant Management Group. Puente attended Montclair State University in Upper Montclair, New Jersey, and went on to graduate Magna Cum Laude with a Political Science and Pre-Law Studies degree.
Inspired by the Riviera Maya town of Tulum, Sal Y Mar’s (Salt and Sea) casual yet sophisticated vibe will add a unique flavor to the mix of dining offerings in Midtown Tampa, with a setting and menu rich in old-world influence. Easily accessible from a dedicated elevator on the hotel’s ground floor, the rooftop lounge will offer 4,900 square feet of indoor and outdoor seating, including a covered terrace and drink rails lining the perimeter. With 360-degree views of the Tampa, Westshore, and St. Petersburg skylines, Sal Y Mar will offer an unconventional rooftop experience, where guests of the new hotel can mingle effortlessly with residents and neighbors against an unrivaled backdrop. The dual-branded Aloft and Element property will feature 226 rooms and is expected to open January 2021.
For more information on Sal Y Mar Rooftop Bar, visit SalYMarRooftop.com.
