Mark Quitney Named Executive Chef at New Orleans Marriott

    /24-7PressRelease/ - NEW ORLEANS, LA, December 15, 2007 - The New Orleans Marriott has named Mark Quitney the executive chef for the hotel. One of Quitney's top priorities is 5 Fifty 5, the hotel's fine dining New Orleans French Quarter restaurant which opened October 1 with a unique wood-fired grill concept. In his new executive chef post, Quitney will oversee all food and beverage operations including the hotel's private events and banquets, in-room dining, the concierge lounge and the hotel's chic lobby lounge, 55 Fahrenheit. Quitney is a 30-year culinary veteran, which includes over 17 years with Marriott.

"We are thrilled to have Chef Quitney leading our culinary team", said Gil Zanchi, area general manager. "He is one of the hospitality industry's leading food experts and his passion for food is sure to make a noteworthy mark on this French Quarter restaurant and hotel's cuisine. Since New Orleans is a premier food destination, I am confident Chef Quitney and his team will make 5 Fifty 5 and all of our culinary offerings a smashing success".

No stranger to a restaurant debut, Quitney's appointment follows his tenure as executive chef at Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in Florida where he designed four new restaurant concepts, including the first new restaurant at the resort in 20 years. Quitney has also served as executive chef at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, Evergreen Conference Resort, Château Élan Winery and Resort, all located in Georgia, and the Marriott Grand Hotel in Alabama.

The Marriott Hotel on Canal Street in New Orleans' new 5 Fifty 5 is an exciting addition to the city's dining options. The 182-seat restaurant has modern interior d cor, a wine bar and a private room for intimate functions. The mouthwatering menu incorporates New Orleans, Cajun, French and Creole cuisine based on a unique wood-fired grill concept. Signature dishes include Lobster Macaroni and Cheese, Seared Jumbo Scallops with warm white bean salad and citrus gastrique, and Double Cute Silverado Lamb Chops with Abita Amber braised greens and boudin.

Please help the New Orleans Marriott in welcoming Executive Chef Mark Quitney to their culinary team.

For reservations at 5 Fifty 5, please call 504-553-5638. For information or reservations at the New Orleans Marriott, call 888-364-1200 or log onto www.neworleansmarriott.com

About New Orleans Marriott
Experience this New Orleans French Quarter hotel proudly unveiling the completion of a $38 million renovation reflecting the unique spirit and rich culture of the Crescent City. The New Orleans Marriott located at the edge of the historic French Quarter, now features 1,329 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites complemented by a sparkling Concierge Lounge and a revamped lobby including convenient service stands and a gift shop. Discover everything needed for a satisfying stay at this French Quarter landmark hotel boasting a redesigned Grand Ballroom perfect for dazzling social and corporate events, 5 Fifty 5, serving a fresh approach to Louisiana cuisine, a chic wine bar, as well as an on-site Starbucks, FedEx Kinko s business center, and a fully-equipped health club. In addition to this remarkable transformation, guests are positioned steps from the Convention Center and Bourbon Street. Discover the bridge between business and pleasure at the esteemed Marriott New Orleans Hotel in the French Quarter. For more information or to make a reservation call 504-581-1000 or visit http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/msyla-new-orleans-marriott/.

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