Al M. Soto Executive Chef at Marriott Hartford Downtown - CT, USA
Marriott Hartford Downtown is pleased to announce the appointment of Al M. Soto as its new Executive Chef, bringing with him more than three decades of diverse culinary leadership across prestigious institutions, restaurants, and global kitchens.
In his role, Chef Soto will oversee the hotel's expansive food and beverage operations, which include L Bar, the stylish on-site restaurant and bar; an in-house Starbucks café; in-room dining for the hotel's 409 guest rooms and suites; and a robust banquet and catering program supporting high-profile events, weddings, and corporate functions throughout more than 13,000 square feet of event space.
A seasoned hospitality leader, Chef Soto's career spans leadership positions with Kraft Sports + Entertainment, Tufts University, Restaurant Associates at Harvard Business School, and Sodexo Campus Services, where he managed culinary operations for hundreds of accounts across 10 states. His work has earned numerous accolades, including the NACUFS Loyal E. Horton Grand Prize for Resident Dining, and media recognition in The New York Times, Boston Globe, and Boston Magazine.
Chef Soto is also an accomplished restaurateur, having led acclaimed establishments like Troquet on South, The Beacon Hill Hotel, and City Bar & Grille, with several concepts earning top ratings and critical acclaim. His culinary foundation includes classical technique, modern innovation, and international training, including an apprenticeship in Tokyo at three distinguished Japanese restaurants and early experience at The Gotham Bar & Grill and La Grenouille in New York City.
Chef Soto is already at work with his team, developing new seasonal menus and refining culinary operations to ensure an elevated dining experience throughout the property.