Hilton has announced its partnership with award-winning beverage authority Paul McGee, who will work alongside the brand’s global food & beverage team to develop an all day tropical cocktail experience at Papaya Club, the waterside escape at Conrad Orlando, which is set to open in late 2023. With more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, McGee is credited with opening some of the country’s most highly acclaimed bars.
“At Hilton, we strive to partner with industry leaders who are equally determined in their passion to create exceptional food and beverage experiences,” said Adam Crocini, senior vice president and global head, Food & Beverage Brands, Hilton. “Paul’s expertise in crafting immersive, beverage programs is unparalleled. We are excited for this partnership to yield an innovative cocktail destination befitting of a next generation luxury resort like Conrad Orlando.”
The Papaya Club will offer an upscale cocktail experience. The immersive beverage program will include flavors such as fresh pineapple, coconut, guava, and papaya, along with several inspired low- and no-ABV drinks, all served in custom ceramic pieces or pineapple and coconut shells. The pu-pu platter will take center stage on the food menu, which will also include pork skewers, shrimp and scallop siu mai, and crab wontons.
“Previously, I’ve opened indoor bars in cold climates that transport guests to tropical destinations through island-inspired drinks. This partnership with Hilton offers the unique opportunity to enhance a guest’s experience once they’ve arrived in paradise,” said McGee. “I’m excited to provide elevated service in an enchanting, outdoor setting.”
McGee previously helmed the cocktail programs at Chicago Athletic Association’s Milk Room, Cherry Circle Room, and Game Room—bars renowned for their classic-leaning beverage lists— and was an owner at Lost Lake. Lost Lake was recognized as the Best American Cocktail Bar at Tales of the Cocktail’s Spirited Awards and a multi James Beard Restaurant and Chef Award nominee for Outstanding Bar Program. It also earned a spot on the World’s 50 Best Bars list in 2018, as well as being named Time Out Chicago’s Bar of the Year, Chicago Magazine’s Best New Bar, one of Esquire’s Best Bars in America, and Imbibe magazine’s Cocktail Bar of the Year.
“Hilton has long been synonymous with innovation and, as with many of our food and beverage firsts across our Americas hotel portfolio, we are delighted for Conrad Orlando to be the destination for Paul McGee’s first hotel project,” said Tom Walters, senior vice president, food & beverage, Americas, Hilton. “Once open, Papaya Club will complement the luxury resort’s four other thoughtfully curated dining outlets providing an elevated, storied and globally inspired food and beverage experience for our guests delivered by our exceptional team members.”
When it opens in late 2023, Conrad Orlando will offer sophisticated, luxury accommodations with 433 rooms, including 51 impeccably designed suites and 10 spacious family suites. Additional amenities include 40,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, a tranquil spa with an outdoor water garden, a private pool area with splash pad, private cabanas, fitness center, and arrival/departure lounge. In addition to Papaya Club, guests will enjoy four dining experiences, including a signature rooftop Mexican restaurant. As part of Evermore Orlando Resort, bordering Walt Disney World Resort, guests will enjoy a 20-acre tropical beach and 8-acre crystalline lagoon, aquatic activities, and two Jack Nicklaus designed 18-hole golf courses.
For more information, head over to the hotel’s official website.