Meet the Chef: Introducing Executive

Chef Ian Mancais

Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast welcomes Executive Chef Ian Mancais, bringing more than 37 years of culinary experience across 12 countries. With a career shaped by global influences, he joins the resort to lead a fresh chapter of innovative dining.

Chef Mancais was born in Cyprus to a French father and Scottish mother and raised across Asia. His career highlights include helping create Ithaa, the world’s first undersea restaurant in the Maldives, and cooking for members of the UK and UAE Royal Families. 

At Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast, Chef Mancais is introducing refreshed menus that blend international techniques with Malaysian flavours. Guests can expect elevated comfort dishes, vibrant salads, seafood favourites, and plant-forward wellness options.

Bonus tip: Chef Mancais also champions sustainability by working closely with local farmers and prioritising responsibly sourced ingredients.

With Chef Mancais at the helm, dining at Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast enters an exciting new era of flavour and creativity.