The Merchant Hotel in Belfast has been a beacon of luxury and hospitality for two decades, and its head of Food & Beverage, Marco Marro, has been at the heart of it all. In this exclusive interview, Marco reflects on the hotel's journey, from its grand opening to hosting the MTV Music Awards and serving afternoon tea to the King of Thailand. But it's not just the glitz and glamour that make The Merchant special; it's the people behind the scenes, the passion, and the commitment to innovation that truly set it apart.
Marco's journey with the hotel began in 2005, when he met Bill Wolsey and joined as restaurant manager in January 2006. The building itself was a 'wow' moment, and the intense preparation before the opening was a challenging but rewarding experience. The hotel has since evolved through expansion and later phases, with new areas like the bar and banqueting spaces adding a new dimension to the guest experience.
Food innovation is a key focus for The Merchant, with a commitment to staying up-to-date with global trends. Marco emphasizes the importance of research and development, as well as collaboration with top chefs, to bring fresh ideas back to the hotel. The food and beverage offering is diverse, with fine dining, a French bistro-style restaurant, a cocktail bar, and banqueting, all sharing a commitment to quality and innovation.
One of the standout dishes that has stood the test of time is the profiteroles with warm chocolate sauce and vanilla ice cream, which has been on the menu since 2006 and is still very popular. Marco also praises the hotel's afternoon tea, which has evolved from serving around 18 teas a day to over 100 on a busy Saturday. The experience is carefully considered, from the setting in the Great Room to the silver service and fine bone china.
The hotel has hosted many well-known figures, including Sir David Attenborough, and Marco reflects on the privilege of meeting him. He emphasizes the importance of treating every guest with respect and care, regardless of their status. The Merchant's success comes down to the people behind the scenes, the passion, and the commitment to creating memorable experiences for guests.
As the hotel celebrates its 20th anniversary, Marco looks forward to the future, with a menu inspired by early offerings but updated with modern techniques. The redesigned takeaway box reflects the anniversary, and the hotel is set to continue its legacy of excellence and innovation in the years to come.
