AUSTRALIA | Sheraton Grand Sydney has welcomed Chef Allen Varghese and Chef Lisa Shin to lead its elevated food and beverage offerings.
Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park has announced the appointment of Chef Allen Varghese as Executive Sous Chef & Concept Lead, alongside Chef Lisa Shin as Sous Chef, as the hotel continues to elevate its food and beverage offering at Sydney Common.
Chef Allen Varghese will lead the culinary vision behind Sydney Common’s refreshed menus, bringing a globally informed perspective shaped by some of the world’s most respected kitchens. A graduate of Le Cordon Bleu Paris, Allen’s career spans Michelin-starred restaurants and luxury hotels, including Pierre Gagnière’s three-Michelin-starred restaurants in London, Park Hyatt Toronto, and Crown Sydney.
With a philosophy rooted in sustainable, ingredient-led cooking, Chef Varghese is known for his thoughtful refinement and commitment to showcasing the very best of Australian produce. His appointment signals an exciting new chapter for Sydney Common, with a renewed focus on seasonality, precision, and elevated simplicity.
Chef Lisa Shin joins as Sous Chef, overseeing the daily execution of the Sydney Common kitchen. Originally from Korea, Chef Shin brings a strong foundation in classical French and Italian techniques, underpinned by a disciplined and deeply considered approach to her craft.
Her cooking is defined by clean, balanced flavours, technical precision, and a meticulous understanding of temperature, texture, and timing. With a philosophy grounded in continuous improvement and self-discipline, Chef Shin ensures every dish leaving the pass is intentional, confident, and refined.
“We are delighted to welcome Allen and Lisa to the team,” said David Lance, General Manager at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park.
“Their combined experience, creativity, and shared commitment to excellence will play a pivotal role in further enhancing Sydney Common’s dining experience. We look forward to seeing their vision come to life.”
Chef Varghese said he was excited to join Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park and lead the next evolution of Sydney Common.
“There is an incredible opportunity to celebrate Australia’s produce through a menu that is both thoughtful and expressive, and I’m looking forward to working with the team to bring this to life,” he said.
Chef Lisa Shin added that she was really happy to be part of the team at Sydney Common.
“It’s a kitchen that cares about the details, and that’s something I really connect with.”
These appointments come at a time of continued evolution for Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, as the hotel strengthens its position as one of Sydney’s leading dining destinations.
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