CHARLOTTE, N.C., July 13, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City hotel, located in the heart of Uptown and Charlotte’s Business and Entertainment District, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Luca Annunziata to Executive Chef. Chef Luca brings exceptional culinary leadership and expertise to the property’s on-site award-winning restaurant, Caffe Siena.

The newly renovated Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City far exceeds traditional southern hospitality, with a dedicated hotel staff that strives to make each guests’ stay a memorable one. Caffe Siena, already one of the most sought-after restaurants in the city for casual fine dining, is confident Chef Luca will significantly enhance the dining experience for guests and locals alike.

“Myself and the entire team are delighted that Chef Luca has joined our family as our Executive Chef,” said Stacey Schroeder-Bacsi, General Manager of the hotel. “We know he will bring a truly unique flair to the dining scene in Uptown Charlotte.”

Chef Annunziata began his extraordinary culinary career in Naples, Italy under his mother’s tutelage where he developed a deep love for the art of cooking. His passion for cooking would later lead him to travel all over the world and grant him over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Chef Luca completed his culinary training in San Moritz, Switzerland at the prestigious Suvretta House St. Moritz, a Five Star World Class establishment. Afterwards, he moved to the Britannia Hotel Intercontinental Hotel in London, then travelled and worked in Germany, France, and eventually New York, where he had the pleasure of working at the Hearst Corporation with Good Housekeeping Magazine.

Prior to moving to Charlotte, Chef Luca worked at Don Alfonso 1890 Boutique Hotel—a two-star Michelin Relais Chateaux restaurant in San A’gata, Italy—considered one of the finest in the world. Chef Luca has been a recipient of many awards including his most esteemed, the Zagat Platinum Award for Excellence as well as the Passion8’s “Top 25 Best Restaurants in Charlotte” from Charlotte Magazine.

“Come and check out what everybody is talking about, cuisine made with love and passion. Ciao a presto!”- Chef Luca Annunziata

To learn more about Chef Luca, Caffe Siena, and the Holiday Inn Charlotte Center City, please contact the hotel’s General Manager, Stacey Schroeder-Bacsi, at (704) 335-5400 or BacsiS@gfhotels.com .

About Holiday Inn® Charlotte Center City As one of the top hotels in the fashionable Uptown Charlotte area, the Holiday Inn® Charlotte Center City offers an ideal location that is just eight miles from Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT).  The hotel is also adjacent to the Spectrum Center, making it easy to catch a sporting event or concert, and conveniently located within close proximity of Bank of America Stadium, home of the NFL Carolina Panthers, NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Charlotte Convention Center. Race fans can catch all of the action at The Charlotte Motor Speedway, just a short drive from the hotel. The perfect uptown location, stylishly appointed rooms and high-quality service combine to rank the property among the most sought after hotels in Charlotte, NC. The hotel features complimentary high-speed, wireless Internet access in all guest rooms and the lobby. Meeting and event spaces at the property can accommodate up to 450 guests, and the hotel's top-notch amenities include Rooftop Siena with a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, and great views, as well as free transportation within three miles of the hotel.

About Caffe Siena Welcome to the award winning, Caffe Siena-Uptown not uptight! Intrigue your culinary senses with our Italian menu, prepared by Chef Luca Annunziata. Each dish is hand crafted, featuring many dishes straight from the streets of Naples, Italy. The award-winning restaurant infuses authentic textures and flavors that will present a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Select from the lighter side such as soup and salad, shared appetizers or delectable entrées. Pair your meal with an elegant wine, house infused cocktail or a gourmet coffee.

Stacey Schroeder-Bacsi Tel: (704) 335-5400 Email: BacsiS@gfhotels.com