Shiv Menon
Head of Hospitality and Wine & Beverage, BOCA, Dubai
My journey into the world of hospitality began
with a profound conviction: this was not merely a
career, but a calling. Upon graduating, I
enthusiastically enrolled in The Oberoi Centre for
Learning and Development’s (STEP) systematic
education and training program. Three years
immersed in intensive hotel operations solidified
my passion, culminating in WSET Levels 2 and 3
certifications and a degree. Yet, I recognized that
the vastness of the industry demanded a focused
specialization.
The beauty of the hospitality industry lies in
meeting people and forming connections. My
drive gravitated towards wine, leading me to
Wine Park. There, I was presented with the
invaluable opportunity to delve into a
meticulously curated portfolio of “hidden gems”
and extremely high-quality wines, expertly
selected by Vishal Kadakia (Founder, Wine Park),
while managing the vibrant Goa and Karnataka
markets.
Still, my thirst for knowledge remained
unquenched.
My travels through France and Italy transcended
mere leisure; they were a continuous education. It
was during this period that an exciting
opportunity arose: a Sommelier position at
Constance Hotels & Resorts in the Seychelles. At
their 1,000-room property, featuring seven food
and beverage venues, I joined a team of 12
sommeliers, with an astonishing 32,000
direct-import wine references – a giant in the
wine industry with immense buying power. I
learned a great deal thanks to my head
sommelier and team at the time (Sreejith Menon,
Head Sommelier then, and Jerome Faure, Head
of Wines for all Constance Hotels).
The sheer scale and interaction with such a
diverse array of guests proved truly captivating.
My dedication was soon rewarded with the Head
of Wines position at Raffles Seychelles, where I
leveraged my expanding expertise and network
to meticulously construct their entire beverage
program, curating experiences with incredible
guidance from my Food and Beverage Director
(Luke Groves at the time).
It was an incredible
success! Raffles was also a great opportunity to
combine my passion for scuba diving with being
part of an incredible coral reef restoration project.
BOCA Dubai: Where Sustainability Meets
Mastery
The next chapter of my journey brought me to BOCA in Dubai, a distinctive standalone restaurant renowned for its commitment to sustainability and Spanish Mediterranean cuisine (Founder: Omar Shihab) – a challenge I eagerly embraced. Starting as Head Sommelier and Assistant Restaurant Manager, I steadily ascended to Head of Hospitality, Wines, and Beverages, with the opportunity to work closely with vineyard owners, visiting them, spending time on their farms, and understanding their work.
The next chapter of my journey brought me to BOCA in Dubai, a distinctive standalone restaurant renowned for its commitment to sustainability and Spanish Mediterranean cuisine (Founder: Omar Shihab) – a challenge I eagerly embraced. Starting as Head Sommelier and Assistant Restaurant Manager, I steadily ascended to Head of Hospitality, Wines, and Beverages, with the opportunity to work closely with vineyard owners, visiting them, spending time on their farms, and understanding their work.
Receiving a scholarship to attend the MAD
Program (a Copenhagen-based initiative focused
on achieving a better world in food sustainability
and the industry) and participating in takeovers
spanning food, wine, and cocktails provided big
insights, which I leveraged at BOCA through
interactive wine menus, new training plans, data
collection, and collaborations with amazing
partners.
Recognition and Impact: Beyond the Glass
At BOCA, I’ve had the distinct privilege of curating an award-winning wine program while developing and guiding our team to achieve the highest standards of hospitality.
At BOCA, I’ve had the distinct privilege of curating an award-winning wine program while developing and guiding our team to achieve the highest standards of hospitality.
My work has
consistently involved a delicate balance of
innovative, out-of-the-box thinking and precise
execution of daily operations, all while infusing a
holistic touch into our marketing campaigns and
overall approach.
Our collective efforts have been recognized with
prestigious accolades, including “Best Wine List
UAE (Medium Size)” and “Most Sustainable List
in the UAE” by Star Wine List, as well as
commendations from MENA’s 50 Best, Gault &
Millau 1 Toque, and the Green Star Michelin.
Working with BOCA has transcended the
conventional scope of a job; it has been an
authentic opportunity to significantly impact the
market. Beyond developing the BOCA brand, we
have passionately supported the wider
community through numerous wine tastings,
masterclasses, and educational initiatives – an
integral part of our foundational ethos.
All these dedicated efforts culminated in a truly
humbling honor: being named Michelin
Sommelier of the Year 2025.
