Meeting Moments

Alessandro Cabella, Hilton area general manager, Italy, gives us a taste of the new culinary-based Meetings Moments concept being rolled out in the country by the brand.   Hilton hotels has introduced its new ‘Making Moments’ concept designed to provide new experiences for guests. Among the many elements that determine the success of an event, the gastronomic experience is acknowledged to be one of the most significant, but Hilton says creating the right atmosphere is the premise on which the Making Moments concept was developed, such as showcasing the creativity of the chefs and the imagination of the F&B specialists who can turn a simple dinner, aperitivo or lunch into a truly unforgettable experience. This includes carefully curated menus, exceptional locations, and varied tasting methods, found within a portfolio of destinations suitable for different events. Making Moments consists of five categories including: the classic Banquet Royale, with dinner and entertainment to amaze a large audience; the more intimate My Dinner Party, capable of creating an intimate and relaxed atmosphere among friends or family. There is also the bubbly Mix & Mingle, with an informal service and a selection of finger food, bubbles and innovative cocktails; the varied Street Food Festival, a gastronomic journey in which different food stations offer a selection of dishes from all over the world and, finally, the interactive Live Stations, where the chefs are the star of the show in the live preparation and personalisation of dishes right in front of guests. Making Moments has been specifically designed for the Italian market and is now available in Italy’s most beautiful cities and in the most fascinating hotels of the group: the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the Aleph Rome Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, Hilton Milan, Hilton Lake Como, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, Hilton Sorrento Palace and Hilton Rome Airport. The seven hotels have developed a number of different Making Moments experiences unique to each property and here is a brief taste of some of the top events: Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, translates its heritage and magnificence into the Banquet Royale with the Dolce Vita theme. Dive into the past with scenes from the 1960’s classic movie by Federico Fellini and an orchestra that plays music composed by Nino Rota.  The grand entrance for the guests features a vintage Alfa Romeo Spider, with a group of paparazzi-dancers arriving on the legendary Vespa and taking photos of the guests whilst in a choreographic dance. Experience a Street Food Festival at Hilton Milan where  the hotel’s chef, can take guests will go on a journey discovering and trying authentic delicacies from the regions of Piedmont, Lombardy and Veneto and their rich history. In Venice, the Hilton Molino Stucky offers a Mix & Mingle at The Skyline Rooftop Bar, the highest bar in the city with a charming terrace which is the perfect place for a memorable party. Enjoy a rich selection of canapés inspired by Venetian tradition accompanied by signature drinks prepared by expert mixologists; while at the Hilton Sorrento Palace the Live Station has an authentic Campania Region theme, with its own Pizza School. Alessandro Cabella, Hilton area general manager Italy, tells CMW: “Even in the MICE sector, which is once growing rapidly after the pandemic, Hilton knows how to anticipate trends and is able to offer its clients what they need even before they themselves perceive this need. We know that food is one of the showstoppers brought to any event, and thanks to Making Moments we are proud to offer high quality solutions that are also innovative and amaze even the most demanding and sophisticated guests.” Cabella adds that more than ever, the success of an event is determined by a more original and dynamic catering proposal that meets and exceeds the expectations of a very different customer today than just a few years ago. “We must continue to develop and bring to life unique moments that add value to meetings and events. Making Moments offers universal themes that can be customised locally to ensure an authentic experience, benefit from the DNA and location of the hotel, and enhance the customer’s experience by exceeding their expectations. We can, therefore, offer event organisers and their customers inspiring and innovative event experiences that embrace all five senses, engage guests, and create lasting moments.”