• Thu. Mar 28th, 2024

North East Connected

Hopping Across The North East From Hub To Hub

Sohe expands its horizons with mix of international talent

Screen Shot 2015-10-30 at 14.53.26THREE hospitality professionals have travelled across the globe to the North East to begin an exciting new career at Jesmond-based bar and restaurant Sohe.

The string of appointments brings the total of Sohe’s team to 25, with a diverse set of employees of different nationalities complementing the venue’s international cuisine and culture.

Sohe offers diners a selection of tantalising dishes and cocktails, with influences from Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Korea and beyond, adding a unique flair of Asian fusion to Osborne Road since opening in May 2014.

Alban Tabaku, better known as ‘Albi’, has brought his passion for flavour to the kitchen as head chef. The 35-year-old from Albania moved to the UK 16 years ago to diversify his experience, after learning his craft working at restaurants in Italy specialising in European and Asian cooking.

Albi said: “We’ve been working hard on designing the autumn winter menu as well as special courses for Christmas and New Year so it’s been really rewarding to see my ideas being realised and getting the chance to serve up dishes I’m truly excited about.”

Causing a stir behind the bar, taking on the position of bar manager is Ami St. Claire. The 30-year-old Australian has called the North East home after falling in love with the region when visiting the UK as part of a round the world trip six years ago.

Ami said: “After moving to the North East I really discovered my passion for cocktail making, as my first job was working behind a bar.

“Since starting my new role at Sohe, I’ve loved having the chance to play around with different blends, creating new cocktails for our drinks menu and taking some inspiration from my native Australia – using exotic flavours to pair perfectly with the style of cuisine that we’re known for.”

24-year-old Steven Talbot from Washington has joined the venue as restaurant manager after progressing through the ranks within the company at various sites over seven years.

Completing Sohe’s recent round of appointments is 30-year-old Eleonora Pavoni as restaurant floor supervisor. Originally from Italy, Eleonora – who moved to Newcastle from Ireland – counts Asia and Australia amongst her travel portfolio and has built an industry portfolio in the UK with the likes of Popolo, Gusto and Manchester’s Australasia.

Simon Wright, general manager at Sohe, said: “We’re thrilled to have welcomed our new recruits, bringing together talent from across the world. One of the things we pride ourselves on is our dedicated team of employees, who each contribute their own skills and expertise.

“With Alban heading up our kitchen, Ami unleashing her creativity behind the bar and Steven and Eleonora looking after our diners in the restaurant, we’re certainly in safe hands and looking forward to the season ahead.”

For more information on Sohe call 0191 281 8161, visit www.sohe.co.uk or follow @SoheNewcastle on Twitter.

By admin