Chef Scott Conant's upcoming culinary establishment, Leola, at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau, is poised to redefine the Italian dining experience in the Caribbean. This venture is not merely a restaurant but a profound personal statement, reflecting Conant's passion for authentic flavors and gracious hospitality. The interior design of Leola, reminiscent of a 1920s Italian speakeasy, promises an atmosphere of intimate sophistication, while the menu showcases a harmonious blend of rustic tradition and modern culinary artistry. This opening marks a significant milestone for Baha Mar's evolving dining scene, further cementing its reputation as a premier gastronomic destination.

The concept of Leola extends beyond just fine dining; it embodies a narrative of personal history and culinary evolution. Conant's vision for the restaurant is deeply rooted in his familial connections and his extensive journey through the world of cuisine. The establishment is designed to be a welcoming sanctuary where guests can savor meticulously crafted dishes and premium beverages in an environment that balances grandeur with comfort. Leola's introduction is a testament to Baha Mar's continuous pursuit of enriching its guest experience, bringing a new dimension of luxury and taste to the Bahamian culinary landscape.

Leola: A New Era of Italian Gastronomy in Nassau

Acclaimed chef and restaurateur Scott Conant is poised to unveil Leola, a captivating Italian dining concept at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar in Nassau this fall. For the two-time James Beard Award recipient, Leola transcends the conventional restaurant model, embodying the realization of a cherished aspiration. His profound appreciation for soulful culinary creations, genuine hospitality, and the vibrant spirit of The Bahamas has intricately shaped this new endeavor. Nestled within the casino level of the Grand Hyatt, Leola will occupy an expansive 8,800 square feet, designed to evoke the timeless elegance of a 1920s Italian speakeasy. The interior, conceived by Restoration Hardware, will feature luxurious velvet textures, subtle gilded accents, and low-hanging chandeliers, cultivating an ambiance that balances moody intimacy with refined allure. Beyond its opulent facade, the space is crafted to feel inviting, comfortable, and deeply personal, fostering a sense of warmth for every patron.

Leola is meticulously designed to accommodate a diverse range of dining preferences, offering a spacious 106-seat main dining room, an inviting outdoor terrace capable of hosting an additional 130 guests, two sleek and stylish bars, and an exclusive private dining room for more intimate gatherings. Chef Conant articulates that his perpetual inspiration stems from the inherent beauty and dynamic energy of the Bahamas. With Leola, the objective is to forge an experience deeply rooted in connection—a culinary journey that is warm, soulful, and profoundly personal. The restaurant's name, Leola, is a playful yet meaningful derivation from 'leone,' the Italian word for lion, serving as a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather, who affectionately used this nickname throughout Conant's formative years. The menu at Leola is a sophisticated fusion of Conant's distinctive culinary style—characterized by its refined simplicity, rustic charm, and unwavering focus on exceptional ingredients—harmoniously blended with the vibrant energy emblematic of a grand Italian kitchen. While his renowned Pasta al Pomodoro will undoubtedly feature prominently, the menu also boasts exquisite dishes such as slow-roasted pork shank 'Ossobucco' accompanied by saffron polenta, and crispy Roman-style artichokes adorned with lemon aioli and mint pesto. The wine program is thoughtfully curated, anchored by distinguished Barolo vintages and an array of Old World treasures, while the cocktail menu promises a contemporary reinterpretation of classic Italian libations. For Baha Mar, the introduction of Leola signifies another momentous stride in its ongoing culinary evolution. Graeme Davis, President of Baha Mar, expressed that Chef Conant has long been a valued associate of the resort, affirming that Leola inaugurates an exhilarating new chapter in their gastronomic narrative and represents a bold and significant enhancement to their existing portfolio of distinguished dining establishments.

Baha Mar's Expanding Culinary Horizon

Leola's arrival enriches Baha Mar's already stellar constellation of chef-led dining experiences, joining an esteemed lineup that includes Marcus Samuelsson's Fish + Chop House, Daniel Boulud's Café Boulud, and Dario Cecchini's Carna. This new addition further solidifies the resort's position as a premier destination for discerning palates. The commitment to culinary excellence is also evident in the recent opening of the Jon Batiste Jazz Club, which has garnered significant acclaim for its high-quality programming, offering guests an unparalleled blend of live entertainment and refined dining.

Ultimately, Leola is more than just a restaurant; it is a heartfelt creation that embodies a blend of nostalgia and bold ambition, a seamless fusion of familial warmth and the pinnacle of fine dining. This autumn, its doors will open wide to welcome both travelers and local residents, inviting them into a space where elegant design meets profound comfort, and every meticulously crafted plate tells a compelling story. The synergy between Leola's refined offerings and Baha Mar's existing diverse culinary landscape promises an enriched and unforgettable experience for all who visit, reinforcing the resort's status as a beacon of luxury and gastronomic innovation in the Caribbean.