Louis Starck, one of the Principality’s most respected hoteliers, has taken over as General Manager of the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, the landmark palace that has defined Monaco’s luxury scene for more than 160 years.
Louis Starck officially assumed his new role on 29th September, succeeding Olivier Thomas, and now leads a team of nearly 500 at the legendary property on Place du Casino. For Starck, the appointment marks both a professional high point and a considerable responsibility. “This is a moment of great pride, and at the same time I fully realise the responsibility and expectations that come with this position,” he said.
A palace with global prestige
Long considered the flagship of Société des Bains de Mer, the Hôtel de Paris is internationally recognised as one of the world’s great luxury hotels. With its Michelin-starred restaurants – Louis XV-Alain Ducasse, Le Grill and Em Sherif – and the recent arrival of celebrated pâtissier Cedric Grolet, the hotel remains a touchstone of gastronomy. Its Palace designation, 3 Michelin Keys and Forbes Five-Star status further underline its reputation. Yet, as Starck acknowledges, “there is still room for improvement” – and his mission is to nurture the heritage of the hotel while keeping its promise of always striving to surpass itself.
From Hermitage to Hôtel de Paris
Starck arrives at the Hôtel de Paris after seven years at the Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, where he gave the property a new identity as “the connoisseurs’ hotel”. He oversaw its cultural revival, introduced bold culinary ventures with chef Yannick Alléno, and navigated a major renovation programme. The success of that vision has been reflected in international recognition and the loyalty of guests who sought its distinctive blend of history and modernity.
His career began with international postings in Paris, London, Muscat and Athens before he joined the Fairmont Monte-Carlo in 2008, where he spent a decade shaping his managerial style. A graduate of Strasbourg’s hotel school with an Executive MBA from Henley Management College, he is now regarded as one of Monaco’s most personable and forward-thinking hoteliers.
Looking to the future
Albert Manzone, CEO of Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer, described Starck as “a man whose knowledge of the Monegasque ecosystem, rich hospitality experience and competitive spirit will ensure the Hôtel de Paris continues to shine on the global stage of luxury hospitality.”
For Starck, the challenge is clear: to build on the legacy of a hotel that has hosted royalty, artists and statesmen, while ensuring its relevance for a new generation of travellers. The Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, often described as Monaco’s living room, now begins a new chapter under a manager who has already left his mark on the Principality’s hospitality landscape.
See also:
Chef Yannick Alléno brings two-starred Japanese dining to Monaco with l’Abysse Monte-Carlo
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Main photo source: MCSBM