We’re thrilled to announce that Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort and Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort have been honored with the prestigious 2023 Travelers’ Choice Award by TripAdvisor. This recognition highlights our unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional experiences and creating cherished memories for our valued guests.
At Heritage Awali and Heritage Le Telfair, we pride ourselves on providing unparalleled service and curated experiences. From luxurious accommodations and championship golf courses to indulgent spa treatments and remarkable dining options, our resorts offer a world-class escape for every discerning traveler.
Heritage Awali and Heritage Le Telfair extend their sincere gratitude to our esteemed guests for their trust and support. We invite you to discover the magic of our award-winning resorts, where extraordinary moments and impeccable hospitality await.
Join us on an extraordinary journey at Heritage Awali and Heritage Le Telfair, the epitome of excellence and luxury.
We had the pleasure of meeting Moorooghen Moothen, also known as Chef Kelley, Executive Chef at the Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort, who kindly agreed to answer our questions. A passionate chef since his beginnings in the hotel industry in 1988, he has climbed the ranks to become a recognized chef, with international experience in prestigious establishments. His cuisine highlights local products and spices, especially Mauritian cuisine, much to the delight of his customers. Let’s discover together the journey and inspirations of this talented chef.
Did you choose this profession, or did it choose you?
I chose this exciting profession.
What led you to become a chef? Your journey?
It dates back to 1988 when I first joined the hotel industry, and as I was in the kitchen every day to ensure cleanliness, I was amazed by the chefs at work.
That’s where my passion for cooking was born, and I was fortunate enough to join the team as a kitchen assistant at the request of Barry Andrew, who was in charge of the kitchen at that time.
Having the dream of becoming a great chef someday, I continued my studies at the Hotel School, the only training center located in Curepipe.
I worked as a kitchen assistant for several years.
In 1998, I received an offer to join Mr. Jean Luc Narret, and I gladly accepted the role of Chef de Partie.
I was promoted to Sous-Chef in 1999 and second to Chef Benoit Pepin.
After the departure of the Executive Chef and Executive Sous-Chef in 2000, I was in charge of the smooth functioning of the kitchen until the arrival of Michel Fredrik as Executive Chef in 2001.
I had the opportunity to climb the ranks, becoming Executive Sous-Chef for 7 years and finally Executive Chef in 2009, holding that position for 8 years.
I joined the great Heritage Resorts family in 2017 as Executive Chef until 2022, where I had the opportunity to climb the ranks again and take on the responsibility of the Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort kitchen as Executive Chef.
I have lived unforgettable moments during my journey as Executive Chef, including a training course at the Paul Bocuse Group training center in Lyon in 2002, a chance to attend training at the Majestic Barrier in Cannes, France in 2002, and participation in the 2018 Cap D’Estel event in Nice for Mauritian cuisine, among others….
How would you describe your cooking style?
My cuisine aims to highlight local products and spices. Above all, I love to please customers by introducing them to Mauritian cuisine.
Among your numerous creations, which one are you most proud of and why?
That’s a difficult question! Indeed, there were many creations, but among them:
A memorable evening in 1999 for the Intronization of the Disciples d’Escoffier, where Bernard Pepin and I worked on the conception of the evening.
My participation in the “Food Promotion at the Ceraton Tower Hotel in Singapore for the Mauritian Culinary Week.
I had to present a menu every day, and I still remember some dishes that were highly appreciated by guests, such as braised Palmiste in curry sauce and a tuna carpaccio with vindaye oil and soy sauce.
What is your favorite spice?
There are so many: Massala, saffron, cinnamon, cloves, cumin, star anise, ginger.
What is the kitchen utensil you can’t do without?
My knife.
If you were a vegetable?
The heart of Palmiste – it is a noble product because it takes 8 years to grow a Palmiste heart.
A dish you love to cook when you’re at home?
Violet and Palmiste gratin
What is your favorite dish?
Fried Rice
Your favorite herb?
Lemongrass, Combava and celery
A tip you would like to share with our readers?
An excellent infusion of Lemongrass, Ginger and Honey
Preparation: – 3 glasses of water, 20 grams of Lemongrass, 2 tablespoons of honey, 150 grams of ginger
– Bring everything to a boil for 15 to 20 minutes and let it steep
– And consume throughout the day.
A Detox Drink to consume every morning.
Preparation:
– Blend carrot, ginger and orange + celery
To stay in shape!
Embark on a Gastronomic Expedition at Heritage Awali
Heritage Awali is the perfect place for family activities. It is situated next to the amazing Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, where guests can enjoy the picnic pod, trails in the forest and explore the unique flora and fauna of the island. The combination of Heritage Awali’s comfortable amenities with its close proximity to nature makes it an ideal holiday destination for families looking for something special.
From relaxing by our poolside bar or enjoying a game of tennis on one of our courts – there’s something for everyone! And don’t forget about the kids either; with two kid-friendly pools and an array of fun activities designed just for them, they won’t want to leave!
The Bel Ombre Nature Reserve next door provides guests with an opportunity to reconnect with nature while enjoying all the comforts of home at Heritage Awali. Guests can take part in guided hikes through lush forests or go bird watching on one of many trails throughout this stunningly scenic area. In addition, they may also be able to spot some rare species such as wild deer or endemic birds if they are lucky! Furthermore, visitors will have access to breathtaking waterfalls which provide a perfect backdrop for wonderful photographs and memorable experiences that will last forever!
At Heritage Awali we strive not only offer world-class accommodation but also unforgettable experiences in harmony with nature – making us stand out from other resorts on Mauritius Island. We believe our customers deserve nothing less than exceptional service combined with amazing natural attractions – creating memories that last long after their stay has ended!
Pull out your agendas! Get ready, the countdown is on! We have a cocktail of events tailored for your enjoyment with unmissable Mauritian moments, crafted around the incredible Domaine de Bel Ombre.
Sustainable development is one of Heritage Resorts‘ biggest concerns. A number of strategies have been put into place to ensure that the estate is developed sustainably and in an eco-friendly way, from its rolling hills to the depths of its sea floor. What unites these projects is a passionate desire to protect the Wild South’s natural heritage for generations to come. Discover the key initiatives being rolled out in each of the estate’s constituent parts: its nature reserve, its hotels and along its coastline.
What makes a family holiday truly unforgettable? A beautiful setting of course, but also personalised service and a range of activities that meet everyone’s needs. Heritage Awali combines all three of these things to perfection. Discover the ultimate destination for a relaxing yet rich and rewarding family getaway.
Heritage Le Telfair and Heritage Awali have been awarded the Green Key eco-label and therefore join the 2,500 tourism establishments in 53 countries in the world that adhere to the environmental norms set by the Green Key initiative, a point of reference in the hospitality industry for all things green. Green Key is a reputable label awarded to tourism establishments committed to respecting the norms set by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
