Marco De Simone is a driven and results oriented hospitality professional currently serving as the Restaurant Director of Crystal Moon Lounge and The Garden Restaurant at Corinthia London. With a passion for excellence and heartfelt hospitality, Marco consistently exceeds business goals while creating meaningful moments of joy for guests.
A Mental Health First Aider and dedicated leader, Marco is recognised for his meticulous, organised and reliable approach. He thrives under pressure and excels both independently and within collaborative teams. His diplomatic and inclusive leadership style enables him to effectively manage diverse restaurant teams composed of various personalities, cultures, and nationalities, fostering a culture of excellence and empowerment.
Before joining Corinthia London, Marco held the position of Restaurant Manager at Shangri-La The Shard, London, where he was celebrated as Leader of the Month in November 2022. Earlier in his career, he was named Employee of the Year at the Royal Garden Hotel in 2017, a testament to his early commitment to outstanding service.
Marco takes great pride in delivering exceptional, personalised service while strictly upholding brand standards and engaging directly with guests to craft memorable experiences. Leading by example, he demonstrates the discipline and attention to detail essential for maintaining the highest levels of luxury hospitality.
His commitment to professional growth is reflected in his Apprenticeship with Umbrella Training, which he completed with Distinction, and his achievement as a certified Tea Sommelier. Marco was also a Semi-Finalist of the Gold Service Scholarship in 2019, a Finalist at the Afternoon Tea of the Year Awards in 2018, and a Finalist at the Purple Umbrella Awards 2021 as Best Level 3 Apprentice.
Under his guidance, the Crystal Moon Lounge earned the Best Traditional Afternoon Tea in the United Kingdom at the Afternoon Tea Awards 2025, presented by AfternoonTea.co.uk. His leadership also contributed to The Garden Restaurant receiving the Best of Award of Excellence at the Wine Spectator Restaurant Awards, recognising its world class wine selection and exceptional team performance. In addition, The Garden Restaurant at Corinthia London has been honoured with the Diners’ Choice 2025 Award by OpenTable, with guests voting it as one of the best restaurants in the area, celebrating its exceptional dining experience and service excellence.
Marco’s outstanding leadership and compassionate nature have earned him several accolades, including “Uplifting Lives of the Year 2024” at Corinthia London and the IoH Hearts in Hospitality Award for “going above and beyond, always helping and supporting others.” He was also shortlisted and named a finalist for the “Talented Young Italians Awards” at the Italian Embassy in London, acknowledging his positive influence within the UK hospitality industry.
A committed advocate for industry development, Marco previously served as Vice-Chair of the Institute of Hospitality Youth Council and continues to be an active Member of the Institute of Hospitality. He is also proud to have served as a Judge for two consecutive years at the International Salon Culinaire during the HRC Show at ExCeL London, supporting the next generation of culinary and service professionals.
Through his dedication, humility and passion for people, Marco De Simone exemplifies the highest standards of luxury hospitality, ensuring Corinthia London remains a premier destination for guests seeking refined elegance, impeccable service and unforgettable culinary experiences.