Francecil Ponte has been appointed as Executive Chef at Le Méridien Arlington
Le Méridien Arlington is pleased to announce the appointment of Chef Francecil Ponte as Executive Chef, marking a pivotal moment as the property enters a transformative new era. Chef Ponte's appointment underscores the hotel's commitment to elevating the guest experience through exceptional culinary leadership as it prepares to unveil its fully renovated property in the coming days.
Chef Ponte brings more than 25 years of hospitality experience to her role, along with a philosophy rooted in connection, care and ingredient-driven cuisine. Her career spans some of the nation's most respected hotels and restaurants, including leadership positions at The Westin Arlington Gateway and Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, one of the Mid-Atlantic region's largest and highest-volume culinary operations.
In her role, Ponte will oversee all culinary operations at Le Méridien Arlington, 156-room hotel nestled in the bustling Rosslyn district, including banquets, private events and in-room dining. She will also shape the property's signature dining experiences at the new Noble Fox Bar & Terrace venue where her menus will emphasize a sophisticated, shareable approach to American brasserie fare.
Ponte's culinary journey began in Venezuela, where family gatherings around her grandmother's table instilled a lifelong appreciation for food's ability to bring people together. That foundation continues to inform her approach to hospitality and the team-focused leadership style she brings to every kitchen.