Home » HOTEL NEWS » Leola by Chef Scott Conant Sets a New Standard for Italian Dining at Baha Mar– A Culinary Masterpiece in The Bahamas!
Published on
July 9, 2025
By: Paramita Sarkar
Baha Mar, the Caribbean’s premier luxury resort in The Bahamas, is set to redefine the culinary landscape with the grand opening of Leola, a new restaurant concept from the acclaimed Chef Scott Conant. Set to open this fall at the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Leola promises to blend Italian culinary traditions with modern elegance, offering a sophisticated and intimate dining experience in paradise.
A New Benchmark for Italian Dining in The Bahamas
Chef Scott Conant, a two-time James Beard Award-winning chef, celebrated cookbook author, and television personality, brings his renowned culinary expertise to The Bahamas with Leola. Known for his ability to create exceptional Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist, Conant aims to set a new standard for fine dining in the Caribbean. The restaurant will offer a fresh take on traditional Italian flavors, seamlessly integrating them with the spirit and beauty of The Bahamas.
Graeme Davis, President of Baha Mar, shared his excitement about the collaboration: “Baha Mar continues to define culinary excellence throughout the Caribbean, and Chef Scott Conant’s addition to our roster is a major milestone. His expertise and passion for hospitality will elevate the dining experience for our guests, and we are thrilled to introduce Leola to our resort and local community this fall.”
An Elegant and Immersive Dining Experience
Occupying an expansive 8,800 square-foot space, Leola is designed to transport guests into a world of sophisticated elegance. The restaurant features a 106-seat main dining room, a 130-seat outdoor terrace, two bars, and an exclusive private dining area. The design, crafted in collaboration with RH Contract, draws inspiration from the glamour and allure of a 1920s Italian speakeasy, creating a timeless atmosphere that feels both luxurious and inviting. Guests will be surrounded by rich velvet furnishings, ornate chandeliers, gilded detailing, and soft ambient lighting, making every visit feel like stepping into a bygone era of classic Italian charm.
A Personal and Inviting Culinary Journey
The name Leola is Chef Conant’s affectionate tribute to his grandfather, who often used the word “Leola,” a playful variation of the Italian word for lion, “leone.” For Conant, it’s a heartfelt nod to his roots and the deep personal connection that shapes his culinary philosophy. At Leola, Conant has crafted a space where guests can experience the warmth, soulfulness, and genuine hospitality that he holds dear, bringing the spirit of Italy to the heart of The Bahamas.
“I’ve always been inspired by the beauty and spirit of the Bahamas,” says Chef Conant. “It felt like the perfect place to create a restaurant that’s both personal and inviting. With Leola, we’re blending the kind of food and hospitality I love—warm, soulful, and rooted in connection.”
The Art of Italian Cuisine with a Modern Flair
The Leola menu celebrates the best of Italian cuisine, featuring dishes that highlight the beauty of simplicity and the depth of traditional flavors. Standout offerings include Conant’s signature Pasta al Pomodoro, a classic dish elevated with Conant’s precise touch; Ossobucco Roasted Pork Shank with saffron polenta; and sides like Roman-Style Artichokes with lemon aioli and mint pesto. Every dish is meticulously crafted to both captivate the palate and delight the eyes, offering a truly sensory dining experience.
The restaurant’s beverage program complements the food with a carefully curated selection of Old World wines, with a focus on Italian Barolo vintages, as well as an impressive cocktail menu designed to enhance the flavors of the meal.
A Destination Within a Destination: Leola Joins Baha Mar’s Culinary Roster
Leola joins a prestigious lineup of celebrated dining destinations within Baha Mar, including Jon Batiste’s Jazz Club, Marcus Samuelsson’s Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House, Daniel Boulud’s Cafe Boulud, and Dario Cecchini’s Carna. With such an impressive array of dining options, Baha Mar continues to solidify its reputation as a culinary powerhouse in the Caribbean.
In addition to the restaurant’s opening, Chef Conant will be featured at the Fourth Annual Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival from October 22-26, where he will host three exclusive events: Tasting Tuscany with Scott Conant, a Signature Chef Hosted Dinner with Conant and Chef Amanda Freitag, and Coconuts & Cocktails with chefs Conant, Marcus Samuelsson, and Marv “Mr. Mix”. Conant has been an integral part of the festival since its inception, and this year’s events promise to offer guests an unforgettable culinary experience.
Experience Leola: A New Standard for Dining in The Bahamas
With the opening of Leola, Chef Scott Conant is not only bringing his signature style of Italian cuisine to The Bahamas but also creating a dining experience that perfectly blends luxury, warmth, and sophistication. Whether you’re a local resident or a resort guest, Leola promises to be an unforgettable destination for food lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike.
Stay tuned for the grand opening this fall, and prepare to immerse yourself in a dining experience that sets a new standard for Italian cuisine in the Caribbean. Leola is more than just a restaurant—it’s a celebration of food, family, and the spirit of The Bahamas.
Dining and Cooking