Meet the Glowbalites | Guest Star: Vinay Dogra

November 23, 2011

Name: Vinay Dogra

Position: General Manager at COAST

Where did you grow up?
I was born in India where I spent the first 20 years of my life. I moved to Miami in 1992, after traveling the world. During my travels I visited Vancouver, and I instantly knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life here. There is no better place than Vancouver. I moved to Vancouver in 1998 and have lived in this beautiful place ever since.

What inspired you or how did you start in the hospitality business?
It was my elder brother who inspired me to be a part of this rewarding industry. When I was a teenager my brother was working for a prestigious hotel, “The Oberoi,” in India. I was always fascinated by the experience when ever he invited me to visit him at work. I loved what I saw (the operations) and was fascinated by the friendly staff who worked extremely hard to satisfy their guests needs. I made up my mind after my 1st visit that I wanted to be a “Consummate Host” just like them. In my mind, there was nothing better than to be part of the Hospitality industry.

I started my formal training with “The Oberoi” in 1989 and have been a part of the Hospitality industry ever since.

Give a brief outline of your work history and accomplishments.
Princess Cruise Line: Customer Service Director/Food & Beverage Director

Moxie’s West Georgia: General Manager

Norwegian Cruise Lines: Food & Beverage Director

Renaissance Vancouver Hotel Harborside: Restaurants Operations Manager

Anderson Fine Dining & A Kettle of Fish: Asst. General Manager

Celebrity Cruises: Head Sommelier/Asst. Bar Manager

I have had the pleasure of working with some of the finest Chefs in the world: Master Chef Michael Roux, Master Chef Alfredo Marzi and Chef John Sarich

I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Delhi University.

What’s your favorite part of the restaurant business?
Being a consummate host.

Do you have a favorite GRG location? Why?
COAST Restaurant. I love the atmosphere, elegance, great food and great service.

Other than the restaurant business, what jobs or careers have you held?
None for the last 22 years, it is my hobby and I love every day being a part of it.

If you weren’t in this business, what would you be doing?
I would be an Air Force Officer in the Armed Forces.

If you could live anywhere else in the world, where would it be?
No where but Vancouver.

What band(s) are played most on your ipod right now?
Music that relaxes me and has meaningful lyrics.

If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive, who would it be?
Mr. J.W Marriott (from a root beer stand to 2300+ hotels under his flagship).

He is an inspiration to millions of people. He always said “take care of your staff and they will take better care of our guests.” I am so fortunate to have shaken hands with him and was able to meet him during his brief visit to the Renaissance Hotel Harbourside in Vancouver.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you “grew up”?
As a kid I always wanted to travel the world and learn different cultures’. Working on the Cruise Ships allowed me to fulfill that dream.