This fall, the culinary scene in the Caribbean is set for a sophisticated transformation with the opening of Leola, a glamorous new Italian restaurant helmed by award-winning celebrity chef Scott Conant. Located within the Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, the latest addition to the Bahamas’ premier luxury resort will offer an elegant blend of timeless Italian tradition and contemporary flair, making it a must-visit destination for gastronomes and global travelers alike.
A staple on the U.S. food scene, Chef Conant brings his soulful approach to cuisine, decades of expertise, and signature modern sophistication to Leola. More than just another fine dining venue, the restaurant is envisioned as a deeply personal project, steeped in heritage, design elegance, and culinary storytelling.
A Culinary Tribute to Family and Style
The name Leola draws from the Italian word “leone,” meaning lion, and serves as a touching tribute to Conant’s grandfather, who used the term affectionately in his youth. This familial connection underpins the restaurant’s philosophy—warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in tradition.
“Bringing Leola to life at Baha Mar is something I’ve dreamed about for years,” said Conant. “The Bahamas has always inspired me with its beauty and spirit, and this restaurant is a celebration of soulful food, connection, and elegance.”
The design, orchestrated by Restoration Hardware, evokes the charm of a 1920s Italian speakeasy. Rich textures, velvet upholstery, gilded accents, and low lighting create an ambiance that’s both luxurious and intimate. Despite its upscale interiors, Leola maintains a welcoming, family-friendly spirit that’s central to Conant’s vision.
Culinary Excellence in an Expansive Space
At 8,800 square feet, Leola is more than a restaurant—it’s a destination. It features seating for 106 in the main dining room, a sprawling terrace that accommodates 130 more, two stylish bars, and an exclusive private dining room ideal for special celebrations or intimate gatherings.
The heart of Leola lies in its meticulously curated menu. Signature dishes include a refined take on Conant’s famous Pasta al Pomodoro, a richly flavored Ossobucco Roasted Pork Shank over saffron polenta, and innovative sides like Roman-Style Artichokes served with lemon aioli and mint pesto. The food pays homage to traditional Italian recipes while embracing global techniques and seasonal ingredients.
The wine list is equally noteworthy, featuring an expansive selection of Old World labels with a special emphasis on Barolo vintages. The cocktail menu complements the cuisine, balancing bold flavors with artisanal precision and modern creativity.
A New Jewel in Baha Mar’s Culinary Crown
Set on the casino level of Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, Leola joins an elite lineup of culinary powerhouses that includes Marcus at Baha Mar Fish + Chop House, Café Boulud by Daniel Boulud, Carna by Dario Cecchini, and The Jazz Club by Jon Batiste. Together, these dining venues position Baha Mar as the ultimate destination for food lovers seeking top-tier international cuisine in the heart of the Caribbean.
According to Graeme Davis, President of Baha Mar, Leola further enhances the resort’s commitment to world-class gastronomy. “Chef Conant has long been a valued partner and friend to Baha Mar. We are honored to welcome him and his team officially into our culinary portfolio. Leola is more than a restaurant—it’s a celebration of Italian culture, hospitality, and flavor.”
Culinary Festival Spotlight
The opening of Leola will coincide with the Fourth Annual Bahamas Culinary & Arts Festival, taking place October 22–26, 2025. Conant is slated to headline several key events, including Tasting Tuscany at Leola, an exclusive Signature Chef Dinner alongside celebrity chef Amanda Freitag, and Coconuts & Cocktails, a lively celebration with famed chefs Marcus Samuelsson and Marv “Mr. Mix.”
This annual festival, backed by the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, continues to highlight The Bahamas as a global culinary hotspot. Conant’s ongoing involvement reflects his passion for the region and commitment to its culinary evolution.
Elevating Nassau’s Global Reputation
Leola’s arrival marks a strategic enhancement to Nassau’s luxury tourism offerings. As international travelers increasingly seek experiential and gourmet-driven vacations, The Bahamas continues to meet demand with elevated hospitality, sustainability efforts, and cultural programming.
According to recent data from the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, the country welcomed over 9.65 million visitors in 2024, setting new tourism records. As the government targets sustainable growth through high-value experiences, Leola is well poised to attract affluent culinary travelers from the U.S., Europe, and Latin America.
Whether you’re visiting for the flavors, the atmosphere, or the stories behind each dish, Leola is set to become a beacon of modern Italian cuisine in the Caribbean. It’s where tradition meets innovation—and every meal becomes a memory.
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