In the bustling culinary world of the United Arab Emirates, Alexandru Cotorobai stands out as a beacon of dedication and leadership. His journey from Moldova to the UAE is a testament to hard work, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence — a path shaped by hands-on experience across multiple international Zuma locations.
A Humble Beginning in Moldova
Born and raised in Moldova, Alexandru’s early life was shaped by a deep appreciation for culture and hospitality. Family gatherings and local traditions sparked his interest in creating memorable experiences for others. He pursued education and early career steps that built his management and communication skills, but it was his curiosity and natural leadership that set him on the hospitality path.
The Leap to the UAE — and the Zuma Journey
Alexandru joined Zuma Dubai in 2014, marking the start of a long-standing relationship with the brand. Over the years he climbed the ranks to become Restaurant & Lounge Manager, gaining valuable operational and leadership experience in one of the region’s most demanding dining scenes.
His Zuma journey also included international stints that broadened his perspective: a season at Zuma Kitzbühel (Austria) and a five-month assignment at Zuma Istanbul. These experiences, working in different markets and cultures, refined his approach to service, team development, and guest experience.
Following these roles, Alexandru moved to Zuma Abu Dhabi as General Manager, and he is currently running Zuma AD, overseeing day-to-day operations and strategic direction for the Abu Dhabi venue.
Joining Zuma: Philosophy & Impact
Zuma’s modern take on Japanese izakaya-style dining requires an exacting balance of authenticity and contemporary excellence. Alexandru’s leadership style blends respect for Zuma’s roots with an openness to innovation — ensuring the brand’s DNA remains intact while adapting to local tastes and high expectations.
He emphasizes mentorship and team development, treating staff as collaborators rather than just employees. This people-first approach nurtures ownership at every level and helps deliver consistent, high-quality guest experiences.
Achievements and Recognition
Under Alexandru’s stewardship at Zuma Abu Dhabi — and through his earlier leadership roles at Zuma Dubai and international locations — the restaurants have consistently been recognized for service, ambiance, and culinary quality. His cross-market experience informs practical, scalable improvements that benefit both guests and teams.
More than awards, Alexandru’s real impact is cultural: building strong teams, elevating service standards, and creating memorable dining moments that keep guests coming back.
Lifestyle and Work Ethic
Alexandru models balance, continuous learning, and curiosity. Even amid a demanding schedule, he pursues new culinary trends and cultural experiences to fuel creativity. His disciplined work ethic, optimism, and hands-on leadership style serve as motivation for his colleagues — a reminder that success is built on consistency, adaptability, and genuine care for people.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Alexandru envisions further growth and innovation for Zuma Abu Dhabi. He aims to continue elevating the guest experience, introduce fresh culinary concepts where appropriate, and support the professional development of his teams. His forward-thinking approach positions Zuma AD to remain a leader in luxury dining in the region.
Conclusion
Alexandru Cotorobai’s journey — from Moldova to leading Zuma Abu Dhabi — is a story of ambition, resilience, and practical leadership. Through his international experience and people-centered management, he has contributed meaningfully to the UAE’s hospitality scene and inspired many hospitality professionals along the way.
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