As the visionary hotelier behind successful market and brand positioning of a few 5-stars hotels in Kuala Lumpur. Cristian Nannucci has redefined what it means to combine sustainability with luxury. With decades of experience in the hospitality industry across Asia, the Middle East and Europe hotelier Cristian Nannucci’s tenure in Malaysia stands out as a career-defining chapter. From successfully opening two five-star hotels during a global pandemic to witnessing Kuala Lumpur’s transformation into a vibrant culinary hub, his story is a testament to resilience, cultural immersion, and an unwavering passion for hospitality.

In this exclusive interview, Nannucci shares his most memorable moments, insights into the Malaysian food and beverage (F&B) landscape, and his passion for wine and fine dining. As Founders of Connect PRKL, KL’s Premium Lifestyle Management and PR Consulting firm, Cristian and his wife Debbie have set the mission to create bespoke lifestyle experiences in addition to consultancy works for hospitality businesses to support their growth.

You have extensive experience as a hotelier in Asia, specifically in Malaysia. What have been your most memorable experiences in the country?​ 

One of my most memorable experiences in Kuala Lumpur was to successfully open two 5-star hotels in 2022, with a splendid and loyal team. It was simply amazing how this project embraced the attention of the local community as we opened the doors two months after the International Borders allowed travel again during the COVID-19 pandemic. This achievement was a testament to the hard work and dedication of ​the team and showcased the ​power of collaboration and innovation within the Malaysian hospitality industry.

I am ever so grateful for the opportunity to work in Malaysia, it is a memorable phase in my life and deeply connected to my professional growth. I have had the privilege of working with incredibly talented and diverse teams, learning from their unique perspectives and cultural insights. The dynamic hospitality landscape in Malaysia, with its constant evolution and focus on innovation, has provided a challenging and rewarding environment to hone my skills and contribute to the industry’s success. 

Beyond the professional achievements, the cultural immersion has been truly unforgettable. Experiencing the vibrant Malaysian culture, from the diverse culinary scene to the rich traditions and festivals, has enriched my life in countless ways. Building meaningful relationships with colleagues, hotel guests and friends from different backgrounds has been a highlight, fostering a deep appreciation for the country’s unique blend of cultures.

And of course, this is where I met Debbie, my wife and the love of my life! I will always be grateful to Malaysia for being the place where we have met.

As a connoisseur of fine dining and exceptional wines in Kuala Lumpur, how would you describe the evolution of the F&B scene in the Malaysian capital over the past decade?

Kuala Lumpur’s F&B scene has exploded over the past decade, becoming incredibly diverse and dynamic. We have seen a surge in independent cafes, innovative restaurants, and sophisticated bars. The focus has shifted towards unique dining experiences, with chefs incorporating global influences and showcasing local ingredients.

The arrival of The Michelin Star Awarded restaurants in Kuala Lumpur has undoubtedly elevated the city’s F&B scene. The pursuit of Michelin recognition has pushed many restaurants to strive for higher standards of culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience. The arrival of the Michelin Stars Award has put Kuala Lumpur on the global culinary map, attracting food enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. Additionally, the presence of Michelin-starred establishments has encouraged the development of a more sophisticated and skilled culinary workforce. Chefs are constantly pushing boundaries to create innovative and unique dishes that meet the high expectations set by Michelin standards.

While the Michelin Guide has undoubtedly had a positive impact, it’s important to remember that Kuala Lumpur’s F&B scene was thriving even before the arrival of the Michelin stars. The city offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets.

For wine enthusiasts, Kuala Lumpur has become a destination in its own right. The city boasts a growing number of wine bars and restaurants with impressive selections, offering everything from classic Old World wines to exciting “New World” discoveries.

The progressive growth in the last decade has also contributed to a rising middle class with disposable income, which has fueled demand for high-quality dining experiences. The power of social media influencers using platforms like Instagram and Facebook has amplified the reach of F&B businesses, encouraging exploration and creating trends. The government has supported the F&B scene with initiatives promoting tourism and culinary arts, which have fostered a thriving F&B ecosystem.

Kuala Lumpur has truly come into its own as a global culinary hub, offering a vibrant and ever-evolving scene for both locals and visitors. For me, this has been extremely inspiring when designing F&B concepts in hospitality.

What are your favourite wine lounges and cocktails bars in Kuala Lumpur?

Debbie and I have a few in my list that I have visited, however, this is just a small selection, and Kuala Lumpur has many other excellent wine lounges and cocktail bars to explore. I always recommend checking online reviews and making reservations in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak hours.

“Vintry” wine bar is a classic choice with an extensive wine list, perfect for both casual and serious wine enthusiasts. They offer a wide range of wines by the glass and bottle, along with delicious food pairings.

“Wine Knot” offers a relaxed atmosphere with a good selection of wines and light bites. I like their interior design and the overall coziness of the ambiance, which is very much wine cellar-inspired.

Being a wine enthusiast, we enjoy those places where we can select the wines from the cellar and enjoy them directly there. It makes the experience interesting and rewarding when you know it pairs well with the food you have ordered.

For cocktail bars, I would say “Penrose”, mostly known for its innovative and creative cocktails. It is a popular spot for those seeking a sophisticated and stylish bar experience.

Coley is a speakeasy-style bar offering a refined and intimate setting with expertly crafted cocktails.

What are your favourite restaurants in Kuala Lumpur?

As mentioned earlier Kuala Lumpur offers such a diverse culinary scene, that it’s hard to choose just a few favorites. But some of my go-to spots include:

DC By Darren Chin — 1-Star Michelin Restaurant — has been a well-established fine dining restaurant for the past 10 years and is well known for his incredible expression of modern dining.

Sassorosso and Osteria Gamberoni, are two of my favorite Italian Restaurants. Being Italian myself I get asked several times for a recommendation for my best Italian restaurant. You will find a friendly environment, a very good wine list, and especially an excellent gastronomic cuisine.  

De Wan by Chef Wan, for original and “Kampung” style Malay Cuisine recipe. Chef Wan’s expertise and creativity were invested a few years ago into De Wan and they have opened a few restaurants and cafés. The interior design is absolutely steeped in local tradition and style. The presence of several private rooms adds that “home-y” feeling and exclusiveness.

For Chinese cuisine, I would say Overseas KL in Jalan Imbi. The well-established restaurant, is a must-stop for travelers looking for traditional Cantonese cuisine and the must-try dishes they are famous for.

For Indian food, I have to mention Thyme at PARKROYAL COLLECTION. When we opened the hotel, we put lots of focus on delivering original recipes from Southeast India, with a chef from Kerala and the original Tandoori ovens are simply amazing.

As someone who enjoys private dinners and unique wine explorations, what emerging trends do you see shaping the world of wine consumption?

I see a growing trend towards experiential wine consumption. People are less interested in simply drinking wine and are more interested in the story behind it. This translates to increased demand for:

Private wine tastings and dinners — like the ones I enjoy, offer a more intimate and personalised experience.

Demand for wine tourism and travel to the most notorious destinations such as Italy, France, and Australia — visiting vineyards, meeting winemakers, and immersing oneself in the winemaking process. Once you understand the story you will have a greater appreciation for what you drink and be more selective following your palate.

Unique wine pairings — exploring creative and unexpected food and wine combinations. Be daring especially with spicy cuisines or fusion recipes.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to wine consumers. We are seeing a rise in demand for organic and biodynamic wines produced with minimal environmental impact.

Consumers are also becoming more adventurous in their wine choices. We are seeing a shift away from well-known brands towards boutique, less commercialised and rare grape varieties — exploring the diversity of the wine world.

Natural wines are made with minimal intervention, offering unique and sometimes unexpected flavours. This could be a new trend for the younger generations with infused flavors making them refreshing and good value.

Our own passion for private dinners and unique wine exploration aligns perfectly with these trends. I believe that these personalised experiences, coupled with a focus on sustainability and discovery, will continue to shape the future of wine consumption.

As someone introducing many of your Malaysian friends to the diversity of Italian wines, what recommendations would you give to young wine enthusiasts exploring Italy’s offerings?

As a proud representative of Italian wines, I believe Italy’s incredible diversity makes it an exciting destination for young wine enthusiasts to explore. From light and refreshing whites to bold and complex reds, there’s something for everyone.

For those just beginning their journey, I’d recommend starting with approachable and refreshing options like:

Prosecco: A sparkling wine that’s perfect for celebrations and aperitifs, light and bubbly.

Pinot Grigio: A versatile white wine that pairs wonderfully with dishes like seafood and pasta.

Lambrusco: Often misunderstood, this sparkling red wine is now crafted in modern styles that are light, fruity, and perfect for casual gatherings.

Franciacorta sparkling wines are Italy’s answer to Champagne, produced in the Lombardy Region using the traditional “Classic Method”. They are well known for their elegance, complexity and refined bubbles.

From there, I’d suggest exploring elegant entry-level reds such as Chianti from Tuscany, Barbera d’Alba from Piemonte, and Valpolicella from Veneto.

Once familiar with these classics, I encourage young wine lovers to venture into lesser-known regions and grape varieties. Sicilian wines, for example, offer exceptional value and unique flavours. Etna wines, in particular, stand out for being fruity, elegant, and light – an excellent choice for those seeking something different.

I also recommend visiting wine bars and tasting rooms, where you can sample a variety of wines and learn from knowledgeable sommeliers. Hosting informal wine tastings with friends and family is another great way to share bottles, discuss discoveries, and enhance the overall enjoyment of wine. It’s the social aspect of wine that creates unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.

I anticipate more frequent travels to Italy and suggest incorporating vineyard visits and leisurely lunches at local wine bars into the itineraries. Many of these establishments feature comprehensive wine lists and offer opportunities to taste wines that are rarely exported, providing a unique and authentic experience.

Sharing my passion for Italian wines with friends has been deeply rewarding. By showcasing their diversity, approachability, and social enjoyment, I hope to inspire young wine lovers to delve into the rich world of Italian viticulture.

When it comes to French wines, do you find yourself drawn more to the bold elegance of Bordeaux or the refined complexity of Burgundy?

Ah, a classic wine enthusiast’s dilemma!

It is difficult to choose between Bordeaux and Burgundy! Both regions produce world-class wines with unique characteristics. I deeply admire the power and structure of Bordeaux blends, while I’m captivated by the elegance and terroir expression of Burgundy. Ultimately, it depends on the occasion and my mood. Sometimes I crave the boldness of a Bordeaux, while other times I’m drawn to the subtlety of a Burgundy.

On one side I’m particularly fond of the wines of Saint-Émilion in Bordeaux for example, and on the other side I’m fascinated by the Grand Crus of Côte de Nuits.

My expertise in wine pairing has been enriched by Malaysia’s diverse culinary scene, which offers a wide range of flavours and textures. Each pairing requires careful research and experimentation to ensure that the wine complements the food, whether it’s bold and spicy or light and delicate. The goal is always to strike a balance so that neither the food nor the wine overpowers the palate.

My hidden talent for cooking, combined with my passion for Italian gastronomy, is truly unmatched. I’ve already conceptualised my own F&B venture and am currently searching for the perfect location.

Recently, Debbie and I had the pleasure of hosting a home-cooking and gastronomic session featuring Château Troplong Mondot, presented by their brand ambassador, Thibault Odent. It was both an honour and a unique opportunity to craft dishes that complemented such a prestigious Bordeaux estate. Now, it seems inevitable that I’ll have to organise a similar session featuring Burgundy wines—though I’ve already hosted plenty with Italian wines, of course!

When it comes to French wines, do you find yourself drawn more to the bold elegance of Bordeaux or the refined complexity of Burgundy?

The focus for 2025 will be to focus more on bespoke experiences, such as vertical or horizontal wine pairing dinners, vintage wine tastings, and more producers’ knowledge sharing.

We also need to be more active on what is upcoming in Kuala Lumpur and connect ahead of time with key players to plan exclusive launch events.

Any wine-related trips planned?

We are currently planning a trip to Italy for the end of March. We are looking to visit cities like Milan, Alba, Florence, Chianti and Montalcino regions, and Valpolicella.

The next wine tour will be in France most probably Bordeaux first and sometimes in the future Burgundy. These are all good plans that take quite a few months ahead of time to arrange. It is important to have a clear calendar to facilitate such planning.

Is there a mentor who inspires you in your daily work?

Steve Jobs has been a constant source of inspiration. His unwavering focus on innovation, his relentless pursuit of perfection, and his ability to think outside the box have deeply influenced my approach to work. I strive to emulate his vision and drive to create products and experiences that truly resonate with people.

Steve Jobs was not only a visionary but also an exceptional leader. His ability to build high-performing teams, foster a culture of creativity, and inspire unwavering dedication in his employees is truly admirable. I try to apply these leadership principles in my own work, focusing on building strong relationships, empowering my team, and creating a positive and inspiring work environment.

Steve Jobs consistently emphasised the importance of understanding and exceeding customer expectations. This customer-centric approach has deeply resonated with me. I believe that by truly understanding the needs and desires of our guests, we can create exceptional experiences that foster lasting relationships and drive continued success.

Cristian Nannucci and his wife, Debbie Tay, are both partners managing their own lifestyle management consultancy, Connect PRKL, that focuses on developing people relations in Kuala Lumpur, “Forging Strategic Partnerships & Networks” – www.connectprkl.com

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