The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort promoted Luciano Sperduto to director of food and beverage from his previous role as assistant director.
Sperduto will oversee the resort’s multi-million dollar food and beverage operation comprised of 17 food and beverage outlets, along with the catering and award-winning banquets division which conducts more than 1 million banquet covers annually.
Throughout Sperduto’s 15 years at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, he has been instrumental in the growth of the resort’s food and beverage offerings, including serving key roles in the opening of Todd English’s bluezoo, Phins lounge and grab-and-go concept, fuel. He also was integral in launching the resort’s annual food and wine festival, the Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic, and signature craft beer, Phins and Feathers.
“With 10 years as our assistant director of food & beverage, Luciano is uniquely qualified to take on this important role,” says Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort General Manager Fred Sawyers. “It is gratifying to know we have the absolute best person for this position.”
Along with being a certified level 2 wine sommelier through the Court of Master Sommeliers, he also holds the coveted B.A.R. certification, the spirits and mixology equivalent of an advanced wine sommelier, a distinction few professionals have received in the United States. Under his leadership, his team has standardized 25 core beverages which have become the resort’s most popular drinks among guests and created specialty drinks for each of the resort’s award-winning restaurants and lounges.
Previously, Sperduto was director of restaurants and spent time as general manager of Todd English’s bluezoo at the resort. He also held food and beverage positions at various Starwood properties.
Sperduto received a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Administration from Boston University.
With 17 restaurants and lounges and a distinguished culinary and beverage team, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort continually earns national recognition for its food and beverage program. The hotel features more than 70 certified wine sommeliers and 1,400 wine selections.
