AWAY FROM THE ORDINARY WITH GERBEN
He’s always happy and a pleasure to be around. Meet Gerben, the restaurantmanager of EAST, Hotel Casa’ restaurant. He makes sure the operations run smoothly, and guests leave satisfied. Let’s get to know him!
Let’s start with a fun dilemma: You can either never prank your colleagues again, or you have to work every Sunday during the Bottomless Weekend Brunch. What do you choose?
Gerben: “Oh, tough one! But wait, am I really not allowed to make any jokes at all? Nothing, absolutely nothing? No way, then I’ll just keep pranking! No doubt about it. I even already have a prank in mind for next time. Although I have to admit, the atmosphere during the Bottomless Weekend Brunch is really great.“
SOCIAL PIONEERS SINCE 1957
What do you find important in society that CASA has been involved in?
Gerben: “The first thing that comes to mind is that CASA genuinely cares about its staff. I’ve worked in many places where working conditions weren’t exactly great, but here, they really take care of us. You can see it in the stability of the team – people don’t just come and go. It’s clear that Hotel Casa puts energy into employee satisfaction. We’re listened to, the atmosphere is great, we get good training, and there’s enough budget for personal development. If a company treats its own people well, you can be sure the rest is in good hands too!”
BRIGHT VIBES
How does CASA feel when you walk into the lobby through the revolving doors?
Gerben: “I’ve never left for work reluctantly. It’s important to me that both my colleagues and I enjoy coming to work. CASA feels like a warm blanket: it’s approachable and cosy, with a bit of a family feel. Everyone is accessible, the door is literally always open. And the best part: we’re not a standard hotel, there’s something quirky about CASA, and that’s what makes it so much fun!”
What’s your favourite spot in the hotel?
Gerben: “When I’m working on admin tasks, I really like sitting at the bar. I definitely prefer it over the F&B office because I can have a chat with colleagues while still keeping an eye on who’s coming in, how busy it is, and whether I’m needed somewhere. But if I’m really off-duty, you’ll find me on our rooftop terrace, GAPP! When the sun sets, drink in hand, with that stunning view – that’s when I think: ‘Yeah, this is truly the good life.’”
Do you have a favourite dish on the menu?
Gerben: “I recently discovered a new favourite: the beefsteak sandwich on focaccia! The soft, seasoned bread that’s perfectly crispy, combined with the tender meat and creamy cheese… honestly, such a delicious combination!”
AWAY FROM THE ORDINARY
How does your job contribute to guests having a unique experience at Hotel Casa?
Gerben: “My team and I make sure that guests don’t just enjoy good food and drinks, but that they have a truly special experience. Because let’s be honest, you probably remember a restaurant you visited a year ago, but do you recall exactly what you ate or drank? Probably not. But the feeling you had there? That stays with you. That’s what we aim for – we want guests to feel completely welcome by tapping into their emotions and overall experience.”
Great! Thanks for your time!
Gerben: “Is it over already? Well, it was a pleasure to do!”
OUR
BLOGS
Away from the Ordinary with Gerben
Meet Gerben, the restaurant manager at EAST in Hotel Casa. His energy and professionalism are truly uplifting – you’ll want to know him!
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