About Harvest Cotton Tale

“ART DE VIVRE”

In the realm of hospitality, monotony can dull even the most exciting experiences, from hotels to dining. Our mission is to breathe life into these encounters, infusing them with the richness of art, authenticity, cuisine, and music. We craft experiences that not only leave a lasting mark but also set new trends in a rapidly evolving world.

The Inspiration

Harvest Cotton Tale draws its inspiration from the vibrant tapestry of African American history. It reverberates with the cadence of poetry, infusing rhythmic power into the songs sung during cotton harvests. This music, untouched by recording studios or radio waves, is passed down through the oral tradition, much like storytelling. It's a celebration of the earth in its purest, unfiltered form.

What We Do

At Harvest Cotton Tale Global Hospitality Group, our mission is to cultivate and nurture distinct hospitality experiences across our core areas: luxury hotels, restaurants, private label luxury food retail, and hospitality advisory. Inspired by our name, which embodies a rich tapestry of culture and authenticity, we are committed to transforming ideas into reality with a focus on genuine, local, and culturally resonant concepts. 

ABDUL BAAGHIL

Co-founder/ PRINCIPAL

Abdul Baaghil is the Co-Founder and Principal of the Lisbon-based hospitality group Harvest Cotton Tale. Renowned for his dedication to authenticity, cultural depth, and the seamless integration of local elements into the fabric of each property, Baaghil emphasizes creating guest experiences deeply rooted in the traditions, craftsmanship, and spirit of the destinations they inhabit.

Harvest Cotton Tale is the second-largest majority shareholder of the Michelin-recognized Cavalarica restaurant group, a testament to Baaghil’s commitment to culinary excellence as an integral part of hospitality. The group has also been involved in the concept development of boutique hotels across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Baaghil’s extensive track record includes roles with globally recognized brands such as Hyatt Hotels & Resorts (San Francisco, Los Angeles, Washington DC), Starwood Hotels & Resorts (St. Regis, NYC), MGM Resorts (Las Vegas, Biloxi), and The Williamsburg Inn, Virginia. At The Williamsburg Inn, Baaghil was tasked with the restoration and renovation of the historic property and its food and beverage outlets, ensuring that the updates honored the hotel’s legacy while elevating the guest experience.

Baaghil has also served as Head of the Advisory Board for Food and Beverage for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, as well as Hotel Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Financial Street, Beijing.

In 2011, Baaghil became Consultant and Managing Director of Campbell Gray Hotels in Beirut, Lebanon. In 2013, he worked as Chief Executive Officer for a boutique hotel group (OB Hotels), a subsidiary of the drilling company Challenger Limited, now Tap Oil, managing properties across East and North Africa.

Abdul graduated with a Diploma in Hotel Management from Les Roches Hotel Management School, Switzerland (Swiss Hotel Association), and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from EU Business School in Montreux, Switzerland.

BRUNO CONTRERAS

Co-Founder/Chief culinary officer

Bruno Contreras is the well-rounded culinary mind behind the distinct restaurant concepts of Harvest Cotton Tale (hospitality group). His career started in the early nineties with numerous Michelin-starred restaurants across France, Italy, and Germany, including three Michelin star holder ‘L’Auberge de l’Ill’ and ‘Antica Osteria del Ponte.’ He was subsequently appointed Executive Chef at Relais & Châteaux and Small Luxury Hotels of the World affiliates. Acting as the Executive Chef at 5-star Hotel Monument Mas Passamaner, Contreras was in charge of Chef Joachim Koerper’s two Michelin-starred restaurant ‘La Gigantea.’ By joining forces with Chef Koerper, Contreras curated memorable culinary events in Portugal and Spain and was instrumental in the copywriting and photo shoot of Chef Koerper’s recipe book.

In 2013, restaurant concepts at Velaa Private Island were the brainchild of Contreras’ culinary excellence for Harvest Cotton Tale. In 2014, Contreras worked with Baaghil as Director of Culinary for OB Hotels Group, overseeing projects for boutique hotels in North and East Africa. Their shared passion and vision led to the founding of Harvest Cotton Tale Global Hospitality Group.