If you live or work in Healdsburg, you’ve probably seen Aziz Zhari around. He’s been the general manager of Hotel Healdsburg since it first opened on the plaza more than two decades ago, in 2001, and has also held other manager jobs within Piazza Hospitality’s growing local suite of hotels and restaurants.
Now, he’s decided to hang up his hat. Piazza owners tell the Healdsburg Patch: “Aziz has been instrumental in the success of our hotels and restaurants. His passion for hospitality, mentorship, and unwavering dedication has left an indelible mark on our properties, our team, and the entire Healdsburg community.”
There was a big retirement party for Aziz at Spoonbar the week before Christmas. Healdsburg’s then-mayor, David Hagele, even surprised him with a special proclamation from the city.
Aziz’ bio on LinkedIn says: “Loyal worked for 2 companies. Charlie Palmer Group for 15 years. Opened 9 of the best restaurants in the country Piazza Hospitality for 24 years. Opened Hotel Healdsburg, h2 hotel and Harmon Guest House, also opened Spoonbar restaurant, Pizzando and The rooftop.” (And I’m not sure what to make of this, but his bio ends with this line: “The reason to retire is when I see that the greed is getting inside and no respect when you work so hard.”)
Flashback to around 10 years ago, when Healdsburg High School film students interviewed Aziz about his hotel job. “I work almost every day,” he told the kids at the time. “About six to seven days a week, close to 12 hours a day, and sometimes more. But when [guests] pay $500 a night, you have to deliver — everything from service to food to the room being clean. Everything has to be spotless. It’s not an easy job.”
More on his local legacy, from the Patch:
“He became a true ambassador for Healdsburg and Wine Country, Piazza Hospitality said. He guided the hotels through challenges like wildfires and the pandemic; became a mentor to countless local youth, inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals, many of whom began their careers under his guidance; played a significant role in the development of Spoonbar at h2hotel, where his Moroccan Chicken dish remains a staple and local favorite; and successfully reopened PizZando.”
Thank you, Aziz, for your service.
