Meet George
People of Villa Nord · Portrait stories

Meet
George

George Kotoulas, our Head of Bars, and the alchemist behind the glass.

Behind the bar · Villa Nord

From Athens to Trondheim, with more than two decades in Greece's nominated bars, George has built his craft around a single idea: hospitality is not about serving drinks, it is about making people feel seen, relaxed, and at home.

Mediterranean soul, Nordic nature

George's philosophy combines Mediterranean heritage flavors with the precision and discipline of French cuisine, elevated through exceptional Nordic ingredients. He respects storytelling, but prefers clean, elegant presentations that let the depth of flavor speak naturally for itself.

«Simplicity is much harder than complexity. True luxury is subtle, when every detail is intentional, refined, and quietly memorable.»

George Kotoulas · Head of Bars

A humble servant of hospitality

«I see myself as a humble servant of hospitality,» he says. «The guest is always the protagonist of the experience, never us. Our role is to create moments that feel effortless, warm, and genuine.» He said yes to Villa Nord because it felt authentic, a project with the ambition to create something elegant, emotional, and deeply personal, not simply another luxury destination.

What he can never compromise on: consistency, respect, and genuine care for the guest, especially when nobody is watching.

In his words
What do you hope guests feel through your work?

Warmth, comfort, and curiosity. I want every drink to feel familiar yet surprising, refined but approachable, emotional without trying too hard.

How does it feel when something is truly right?

Calm. Natural. Like every detail quietly belongs exactly where it should.

What do you want guests to remember most?

Not the hotel itself, but the feeling of being welcomed, cared for, and emotionally connected to the experience.

About George
Position
Head of Bars, Villa Nord
Background
More than two decades in nominated bars
Special field
Mediterranean-Nordic cocktail culture
From
Athens, Greece
Fun fact
Collects memories and emotions through flavors and classic cocktails