Longtime Hotel Healdsburg General Manager Aziz Zhari Retires

HEALDSBURG, CA—Piazza Hospitality announced the retirement of Abdel "Aziz" Zhari, the longtime general manager of Hotel Healdsburg, h2hotel and Harmon Guest House.

After nearly 25 years of leadership, Zhari leaves a legacy of excellence and dedication that has shaped Healdsburg's hospitality scene, the group said. Zhari’s career with Piazza Hospitality began in 2001 when he joined Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen at Hotel Healdsburg as general manager. One year later, he was promoted to general manager of Hotel Healdsburg, overseeing the hotel, spa and restaurant operations. Zhari later played a critical role in the openings of Hotel Healdsburg’s sister properties, h2hotel and Harmon Guest House.

"Aziz has been instrumental in the success of our hotels and restaurants," said Circe Sher, co-founder of Piazza Hospitality. "His passion for hospitality, mentorship, and unwavering dedication has left an indelible mark on our properties, our team, and the entire Healdsburg community. We are deeply grateful for his contributions."

Zhari’s impact extended beyond his managerial duties; 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.

Zhari is known for his vivacious personality and befriended countless guests—many of whom returned to the hotels year after year to reconnect with him.

"It has been the privilege of a lifetime to work alongside such talented teams and to welcome guests from around the world to these special properties," Zhari said. "I am so grateful for the friendships, the memories, and the community that has embraced me."

At a special celebration held Dec. 19 at Spoonbar, Healdsburg Mayor David Hagle presented Zhari with a proclamation from the city.

Piazza Hospitality plans to announce a successor soon.