The Art of Hospitality
This passion for the Hospitality Industry began in 1920, when Maurice decided to turn his dream into reality with the opening of “Aux Cosaques” restaurant. Along with his wife Therese and children, they were known to be the Pioneers of the Hospitality Industry in Haiti.
1920
“Aux Cosaques” – the family’s first restaurant
In 1920, “Aux Cosaques” was the Buteau’s first restaurant to be opened in Chemin des Dalles. Friendly and warm, it attracted friends, domestic and international visitors to spend pleasant moments, while enjoying Therese’s succulent dishes, who was a true cordon bleu. The restaurant was also a suitable place for business meetings and dinners. The couple promptly developed a strong reputation in the restaurant industry.
1928
The opening of “Aux Cosaques” Inn in Kenscoff
In 1928, “Aux Cosaques” Inn opened its doors in Kenscoff to townspeople wishing to escape the heat of Port-au-Prince. Maurice has successfully recreated the friendly and relaxed atmosphere found in the Chemin des Dalles, at the new place. To fully enjoy the cozy atmosphere and the fresh air, guests had the opportunity to book a guest room as well.
1949
The inauguration of “Le Rond Point” restaurant at Harry Truman Boulevard
In 1949, to celebrate the city’s bicentennial, deceased President Dumarsais ESTIME called on the Buteau family, who accepted the offer to open a restaurant in the Exposition area at Boulevard Harry Truman. Thus, the children helped their father to inaugurate the restaurant “Le Rond Point”. A few years later, after Maurice’s passing, the children took over.
1961
Max and Maryse Buteau, the new pillars
Max, the eldest son took over the restaurant “Le Rond Point” with the unwavering support of his wife, Maryse Pilorge Buteau. As time went by, he rose through the ranks to become an entrepreneur and his wife was THE chef who never left the kitchen to ensure stellar customer satisfaction.
1983-1985
Kinam Hotel
In 1983, Max bought a small gingerbread hotel in Petion-Ville with 9 rooms. In 1985, it was fully renovated and opened with 41 rooms. The gingerbread structure was a unique style, created in Haiti by Haitian architects returning to their homeland after completing their master’s degree in France at the end of the 19th century. This design will remain the hotel’s brand image.
1992-2009
Nathalie Buteau Antoine, General Manager of Kinam Hotel
In 1992, after completing her degree in Management, Nathalie, the youngest member of the family, joined the family business. From 1994 to 2008, she was the Administrative Director of the hotel; in 2009, she was appointed General Manager of HORSER HAITI S.A., which combines Kinam Hotel and Le Ritz Kinam brands.
2012 to present
The renovation and expansion of Kinam Hotel
Following in her father’s footsteps, in 2012, she expanded and renovated the property. Using a team of engineers and architects, she worked hard to create the new hotel concept and gathered more than 200 employees to offer quality services to customers. Two years later, Kinam Hotel unveiled its new look to the public. Today, it is the hotel of choice for businessmen, entrepreneurs, diplomats and also tourists from all over the world.
