Dubai is a city known for its luxurious lifestyle, and its food scene is no different. From fusion concepts to traditional favourites, some of the world’s most talented chefs have made Dubai their creative playground. These eight top chefs are driving the culinary revolution in Dubai, each bringing their unique vision to the table. Discover the chefs who are reshaping Dubai’s culinary landscape with innovative dishes, refined techniques, and unforgettable dining experiences.
Help us decide the winner by casting your votes at the bottom of the page
Find out more about The Zenith Magazine Awards
1. Sara Aqel – A Rising Star in Mediterranean-Middle Eastern Fusion
Cuisine: Middle Eastern and Italian-Mediterranean Fusio
Sara Aqel has quickly rose fame in Dubai’s culinary scene after she lead the all-female kitchen at Fi’lia.
2. Mehmet Gürs – The Innovator of Turkish Cuisine in Dubai
Cuisine: Turkish with Scandinavian Influence
Restaurant: Mikla, Istanbul (Dubai collaborations)
Mehmet Gürs is an international culinary powerhouse known for reinventing Turkish cuisine by combining Anatolian traditions with Nordic techniques. Through collaborations in Dubai, Mehmet has introduced his bold flavours and sustainable food practices to the local dining scene. Known for his commitment to working with local producers, Mehmet creates dishes that speak of authenticity and innovation, reflecting both his Turkish heritage and his Scandinavian sensibility.
Follow Mehmet Gürson on Instagram
3. Deivid Paiva – Bringing the Flavours of South America to Dubai
Cuisine: Modern South American
Restaurant: W Abu Dhabi
Brazilian chef Deivid Paiva has taken Dubai by storm with his vibrant South American cuisine at W Abu Dhabi. Infusing the flavours of the Amazon rainforest with modern culinary techniques, Paiva’s dishes are colourful, bold, and full of fresh, exotic ingredients. Whether it’s a perfectly grilled octopus or ceviche bursting with zesty flavours, Deivid is bringing ultimate flavours to the Middle Easy.
Follow Deivid Paiva on Instagram
4. Margarita Vaamonde – Master of Peruvian and Latin American Cuisine
Cuisine: Latin American
Restaurant: Soul Kitchen
Venezuelan-born Margarita Vaamonde is renowned for her take on Latin American cuisine. At Inti, Margarita combines the vibrant flavours of her heritage with fresh seafood and citrusy sauces, resulting in dishes that are light yet full of complexity. Her skill in crafting unique ceviches and traditional Latin American delicacies has made her one of the most exciting chefs in Dubai.
Follow Margarita Vaamonde on Instagram
5. Reif Othman – A Pioneer in Modern Japanese Cuisine
Cuisine: Modern Asian
Restaurant: Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, How Lee Kow
Reif Othman is a chef known for pushing the boundaries of Japanese cuisine in Dubai. At Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, he blends street food culture with high-end techniques, crafting playful and bold dishes that reflect his innovative spirit. From his expertly grilled kushiyaki skewers to his fusion takes on sushi, Reif has earned a reputation as one of Dubai’s most cutting-edge chefs.
Follow Reif Othman on Instagram
6. Timo Glöckner – European Elegance in Dubai
Cuisine: Modern European
Restaurant: 25hours Hotel
As Culinary Director, Timo is the mastermind behind the culinary experiences at 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central. He orchestrates and oversees all kitchen operations, ensuring a seamless dining experience across various outlets, including in-room dining, Banquet, Nomad Day Bar, Tandoor Tina, Ernst Biergarten, and Monkey Bar. His culinary expertise and creativity shine through in every dish and dining concept, making each visit to the hotel a delightful gastronomic adventure.
Follow Timo Glöckner on Instagram
7. Ahmad Halawa – Redefining Levantine Cuisine
Cuisine: Modern Levantine
Restaurant: Private Chef, Supper Clubs
Ahmad Halawa has gained a reputation as one of Dubai’s most sought-after private chefs, hosting exclusive supper clubs that showcase his modern take on Levantine cuisine. With an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations, Ahmad brings the flavours of the Middle East to life in intimate, curated dining experiences. His supper clubs are known for their personal touch, blending authentic Levantine recipes with innovative techniques to create unforgettable, one-of-a-kind meals.
Follow Ahmad Halawa on Instagram
