Inside the 16-year rise of Couqley from Beirut bistro to regional French dining powerhouse
16 years after launching in Lebanon, Couqley has evolved from a neighborhood French bistro into a leading regional dining concept. In this exclusive interview, the founders, chef Alexis Couquelet, Patrick Cochrane and Ali Daoud discuss the vision, milestones and operational philosophy behind the brand’s lasting success across Lebanon and Dubai.
Ruba Khoury on how Top Chef sparked her Gulf culinary ambitions
Ruba Khoury reveals how Top Chef transformed her life, strengthened her Palestinian identity and sparked ambitious Gulf expansion plans.
Chef Karim Haïdar celebrates Lebanese flavors in his new book
Karim Haïdar releases Dictionnaire des Saveurs du Liban, a book exploring Lebanon’s culinary identity through its ingredients, traditions and regional flavors. We sat with the chef and owner of Sama restaurant and Les Mots et le Ciel catering to discuss his book and Lebanese cuisine.
Zac Austin maps out how mycelium fermentation is transforming meat alternative texture
Zac Austin, co-founder of Pacifico Biolabs, maps out mycelium fermentation’s potential to reduce taste and texture gaps for hospitality operators.
How to retain high-net-worth travelers with IHG’s Maarten P. Drenth
Maarten P. Drenth, regional general manager for Egypt and Africa at IHG Hotels & Resorts, shares how luxury hotels are rethinking ways to attract and retain high-net-worth travelers, using his property as a practical example.
Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi on why Ajman offers a unique UAE stay
Ajman is carving a niche as a charming UAE destination with a distinct identity, combining warm Emirati hospitality, cultural attractions and coastal beauty. Mahmood Khaleel Alhashmi, director general of Ajman Department of Tourism, Culture and Media, explains why the emirate is an ideal choice for travelers seeking genuine connections and leisurely paced, meaningful experiences.
The evolution of pastry from tradition to modernity with chef Pascal Hainigue
Pascal Hainigue, chef of Auberge de l’Ill and Le Chef Awards 2025 France honoree, shares his perspective on balancing tradition and innovation in French pastry, while redefining creativity through modern gastronomy.
GM Pavlina Tarabova Alghamdi on why employee wellbeing is the new power behind hospitality success
Pavlina Tarabova Alghamdi, general manager at Melia Desert Palm, shares her perspective on leadership, wellbeing and building meaningful hospitality experiences.
As data-driven travel reshapes destinations, Fouad Talaat of Booking.com explains why
As destinations compete for smarter growth, Fouad Talaat, regional manager MENA & Türkiye of Booking.com sees data as the decisive edge.
In the kitchen with Rachel Bado, group executive chef
In the kitchen, Rachel Bado, group executive chef creative at SAS Hospitality, finds joy through ingredients, guided by cultures and memories. She shares more in this exclusive interview.
