Ali Yazdi, Emirati chef and founder of Ali Yazdi Consultancy, fuses traditional heritage with modern techniques to elevate Emirati cuisine. He discusses his vision for bringing UAE flavors and culinary traditions to a global audience.
What made you decide to become a chef, a career still relatively uncommon for Emiratis?
I started cooking at the age of 14 and began my professional journey when I turned 18. My passion for food began early. I was a food-loving kid who enjoyed experimenting with flavors. My mother often prepared meals in advance, but I grew curious about creating something different and more exciting. That curiosity became a calling. In Emirati culture, becoming a chef isn’t a common path, but I wanted to challenge that perception and show that passion, creativity and cultural pride can come together beautifully in the kitchen.
How does your Emirati identity influence your approach to cooking?
My Emirati heritage deeply shapes the way I cook. I often incorporate traditional ingredients, spices and methods that have been passed down through generations while combining them with modern culinary techniques. This balance between authenticity and innovation allows me to celebrate my roots. Furthermore, by reinterpreting local flavors in contemporary ways, I aim to honor the past while contributing to the evolution of Emirati cuisine.
What impact do you hope to have on the UAE’s culinary scene?
I hope to help put Emirati cuisine on the global map and inspire both locals and visitors to appreciate its depth and diversity. Emirati food is rich in flavor, history and storytelling, yet it remains underrepresented internationally. Moreover, my goal is to elevate our cuisine, making it a symbol of the UAE’s culture. Furthermore, I want to contribute to a culinary movement that blends tradition with creativity while showcasing the UAE as a world-class dining destination.
What are your plans for the future?
My biggest dream is to open my own restaurant in New York. I want it to be a place where Emirati culture meets global culinary artistry, offering an authentic taste of the UAE. Through this venture, I aim to share the story of Emirati cuisine with international audiences. Ultimately, I want to inspire pride among Emiratis and curiosity among global food lovers about our culinary heritage.
