Nicolas Isnard, consultant chef at House of Grill at Fairmont Riyadh, reflects on the kingdom’s culinary scene, redefining luxury hospitality through experience, emotion and cultural identity.
What motivated you to bring your Michelin-starred expertise to Saudi Arabia and lead House of Grill in Riyadh?
Overall, Saudi Arabia is experiencing a remarkable culinary transformation and I wanted to actively become part of that momentum there. Therefore, leading House of Grill lets me bring Michelin-level precision while contributing meaningfully to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious gastronomy vision.
How do you balance French culinary tradition with local tastes while keeping your signature inventive style?
I honor French technique as the foundation, yet adapt by integrating Saudi preferences, spices, textures and regional culinary sensibilities. Thus, my goal is to create a cultural bridge where refined French craftsmanship meets local identity, delivering innovation and regional connection.
What have been the most defining moments in your career?
Initially, earning a Michelin star marked a turning point, yet international collaborations across Asia, the Middle East and Europe mattered equally. Through these experiences, each culture reshaped my culinary vision, broadening perspective, creativity, technique and respect for diverse gastronomic traditions. Consequently, opening House of Grill in Riyadh represents a major milestone, redefining contemporary fine dining across the evolving Gulf region.
How do you see the evolution of luxury hospitality in the Gulf?
The Gulf is moving from luxury as a concept to luxury as an experience rooted in emotion. Guests expect storytelling, authenticity and emotion. Cuisine is now central to this journey; it shapes the identity of a property and becomes one of the strongest markers of memory for guests.
What are your plans for House of Grill and your ambitions in the Gulf?
At House of Grill, my focus is on translating this evolution of luxury into a dining experience that feels distinctive, emotional and enduring. Consequently, cuisine is shaping property identity through storytelling, authenticity and memorable moments that remain strongest markers for guests.
