Cooking with heart with chef Rita Soueidan of Maisan15
Dubai-born chef Rita Soueidan, head chef at Maisan15, believes that cooking is an act of love and giving. True to her motto ‘Lead with love, uplift others and give back every day,’ she mentors youth with disabilities and supports underprivileged communities, proving that true hospitality begins with heart and compassion.
Mixologist Vitor Hugo on emerging beverage trends in the UAE
Located in The Avenues, Kuwait City, Midar offers a sophisticated yet nostalgic seafood experience that draws inspiration from Kuwait’s golden era of the 1960s and 1970s, a time of prosperity in design and culture.
Jumeirah Golf Estates Resort Dubai slated to open in 2030
Located in The Avenues, Kuwait City, Midar offers a sophisticated yet nostalgic seafood experience that draws inspiration from Kuwait’s golden era of the 1960s and 1970s, a time of prosperity in design and culture.
Cultivating excellence in hospitality with Andrea Strim, GM of Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai
Andrea Strim, GM of Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, approaches hospitality with a focus on people, operational efficiency and strategic growth. He discusses his approach to motivating teams, fostering innovation and navigating the evolving challenges of today’s hospitality landscape.
The Talks serve up insights at Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai 2025
Hailed as a resounding success, the seventh edition of Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai drew to a close on October 2 after three inspiring days of indulgence and innovation at Madinat Jumeirah. The event welcomed over 7,000 visitors and reaffirmed its status as the region’s premier showcase for chocolate, pastry and confectionery excellence.
Lisandra Cotrina Mestre, cigar sommelier at Sunset Hospitality, redefines the cigar ritual in luxury settings
Lisandra Cotrina Mestre, a proud Cuban and certified cigar sommelier, is bringing refined cigar culture to the forefront of luxury hospitality. We spoke with Lisandra about the art of cigar service, the role of storytelling in hospitality and why cigars remain a timeless symbol of elegance.
Mariano Ricciari, GM at L’Amo Bistrò del Mare & Delizie Caffè Gourmet, on crafting memorable Italian dining
Mariano Ricciari, GM at L’Amo Bistrò del Mare and Delizie Caffè Gourmet, brings Milanese flair to Dubai. From hands-on kitchen leadership to culinary innovation and impeccable service, he transforms every meal into an unforgettable Italian experience. Discover how his passion for hospitality shapes the team and delights every guest.
From bean to bar: the rise of the chocolate sommelier
Chocolate is no longer just a sweet treat; it has become a subject of study, sensory exploration, and culinary refinement. On October 1, 2025, at Salon du Chocolat et de la Pâtisserie Dubai, experts explored how cocoa became a sophisticated tasting experience. Furthermore, the discussion featured Victoire Finaz, chocologue and founder of Chocologue Paris, and James Knight-Pacheco, culinary development lead at Chef Middle East.
Raising the bar in the UAE’s beverage scene
From zero-proof cocktails to functional drinks and locally inspired creations, mixology in the UAE is evolving fast. We meet the innovators behind the movement — crafting experiences that go far beyond the glass.
Mastering cocktails with Claudiu Mnerau, beverage manager of Bâoli Dubai
At Bâoli Dubai, beverage manager Claudiu Mnerau is raising the bar with nearly two decades of global experience and award-winning expertise. Indeed, he combines research, creativity and precision to craft drinks that feel both timeless and surprising. He explains more in this exclusive interview.
