Prominent Chef Sahar Al Awadhi specialises in traditional cuisine, earning recognition for her artistic desserts that celebrate a rich culinary heritage. As the first Emirati female pastry chef in Dubai, Sahar emphasises the importance of local ingredients and storytelling through carefully selected dinnerware.

Creating a Story

Arguably the most important aspect of creating a beautiful dish is in the storytelling. “I love telling a story in every dish that I create”, says Sahar. Her passion of the culinary craft started long before her career did, gaining advise and nurturing skill over time spent with her mother in her childhood kitchen. “My mom is an amazing cook, and I would listen to her intently for hours when she was explaining a dish”, she says.

Evolving Emirati Cuisine

“The way that I would describe my style of cuisine is that it’s an evolution of Emirati food”, says Sahar. Communicating a fond love for her heritage, Sahar takes a traditional dish and recontructs it, offering a new modern perception. “My favourite dish is a Khanfaroush cake, a recipe that was passed down from my grandmother to my mother to myself, and each one of us had a different interpretation of it”, she says.

Crafting Artisanal Excellence

Adjacent to Sahar’s culinary skills, she believes the careful curation of flatware, be it Haviland’s intricacy or Christofle’s grandeur, is imperative to its success. “Whether it's a floral detailing that resonates with a rose dessert or a golden pattern that compliments a honey dish, it’s a whole experience”, says Sahar. Her craft is enhanced through meticulous selection, celebrating the essence of craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation.