Atul Kochhar parts ways with Foodmark brand Zafran

Twice Michelin starred chef, Atul Kochhar, has ended his Foodmark consultancy after working with the company for two years developing the casual dining brand Zafran.

There are two Zafran outlets in Dubai, in Mirdif City Centre and Dubai Marina Mall, as well as one in Salmiya, Kuwait, for which Kochhar helped develop the menus.

Zafran was originally supposed to be a joint UK venture between Kochhar and Foodmark, but plans were postponed in 2008 when the recession hit. The chain was instead launched in Dubai in 2010.
A spokesperson from Foodmark said: “Foodmark, the F&B division of Landmark Hospitality & Leisure Services Ltd., the hospitality arm of the Landmark Group, and Atul Kochhar have enjoyed a fruitful partnership in the development of the homegrown brand, Zafran, and have taken it from strength to strength. Unfortunately, due to both business and personal commitments, both Foodmark and Chef Kochhar have mutually agreed to part ways. Chef Kochhar’s knowledge, experience and Michelin-starred skills are reflected in the quality of food offered at Zafran, and his work will continue to inspire the restaurant.  

Kieron Mallon, COO Foodmark, commented “We would like to thank Chef Kochhar for the successful partnership and journey we have shared in the growth of Zafran across the GCC. Foodmark would like to wish Chef Kochhar all the very best in his future endeavours.
"We are now focusing on continuing the strength of Zafran and identifying a new and fitting location for a fourth Zafran outlet in the region.”

Kochhar still has plans to open a fine-dining Indian restaurant in the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai hotel, which is due to open on Sheikh Zayed Road in Q4 2012.