How popular is MENA cuisine in the region?

Khaled Eftaiha, executive chef, Reem Al Bawadi: MENA cuisine is very popular in the region, primarily because it is healthy and fresh. Customers increasingly look for these qualities in food. MENA cuisine is a fusion of characters, which appeals to the UAE’s evolving taste buds, but it is also traditionally shared and attracts customers who are looking for authentic flavours that deliver a cultural experience. Food is central to Middle Eastern culture, and we are committed to delivering authenticity and sharing a spirit of Arabic hospitality.

Ibrahim Ayoub, head chef, Mazaher, Dubai: MENA cuisine embodies diversity while having a degree of homogeneity and includes Lebanese, Iranian, and Turkish cuisine. What makes it so popular is the many different traditional ways there are to prepare and cook it.

Charlie Antoun, brand manager, Eathos — owner of Kababji: Eathos recently conducted market research in Saudi Arabia and discovered that Lebanese is one of the top five cuisine choices for expats and locals. MENA and in particular Lebanese cuisine continues to be popular as it caters to all flavour profiles and offers something for everyone.

Has MENA cuisine’s growth been challenged by the popularity and availability of other cuisines across the region?

Eftaiha: While the growth of global cuisines may have posed some challenge for the growth of MENA cuisine it continues to hold a special position in the region. We still enjoy good business despite the proliferation of other world cuisines.

Fredrik Van Rooyen, head of operations, Karak House, Dubai: MENA cuisine cannot lose its charm in the region, not only due to its popularity and diversity, but because it stems from the region. Authentic flavours, a huge variety, the multitude of options in the use of produce all keep MENA cuisine interesting to all cultures.

Antoun: The MENA region and, in particular the UAE, has a strong expat community with the demand and prevalence of the variety of cuisines on offer growing daily. I do not believe this diminishes the popularity of Lebanese cuisine in the region due to its traditional ties, and restaurateurs’ willingness to adapt to trends and develop concepts around this to provide high-quality product.

What is the latest trend in MENA cuisine?

Van Rooyen: In Dubai, the home-grown concept segment is growing which is great to see. We are glad to be in one of the emerging categories that we believe is going to be a trend for 2017 and in the coming years

Eftaiha: The latest trends in MENA cuisine are street food, casual smart dining and superfoods. Street food has had a healthy makeover and with its grilled meat and vegetables, MENA cuisine is perfectly suited to this trend. Health-conscious superfood fans are also lovers of MENA cuisine, as it features a wide array of vegetables and pulses, from chickpeas and pine seeds to eggplant and lentils.

Story continues below
Advertisement