Sweet success for pastry veteran Peter Flieger

After a passionate speech from one of the judges, the decision was unanimous. Peter Flieger, executive chef of Jumeirah Beach Hotel was referred to as a craftsman, a master baker and a standout figure in the regional pastry industry.

Speaking to Caterer Middle East at the awards Flieger said: “I’m not grasping credit for myself. I see this as a team effort so whatever I get, I divide it among my team. You’re nobody without your team.

When asked about advice for aspiring chefs he added: “Just go into it. It’s a wonderful profession.It’s hard work, it’s long hours but I’m still excited to wake up in the morning and go to work.”

His fellow nominees included: Alannah Doe, Savarin; David Sanderson, Bull & Roo Hospitality and Investments; Fabrice Meynet, Royal Catering; Francesco Aquaviva, Social by Heinz Beck - Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah and Sebastien Charrier, Aubaine.

The judges decided that Alannah Doe of Savarin should be highly commended for the commitment, perseverance and creativity which she undertakes her work (including coming to work in a wheelchair).

The winner began his career in Austria in 1976 and after stints in the Philippines and China, landed in the UAE at Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

He is responsible for the pastry requirements of the hotel’s 618 rooms, all F&B outlets, banqueting facilities and Latitude Creations, the in-house bakery shop. The winner is also a keen ambassador of waste management and develops recipes that incorporate unwanted produce.

The Caterer Middle East Awards 2017 was sponsored by Gold sponsor DMK Group, category sponsors GEMCO, TSSC, A. Ronai, Unilever, Meat & Livestock Australia, Bragard, Aramtec, SIAL, Party Social, Newby Teas, water sponsor Acqua Panna and San Pellegrino, and beverage sponsor MMI.