01. Evgeny Kuzin

Russian

Founder and managing partner of Bulldozer group

Evgeny Kuzin grew up in an environment surrounded by a large family of entrepreneurs. In the seven years that he’s been operating in the region he has been responsible for bringing renowned brands such Novikov, and Cipriani to Dubai. This year, Bulldozer group known for its high-end dining and entertainment venues, made its first foray into casual dining with Eshak in City Walk 2. The Moscow import blends Uzbek, Armenian, Georgian, European and Middle Eastern cuisine in a mid-scale setting and has enjoyed success in the eight months since its launch.

The group may be diversifying its portfolio but 2018 will see Kuzin return to his fine dining roots with a dizzying eight new concepts including Gaia DIFC, Scalini, China Tang and Et-Onia. Bulldozer Group is also set to make waves in Saudi Arabia when they take Novikov to Riyadh next year. The next few months will see the group launch Crab Market in DIFC through a partnership with chef Vladimir Mukhin whose restaurant, White Rabbit, currently sits at number 23 on The World's 50 Best Restaurants list.

NUMBERS GAME...

Number of years working in the Middle East: 11

Number of years working in the F&B industry: 07

Staff: 700

Coming soon: Gaia DIFC (Greek restaurant & lounge), Scalini (Four seasons - Jumeirah) Chinatang, Et-Onia (steak house), Novikov Riyadh, 1OAK (nightclub), 7 sisters, Antika, Estia Beach club

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