Ammar Albarakati: From Medicine to Master Chef
In a world where many follow the safe path, Ammar Albarakati chose passion over predictability. Born and raised in Saudi Arabia, Ammar grew up in a culture where success was often measured by traditional careers. Initially, he was on the path to becoming a doctor—a career his family and society viewed as secure and honorable. But something within him longed for creativity, expression, and freedom.
It wasn’t until later in life that Ammar realized his heart belonged to the kitchen, not the hospital. He took a bold leap, leaving behind the world of medicine to pursue his love for food. His journey took him all the way to the United States, where he enrolled at the prestigious Johnson & Wales University. There, in 2011, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Culinary Arts and Food Service Management.
This decision wasn’t easy. It came with challenges, doubts, and the pressure of cultural expectations. But Ammar’s courage to follow his passion is what set him apart—and today, he’s one of Saudi Arabia’s most celebrated chefs, food consultants, and TV personalities.
Redefining the Culinary Scene in Saudi Arabia
Armed with knowledge, skills, and international exposure, Ammar returned to Saudi Arabia with a mission: to revolutionize the local food scene. He wasn’t just another chef. He was an innovator who wanted to blend the rich flavors of Saudi tradition with modern culinary techniques from around the world.
His first big break came when he became the lead chef at a newly opened luxury resort. Here, Ammar showcased his ability to merge global ingredients and Saudi flavors, creating dishes that weren’t just meals but experiences. People quickly noticed his talent, and his rise in the food industry was meteoric.
Saudi Arabia, at that time, was witnessing a cultural and lifestyle shift. Young Saudis were becoming more adventurous with food, and dining out was no longer just about eating—it was about the entire experience. Ammar knew how to deliver that, and he became a key player in this culinary revolution.
The Spotlight: MBC’s Top Chef Middle East
Ammar’s popularity skyrocketed when he appeared on MBC’s “Top Chef Middle East” in Season 2. Competing with some of the best chefs in the region, he stood out not just for his skills but for his creativity, confidence, and warm personality.
One of his most talked-about creations on the show was the “Tamerisu”—a brilliant fusion of classic Italian tiramisu and Saudi dates. It was more than a dessert; it was a reflection of Ammar’s vision to blend cultures on a plate.
His time on the show introduced him to millions of viewers across the Middle East. He became a household name, inspiring aspiring chefs and food lovers to chase their dreams, no matter how unconventional they seemed.
Entrepreneur, TV Host & Founder of Amar Hospitality
With his growing fanbase and industry recognition, Ammar didn’t stop at television fame. He took the next big step—entrepreneurship. He launched Amar Hospitality, a full-fledged hospitality brand that includes his flagship project: Amar Restaurant.
Today, Amar Restaurant operates as a central kitchen and cloud concept, enabling Ammar to execute high-end private catering services and culinary consultancy. This model allows for flexibility, innovation, and scalability—serving not only dine-in customers but also corporate clients and private events with curated menus and immersive experiences.
Amar Hospitality became an instant success. Its menu offered a unique mix of global flavors, with Ammar’s signature Saudi twist. Diners flocked to experience dishes crafted with precision, creativity, and a lot of love.
But it wasn’t just the food that drew people in. Ammar made sure that the restaurant’s ambiance reflected his personality—artistic, modern, and welcoming. Live paintings, thoughtful décor, and warm service made Amar a lifestyle destination, not just a place to eat.
His vision was clear: food is not just about taste, but about storytelling, culture, and connection. Amar Hospitality embodied that philosophy.
Collaborations, Masterclasses & Culinary Innovation
Ammar Albarakati’s influence didn’t stop within the walls of his restaurant. He began collaborating with international brands, further expanding his footprint in the culinary world. One such collaboration was with Emperor Akbar Cardamom, where he created a Swedish Cardamom Bun infused with rich Saudi flavors—a dessert that perfectly reflected his East-meets-West approach.
He also became a regular face at food expos and events, including the Saudi Food Show 2024. There, he shared modern takes on traditional Saudi dishes, giving live masterclasses, and participating in panel discussions about the future of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Ammar used these platforms not just to showcase his skills but to educate, mentor, and inspire young chefs. His message was clear: food is a powerful tool to tell your story, celebrate your roots, and break boundaries.
The Man Behind the Chef’s Jacket
What makes Ammar’s story even more inspiring is his authenticity. Despite the fame, social media following, and television appearances, he has remained grounded and focused on his mission—to inspire people to follow their passions fearlessly.
On his social media platforms, you’ll often see not only his mouth-watering recipes but also glimpses of his day-to-day life, travels, behind-the-scenes kitchen moments, and family time. His followers connect with him because he’s real, relatable, and unapologetically passionate about what he does.
He also uses his platform to encourage aspiring chefs, especially in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, to break free from stereotypes and embrace the culinary arts as a respected, creative career.
Vision for the Future: Putting Saudi Cuisine on the World Map
Ammar Albarakati’s journey is far from over. He’s a man with big dreams and an even bigger heart. Looking ahead, he plans to expand Amar Hospitality to new locations, possibly beyond Saudi Arabia. His vision is to make Saudi cuisine a global sensation—not just in the Middle East, but around the world.
He is also working on more TV projects, brand collaborations, and culinary mentorship programs to give back to the community that helped him rise. His life today is a balance of running a successful hospitality brand, appearing on TV shows, collaborating with international food brands, and most importantly, living his dream.
Conclusion: A Recipe for Success
Ammar Albarakati’s journey is proof that following your passion, even when it means going against societal norms, leads to greatness. From an aspiring doctor to a culinary icon, his story is one of courage, creativity, and relentless hard work.
Through his achievements, lifestyle, and continuous hustle, Ammar shows us that success is not defined by titles but by purpose, passion, and perseverance.
Whether it’s a perfectly plated dish, a heartwarming masterclass, or a social media post reminding people to chase their dreams, Chef Ammar Albarakati is cooking up more than just food—he’s cooking up inspiration for an entire generation.
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