Majed Albakheet’s culinary journey began in his childhood kitchen, where he discovered a passion for flavors and the art of cooking. These early experiences laid the foundation for a remarkable career in the food and beverage industry. Today, Albakheet is celebrated not only for his culinary creations but also for his dedication to sustainability and education in Saudi Arabia’s food sector.
Early Inspirations and Culinary Beginnings
Growing up, Albakheet found joy in the act of cooking alongside his mother. This familial bonding over food instilled in him an intuitive understanding of flavors and the satisfaction that comes from sharing meals with others. He recalls, “Seeing a smile on someone’s face as they taste the food I made is very rewarding.”
Discovering a Passion in Canada
Albakheet’s formal foray into the culinary world began during his seven-year stay in Canada as a student. Living alone, he took up a position at a local restaurant to support himself while studying full-time. It was here that he uncovered a deep-seated passion for the food and beverage industry. The dynamic environment of the kitchen, the camaraderie among staff, and the thrill of delivering exceptional service resonated with him profoundly. “The rush in the kitchen, the achievement of delivering perfect service and perfect delicious food… All of this is very rewarding,” he reflects.
Building Teams and Creating Concepts
Upon returning to Saudi Arabia, Albakheet channeled his international experience into building and leading successful kitchen teams across the country. His expertise extends beyond the kitchen; he has been instrumental in creating innovative dining concepts and overseeing restaurant openings from inception to operation. Managing various facets of food and beverage operations, he takes pride in bringing ideas to fruition and fostering environments where culinary professionals can thrive. “My biggest achievement is making successful teams in kitchens all over the country. Creating concepts and managing openings from A to Z,” he states.
Recent Endeavors and Future Aspirations
In his latest venture, Albakheet played a pivotal role in the opening of an international luxury restaurant in Riyadh. This accomplishment aligns with his long-term goals, which focus on promoting sustainability within Saudi Arabia’s food sector and enhancing culinary education. He emphasizes the importance of utilizing the Kingdom’s high-quality local products to craft delicious dishes, stating, “Saudi Arabia has many products with high quality that can make delicious food.” Albakheet believes that education is crucial in cultivating a community of professionals in the food and beverage industry, noting, “Education is essential in any region to foster an environment of professionals in F&B.”
Commitment to Knowledge Sharing and Sustainability
Albakheet is a firm advocate for the dissemination of knowledge among chefs, viewing it as both rewarding and essential. He asserts, “Passing knowledge to others is not just rewarding, but it is essential to do as chefs.” His vision encompasses sustainability as a core objective, aiming to provide guests with delicious food and memorable experiences while being mindful of environmental impacts. He underscores the value of hands-on experience in culinary education, stating, “Practice is the most beneficial when it comes to learning.”
A Vision for the Future
As Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a burgeoning culinary destination, professionals like Majed Albakheet are at the forefront of this evolution. His journey from a young boy cooking with his mother to a culinary leader exemplifies the transformative power of passion, education, and dedication. Through his efforts in team building, concept creation, and advocacy for sustainability and education, Albakheet aims to inspire the next generation of chefs and contribute to the Kingdom’s rich and diverse gastronomic heritage.
Connect with Chef Majed Albakheet
For a closer look at Chef Majed Albakheet’s culinary creations and insights, follow him on Instagram: @majestic_cooking.
