In the bustling kitchens of Dubai’s Millennium Airport Hotel, a maestro orchestrates a symphony of flavors that captivate the senses. Chef Mohamad Chabchoul, the esteemed Executive Chef, has transformed his childhood passion into a celebrated culinary career spanning over two decades. His journey is one of passion, perseverance, and relentless pursuit of excellence, making him one of the most respected figures in the culinary industry today.
A Culinary Spark Ignited Early
Born in Lebanon and raised in Syria, young Mohamad was mesmerized by cooking shows, watching chefs turn simple ingredients into masterpieces. This early exposure ignited a deep passion for the culinary arts. Unlike many children who merely enjoyed the spectacle of food being prepared, Mohamad was fascinated by the precision, creativity, and craftsmanship involved.
The magic of turning raw ingredients into a masterpiece fascinated him. Every dish he saw on television seemed like a work of art, crafted with skill and passion. This curiosity led him to experiment in his family’s kitchen, where he would watch his mother and relatives cook traditional Middle Eastern dishes. These formative experiences planted the seeds of his culinary aspirations, shaping his desire to one day become a chef who would not only cook but redefine gastronomy.
Embarking on a Culinary Voyage
Mohamad’s professional journey officially began in 2003 at Le Meridien Damascus, where he took his first steps into the fast-paced world of professional kitchens. As an eager young chef, he was determined to learn and absorb as much knowledge as possible. The intense, high-pressure environment was a challenge, but it was also the perfect training ground for a budding culinary professional.
His talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, and soon, he was working with some of the most prestigious establishments in the industry, including Four Seasons Hotel in Damascus and The Ritz-Carlton in Dubai. These experiences provided him with invaluable insights into different cuisines, cooking techniques, and the art of managing high-end kitchens.
Every kitchen he worked in became a stepping stone, refining his skills and shaping his unique culinary identity. He learned how to fuse tradition with innovation, maintain high-quality standards, and create memorable dining experiences for guests.
Ascending to Executive Chef
By 2014, Mohamad had established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. He was appointed Executive Chef for Fauchon Paris in the Middle East, a prestigious role that placed him at the forefront of high-end French cuisine and international gastronomy.
Overseeing catering operations for a globally recognized brand was no small feat. It required a deep understanding of fine dining, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to quality. His innovative approach and ability to elevate dishes to an exceptional level set him apart.
His next big milestone came when he joined BinHendi Enterprises and later became Executive Chef at Grand Millennium Business Bay. At the latter, he played a pivotal role in shaping the hotel’s entire culinary identity. From conceptualizing menus to ensuring the highest standards in kitchen operations, he laid the foundation for an exceptional dining experience.
What made this role particularly significant was his involvement in the pre-opening phase of the hotel. Building a kitchen from scratch, designing menus that catered to diverse tastes, and leading a team of chefs required immense skill and vision—qualities that Mohamad had honed over the years.
Culinary Excellence at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai
Since January 2023, Chef Mohamad has been at the helm of the culinary team at Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai. As Cluster Executive Chef, he is responsible for overseeing 12 diverse dining outlets, each offering a unique gastronomic experience. Some of the renowned venues under his leadership include:
- Biggles Pub – A traditional British-style pub known for its comforting and flavorful dishes.
- Cactus Jack’s – A Latin American restaurant that brings bold flavors and vibrant spices to the table.
- Da Vinci’s – An authentic Italian restaurant that celebrates classic recipes with a modern twist.
Leading such a diverse culinary portfolio requires not only skill but also creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of global cuisines. Under Chef Mohamad’s leadership, the hotel has maintained its reputation for exceptional food quality, innovation, and guest satisfaction.
Accolades and Recognition
Hard work and passion always lead to recognition, and Chef Mohamad’s career is a testament to that. Over the years, he has received numerous prestigious awards for his outstanding contributions to the culinary world.
One of his most significant achievements came in 2024, when he was honored with the gold award for Executive Chef of the Year – Hotel at the 7th Middle East Chef Excellence Awards. This accolade is a reflection of his dedication, creativity, and relentless pursuit of culinary excellence.
Winning the Executive Chef of the Year title for four consecutive years (2021–2024) is an extraordinary feat that showcases his influence and leadership in the industry. These achievements are not just personal milestones but also a testament to his commitment to raising culinary standards and inspiring future generations of chefs.
Philosophy and Vision
Central to Chef Mohamad’s philosophy is the belief that “If you can organize your kitchen, you can organize your life.” This mantra underscores his approach to both his professional and personal endeavors.
For him, cooking is not just about preparing meals—it’s about discipline, precision, and artistry. Whether it’s a simple dish or an elaborate gourmet creation, consistency and attention to detail are what set great chefs apart from the rest.
His approach to cooking is rooted in respect for ingredients, creativity, and a constant desire to innovate. He believes that every dish tells a story, and it is the chef’s responsibility to bring that story to life through flavors, presentation, and execution.
Mentorship and Legacy
Beyond his own success, Chef Mohamad is deeply committed to mentoring young chefs and shaping the future of the culinary industry. He believes that true success is not just about personal achievements but also about giving back, sharing knowledge, and inspiring the next generation.
He encourages aspiring chefs to blend tradition with innovation, respect local ingredients, and embrace the art of cooking as a lifelong journey. His mentorship goes beyond the kitchen—he teaches young chefs the importance of resilience, creativity, and leadership.
A Lasting Impact
Chef Mohamad’s ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact on the culinary world. He envisions a future where chefs are not just cooks but artists, storytellers, and innovators.
His journey from a young boy mesmerized by cooking shows to a renowned Executive Chef in Dubai is proof that passion, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence can lead to extraordinary success.
As he continues to push the boundaries of modern and fusion cuisine, his legacy will be one of innovation, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to elevating the dining experience.
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