Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XVII

5 6 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I How do the front-of-house and back-of-house support each other? A restaurant is a family and I believe the days of looking at the front and back of the house as separate are over. We run our team like a family unit. Biggest challenges you face in the kitchen and the restaurant? Because of the unique experience of a rotating restaurant, the biggest challenge at first was losing track of the tables as they spin away from you – it takes some getting used to. Are there any culinary trends you’re seeing across the world that you integrate into your ownmenu? We are very proud to showcase Grass-Fed Beef on our menus, which in my belief is a better product than any grain-fed item. We hope to set the trend on this in Abu Dhabi. What advice would you give young chefs entering the industry? Start at the bottom, and take your time. An “overnight success” as a chef can take up to 15 years. What are your thoughts on the food & beverage scene in the UAE? I believe it is very healthy and continually growing. We have some big names out here and more on the way – our diners are spoilt for choice! To date, what has been your most memorable culinary experience and why? Le Gavroche in London was unforgettable. The service is impeccable and the classic menu is perfect – it’s like stepping back in time. Where do you want to see yourself five years from now? In Bora Bora, on the beach. Finally our signature question, what do you think of Simply Abu Dhabi? Simply Amazing! If images speak a thousand words, I can’t imagine how rich your content is. www.stratosabudhabi.com Phone: 02 695 0490 Hours: 3:00pm to 2:00 am Saturday through Wednesday, 3:00pm – 3:00 am Thursday and Friday Afternoon tea: 3:00pm-6:00pm Lounge selection: 6:00pm – 12:30am Dinner: 7:00pm – 11:00pm Langoustine