How does a backyard barbecue turn into a White House invitation? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, recorded live from Time Out Market Dubai, host James Knight-Paccheco is joined by Hattem Mattar – pitmaster, entrepreneur, and one of the UAE’s most exciting culinary voices. Hattem shares how he went from a career in oil & gas to building a barbecue brand that fuses Emirati heritage with global techniques. From brisket mandy to third-culture barbecue, this conversation is packed with stories about hustle, identity, and the power of food to build community. Expect bold flavors, big dreams, and behind-the-scenes stories from his journey cooking across the U.S. – including at the White House. This is Dubai’s food culture in motion. Don’t miss it. 00:00 Introduction 02:07 Today's Guest: Hattem Mattar 04:08 Hattem's Culinary Journey 08:22 The Art of Barbecue 10:02 Third Culture Barbecue 13:29 Teaching the Secrets of Barbecue 15:15 The Drive to Be the Best 15:26 Cooking at the White House 16:43 Cultural Conversations Over Barbecue 18:12 Achievements and Humble Beginnings 21:19 Future Projects and the Gastronomic Landscape 23:18 Managing Multiple Brands 24:34 Signature Dish at Time Out Market 26:10 Quick Fire Questions You can follow Hattem HERE This episode is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🎙️ You support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast! Food is memories! 🍽️🌯🍣🍦🌟😊 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live from Time Out Market Dubai, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with one of the city’s most daring culinary innovators: Chef Reif Othman. Known for blending humor with haute cuisine (yes, he’s the guy behind the viral toilet roll cake), Reif shares his journey from creative concept to culinary cult favorite. But this episode is about much more than viral dishes - it’s about how to stay consistent, adapt to a fast-changing food scene, and build a brand that balances innovation with business smarts. Expect real talk on: - Dubai’s evolving food culture - The creative process behind his most talked-about dishes - Building a sustainable, scalable restaurant brand - Lessons every aspiring chef should hear 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Dubai's Culinary Scene and Trends 02:14 Meet Chef Reif Othman 03:56 Reif's Culinary Journey & Viral Creations 12:08 Business Advice for Young Chefs 16:33 Navigating New Culinary Experiences 17:44 Mastering Consistency 19:26 Building a Strong Brand 21:41 Upcoming Projects 22:38 Signature Dishes & Fan Favorites 23:55 Quick Fire Round 27:07 Final Thoughts Follow Chef Reif on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reifo.kee This episode is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🎙️ You support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast! Food is memories! 👨‍🍳👩‍🍳🌯🍣🌮🍽️ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a powerhouse entrepreneur DMs a Michelin-trained chef… and together they rewrite Dubai’s culinary playbook? Live from Time Out Market Dubai, this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast brings you a blend of Asian-American fusion! Host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with  the brains behind over 20 restaurant brands, Neha Anand and multi-award winning, Chef Kelvin Cheung from Little Jun’s. Together, they unpack: their unique partnership, challenges, and the evolution of their culinary vision. From Neha’s family’s love for late-night pizza sparking her entrepreneurial journey, to Kelvin reflecting on the risks and rewards of starting over in Dubai. 00:00 Introduction to the Chef JKP Podcast 02:08 Meet Neha and Chef Kelvin 03:39 The Journey to Little Jun’s 04:42 Building a Culinary Vision 10:11 The Concept of Third Culture Cooking 20:19 Empowering Kelvin: Trust and Free Reign 22:43 Celebrating Success at Timeout Market 23:09 Supporting Local Talent and Community 24:15 Curating the Menu and Future Plans 26:25 Advice for Aspiring Chefs and Entrepreneurs 30:20 Quick Fire Questions 33:59 Final Thoughts and Farewell This episode is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🍴 Follow Little Jun’s: https://www.instagram.com/junsdubai/?hl=en 🍽️ Website: https://www.junsdubai.com/ 🎙️ You support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast ! Food is Memories ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when family, tradition, and passion come together to create a culinary legacy? Live from Time Out Market Dubai, this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast dives into the inspiring story of a family trio turning sourdough and hospitality into an award-winning experience. Host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Eva, Lilian, and Emilie to explore their journey - from honouring family bonds and setting business boundaries to crafting memorable dishes that blend tradition with modern flair. Together, they share the challenges, successes, and heart behind their thriving restaurant. 00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts 01:13 Welcome to the Chef JKP Podcast 01:44 Meet the Trio Behind Three by Eva 04:48 The Essence of Three by Eva 07:49 The Sourdough Queen's Journey 10:34 Creating a Homey Ambiance 14:01 Balancing Tradition and Innovation 16:21 Curating the Menu for Time Out Market Dubai 18:46 Adapting the Menu for a Diverse Clientele 19:28 Challenges of Creating a Unique Dining Experience 21:09 Recognition and Awards in the Culinary World 23:06 The Importance of Simplicity and Humility in Cooking 25:31 Balancing Family and Business 26:53 The Most Challenging Aspects of the Business 33:20 Final Thoughts and Signature Dish Recommendation 🍴 Follow Three by Ava: https://www.instagram.com/threebyeva/?hl=en This episode is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 
🎙️ Support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Food is Memories !👨‍🍳👌👩‍🍳🍣🎂🍦 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two of Dubai’s most passionate chefs bring Latin fire to the stage? Live from Time Out Market Dubai, this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast brings the energy of Latin America straight to you! Host James Knight-Pacheco sits down with two powerhouse chefs: Penelope Diaz from Fusión Ceviche, and Omar Rodriguez from Slab. Together, they dive into the roots of their culinary journeys, the highs and lows of building a brand in Dubai, and the cultural richness of Latin American cuisine. 00:00 Introduction 01:13 Meet the Guests: Penelope and Omar 04:34 Omar's Culinary Journey 06:52 Penelope's Culinary Beginnings 10:16 Challenges and Triumphs in the Culinary World 13:36 Fusion Ceviche: Penelope's Dream Realized 16:46 Slab Kitchen: Omar's Seasonal Approach 18:48 Menu Evolution and Specials 19:59 Exclusive Dishes and Menu Curation 20:48 The Rise and Fall of Peruvian Cuisine 23:15 Challenges of Running a Restaurant 25:01 Future Plans and Expansion 26:26 Quick Fire Questions This episode is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🍴 Follow Fusion Ceviche: https://www.instagram.com/fusioncevichedxb22/ 🍽️ Follow Slab: https://www.instagram.com/slab.uae/ 🎙️ You support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Food is Memories! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to turn a humble home kitchen into one of Dubai’s most talked-about Thai food spots? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, recorded live at Time Out Market Dubai, host James Knight-Pacheco sits down with Lisa Knight and Chef New, the dynamic duo behind Café Isan – an award-winning Thai street food concept known for its bold flavors, authenticity, and community spirit. From cooking for friends in Dubai’s Thai community to building a regional fanbase and earning a coveted spot at Time Out Market, Lisa and Chef New share the story behind their rise, rooted in Isan traditions from northeastern Thailand. Expect honest conversations about spice, sustainability, and staying true to your roots while scaling a modern hospitality brand. 🔥 Topics covered: - Adapting Isan flavors for a diverse Dubai audience - Balancing spice levels and customer expectations - Embracing low-waste practices and fermentation - Plans for a farm-stay retreat in Thailand - And yes… chili-eating competitions. 00:00 Introduction 01:56 Meet the Guests: Lisa Knight and Chef New 02:17 The Journey to Time Out Market Dubai 04:19 Opening Day Challenges and Successes 04:50 Adapting Isan Cuisine for Dubai 07:41 Spice Levels and Customer Feedback 14:53 Chili Competitions 16:59 Designing the Menu 19:35 Challenges in the Hospitality Industry 20:40 Zero Waste Practices in the Kitchen 23:07 Future Plans and Expansion 23:55 Quick Fire Questions 25:43 Signature Dishes at Café Isan 27:50 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs Follow Café Isan: Instagram: @cafeisan_thai This season of the Chef JKP Podcast is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🎙️ You support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Food is Memories ! 😉🌶️🎂🌮🌯🍣 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to build a pizza empire in one of the world’s most competitive food cities? In this live edition of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Michele and Bill Johnson - the powerhouse duo behind Pitfire Pizza - for a no-filter conversation about passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of the perfect slice. 🎙️ Live from Time Out Market Dubai, they share the story behind one of Dubai’s most beloved pizza joints - from humble beginnings and family baking memories to scaling a brand known for quality, consistency, and fire. You’ll hear: 🍕 How Bill perfected his dough recipe over years 🍕 The secrets to managing quality across multiple branches 🍕 What makes a truly great pizza (it’s not just ingredients) 🍕 Tips for anyone dreaming of launching their own food brand 00:00 Introduction 01:13 The Joy of Pizza: Pitfire's Mission 02:14 Meet the Legends: Michele and Bill Johnson 03:43 Bill's Pizza Journey 08:20 Opening Pitfire Pizza 11:01 From JLT to Time Out Market 14:17 Maintaining Quality Across Branches 16:52 Centralizing Dough Production: Pros and Cons 17:29 Training, Technique & Team Culture 18:24 Branding, Artistry & the Brotherhood of Pizza 19:10 Managing a Large Team in Dubai 22:05 Pizza Ovens and Baking Techniques 23:28 Signature Pizzas at Pitfire 24:56 Quick Fire Questions 28:01 Future Plans and Advice for Restaurateurs Follow Pitfire Pizza on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pitfirepizzabakers This season of the Chef JKP Podcast is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🎙️ You support the show by leaving a rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍴 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this live edition of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco dives deep into the world of luxury flavours with two of Dubai’s most exciting artisan creators: Orit Mohamed from Boon Coffee and Zubin Doshi from Scoopi – home of the iconic Black Diamond, a $3,000 liquid nitrogen ice cream. From the aroma of Ethiopian highlands to scoops topped with saffron and truffle, this isn’t just about taste – it’s about passion, precision, and pushing boundaries. Expect bold business advice, origin stories, and practical insights for food entrepreneurs navigating Dubai’s competitive culinary scene. 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Today’s Topic: The Black Diamond 01:48 Meet Orit (Boon Coffee) & Zubin (Scoopi) 03:26 Orit’s Coffee Journey from Ethiopia to Dubai 04:25 Zubin's Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Adventure 13:39 Crafting The Black Diamond Ice Cream 16:07 Business Challenges & Key Lessons 24:03 Quick Fire Round 26:17 Final Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 29:15 Farewell & Wrap-Up Follow Boon Coffee: https://www.instagram.com/booncoffee Follow Scoopi: https://www.instagram.com/scoopicafe This season of the Chef JKP Podcast is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. 🎧 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChefJKP 🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts. Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍴 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do the kitchens of Gaggan, Switzerland’s Michelin-starred fine dining scene, and Dubai’s vibrant Masti have in common? One man behind the pass: Chef Prashant. In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, recorded live at Time Out Market Dubai, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Chef Prashant, whose journey spans some of the world’s most influential kitchens. They get real about: - What it takes to cook at a Michelin-starred level - Creating menus that evolve without losing soul - The pressure of running a top kitchen in Dubai - Why mastering the basics still matters more than ever Whether you’re an aspiring chef or a full-blown food nerd, this one’s packed with insights, inspiration, and bold perspectives. This is Season 10. This is Chef JKP x Time Out Market Dubai! 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Today’s Guest: Chef Prashant 03:50 Culinary Journey & Early Influences 04:21 Life at Gaggan 06:48 Switzerland & Michelin Kitchens 10:04 Building the Menu at Masti 15:09 The Craft of Training & Consistency 22:08 Quick Fire Round 25:57 Final Thoughts and Farewell Follow Chef Prashant: https://www.instagram.com/prashantchipkar/ This season of the Chef JKP Podcast is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. Want to support the show? Subscribe to our YouTube channel: 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@ChefJKP Food is memories! 🍴 Enjoy the episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first time ever, the Chef JKP Podcast goes LIVE - and we’re bringing the fire straight from Time Out Market Dubai. In this epic new season you can expect: 🔥 12 episodes 🎤 1 epic live audience 🌍 100% Dubai food culture Host James Knight-Pacheco kicks off season 10 with a no-holds-barred conversation featuring three of Dubai’s culinary heavyweights: Spero and Alex from BB Social Dining and Chef Athanasios Kargatzidis, also known as Chef Tommy, from À La Grecque. This isn’t your average food chat. It’s raw, unfiltered, and straight from the heart of Dubai’s food culture. From their earliest food memories to the daily grind of running food stalls, these chefs drop truth bombs about creativity, pressure, and what it really takes to make it in one of the world’s most competitive dining scenes. This is Season 10. This is Chef JKP Podcast x Time Out Market. 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Today's Special Guests and Live Audience 04:32 Spero and Alex from BB Social 07:04 Chef Tommy from À La Grecque 09:00 Challenges and Experiences at Time Out Market 24:26 Quick Fire Questions 26:41 Advice for Aspiring Restaurateurs 31:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow BB Social Dining: https://www.instagram.com/bbdifc/?hl=en and À La Grecque: https://www.instagram.com/alagrecque.dxb/ This season of the Chef JKP Podcast is proudly brought to you by Time Out Market Dubai. Want to support the show? Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ChefJKP Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the fifth and final episode of this special Valrhona x Chef JKP Podcast series recorded at the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, we’re bringing it home with one of the UAE’s rising culinary stars — Chef Khaled Al Saadi. Host James Knight-Pacheco dives into an inspiring conversation about:🍽️ The evolution of the Emirati food scene👨‍🍳 Why collaboration is key to culinary growth🍫 And why Chef Khaled proudly chooses Valrhona for his creative chocolate work You can follow Chef Khaled on - https://www.instagram.com/khaleds.uae/ Recorded amidst the immersive Le Fil Rouge event by Valrhona, this conversation explores heritage, innovation, and the power of culinary connection. This limited series is proudly brought to you by Valrhona — supporting pastry chefs and chocolatiers around the world with ethically sourced, premium chocolate. 👉 Visit www.valrhona.com to discover more. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Chef JKP Podcast on your favourite platform!And as always — Food is memories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two of the world’s most creative chefs meet in the halls of the Louvre? They’ve cooked for royals, redefined fine dining, and now - they’re reimagining chocolate. Join in the conversation with two luminaries of the culinary world: Chef Carmen Rueda Hernandez, recently honored as MENA's Best Pastry Chef 2025 by the Middle East & North Africa's 50 Best Restaurants, and Chef Kelvin Cheung, the visionary behind Dubai's acclaimed Jun's restaurant, renowned for its innovative 'Third Culture' cuisine. Recorded at the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, this episode delves into the artistry of fine chocolate, celebrating creativity, culture, and community in partnership with Valrhona. The chefs share nostalgic food memories, their unique approaches to crafting sophisticated dishes, and the significance of storytelling through food.  00:00 Introduction 01:53 Special Edition: Celebrating Fine Chocolate 03:19 Food Memories with Chocolate 06:50 Creating Dishes for the Event 16:35 Challenges and Inspirations in Culinary Arts 23:03 Quick Fire Questions 29:49 Conclusion and Farewell Follow the guests on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/chefkelvincheung/  https://www.instagram.com/chefcarmenrueda6 A huge thank you to our partners Valrhona for making this special series possible! www.valrhona.com Please leave us a review on any podcast platform - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host James Knight-Paccheco takes listeners on a rich, multi-sensory journey into the world of fine chocolate in partnership with Valrhona and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The episode spotlights Le Fil Rouge, a one-of-a-kind event uniting over 250 chefs, artists, and visionaries from around the globe! This episode’s guest Olivier Morel, Chief Business Officer at Valrhona, shares insights on the fusion of community, creativity, and culture through the lens of chocolate. He offers reflections on his global chocolate journey and discusses how shifting cocoa markets are shaping the future of fine chocolate. Joining the conversation are celebrated chefs Reif Othman and Hadrien Villedieu, who speak about their culinary inspirations, memorable chocolate moments, and the artistry behind collaborating with Valrhona. From sourcing premium ingredients to curating unforgettable menus, this episode is a heartfelt tribute to chocolate as both craft and culture. 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Celebrating Fine Chocolate with Valrhona 02:15 Olivier’s Chocolate Journey 08:45 Global Chocolate Trends & Challenges 22:02 The Art of Chocolate & Culinary Fusion 28:40 Personal Chocolate Memories 29:10 Hadrian’s Culinary Creations 29:52 Curating the Menu 31:02 Raf’s Chocolate Philosophy 31:37 Collaborating with Valrhona 34:44 Chefs’ Tips for Collaboration 36:55 Conversations Beyond the Kitchen 38:15 Using Chocolate in Cooking 39:42 Describing Themselves as Desserts 40:18 Quick Fire Questions 41:39 Conclusion and Farewell Follow the featured guests on socials: https://fr.linkedin.com/in/olivier-morel-58689313  https://www.instagram.com/reifo.kee  https://www.instagram.com/hadrienvilledieu/  A huge thank you to our partners Valrhona for making this special series possible! www.valrhona.com Please leave us a review on any podcast platform - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when chocolate, culture, and craftsmanship come together? In this special edition of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco shares the 2nd episode of a special series with Valrhona, one of the world’s most prestigious chocolate makers. This episode highlights a collaboration between Valrhona and Louvre Abu Dhabi, exploring how fine chocolate is both an art form and a cultural connector. JKP sits down with Valrhona’s General Manager Guillaume Lafaix, who shares his personal chocolate memories, his career journey across continents, and his thoughts on the Middle East’s growing love for sweets. Whether you’re a chef, a chocolate enthusiast, or simply love a good story, this short but rich episode offers a glimpse into how gastronomy, artistry, and global connection all melt into one unforgettable experience. 00:00 Introduction  01:34 Celebrating Fine Chocolate: A Special Edition 03:03 Meet Valrhona’s General Manager 04:53 Chocolate Memories, Career Journey & Global Trends 07:32 Why the Middle East Loves Chocolate 09:13 Valrhona x Louvre Abu Dhabi: A Cultural Collaboration 17:39 Personal Favorites & Culinary Reflections 19:30 Conclusion and Farewell You can follow Valrhona on HERE A huge thank you to our partners Valrhona for making this special series possible! www.valrhona.com Please leave us a review on any podcast hosting platform - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to a special edition of the Chef JKP Podcast! In this special edition of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Chef Brice Konan-Ferrand, a renowned chocolatier and pastry chef who has worked around the globe. Chef Brice shares his inspiring culinary journey, from training in France and working in various kitchens worldwide to specialising in chocolate and taking part in major events like the one being discussed in this series - 'Le Fil Rouge.' brought to you by Valrhona, held at the prestigious Louvre in Abu Dhabi. This episode delves into the importance of culture, community, and creativity in the culinary world, highlighting the growing recognition of pastry chefs and offering advice for aspiring culinarians. Chef Brice also talks about his international experiences, including time spent in Hong Kong, Japan, and now Dubai, shaping his unique approach to fine chocolate and pastry. 00:00 Introduction to the Chef JKP Podcast 01:48 Special Edition: Celebrating Fine Chocolate 03:19 Guest Introduction: Chef Brice from Le Verona 04:31 Chef Brice's Journey: From Ivory Coast to France 06:34 Culinary Education and Early Career 09:46 Specializing in Pastry and International Experience 24:14 Unexpected Career Opportunities 25:54 Chef Brice’s First Impressions of Hong Kong 26:55 Living and Working in Japan 28:41 Dubai: A New Adventure 31:43 The Louvre Abu Dhabi Event 34:44 Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Successes 41:09 Recognition in the Culinary World 47:12 Advice for Aspiring Chefs 50:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts You can follow chef Brice on HERE You can follow all things Varlhona on HERE Tune in for an exciting and insightful conversation with one of the culinary world’s finest, as Chef Brice shares his journey, passion for chocolate, and advice for future chefs. A huge thank you to our partners Valrohna for making this special series possible! www.valrhona.com Please leave us a review on any podcast streaming platform - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if success isn’t something you chase, but something you prepare from within? Before the coaching empire, wellness retreats, and becoming a global speaker, Regan Hillyer was stuck in a cycle of burnout, fear, debt, and disconnection.  In this powerful season finale of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco explores Regan’s extraordinary journey from breakdown to breakthrough. From humble beginnings in New Zealand to becoming a global force in personal development. Regan shares the raw and real story of how she turned fear into fuel and built a worldwide empire rooted in inner work, mindset, frequency tuning, and practical techniques for manifesting abundance. This episode is more than just a conversation, it’s a masterclass in living a purpose-driven life, tuning into your highest frequency, and creating success from the inside out. Tune in to learn: 👩‍🍳 How frequency affects leadership, food, and performance 👩‍🍳 The mindset tools top performers use to stay aligned and on purpose 👩‍🍳 How to move through fear and failure without losing momentum 👩‍🍳 Why inner work is the foundation of lasting success 👩‍🍳 How leaders can protect their energy in high-pressure environments 00:00 Opening Remarks and Season Reflections 02:46 Meet Regan Hillyer: Energy Coach, Speaker & Entrepreneur 04:36 Early Life, Food Memories & Formative Influences 07:31 The Turning Point: Discovering Purpose 10:01 The 80/20 Rule: Mindset, Energy & Focus 19:21 Overcoming Fear, Resistance & Burnout 35:38 Reprogramming Your Mind and Relationship with Time 47:48 Soul Desires vs. Ego Desires: Knowing the Difference 53:48 Frequency Conditioning & Daily Manifestation Alarms 01:02:51 High-Pressure Environments: Stress, Leadership & Stillness 01:14:55 The Energy Behind Food: Frequency in Preparation 01:18:07 Staying Grounded While Wearing Many Hats 01:21:48 Quick Fire Round & Final Thoughts Follow Regan on HERE A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com Stay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/ Please leave us a review us on all podcast hosting platforms - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two visionaries join forces ? In this extraordinary episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco welcomes Chef Torsten Vildgaard (formerly of Noma) and iconic Chef Björn Frantzén, both globally acclaimed for redefining modern gastronomy. Now leading the charge at FZN at Atlantis, The Palm, they’re reshaping fine dining in the Middle East. The conversation takes us through their personal stories, culinary philosophies, and the intense discipline of Michelin kitchens - as well as the unique opportunity and challenge of bringing Scandinavian excellence to the Gulf.  This episode is a masterclass in what it takes to operate at the highest level in hospitality. Tune in to learn: 👩‍🍳 How Torsten transitioned from Noma to opening his own Michelin-starred restaurant 👩‍🍳 What it really takes to build and maintain a Michelin-level restaurant 👩‍🍳 What three elements are the heart of elite kitchens 👩‍🍳 How FZN is redefining luxury dining in the Middle East 00:00 Opening Remarks and Personal Reflections 02:00 Meet Torsten Vildgaard & Björn Frantzén 04:40 Childhood Food Memories & Early Influences 12:50 First Steps into Professional Kitchens 25:42 Opening & Running Michelin-Starred Restaurants 41:31 Expanding to Dubai: The FZN Vision 46:12 Training, Guest Experience & Team Culture 51:53 Menu Development & Local Ingredients 54:13 Operating with Excellence in the Middle East 01:13:12 Quick Fire Round 01:20:45 Advice for Young Chefs You can follow Bjorn on HERE You can follow Torsten on HERE A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com Stay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/ Please leave us a review us on all podcast hosting sites - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories !🍽️ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to lead a world-class kitchen rooted in fire and flavour? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Chef Jack Jarrott, the driving force behind Sand and Koal at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. Jack takes us on a raw and honest journey through his career - from growing up in Australia to mastering open-fire cooking in London under the Gordon Ramsay empire, and eventually becoming a rising star in the UAE culinary world. The conversation explores everything from leadership and kitchen culture to navigating cultural shifts, earning accolades, and Jack’s mission to make Sand and Koal a globally recognized destination. Tune In To Learn: 👩‍🍳 What it really takes to lead a modern open-fire kitchen 👩‍🍳 How Jack adapted from Australia to London to the UAE 👩‍🍳 The power of mentorship, discipline, and legacy 👩‍🍳 Real talk about hotel kitchens vs. standalone restaurants 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Announcement 02:26 Meet Today’s Guest: Chef Jack Jarrott 03:46 From Aussie Kitchens to Culinary Dreams 13:49 London Life & The Gordon Ramsay Era 34:48 Relocating to the UAE 45:30 Lessons from The Guild & High-Volume Service 54:19 Accolades, Recognition & Next Steps 56:46 Building Sand and Koal at Emirates Palace 01:02:35 Mastering the Art of Open Fire Cooking 01:08:16 The Westholme Partnership 01:13:02 Hotel Life: Expectations vs. Reality 01:20:07 Jack’s Vision for the UAE Culinary Scene 01:25:20 Quick Fire Round & Final Thoughts Follow Jack on HERE A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com, as well as as Westholme Australian Wagyu - Westholme.com Stay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/ Please leave us a review on Spotify - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is Memories ! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to build a cult-favourite pizza bakery from scratch? We’re already at the Episode 9 from Season 9 of the show, and this time James Knight-Paccheco welcomes the passionate and resilient Raj Dagstani, founder of multi winning Marmellata Pizzeria. Raj shares his remarkable journey from early food memories to creating one of the United Arab Emirates most beloved pizza concepts. The conversation covers the challenges of starting a business, the importance of mental health and balance in the hospitality world, and how Marmellata evolved into a community-driven success story. Tune in to learn: 👩‍🍳 How Raj built Marmellata Bakery into a must-visit destination 👩‍🍳 Why authenticity and resilience matter more than trends 👩‍🍳 Real stories of growth, setbacks, and building a brand with purpose 👨‍🍳 Advice for aspiring chefs and business owners 00:00 Podcast Announcement 00:47 Introduction to the Chef JKP Podcast 03:58 Meet Today’s Guest: Raj Dagstani of Marmellata Bakery 04:29 Raj's Early Food Memories 06:50 Journey into Professional Cooking and Entrepreneurship 30:18 Lessons in Mentorship and Learning the Hard Way 42:30 Opening Marmellata Bakery: The Big Leap 47:27 Returning to Dubai & Building a Brand 48:45 Finding a Culinary Identity 53:42 Facing Setbacks and Rising Stronger 54:38 The Art of Reinvention and Staying True to Yourself 01:00:07 Scaling Marmellata and Future Visions 01:17:55 Family, Food, and Managing Life with Passion 01:28:47 Quick Fire Questions with Raj You can follow follow Marmellata on HERE A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com Stay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/ Please leave us a review on all podcast platforms - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when comfort food meets the desert? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with the inspiring and outspoken Chef Troy Payne for a deep, personal, and unfiltered conversation. From his Melbourne food roots to launching Craft by Side Hustle, the first brewery concept in the MENA region, Troy opens up about the highs and lows of his culinary career. The episode touches on mentorship, his powerful connection with the late Chef Greg Malouf, the mental health challenges of the industry, and finding identity in the Dubai food scene. Tune In To Learn: 👩‍🍳 How Troy’s journey from Australia shaped his food philosophy 👩‍🍳 The emotional toll and importance of mental health in kitchens 👩‍🍳 What it’s like to launch a brewery-meets-comfort food concept in the Middle East 👩‍🍳 How innovation, failure, and purpose intersect in modern hospitality 00:00 Chef JKP Podcast Live Announcement 03:58 Meet Chef Troy Payne 04:29 Growing Up in Melbourne & First Taste of Cooking 06:50 Childhood Food Memories & Influences 11:13 The Path to Professional Cooking 15:34 Mentorship and Growth in the Culinary World 22:47 Finding Confidence and Voice as a Young Chef 30:24 The Influence of Greg Malouf & Their Bond 42:30 A New Adventure: Opening a Restaurant in the Middle East 47:27 Returning to Dubai: A New Beginning 54:38 Innovating Mobile Kitchens 01:00:07 Craft by Side Hustle: The First Brewery in MENA 01:05:22 The Reality of Entrepreneurship in F&B 01:10:56 The Importance of Mental Health in the Culinary Industry 01:17:55 Family, Food, and Balancing Personal Life 01:22:12 Lessons from Failure and Reinvention 01:28:47 Quick Fire Questions & Final Reflections Follow Troy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trotskie/ A huge thank you to our partners Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com 🚨Catch more unfiltered conversations like this one at Timeout Market Dubai. Live recordings continue on April 27th - don’t miss your chance to be part of the audience! Stay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/ Please leave us a review on Spotify - it’s the best way to support the show! Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices