Chef Dani García and Leña’s Debut at Taste of Dubai

Embracing a City Close to the Heart

Dubai has always held a special place in Chef Dani García’s heart. “Dubai excites me already, just the city itself, of course,” he shares with enthusiasm. Having visited the city throughout his life for family vacations, he now feels a deep connection, especially as his daughter lives and works here, and he has two thriving restaurants. “Honestly, I feel at home,” he adds. This marks his first participation in Taste of Dubai, and he couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of such a vibrant culinary festival.

A Culinary Surprise Awaits

Though Chef Dani prefers to keep some elements under wraps, he gives us a glimpse of his exciting plans. “We’re still working on it, and honestly, I also want it to be a bit of a surprise,” he admits. Leña and Smoked Room, his two culinary ventures, will be showcased, offering a mix of casual and fine dining dishes. “It will also be a fun presentation because in the end, it will perfectly convey that we are one restaurant inside another,” he explains, highlighting the unique dining experience he’s set to deliver.

A Culinary Passion Fueled and Thriving

Chef Dani’s passion for cooking is deeply rooted in his family. “Cooking is something I’ve always loved,” he reflects. While no one pursued it professionally, his mother and grandmother were incredible home cooks, and his father’s weekend culinary adventures left a lasting impression. “I think that’s an inheritance I’ve had since I was very little,” he muses. For Chef Dani, cooking is a beautiful profession that allows him to make people happy in an artisanal way, a calling he cherishes.

Chef Dani believes that despite modern advancements, the essence of cooking remains unchanged. “I believe there always has to be hands, a mind, and a heart behind the cooking,” he asserts. It’s this artisanal quality, he says, that machines or robots can never replace. “That’s why I believe it’s a profession that will always be there,” he emphasizes, underscoring his commitment to preserving the soul of culinary arts.

The Simplicity of Garlic Prawns

When it comes to comfort food, Chef Dani keeps it simple yet flavourful. “Well, my favourite recipe is super simple: garlic prawns,” he reveals. Using prawns from his hometown, Málaga, he combines them with olive oil, garlic, and chili. “It’s very simple, and I think my whole family loves it too,” he shares, highlighting the dish’s enduring appeal.

Anticipating Taste of Dubai

Though he’s no stranger to Dubai, Chef Dani is excited about his inaugural appearance at Taste of Dubai. “I’m really looking forward to it, and intuitively, I sense it’s a very lively place,” he comments. With great chefs and delicious food, he believes there’s no better plan in Dubai than attending the festival. “I mean, Dubai, food, great chefs—not just me, but the other chefs who will be there—is huge,” he concludes, eagerly anticipating the culinary celebration.

Book Your Tickets to Taste of Dubai

Advance tickets are available now at Platinumlist, book now to savour more later:

Standard: AED 75 (children under 12 free)
Taster Package: AED 180
VIP Package: AED 325
Sunday Brunch Package: AED 375
Friday Team Packages: Starting from AED 130 per person (Contact the team to book)