For Omar Sartawi, food isn’t just something to eat; it’s a powerful medium where art, culture, sustainability, and innovation intertwine.
The respected Jordan-born, Dubai-based food artist and molecular gastronomist has made a name for himself by turning culinary traditions into edible stories and everyday waste into unexpected treasures. He’s cooking up the future, giving Arabic cuisine a modern edge, and showing that food’s true artistry extends far beyond what we taste on the plate.
His inventive Jameed Chocolate, which combines Jordan’s iconic dried fermented goat yogurt with smooth white chocolate, reimagines local heritage with a decadent twist. Sartawi’s boundary-pushing vision doesn’t stop at the plate: he’s transformed aubergine skins and orange peels into vegan leather, crafting striking face masks that debuted at Dubai Fashion Week and later inspired collaborations across the design world.
We got a chance to connect with him and chat about one of his favorite cities, Dubai, to uncover his go-to spots to eat, drink, and shop as well as influential local profiles to follow. Here’s his personal city guide (consider it your insider pass).
– Featured image courtesy of Omar Sartawi –
Get to Know Omar Sartawi in His Own Words
“I am a food artist and molecular gastronomist based in Dubai with projects across the region and Europe.”
“I used to have a design house, so I’ve always worked with architects and designers, an experience that gives me a fresh perspective on food. After my initial training, I took online food science courses at Harvard, which equipped me with the techniques and knowledge to turn intangible concepts into edible forms.”
“I’ve collaborated with some of the world’s top brands and created dinner shows in various countries — from an immersive year-long dining experience at Shangri-La Dubai, to my latest show Fast Seven at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre (Four Seasons Hotel DIFC), where I transform fast food into fine dining. I’ve also developed a beautiful project in Marrakech with one of the world’s best cigar brands, in collaboration with Akira Back and M Avenue. Every year, I also present a special show at the iconic Cairo du Liban venue and there are many more projects to come.”
Why Dubai Should Be on Everyone’s RADARLIST
“Dubai is one of the nicest places on Earth to live in. It’s a very safe, vibrant city full of life with great restaurants, nightlife, and amazing people. You meet the most incredible people in Dubai.”
Must-Dine Spots
“My dinner show, of course, at Sucre Fire Dining, DIFC. Another one of my favorite places is Josette Dubai, also in DIFC.”
“On my must-try list is anything by my brother and dear friend Akmal Anuar, he has many amazing restaurants across the city, like 3Fils, Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori, and Armani Ristorante, which just earned a MICHELIN star.”
“Another place I love is Orfali Bros Bistro by my other dear friend and one of the best chefs in the world, Mohammed Orfali.”
“I also admire Chef Alessandro Miceli, he’s the chef who opened the iconic Roberto’s and now he’s opening a new restaurant called Mama Bella on the Boulevard.”
“Another dear friend I deeply respect is Omar Shihab, the owner of BOCA. His food and focus on sustainability are unmatched in the region.”
“Akira Back Dubai is also special to me, not only because we’ve collaborated together, but because they have incredible food. And of course, classics like Zuma, La Petite Maison Dubai (LPM), and Avli by tashas are always musts!”
Must-Do Activities
“Kite Beach is wonderful. Atlantis The Royal is really nice, especially Nobu by the Beach. Everyone in Dubai plays padel, so you’ve got to try that too.”
“The Museum of The Future is one of the most stunning buildings in the world and I’m proud that I did an event there for Bitcoin with my visionary friend Bella Zhou.”
Must-Follow Profiles
“His Royal Highness Prince Faz3.”
“My friend Sarah Hamouda, the creator of Dubai Chocolate, we worked together on my chocolate bar during my show at Shangri-La Dubai.”
“Nicole Mrad is a great creative friend who produces amazing content.”
“No Garlic No Onions by Anthony Rahayel is also my favorite food blog.”
“Punny Pun Times is the one to follow for a good laugh. They always crack me up.”
“Anita Grey is a fantastic fashion designer and we’re currently collaborating on a collection of bags made from food waste.”
“Last but not least, follow me!”