We remember Gary
In a city where celebrities often visit, but rarely permanently reside, Dubai claiming chef Gary Rhodes for its own was and remains somewhat of a coup. Here was a fivetime Michelin-starred chef and television personality who loved the UAE to such an extent he chose to make it home and lend his name to a number of properties for almost a decade. For any lifestyle writer who has been in the country for more than a couple of years, attending an event where Rhodes was present, or perhaps even interviewing the man himself, almost became a rite of passage. So generous with his time and active in the community, the Londoner would never baulk at sitting down for a chat about his latest project or even (during one early encounter) lament over his premature exit from British celebrity talent show Strictly Come Dancing – of course with a knowing wink and trademark smile.
We first met Rhodes face-to-face at the opening for what was then the Rhodes Mezzanine; the Grosvenor House Dubai eatery which went on to be renamed Rhodes W1. There the enthusiastic cook circulated around the room giving everyone their fair share of time to discuss his almost perennial aim – to bring British cuisine out of the doldrums and give Dubai a taste of modern UK fare. Over the years, with the expansion of restaurants and venture into the ‘fine-food and films’ Theatre by Rhodes cinema experience, we can only deem his project a resolute success. A legacy of which to be proud, Rhodes will always be remembered as one of ours.