IBRAHIM OSSERIAN

Executive chef at Flooka

I like to be creative with traditional dishes. I’d say Flooka’s fish falafel is the perfect example as it’s usually a vegetarian dish and I’ve created a non-veg version for the menu.

My biggest issue is excessive use of sauces. I really dislike that they can take away from the actual taste of the ingredients.

A guest once asked me for our fish cooked in rock salt but without the salt. I was very confused.

Everyone has mishaps when they first start cooking. We had a fish filleting accident with one of our new chefs, but luckily all of my team still have ten fingers.

The best advice I have ever been given? Always add a pinch of love (and a pinch of salt).

I love creating new dishes. My most recent is mama ghanoush. It is grilled aubergine purée with sesame seed oil and lemon juice with beetroot. This one is just beautiful, both in taste and visuals.

I have many ambitions left to fulfil in the world of food, from being part of the rumoured Michelin Star guide that is set to be coming to the UAE and finally cooking for Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum or maybe the Queen of England.

Eastern Mangroves Promenade, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, daily noon to midnight. Tel: (02) 4418244. Taxi: Eastern Mangroves Promenade. flooka.com