JOHANN DUDEMAINE

French chef at La Môme

My mother wrote more than 30 culinary books, selling around 1.5 million copies. Since I was a kid I’ve always been one of the first to try all her new recipes.

I was born into a foodie world. It was so special to grow up with all those amazing smells coming out of the kitchen.

I remember making mayonnaise for my dad to try when I was younger. I still can see myself impatiently waiting for his verdict: It was very good. I was so proud. That’s what ignited my passion.

My life-changing moment happened when I worked at Mama Shelter. I was 22 years old and arrived as chef de partie, but after three months, I was offered the position of sous chef. It was a great accomplishment to manage a team of 30 of Paris’ trendiest hotels at such as young age.

Culinary speaking, Dubai is very different to Paris. French cuisine isn’t put on a pedestal like it is in Europe, which means you need to be perfect in everything you do. The competition is strong.

My last meal would be my father’s roast chicken that we used to eat every Sunday. It’s a childhood memory that I cherish.

Nassima Royal Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, daily noon to 2.30pm, 7.30pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 3080000. Taxi: Nassima Hotel. lamomedubai.com