IZU ANI

Head Chef and founder, Carine

I love to interact with my guests and make them feel like a VIP so I come out from the kitchen and talk to diners. In Carine, we want to create the same comfortable feeling you have at home when you share a meal with your family.

There’s always something new to learn. Every single person I’ve met in the past 26 years has taught me something, especially in the kitchen where I’ve been working with various nationalities, personalities and age groups.

The strangest thing I’ve ever eaten is live octopus in Korea during a research trip throughout Asia. The tentacles were still moving inside my mouth and trying to suck my tongue even though they were chopped! I’ve also tried fried crickets in Thailand – it tasted almost like chips.

When I’m not in the kitchen, I’m cycling whenever and wherever I can. I can feel the difference on the days when I’m cycling and when I’m not. I’m much more calm and focused so I really push everyone around me to exercise.

My favourite restaurant is 3 Fils for its simple food, humble chef and nice staff. This place really shows that it’s not about where you’re located or the design, the focus should be on the food and its quality.

Emirates Golf Club, Dubai, daily 7pm to 10.30pm. Tel: (04) 4179885. Taxi: Emirates Golf Club, near Nakheel Metro. facebook.com/Carine