When a new outlet opens on the Palm it’s interesting to find out a little about the people behind the scenes. Gusto opened a couple of weeks ago between building 7& 8 and the man whose job it is to entice you through the door is Chef de Cuisine Mustapha Benhadou.

“I want to make my guests to feel like they are dining in Mediterranean beach resort. I only use fresh ingredients as I believe in the power of premier ingredients shipped straight from the suppliers. I’ve been investing in creating great relationships with my suppliers and make a point of serving food based on what’s available in the market. A healthy lifestyle begins from eating fresh food!” I’m feeling hungry already, as we chat a little further while they prepare my business lunch - a new concept for the Palm with a guaranteed 45 minute turn-around time for the busy exec.

He has certainly served an apprenticeship, with 15 years Mediterranean cooking experience under his belt. Born in the capital of Morocco, he studied at the renowned Institute of Culinary Art in Rabat. Upon graduation, Mustapha started out at the most popular and highly rated “Goeland” restaurant in Rabat, where he improved his knowledge of cooking authentic Mediterranean food, before moving to Spain.

“My style of cooking is “Simple, Modern but Classic”. I believe in the importance of aroma, spice and using fresh vegetable sauces. I also use a touch of Italian cuisine, as I believe Italy is the Mother of Mediterranean food. My recipes are based on cuisines around the Mediterranean. I think by trying all the dishes in Gusto, you’ll be virtually able to have a culinary journey around the Mediterranean.”

He has been in Dubai about 8 years now at a number of leading outlets across the city, as well as spending some time up in Abu Dhabi. “I also worked for Ski Dubai for the launch of St Moritz restaurant and café which is a little strange in the Middle East surrounded by snow and ice, but I had 3 great years there before being asked to join Gusto.”

“It’s great to be involved at the launch phase of any restaurant and to be able to shape the menu. I’m planning to have some surprises for my guests. The menu will include anything from the Mediterranean – Italy, Spain, North Africa, etc … we’ll also have some Mezza and Moroccan dishes, too. There’ll be anything from Pizza, Pasta, and Risotto to spiced-up food from Greece, Egypt, and Southern Europe. We’ll make some interesting pickles, comfit, dried items to allow our guests to enjoy different flavours and richness of Mediterranean food. Also, it’ll be important that the food offered at Gusto will be based on what’s available and fresh in the market!”

My food arrives, and Mustapha vanishes back in to the kitchen. How was it? Find out for yourself! Gusto is open for both lunch and dinner everyday between buildings 7&8 of the shoreline apartments.


Special offer for Crest of Dubai Members

Any Crest of Dubai member can dine at Gusto and enjoy a complimentary Mezze platter for 2 people, when 2 main course meals are ordered. Quote Crest of Dubai REF: ”Crest” when booking.

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