The Chef JKP Podcast

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What happens when two visionaries join forces ? In this extraordinary episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco welcomes Chef Torsten Vildgaard (formerly of Noma) and iconic Chef Björn Frantzén, both globally acclaimed for redefining modern gastronomy. Now leading the charge at FZN at Atlantis, The Palm, they’re reshaping fine dining in the Middle East.The conversation takes us through their personal stories, culinary philosophies, and the intense discipline of Michelin kitchens - as well as the unique opportunity and challenge of bringing Scandinavian excellence to the Gulf. This episode is a masterclass in what it takes to operate at the highest level in hospitality.Tune in to learn:👩‍🍳 How Torsten transitioned from Noma to opening his own Michelin-starred restaurant👩‍🍳 What it really takes to build and maintain a Michelin-level restaurant👩‍🍳 What three elements are the heart of elite kitchens👩‍🍳 How FZN is redefining luxury dining in the Middle East00:00 Opening Remarks and Personal Reflections02:00 Meet Torsten Vildgaard & Björn Frantzén04:40 Childhood Food Memories & Early Influences12:50 First Steps into Professional Kitchens25:42 Opening & Running Michelin-Starred Restaurants41:31 Expanding to Dubai: The FZN Vision46:12 Training, Guest Experience & Team Culture51:53 Menu Development & Local Ingredients54:13 Operating with Excellence in the Middle East01:13:12 Quick Fire Round01:20:45 Advice for Young ChefsYou can follow Bjorn on HERE You can follow Torsten on HERE A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.comStay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/Please leave us a review us on all podcast hosting sites - it’s the best way to support the show!Food is Memories !🍽️Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What does it take to lead a world-class kitchen rooted in fire and flavour? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Chef Jack Jarrott, the driving force behind Sand and Koal at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi.Jack takes us on a raw and honest journey through his career - from growing up in Australia to mastering open-fire cooking in London under the Gordon Ramsay empire, and eventually becoming a rising star in the UAE culinary world. The conversation explores everything from leadership and kitchen culture to navigating cultural shifts, earning accolades, and Jack’s mission to make Sand and Koal a globally recognized destination.Tune In To Learn:👩‍🍳 What it really takes to lead a modern open-fire kitchen👩‍🍳 How Jack adapted from Australia to London to the UAE👩‍🍳 The power of mentorship, discipline, and legacy👩‍🍳 Real talk about hotel kitchens vs. standalone restaurants00:00 Introduction and Podcast Announcement02:26 Meet Today’s Guest: Chef Jack Jarrott03:46 From Aussie Kitchens to Culinary Dreams13:49 London Life & The Gordon Ramsay Era34:48 Relocating to the UAE45:30 Lessons from The Guild & High-Volume Service54:19 Accolades, Recognition & Next Steps56:46 Building Sand and Koal at Emirates Palace01:02:35 Mastering the Art of Open Fire Cooking01:08:16 The Westholme Partnership01:13:02 Hotel Life: Expectations vs. Reality01:20:07 Jack’s Vision for the UAE Culinary Scene01:25:20 Quick Fire Round & Final ThoughtsFollow Jack on HERE A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com, as well as as Westholme Australian Wagyu - Westholme.comStay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/Please leave us a review on Spotify - it’s the best way to support the show!Food is Memories !Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What does it take to build a cult-favourite pizza bakery from scratch? We’re already at the Episode 9 from Season 9 of the show, and this time James Knight-Paccheco welcomes the passionate and resilient Raj Dagstani, founder of multi winning Marmellata Pizzeria.Raj shares his remarkable journey from early food memories to creating one of the United Arab Emirates most beloved pizza concepts. The conversation covers the challenges of starting a business, the importance of mental health and balance in the hospitality world, and how Marmellata evolved into a community-driven success story.Tune in to learn:👩‍🍳 How Raj built Marmellata Bakery into a must-visit destination👩‍🍳 Why authenticity and resilience matter more than trends👩‍🍳 Real stories of growth, setbacks, and building a brand with purpose👨‍🍳 Advice for aspiring chefs and business owners00:00 Podcast Announcement00:47 Introduction to the Chef JKP Podcast03:58 Meet Today’s Guest: Raj Dagstani of Marmellata Bakery04:29 Raj's Early Food Memories06:50 Journey into Professional Cooking and Entrepreneurship30:18 Lessons in Mentorship and Learning the Hard Way42:30 Opening Marmellata Bakery: The Big Leap47:27 Returning to Dubai & Building a Brand48:45 Finding a Culinary Identity 53:42 Facing Setbacks and Rising Stronger54:38 The Art of Reinvention and Staying True to Yourself01:00:07 Scaling Marmellata and Future Visions01:17:55 Family, Food, and Managing Life with Passion01:28:47 Quick Fire Questions with RajYou can follow follow Marmellata on HEREA huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.comStay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/Please leave us a review on all podcast platforms - it’s the best way to support the show!Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What happens when comfort food meets the desert? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with the inspiring and outspoken Chef Troy Payne for a deep, personal, and unfiltered conversation.From his Melbourne food roots to launching Craft by Side Hustle, the first brewery concept in the MENA region, Troy opens up about the highs and lows of his culinary career. The episode touches on mentorship, his powerful connection with the late Chef Greg Malouf, the mental health challenges of the industry, and finding identity in the Dubai food scene.Tune In To Learn:👩‍🍳 How Troy’s journey from Australia shaped his food philosophy👩‍🍳 The emotional toll and importance of mental health in kitchens👩‍🍳 What it’s like to launch a brewery-meets-comfort food concept in the Middle East👩‍🍳 How innovation, failure, and purpose intersect in modern hospitality00:00 Chef JKP Podcast Live Announcement03:58 Meet Chef Troy Payne04:29 Growing Up in Melbourne & First Taste of Cooking06:50 Childhood Food Memories & Influences11:13 The Path to Professional Cooking15:34 Mentorship and Growth in the Culinary World22:47 Finding Confidence and Voice as a Young Chef30:24 The Influence of Greg Malouf & Their Bond42:30 A New Adventure: Opening a Restaurant in the Middle East47:27 Returning to Dubai: A New Beginning54:38 Innovating Mobile Kitchens01:00:07 Craft by Side Hustle: The First Brewery in MENA01:05:22 The Reality of Entrepreneurship in F&B01:10:56 The Importance of Mental Health in the Culinary Industry01:17:55 Family, Food, and Balancing Personal Life01:22:12 Lessons from Failure and Reinvention01:28:47 Quick Fire Questions & Final ReflectionsFollow Troy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trotskie/A huge thank you to our partners Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com🚨Catch more unfiltered conversations like this one at Timeout Market Dubai. Live recordings continue on April 27th - don’t miss your chance to be part of the audience!Stay sharp and hydrated with the Chef JKP thermos bottle - available at chefjkp.com or via DM on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/Please leave us a review on Spotify - it’s the best way to support the show!Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Can hospitality thrive without mental wellness? In this very special live episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Scott Armstrong, journalist-turned-mental-health-advocate and founder of MENTL, to have an unfiltered, honest conversation about the state of mental health in the workplace - particularly in high-pressure industries like hospitality.This episode dives deep into psychological safety, breaking down stigma, and how investing in mental health isn’t just the right thing to do - it’s good for business. Scott shares his journey from global editorial roles to launching a platform that challenges cultures of silence and burnout. We also explore how leadership, open dialogue, and structural changes can drive well-being at every level of the team.Tune In To Learn:👩‍🍳 The critical link between mental health and team performance👩‍🍳  Scott’s personal journey from journalism to wellness advocacy👩‍🍳 The red flags of anxiety, burnout, and toxic leadership👩‍🍳  How businesses can create a culture of psychological safety👩‍🍳  What the upcoming Mental Health Awards mean for the industry00:00 Live Podcast Announcement03:02 Meet Scott Armstrong & His Journey21:20 Global Journalism to Leadership Challenges36:03 Shifting from Media to Mental Health Advocacy46:36 Why Mental Health is a Business Imperative01:04:09 Addressing Toxic Cultures & Workplace Stress01:10:08 Mental Health in High-Pressure Environments01:16:52 The Mental Health Awards & How to Nominate01:23:34 The Power of Open, Honest Conversations01:29:52 Quick Fire Round with Scott Armstrong01:40:26 Final Thoughts & FarewellYou can learn everything about Scott's organisation by heading to - https://mentl.space/A huge thank you to our partner Luvv Fits – luvvfits.com🚨Catch more unfiltered conversations like this one at Timeout Market Dubai. Live recordings continue on April 20th and 27th - don’t miss your chance to be part of the audience!Please leave us a review, it’s the best way to support the show!Food is memories! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Is your lifestyle helping or hurting your performance in the kitchen? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco welcomes Michael Canas, a transformation coach with a passion for helping people in demanding careers - like hospitality - take back control of their health.From sleep and cravings to nutrition, alcohol, stress, and the power of small, consistent habits, this episode is packed with practical, real-world advice for anyone struggling to stay healthy in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.Whether you're a chef, restaurant owner, or just someone trying to juggle long hours with better habits, this is your blueprint for sustainable health and wellness.Tune in to learn:👩‍🍳 The real impact of nutrition vs. exercise - and where to focus first👩‍🍳 What alcohol really does to your body, and how to drink smarter👩‍🍳 How mental health, movement, and discipline all go hand in hand👩‍🍳 The coaching mindset: how accountability and self-awareness lead to long-term results01:00 Chef JKP Podcast Announcement02:47 Meet Michael Canas: Transformation Coach07:40 From Pub Chef to Fitness Professional22:12 Nutrition vs. Exercise: Which Matters More?33:21 The Sleep–Cravings Connection41:38 Breaking Habits & Coaching Real Talk48:15 Health Struggles in Hospitality59:51 Common Health Myths and Missteps01:08:57 Alcohol & Long-Term Health01:18:43 Longevity, Habits & Healthspan01:22:29 Accountability & Self-Improvement01:34:46 Quick Fire Round01:42:54 Final Thoughts & TakeawaysFollow Michael on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaelcanasmc/A huge thank you to our partners:Luvv Fits – luvvfits.comWestholme – westholme.com🚨 The Chef JKP Podcast is going LIVE! 🚨Join us for unfiltered, real conversations on April 13th, 20th, and 27th at Timeout Market Dubai. Expect deep insights, audience Q&As, and a chance to connect with industry leaders.Want to support the show? Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ChefJKPFood is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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How do you turn a single restaurant into a globally recognised dining group? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Natasha Sideris, founder and CEO of the Tashas Group, for an inspiring and candid conversation about her journey from family-run kitchens to launching standout brands like Flamingo Room, Galaxy Bar, and her latest concept, Nala.Natasha opens up about her childhood food memories, growing up in her father’s restaurant business, and how those early experiences shaped her passion for hospitality. She also dives into the realities of running a restaurant empire, the importance of work-life balance, and what it takes to scale without sacrificing quality.Tune In To Learn:👩‍🍳 How Natasha launched and scaled Tashas across multiple markets👩‍🍳 The strategy behind choosing Dubai and navigating the London restaurant scene👩‍🍳 Lessons in wellness, resilience, and sustainability in hospitality👩‍🍳 What makes a strong hospitality brand stand out in a competitive market👩‍🍳 Key advice for aspiring restaurateurs from one of the region’s leading visionaries01:00 Chef JKP Live Announcement02:39 Meet Natasha Sideris: Her Culinary Journey08:09 Entering the World of Hospitality21:21 Launching Tashas and Defining a Brand42:51 Expanding with Flamingo Room & Galaxy Bar57:17 DIFC and New Market Challenges01:07:20 Wellness, Balance & Industry Realities01:13:35 Global Expansion & Cookbook Creation01:21:43 Fast Casual Concepts & Scaling Smart01:30:03 The Future of Dining in MENA01:33:13 Quick Fire Questions01:39:57 Advice for Aspiring RestaurateursLearn more about Tasha's Group: https://www.tashasgroup.com/You can see what Natasha is up to on LinkedINA huge thank you to our partners:Luvv Fits – luvvfits.comWestholme – westholme.com🚨 The Chef JKP Podcast is going LIVE! 🚨Join us for unfiltered, real conversations on April 13th, 20th, and 27th at Timeout Market Dubai. Expect deep insights, audience Q&As, and a chance to connect with industry leaders.Please leave us a review on Apple, Spotify or any podcasting site - it’s the best way to support the show!Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What does it take to write about food in one of the world’s most dynamic culinary cities? In this episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, host James Knight-Paccheco sits down with Pallavi Sangtani, acclaimed food and travel writer, to explore the ever-evolving dining landscape of Dubai and beyond. From fine dining to street eats, Pallavi shares her unique perspective on what makes the city’s food scene so exciting - and what still needs work.This episode goes beyond the plate to discuss the cultural layers of dining, the impact of international awards, and how chef personality shows up in every dish. Pallavi also opens up about her journey from events and tech to becoming one of the region’s most respected food voices, along with her thoughts on wellness, feedback culture, and the future of MENA’s gastronomic scene.Tune In To Learn:👨‍🍳 How Dubai’s food scene has evolved - and where it’s headed👨‍🍳 Global awards and their effect on local restaurants👨‍🍳 The role of wellness and work-life balance in hospitality👩‍🍳 What chefs and food writers really think of each other00:00 Chef JKP Live Announcement02:51 Meet Pallavi Sangtani: Her Culinary Journey09:22 Exploring Dubai's Food Scene14:36 Early Career, Food Tech & Writing Beginnings34:34 Expansion and Growth of Restaurant Listings41:41 Exploring the Art of Food Writing53:59 Awards, Recognition & Menu Evolution in Dubai01:10:54 Wellness & Working Conditions in Hospitality01:18:25 Dubai’s Dining Scene: Personal Perspectives01:33:35 Predictions for MENA’s Culinary Future01:35:28 Quick Fire Questions & Final ReflectionsFollow Pallavi on Instagram: www.instagram.com/pallavisangtani/A huge thank you to our partners:Luvv Fits – luvvfits.comWestholme – westholme.com🚨 The Chef JKP Podcast is going LIVE! 🚨Join us for unfiltered, real conversations on April 13th, 20th, and 27th at Timeout Market Dubai. Expect deep insights, audience Q&As, and a chance to connect with industry leaders.Please leave us a review - it’s the best way to support the show!Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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Is the hospitality industry facing a mental health crisis? 🧠 In this powerful episode of the Chef JKP Podcast, James Knight-Paccheco sits down with clinical psychologists Dr Bisi Laniyan and Dr Gurveen Ranger of Sage Clinics to tackle one of the biggest challenges in the industry - mental health.From stress and anxiety to burnout and depression, this episode provides practical tools, expert advice, and real-world strategies to help hospitality professionals and beyond prioritise mental well-being.Whether you’re in hospitality or simply looking for ways to take care of your mind, this episode is filled with must-hear insights.Tune in to learn more about:👨‍🍳  What mental health really means and how it manifests in daily life👨‍🍳  Proven techniques to reduce pressure in high-intensity workplaces👨‍🍳  How to recognize the signs of depression and burnout and take action before it’s too late👨‍🍳  Breaking the stigma around seeking professional help and building a support network👨‍🍳  Why mental resilience is crucial in the food industry, and how professionals can create healthier work environments👨‍🍳  The healing power of food and how communal eating fosters mental well-being.00:00 Event Announcement!03:17 Meet the Experts11:30 The Journey to Becoming a Psychologist23:18 Understanding Mental Health & Its Manifestations29:27 Working in Dubai's Multicultural Environment42:34 Techniques for Managing Anxiety & Depression58:21 The Reality of Mental Health in Hospitality01:14:31 Recovery & Coping Strategies for Industry Professionals01:23:02 The Role of Professional Help & Support Networks01:25:01 How to Approach a Loved One About Mental Health01:39:12 Cooking as Therapy & The Power of Communal Eating01:46:24 Quick Fire Round🚨 The Chef JKP Podcast is going LIVE! 🚨Join us for unfiltered, real conversations on April 13th, 20th, and 27th at Timeout Market Dubai. Expect deep insights, audience Q&As, and a chance to connect with industry leaders.A huge thank you to our partners:Luvv Fits - www.luvvfits.com Westholme - www.westholme.comFor more information on Sage clinics head over to https://sage-clinics.comFollow Dr. Bisi on HERE Follow Dr. Gurveen HEREFollow the Chef JKP podcast on INSTAGRAM !Don’t forget to follow, share, and subscribe to the podcast—it’s the best way to support the Chef JKP community. Leave us a five-star review and let us know your favorite moments from this episode!Food is memories! Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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What really goes into ranking the world’s best restaurants? James Knight-Paccheco sits down with William Drew, Director of Content for the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, to pull back the curtain on the prestigious list that shapes the global dining scene. From the secrecy behind the voting process to the evolution of kitchen culture, William shares insider insights on what makes a restaurant truly world-class. Plus, he dives into his journey from political journalism to food media, the biggest shifts in gastronomy today, and the future of fine dining.Tune In To Learn:👨‍🍳 How restaurants are ranked and why the process remains a well-guarded secret.👨‍🍳 The evolution of kitchen culture, wellness, and the shift towards a healthier work environment.👨‍🍳 Key trends shaping the future of food and the importance of regional recognition.👨‍🍳 William’s most memorable dining experiences and what he believes makes a truly world-class restaurant.00:00 Chef JKP Podcast Goes Live!02:28 Meet William Drew07:02 The Golden Era of Magazines & Transition to Food Journalism19:44 The Influence of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants List22:28 How the Voting Process Works29:46 Expanding the 50 Best Lists Globally39:50 Launching in the Middle East and North Africa41:55 Building a Global Culinary Community44:09 Evolving Kitchen Culture & Well-being53:18 The Evolution of Global Dining01:04:06 Quick Fire Questions & Fun Stories01:12:36 Final Thoughts & AdviceYou can follow the Worlds 50 Best on Here - https://www.instagram.com/theworlds50best/You can follow the Chef JKP Podcast on Here - https://www.instagram.com/chefjkppodcast/A huge thank you to our sponsors:Westholme Australian Wagyu - https://www.westholme.com/Luvvfits Gourmet Protein Bars (luvvfits.com)Food is memories. Enjoy the episode! 🍴Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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