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Yasmina Hayek: The Culinary Powerhouse of MENA

In a spectacular recognition of culinary brilliance, Yasmina Hayek, the executive chef of Em Sherif, has been awarded the title of the Middle East and North Africa's Best Female Chef for 2025. This esteemed accolade will be presented to her at the fourth edition of MENA's 50 Best Restaurants, set to take place on January 28, 2025, in Abu Dhabi, a vibrant hub that showcases the region's gastronomic talents.

A Celebrated Career Rooted in Tradition

Yasmina’s journey to this pinnacle of success is not just marked by her skills but is also deeply intertwined with her heritage. Growing up in a family steeped in the culinary traditions of Lebanon, particularly under the guidance of her mother, Mireille Hayek, the founder of Em Sherif, Yasmina was raised in an environment where cooking was revered as an art form. Her culinary philosophy beautifully merges the traditions of Lebanese cuisine with a modern flair, garnering her recognition on global stages.

Yasmina graduated from the prestigious Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon, France, where she refined her culinary techniques. Her career flourished as she accumulated experiences under the mentorship of renowned chefs across Europe, which helped to solidify her career in the competitive culinary landscape.

Expanding Culinary Horizons

Under Yasmina's leadership, Em Sherif has successfully expanded its presence with 24 locations throughout the Middle East and Europe, including Monaco, the UK, Qatar, Egypt, and the UAE. Each restaurant offers a unique dining experience, filled with intricate flavors and a sense of Lebanese hospitality. Em Sherif stands out not only for its food but also for the warmth and culture conveyed through its dining atmosphere.

William Drew, the Director of Content for MENA's 50 Best Restaurants, expressed admiration for Yasmina’s achievements, stating, "Yasmina Hayek's leadership at Em Sherif is a beacon of Lebanese hospitality. Her refined approach to dining has inspired many chefs and enchanted diners worldwide. We are honored to celebrate her contributions this coming January in Abu Dhabi."

A Vision Beyond Taste

Receiving the MENA's Best Female Chef Award is a significant milestone for Yasmina, who emphasizes that this achievement represents not only her individual efforts but also the collective passion of her team at Em Sherif. "I am incredibly thankful to have been considered for this award. It symbolizes the hard work of everyone at Em Sherif who shares our commitment to our roots and culinary traditions. For me, cooking transcends mere food preparation—it's about creating an environment where individuals from all backgrounds feel welcomed and at ease. In these times, food should act as a bridge of unity, not division, and I cherish the chance to share my heritage's flavors with the global community," Hayek remarked.

Celebrate Culinary Talent

The upcoming awards ceremony will also feature additional accolades, such as the Art of Hospitality Award on January 7 and the American Express One To Watch Award on January 16. These distinctions highlight the vibrant culinary talent present throughout the region.

As the cooking community gears up for this momentous occasion, Yasmina Hayek's story exemplifies how passion, tradition, and innovation can create not only delicious cuisine but also meaningful connections across cultures. The honor bestowed upon her underscores a broader movement to celebrate female chefs who are reshaping the landscape of the culinary world, one dish at a time.