With over two decades of experience in the culinary world, Chef Rami Jaafar has carved a distinguished path marked by passion, innovation, and leadership. As the Executive Chef at Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Salmiya in Kuwait, he brings a wealth of international expertise, having helmed kitchens across the Middle East and beyond. Known for his mastery of Lebanese, French, Italian, and Far Eastern cuisines, Chef Rami combines tradition with creativity to deliver unforgettable dining experiences. In this interview, he shares insights into his career journey, culinary philosophy, future ambitions, and the projects that continue to shape his dynamic presence in the hospitality industry.
Tell us a bit about your professional career.
I am an experienced Executive Chef with over 20 years in the culinary industry, currently leading the kitchens at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Salmiya, Kuwait. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of managing prestigious restaurants across Lebanon, Kuwait, Egypt, Turkey, and the UAE. I specialize in Lebanese, French, Italian, and Far Eastern cuisines, with a strong focus on creativity, consistency, and guest satisfaction. I take great pride in running high-volume operations efficiently, developing innovative menus, leading and training teams, and maintaining control over food cost and waste. My academic background includes a BA in Hospitality & Tourism, along with a diploma in Lean Management, which supports my approach to streamlined and effective kitchen management.
What is your philosophy or motto?
Passion, precision, teamwork, creativity—elevating every dish with purpose.
What is your dream in life?
My dream is to create a world-renowned culinary destination that highlights the richness of Lebanese cuisine while embracing global influences. I envision a space where tradition meets innovation, allowing guests not only to enjoy exceptional food, but also to connect with the culture and passion behind every dish. Beyond owning a celebrated restaurant, I aspire to mentor aspiring chefs, sharing my knowledge and experiences to support their growth and development. Ultimately, I want to leave a legacy built on excellence, creativity, and leadership—one that inspires others and brings people together through the universal language of food.
What are your current projects and plans?
At Holiday Inn Salmiya, I’m focused on enhancing the overall culinary experience by refining our multi-outlet operations and introducing fresh, seasonal menus with a modern touch. A key part of this effort is structured team training, which helps us elevate service quality and kitchen efficiency. We’re also expanding our catering services, aiming to position the hotel as a top choice for premium events in the region. In parallel, I’m building a personal culinary brand through content creation, with plans to publish a cookbook that reflects my journey and philosophy. Looking ahead, I’m working on launching my own signature restaurant—one that celebrates Lebanese heritage while incorporating global creativity and innovation.
DISCOVER RECIPES BY CHEF RAMI JAAFAR
