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Chef Mariam Almansoori’s culinary journey began at an early age, steeped in family traditions and inspired by the iconic Julia Childs. She has carved a remarkable culinary journey that started in her family’s kitchen and led her to open the doors of Montauk Boutique Café & Restaurant in Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi, in 2021. Today, she’s hailed as the “Julia of the Middle East,” a title befitting her culinary prowess.
Growing up in the United Arab Emirates, Mariam Almansoori was surrounded by the rich flavors of Emirati cuisine. Her lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant became a reality in 2021 when she opened the doors to Montauk Boutique Café & Restaurant in Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi. It was a bold step, a culmination of her passion, education, and unwavering dedication to the culinary arts. Montauk represents more than just a restaurant; it’s a reflection of Mariam’s Emirati heritage and her commitment to family.
Mariam’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the kitchen. She has earned a professional Master’s degree in Business Excellence and holds the prestigious Project Management Professional certificate. Her dedication to self-improvement is evident through her participation in various workshops on communication, leadership, time management, problem-solving, and more. This diverse skill set undoubtedly contributes to her success as a chef and restaurateur.
At Montauk, Mariam showcases her culinary prowess by creating dishes that are not only delicious but also heartfelt. This dedication to authenticity and flavor is evident in every dish served at Montauk.She draws inspiration from her loved ones, and her culinary creations are imbued with warmth and love. Using fresh ingredients, Mariam crafts simple yet soulful recipes that seamlessly blend traditional Emirati cooking methods with international cuisines.
One dish close to Mariam’s heart is shakshuka, a breakfast staple from her childhood that now graces Montauk’s menu. Mariam fondly recalls her early days of self-teaching in the kitchen, where she’d cook for classmates and eagerly recreate dishes she’d discovered while dining out. Her journey eventually led her to master the art of baking, with croissants being a particularly triumphant achievement.
While she is undeniably a culinary virtuoso, her life extends beyond the walls of Montauk. She cherishes quality time with her family, explores new cuisines through travel, and proudly represents her own abaya brand, Begsha Fashion.
Founded in 2021, Montauk Boutique Café & Restaurant is a haven of culinary delights located in Yas Mall, Abu Dhabi. Inspired by the scenic beauty and gastronomic wonders of Montauk, New York, the restaurant offers a casual yet elegant dining experience. Chef Mariam Almansoori’s food-to-table cuisine is a celebration of wholesome, hearty flavors, beautifully presented for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and coffee breaks. Montauk has become a beloved neighborhood hangout, a place where a cup of coffee can be savored at any time of day.
Montauk Boutique Café & Restaurant is a testament to Mariam’s dedication, embodying the essence of Emirati culture and the warmth of family in every dish. As her culinary journey continues to evolve, the Middle East’s Julia Childs is sure to leave an indelible mark on the world of gastronomy.
