Yasmina Hayek claims top honor as best female chef in MENA
- Yasmina Hayek will receive the award at a ceremony in Abu Dhabi on January 28, 2025.
- She has garnered acclaim for her dedication to Lebanese cuisine and family traditions.
- Her achievements reflect the growing recognition of female chefs in the culinary world.
In Abu Dhabi, Yasmina Hayek was announced as the winner of the Middle East & North Africa's Best Female Chef Award for 2025 on December 12, 2024. As the executive chef of the renowned restaurant group, Em Sherif, Hayek has gained international recognition for her efforts to promote Lebanese cuisine while honoring her family’s culinary traditions. This award, which will be presented during the fourth edition of MENA's 50 Best Restaurants ceremony on January 28, 2025, highlights the achievements of female culinary leaders in the region. Hayek, who is the daughter of Em Sherif founder Mireille Hayek, has been deeply entrenched in the art of cooking since childhood, where it was viewed as an esteemed practice. Hayek's education at the prestigious Institut Paul Bocuse in Lyon and her experiences working with acclaimed chefs throughout Europe have shaped her culinary vision. Under her leadership, Em Sherif has expanded impressively to 24 locations across various countries, including Monaco, the UK, Qatar, Egypt, and the UAE. William Drew, Director of Content for MENA's 50 Best Restaurants, praised Hayek's commitment to Lebanese hospitality and refined dining, acknowledging her influence on both chefs and diners around the globe. Hayek expressed her gratitude for the award, stating that it represents not just her personal success, but a collective recognition of the entire Em Sherif team. She emphasized that cooking is about creating an inviting environment for guests, regardless of their background, and views food as a unifying factor in a fragmented world. The awards ceremony will also announce the Art of Hospitality Award on January 7 and the American Express One To Watch Award on January 16, expanding the celebration of culinary talent in the region.