3 Chefs, 3 Outlets: Chef Jose

Chef José: A Passion for Flavors and Excellence at The Forge

A Culinary Journey Ignited in Childhood

Chef José's passion for cooking began at a young age. He fondly remembers taking charge of family dinners during festive occasions, immersing himself in cookbooks, and finding inspiration from renowned chefs. This early fascination blossomed into a lifelong dedication to the culinary arts.

Inspired by Masters, Guided by Principles

Two culinary giants have profoundly influenced Chef José's approach to food: Jorge Muñoz and Gaston Acurio. From Muñoz, he learned the importance of respecting quality ingredients and honouring tradition. Acurio's dedication to sharing Peruvian cuisine worldwide instilled in Chef José a deep appreciation for his culinary heritage.

These influences are evident in Chef José's core values - consistency, honesty, and respect for the product. These principles guide him in creating dishes that are both innovative and true to their essence.

A Kitchen Experience that Shaped a Vision

A pivotal moment in Chef José's career came in July 2018. Working alongside culinary luminaries like Massimo Bottura, David Muñoz, and Albert Adria at a special anniversary dinner for Astrid y Gaston restaurant solidified his passion for the profession. Witnessing the collaborative spirit and dedication of these masters left a lasting impression.

The Forge: An Ode to Steak with a Latin Flair

The Forge restaurant embodies Chef José's vision. The elegant atmosphere sets the stage for an exceptional dining experience. The star of the show is undoubtedly the high-quality meat selection, sourced from around the world. Latin American touches weave a unique flavor profile throughout the menu, offering guests a modern and culturally rich experience.

Quality, Sustainability, and a Commitment to Excellence

At The Forge, uncompromising quality is paramount. Chef José meticulously selects suppliers to ensure consistent excellence across the menu. He prioritizes standardized recipes while remaining flexible, allowing for substitutions to accommodate dietary restrictions without compromising the integrity of the dishes.

Sustainability is a core value at The Forge. Minimizing waste and maximizing utilization of ingredients are crucial aspects of Chef José's culinary philosophy.

A Legacy of Excellence and Cultural Connection

Chef José's aspirations for The Forge are ambitious. He envisions it becoming one of the UAE's premier steakhouses, offering guests a unique blend of modernity and cultural heritage. Through his innovative dishes, Chef José aspires to create a platform for cultural exchange and connection.

Food as a Language of Expression and Connection

For Chef José, cooking is more than just preparing a meal; it's a form of self-expression and a way to connect with others. He finds joy in creating new ideas and sharing his passion for food with his guests. Each dish becomes a story, an opportunity to celebrate and connect through shared experiences.

Signature Dish: While Chef José highlights his expertise in crafting ceviche, the restaurant allows some flexibility based on the specific signature dish offered at The Forge. Of course, bespoke steaks and prime cuts fortify his culinary prowess.

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

The Forge Restaurant (+971) 2 818 8203