3 Chefs, 3 Outlets: Chef Pham

Chef Pham: A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition

Chef Pham's culinary journey began at 18 in Vietnam, where his grandmother instilled in him a passion for traditional Vietnamese cuisine. Her dedication to cooking, even for everyday meals, sparked a fire within him that continues to burn brightly today.

Inspiration and Values:

Chef Pham cites his grandmother as his primary culinary inspiration. He credits her with the foundation of his cooking style, which emphasizes honesty, passion, trust, and unwavering commitment to his customers. The greatest reward for Chef Pham is a simple one: seeing a satisfied smile on a guest's face and knowing they will return for another taste of his culinary artistry.

A Memorable Kitchen Experience:

A pivotal moment in Chef Pham's career came during his time working in Beijing, China. There, he mastered the art of preparing duck in a traditional wood-fired oven, a technique that continues to influence his cooking today.

Li Jiang: A Haven for Social Connection

As the Head Chef of Li Jiang, Chef Pham oversees a vibrant Pan-Asian restaurant designed to foster social interaction. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, a space where friends and family can gather and enjoy a shared culinary experience away from everyday pressures.

Flavors and Techniques:

Chef Pham's menu showcases a symphony of spices sourced from across Asia. Stir-frying, steaming, and boiling are the cornerstones of his culinary repertoire, each dish meticulously crafted to achieve maximum flavor and texture. His signature dish, oven-baked sea bass with lotus leaf, is a testament to his enduring connection with his grandmother's teachings.

Maintaining Excellence:

Chef Pham prioritizes consistency and high standards across his entire menu. He emphasizes proper hygiene, adherence to established recipes, and strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Sustainability also plays a vital role. Chef Pham incorporates fresh, organic ingredients whenever possible, including those grown vertically within the restaurant itself.

Future Aspirations:

Chef Pham dreams of securing a coveted Michelin Star for Li Jiang, a testament to the exceptional dining experience he curates. Beyond this, he aspires to bridge the gap between generations, passing on the time-honored traditions of Vietnamese cuisine to a new wave of culinary enthusiasts.

Food Philosophy:

Chef Pham's cooking philosophy is a beautiful blend of creativity and tradition. He strives to honor the heritage of Vietnamese cuisine while incorporating innovative touches that surprise and delight his guests. He embraces current culinary trends, thoughtfully integrating them into his dishes without compromising the essence of his cultural heritage. Seasonality and sustainability are fundamental to his approach, ensuring the freshest ingredients and minimal environmental impact.

Chef Pham recognizes food's unique ability to connect people across cultures. He views each dish as a bridge, inviting guests to explore new flavors and traditions, fostering understanding and appreciation for the diverse culinary tapestry of the world.

Recognition and Accolades:

Chef Pham's dedication has been rewarded with numerous accolades, including consecutive years of recognition in the Michelin Star Selection and "Best Pan-Asian Restaurant in Abu Dhabi" by Time Out Awards. He is deeply humbled by these recognitions, which serve as a source of motivation for him and his entire team.

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The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal.

Li Jiang Restaurant (+971) 2 818 8203