UAE: This Emirati chef runs cafe with her 5 kids; first citizen to win French award

From Home Kitchen to Award-Winning Restaurant

Maryam Al Mansouri’s culinary journey began in the heart of her home, where she initially cooked for family and colleagues. What started as simple meals and popular sandwiches soon evolved into a professional pursuit fueled by passion and community support. In 2021, she and her husband launched Montauk Boutique Caf & Restaurant in Abu Dhabi, a venue that has since expanded to five branches with plans for further growth.

Montauk is more than just a restaurant; it is a reflection of Al Mansouri’s values. The establishment is renowned for dishes infused with Arabic spices, crafted from organic and carefully selected ingredients. This dedication to quality and authenticity has become a hallmark of her brand, earning her recognition both locally and internationally.

Family at the Heart of the Business

Al Mansouri’s approach to her culinary career is deeply intertwined with her family life. As a mother of six, she emphasizes the importance of spending quality time with her children, integrating them into the restaurant’s operations in ways that nurture their interests and skills. From preparing breakfast together to sharing daily experiences, family remains central to her life.

Understanding the challenges of balancing a busy business with family dynamics, Al Mansouri proactively involved her children in the restaurant’s management. Each child contributes according to their strengths: her eldest son Eman focuses on branding and research development, Abdullah manages human resources and finances, while younger children like Rashid, Fadel, and Hazza take on roles ranging from investment partnerships to junior barista and chef positions. This collaborative model not only supports the business but also fosters responsibility and entrepreneurship within the family.

Achievements and Industry Recognition

Maryam Al Mansouri’s accolades extend beyond the 'Best of Gastronomy' award. She serves as a regional judge for cooking arts competitions and leads judging panels in Arab coffee contests. Her expertise is sought after across the Middle East and North Africa, where she evaluates culinary submissions with a comprehensive lens—assessing cooking techniques, hygiene standards, safety protocols, pricing strategies, and operational challenges.

Her role as a culinary judge reflects her commitment to raising industry standards and mentoring emerging talent. Additionally, Al Mansouri holds multiple academic qualifications, including master’s degrees in Institutional Excellence and Project Management, and a diploma in Government Accelerators. She also holds a supervisory position within the Abu Dhabi Government, demonstrating her multifaceted professional capabilities.

Navigating Challenges with Resilience and Vision

Al Mansouri views pressure not as a hindrance but as a driving force. Her mantra, 'When passion turns into a goal, the impossible becomes possible,' encapsulates her mindset toward overcoming obstacles. She embraces the challenges of the culinary world, particularly the desire to satisfy customers and ensure their return.

She acknowledges that fear of failure is a significant barrier but believes that perseverance and strategic planning can surmount it. Her disciplined approach includes maintaining detailed diaries of daily and monthly goals, which helps her stay focused and motivated. Support from her husband as a business and life partner further strengthens her resolve.

Looking ahead, Al Mansouri aims to expand Montauk into a global franchise. Interest from multiple countries indicates the potential for her brand to achieve international recognition, further elevating Emirati cuisine on the world stage.

The Broader Impact: Empowering Emirati Women in Gastronomy

Maryam Al Mansouri’s success is emblematic of a broader trend of Emirati women making significant contributions to diverse fields, including the culinary arts. Her achievements challenge traditional norms and inspire a new generation of female chefs and entrepreneurs in the UAE and beyond.

By combining family values with professional ambition, she exemplifies how women can lead thriving businesses without compromising personal commitments. Her role as a judge and mentor also helps cultivate a supportive environment for emerging talent, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation within the region’s gastronomy sector.

What this means

Maryam Al Mansouri’s story is a compelling example of how passion, family support, and professional excellence can intersect to create a successful culinary enterprise. Her pioneering achievements not only elevate Emirati cuisine on the global stage but also inspire women and entrepreneurs to pursue their ambitions with resilience and vision. As she continues to expand her brand and mentor emerging talent, Al Mansouri’s impact is likely to resonate well beyond the kitchen, contributing to the UAE’s cultural and economic landscape.