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SBS Australia
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- SBS Australia
Meet the chef who created the viral Dubai chocolate
His humble, unassuming demeanour wouldn't give away the fact that he's responsible for millions of dessert dreams. But Dubai-based chef Nouel Catis exudes a quiet confidence that is telling. Catis, who works as a culinary consultant after decades as a chef in five star hotels and restaurants around the world – including at the Burj al Arab, often considered the pinnacle of hospitality – is the pro who was tasked with coming up with a 'chocolate that is also a dessert' back in 2023, by the founder of Dubai-based dessert atelier, Fix Chocolate . Speaking about his inspiration behind the Dubai chocolate bar, Catis tells SBS, 'As a chef, my role is to come up with a plan, a thought process, formulate a recipe where you put things together based on what people believe could be interesting, and make it a solid idea. 'Out of all the ideas we were discussing, I picked these ingredients because I'm all about the UAE or Middle Eastern heritage being captured as a chocolate or as a dessert, that's my USP. Of course, the chocolate went through a lot of changes since it was conceptualised, and lots of innovations to become what it is right now.' The creation shot to instant fame thanks to some social media magic – it was unashamedly created for Instagram, with its vivid visual appeal – first locally, then globally. And the craze doesn't show any sign of letting up, even fuelling a global pistachio shortage! According to the , prices have surged from $7.65 to $10.30 a pound in one year. Having prompted a series of 'dupes' around the world – including here in Australia and, reportedly, biggies like Lindt jumping on the trend, it appears everyone wants the unlikely taste of chocolate with pistachio paste, tahini, and the pastry crunch of Middle eastern dessert knafeh through it, no matter what the cost. Explaining that the creation is an ode to the flavours of the region, Catis says, 'I decided to put these flavours together inspired by the idea of nostalgia. It's not a common thing to use in desserts, but I noticed that in Lebanon, people enjoy eating dates and tahini together. The flavours resonated with me personally too. I've been living in the UAE for 16 years, and I enjoy Middle Eastern desserts – especially kunefeh. That's what triggered the thought process of creating something unique.' Catis has since parted ways with the Fix chocolate – who only sell their chocolate through Instagram at fixed times during the day via delivery app Deliveroo, the 'hard to get' strategy adding to the chocolate's allure. In the meantime, he has opened his own boutique chocolatier, Sna'ap, offering something similar - but taking things to the next level, with a focus on pure, premium ingredients. Named after the sound the chocolate is supposed to make when cracking a bar open, he sells them via Instagram and out of a pop-up chocolate bar on a popular waterfront promenade in Dubai. 'Blending the flavours of the Middle East, with say, the European or Western, and making it relatable to this community, that has always been at the forefront of our creations,' he says. 'My focus is all about showcasing the flavours of the UAE to the world, that has always been my reason for doing this. Not only Emirati flavours, but other flavours too – because we have so many different cultures here in Dubai… we have Indian, Filipino, French, British, so many… 'But our point of difference at Sna'ap is keeping things as pure as possible. You don't want a chocolate with a lot of mystery ingredients in it!' To that end, he has continued to innovate with flavours like strawberry fields (white chocolate infused with freeze dried strawberry), Kadak chai (cardamom flavoured), salted caramel camel chocolate and to mark Ramadan in 2025, ube baklava – a true expression of Dubai's multiculturalism. 'Sna'ap is all about being creative, and also respecting heritage,' he continues. 'But I want this to be more than just a viral chocolate. It has to be something that you crave for every day. You can buy it anytime and you enjoy it as a snack basically. It's a new nostalgia.' Wondering where to buy Dubai chocolate in Australia? Unfortunately, the OG can only be purchased in Dubai, but you can find multiple local versions in stores around Melbourne and Sydney, and online. Jason Atherton's Dubai Dishes Watch now Share this with family and friends
Gulf News
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
From Dubai to Salalah: Filipino chef adds Omani twist to viral Dubai chocolate
Dubai: Dubai-based Filipino chef Nouel Catis, the creative force behind the viral pistachio kunafa chocolate, is now taking his artistry to Oman's Salalah with a tempting new creation. Inspired by the rich flavours and heritage of the Dhofar region, his latest offering uses local ingredients such as aromatic frankincense and a sweet coconut katayef dessert mixture. 'Expect the unexpected,' Catis said. 'We've taken the original essence of Dubai Chocolate – decadent, layered, and nostalgic – and infused it with Dhofar's unique identity. The coconut-frankincense katayef bar captures the lushness of Salalah through creamy coconut gianduja, hints of roasted coconut and pistachio, and the sacred note of frankincense.' Catis underlined that this is not just a twist but a reinvention that bridges two rich cultures in a single bar. 'You'll taste something familiar, yet entirely new.' 'Cultural storytelling' Following his recent collaboration with AF Hospitality's restaurant brands in Manila, Catis will be partnering with Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara for this special project. 'This collaboration is a beautiful continuation of my journey in using desserts as a medium for cultural storytelling,' he said, noting that the special creation is designed for the Khareef season – the monsoon period in southern Oman. 'It's not just about crafting chocolates or desserts – it's about translating the heritage, aromas, and flavours of the region into something guests can experience and remember.' The new signature chocolate – along with another creation, a Coconut Malva Cake – will be available at the resort's Al Mina beachside venue from June to August. Andrea Orru, general manager of luxurious resort, expressed excitement about the collaboration.
Zawya
21-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
An ode to Dubai Creek: Dubai's newest waterfront destination, Marsa Boulevard, welcomes first visitors
Dubai's latest seasonal destination is a dynamic space for creativity and community, which will host weekly showcases and workshops until mid-May Among the homegrown concepts are Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Chef Nouel Catis, SLAB and Lost in Tokyo, to name a few Dubai, UAE: Marsa Boulevard, the newly launched seasonal waterfront destination, is now open to visitors. Situated at the heart of Dubai Creek, this vibrant and ever-evolving venue sets a new scene for homegrown brands, innovative food concepts, and local talent to showcase their creativity. More than just a venue, Marsa Boulevard offers an experiential journey designed for those who appreciate the finer aspects of life. Open until mid-May from the golden hour of 4:00pm to midnight on weekdays and 1am on weekends, and resuming in October, guests can enjoy the cooler weather against the panoramic Dubai Creek backdrop with breathtaking sunsets by the waterfront. During Ramadan, extended hours will apply, with exact timings to be announced closer to the season. The seasonal destination will showcase a vibrant mix of homegrown food concepts and carefully curated culinary experiences, fashion popups, artistry, and immersive activations. Among the homegrown concepts that have set up shop on Marsa Boulevard's waterfront are The Good Life, Comptoir 102, and Chef Nouel Catis. For food lovers, social culinary experiences will be brought by Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Home Bakery, SLAB, BLU, Maison Matcha, The Grove, Mara Lounge, TRIO, Haret Jdoudna and Lost in Tokyo, with bespoke menus curated for Dubai's discerning diners. Marsa Boulevard will elevate the experience with an ever-changing lineup of workshops including The Charm Bar, art installations, pop-ups, and live entertainment every weekend. During Ramadan, whether gathering for iftar or suhoor, visitors can enjoy specially crafted menus designed for memorable evenings in both an indoor and outdoor setting. Marsa Boulevard is a celebration of culture, creativity and community, set against the stunning backdrop of Dubai Creek. More than just a destination, it's a space where tradition meets innovation; where seasoned entrepreneurs meet emerging talents; and where world-class experiences come together through a local lens. Every element is designed to inspire and through collaborations and fresh perspectives, Marsa Boulevard is not just a place to visit – it's shaping new memories and honoring the Dubai Creek, which has shaped the city.
What's On
21-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Meet Marsa Boulevard, Dubai's newest foodie waterfront destination
An ode to Dubai Creek… Dubai truly knows how to spoil us for choice on the foodie front. We have an unending list of restaurants – which would take us 35.6 years to go through – and there are so many more on the way. One spot that needs to make its way onto your list (and into your belly) is Marsa Boulevard. 3 of 12 Marsa Boulevard - Reif Othman Marsa Boulevard - Mara Lounge Marsa Boulevard - The Grove Marsa Boulevard - Blu Pizzeriá Marsa Boulevard - Nouel Catis Marsa Boulevard is Dubai's newly launched seasonal waterfront destination located on the Dubai Creek. At the new foodie scene, you will be spoiled for choice with options spanning homegrown brands, innovative food concepts, and local talent showcasing their creativity. Some of the homegrown concepts that have set up shop on Marsa Boulevard's waterfront include The Good Life, Comptoir 102, and Chef Nouel Catis. You'll also find social culinary experiences will be brought by Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Home Bakery, SLAB, BLU, Maison Matcha, The Grove, Mara Lounge, TRIO, Haret Jdoudna and Lost in Tokyo. *J1 Beach: A guide to the 12 beach clubs and restaurants* It's not just a foodie haven, but a cultural one too. Amongst the vibrant mix of homegrown food concepts and carefully curated culinary experiences, expect fashion popups, artistry, immersive activations, and even an ever-changing lineup of workshops. But you don't have very long to go and try it out. Since it is a seasonal destination, the dynamic space will only remain open this year until mid-May from 4pm. On weekdays, it will remain open until midnight, and on weekends until 1am. It will reopen post-summer when guests can once again enjoy the cool Dubai Creek weather and views. Do note, if you're visiting over Ramadan, you can expect menus designed for iftar or suhoor. The hours will change, so stay tuned to social media channels. Marsa Boulevard, near Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai, open daily until mid-May, weekends 4pm to 1am, weekdays until 12am. @marsaboulevard Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
FACT
14-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Marsa Boulevard: Your guide to Dubai's latest waterfront destination
Dubai is never short on exciting new spots to explore, and with the last stretch of pleasant weather still upon us, there's no excuse to stay indoors. If you're on the lookout for a fresh place to hang out, Marsa Boulevard could be the antidote. Located in Marsa Al Khor, close to Dubai Festival City Mall, Marsa Boulevard is a new dining destination with a lineup of incredible pop-up dining concepts. Running until April, it's the perfect spot to indulge in some of the city's best culinary creations while soaking up waterfront views. Pizza lovers in Dubai know that BLU Pizzeria is a game-changer. Serving sourdough Neapolitan-style pizza, their unique flavours are now up for grabs at Marsa Boulevard. Highlights include the Middle Eastern-inspired Musakhan Pizza and the creamy Burrata Pizza but if you want a FACT recommendation, then the Short Rib Pizza should be your choice. View this post on Instagram A post shared by BLU PIZZERIÁ (@blupizzeria) Chef Nouel Catis is bringing SNA'AP — his world-class, UAE-inspired chocolate brand to Marsa Boulevard. Sample exclusive flavours and artisanal creations that showcase the best of the sweet world of chocolate. A homegrown favourite, Home Bakery is bringing its beloved baked goods to Marsa Boulevard. If you haven't tried the viral Crookie yet — a mix between a croissant and a cookie, now's your chance. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Home Bakery (@home_bakery) For an authentic taste of Edomae-style sushi, look no further than Lost in Tokyo. Produced by Amemiya, this Japanese concept brings the essence of Tokyo to Dubai, offering perfectly crafted sushi with fresh, high-quality ingredients. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Saturn 🪐 (@jbbalitian) Matcha haven, Maison Matcha is here to satisfy all your matcha cravings. With a delicious lineup of matcha-based drinks and treats, this is the place to sip, savour, and enjoy. Mara Lounge caters to every palate with its diverse menu featuring salads, burgers, grills, and delectable desserts. Whether you're craving a wholesome meal or just a quick coffee fix, this spot promises top-tier flavours in every dish. Chef Reif Othman is a popular and celebrated name in Dubai's culinary landscape. With many spots across the city, the FACT award-winner is now heading a pop-up at Marsa Boulevard that's a must-visit for lovers of Japanese-inspired cuisine. Expect to find delicious bites like Chicken Gyoza, Wagyu Katsu Sando and the ever-popular 18-hours Ramen. A test kitchen concept based in Dubai's Mercato Mall, SLAB is all about bold flavours and seasonal ingredients. Led by Chef Omar Rodriguez, this Latin American-inspired spot is now open at Marsa Boulevard. Serving everything from Ceviche and Korean Fried Chicken to Mexican Corn Fritters, Slow-cooked Brisket and Wagyu Burgers, this pop-up is one not to be missed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SLAB Test Kitchen (@ Abu Dhabi's favourite urban coffeehouse, The Grove, has landed in Dubai at Marsa Boulevard. With a speciality coffee menu served against a scenic waterfront backdrop, it's the perfect place for a caffeine fix and a chill hangout. View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Grove (@thegroveuae) If matcha and baked goods are your thing, Trio should be on your list. This stylish cafe serves some great matcha and coffee creations that'll have you coming back for more. View this post on Instagram A post shared by TRIO (@ While the food scene at Marsa Boulevard is undoubtedly a major draw, the location also has some exciting retail pop-ups. You'll find The Charm Bar for accessories, Comptoir 102 for home decor, and The Good Life. So if you want to try new food, enjoy the views and soak in the lively atmosphere, Marsa Boulevard is a spot that's worth exploring. GO: Follow @marsaboulevard on Instagram for more information.
