Sumo Sushi & Bento has been serving the best sushi in Dubai and throughout the GCC for more than 15 years, providing a unique family friendly, authentically fun Japanese restaurant. Now offering franchise opportunities globally, they continue to expand and offer this delicious experience to more Sumo Super Fans everywhere. Here is our interview with executive chef, Sebastian Lacandalo, on the Organic Industry in the region.
se tell us about yourself
I fulfilled my lifelong dream to become a professional chef in 2008. Prior to that I was working as a corporate finance executive. I began my career as a chef with Sumo Sushi & Bento, and over the course of these years they have recognized my talents and supported my creations. I am a member of various international chef associations, Research Chefs Associations being one of them.
I have a keen interest in Molecular Gastronomy; I enjoy bringing contemporary techniques to the traditional art of Sushi to produce unique dishes for UAE’s adventurous tastes.
ou source organic ingredients for your menu? Why? (For example, is there a difference in taste, or because of health reasons?)
Yes. We are using one organic ingredient which is our ‘Black Forbidden Rice’. It is one of our highly consumed items for Sushi and Bentos. Additionally, we are looking to incorporate more options in the future, specifically for our produced and seafood section.
There is a minimal difference in taste for organic products as they are more natural. However, nutritional wise, it is recommended.
our opinion, how popular is the organic trend in the Middle East?
The demand nowadays for organic products is increasing; be it supermarket or restaurants, organic products are making waves in the Middle East. Guests now are more conscious on what they eat and what is being served on their table.
do you determine the source of your ingredients? Is it local?
Most of the products that are available in the UAE for our restaurant are imported from different regions in the world. Most of our items are sourced from Japan, Maldives, India, Philippines, Thailand and the USA.
Interviewed by Menaka Ramakrishnan, Buyer Manager
menaka@organicandnatural.com