From France to Columbia, right here in Dubai
Dubai’s dining scene is set for a remarkable evening as GABA, the city’s hidden speakeasy, teams up with Chef Hadrien Villedieu of Chez Wam for an exclusive collaboration on Wednesday 12 November. The event promises an immersive four-hour experience where Colombian flair meets French refinement — a culinary dialogue designed to engage all senses through food, drink, and music.
Helmed by GABA’s Head Chef Esteban Torregrosa and Chef Hadrien Villedieu, the special tasting menu is a celebration of technique and storytelling. The chefs will present a multi-course progression of dishes that reinterpret Latin and French classics, balancing comfort with creativity.
Guests can expect inventive highlights such as Boeuf Tartare ‘Ajiaco‘ wrapped in phyllo and topped with caviar oscietre, Tuna Ceviche ‘Costeño‘ with coconut leche de tigre and watermelon, and 48-Hour Short Ribs ‘Sancocho‘ paired with plantain purĂ©e and pickled papaya. To finish, desserts include a decadent 3 Leches Pain Perdu with guava custard and Tropical Nama — a mango–passionfruit chocolate creation.
Cocktails and Music to Match
Complementing the menu, GABA’s award-winning bar team has curated a bespoke cocktail selection infused with tropical botanicals, fine spirits, and delicate tea infusions. The drinks mirror the night’s cross-cultural spirit, offering pairings that enhance the culinary journey.
The experience will be further elevated by a live performance from Imelda Gabs — the Belgian-Congolese-Swiss artist renowned for her emotive vocals and genre-blending sound. Her set will flow from Latin soul to French jazz, setting the tone for an evening that transitions seamlessly from dining to after-hours ambience.
“For me, cooking is about conversation,” shares Chef Hadrien Villedieu. “This menu is a dialogue between flavour, emotion, and place. It’s not just French or Colombian; it’s when two worlds truly listen to each other.”
Chef Esteban Torregrosa echoes the sentiment: “Both Hadrien and I love storytelling through food. Every bite, sound, and sip tells part of a story — one we hope our guests will remember.”
Image credit: SuppliedÂ
Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
