Supermarket runs just got better
Dubai’s dining scene is getting a fresh, community-driven twist as Spinneys unveils The Chef’s Counter – a new in-store platform spotlighting the UAE’s homegrown culinary talent. Launching on Wednesday April 15 2026, the initiative kicks off with Kelvin Cheung of Jun’s Dubai, bringing his signature ‘Third Culture‘ flavours straight to Spinneys’ retail space.
For its debut week, The Chef’s Counter will serve up a curated selection of Jun’s fan favourites and 852 bakery’s dishes, including a punchy kimchi-crunch salad, a stacked ‘Notorious Sandwich’ built on a shio pan bagel, and Cheung’s cult brown butter chocolate chip cookies.
View this post on Instagram
The concept arrives at a crucial time for the industry. With rising costs continuing to challenge independent restaurants, The Chef’s Counter aims to provide chefs and food founders with increased visibility and new revenue streams, giving them a space to showcase at the deli counters and the bakery.
By leveraging its scale, Spinneys is creating a platform that connects customers directly with the people shaping the UAE’s evolving food culture – all while championing local entrepreneurship.
This isn’t a one-off collab. The Chef’s Counter is designed as an ongoing series, with a rotating line-up of chefs and food founders taking over the space each week. Expect a steady stream of new flavours, concepts and stories – from emerging names to established favourites – all under one roof.
At its core, The Chef’s Counter is about connection. Whether it’s discovering a new chef, trying something unexpected, or simply elevating your midweek meal, the initiative taps into Dubai’s love for community-led dining experiences. .And if this launch is anything to go by, your next favourite meal might just come from the supermarket aisle.
Find the series at these locations: Spinneys Circle Mall, Spinneys Marina, Spinneys Meydan, Spinneys Umm Suqeim, Spinneys Town Centre Meadows, Spinneys Dubai Silicon Oasis 2, Spinneys Damac Ventura, Spinneys Nshama 2
Image credit: Supplied
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.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
