Salam Daqqaq is a name that resonates deeply within the culinary world. A trailblazer, she has crafted an unparalleled journey that blends passion, dedication, and talent. As the chef-owner of Bait Maryam and Sufret Maryam, Salam has not only garnered significant recognition but has become a symbol of perseverance and excellence, especially for women in the kitchen.
The Journey: From Dreams to Michelin Stardom
Salam’s journey to culinary greatness wasn’t an easy one, but it was undoubtedly driven by an unyielding passion for food. Her love for cooking started at a young age when she found joy in creating dishes inspired by her roots. Hailing from a culture rich in flavors and tradition, Salam’s culinary instincts were shaped by family gatherings, where food was not just a meal but a connection to heritage.
Initially, Salam ventured into the food industry without knowing that it would become her lifelong calling. She worked in various kitchens, honing her skills and learning from different chefs. Yet, there was always something that stood out – a deep desire to offer something unique. That passion, combined with her persistence, led her to establish Bait Maryam, a restaurant that reflects her vision of modernizing traditional Middle Eastern flavors while maintaining authenticity.
Bait Maryam: A Culinary Revolution
Bait Maryam is more than just a restaurant; it’s an experience. Salam wanted to create a place where people could indulge in Middle Eastern dishes that evoke memories of home while offering something new and exciting. The restaurant quickly became a sensation, known for its carefully crafted menu and warm ambiance. But Salam wasn’t content with simply serving delicious food. She wanted to elevate the dining experience, combining storytelling and artistry into each dish.
Her attention to detail and innovative approach didn’t go unnoticed. In 2023, Salam Daqqaq was recognized as the Best Female Chef by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide. This accolade didn’t just mark a personal achievement but also became a landmark moment for women in the culinary world, proving that passion and skill could break barriers.
Sufret Maryam: Expanding the Vision
Following the success of Bait Maryam, Salam took her vision a step further with the launch of Sufret Maryam. The restaurant is another testament to her relentless drive and commitment to creating an immersive experience for guests. Sufret Maryam is an extension of the first, with a focus on more intricate flavors and a broader exploration of Middle Eastern cuisine. It’s here that Salam showcases her growth as a chef, experimenting with new ingredients and presentation styles while staying true to her roots.
Sufret Maryam also emphasizes the connection between food and culture. Every dish tells a story, a narrative passed down through generations. Salam’s ability to merge tradition with modern innovation has resonated with diners and critics alike, making Sufret Maryam a sought-after destination in the UAE.
Overcoming Challenges: The Road to Success
Like any entrepreneur, Salam faced her fair share of challenges. The restaurant industry, known for its competitive nature, is tough for anyone, but for a woman striving to carve out her own space, the hurdles can feel even more daunting. From securing investors to building a team and managing the day-to-day operations of her restaurants, Salam’s journey was one filled with challenges that required resilience, patience, and tenacity.
Being a female chef in a male-dominated industry added another layer of difficulty. She had to prove her worth not only through her cooking but also through her leadership, vision, and determination. However, Salam turned these challenges into opportunities, inspiring other women to pursue their culinary dreams. She remains a beacon of hope for aspiring female chefs, showing that success comes not just from talent but also from persistence and an unwavering belief in oneself.
The MICHELIN Achievement: A Game-Changer
In 2023, Salam’s career reached a monumental peak when she was honored with the MICHELIN Guide’s recognition as the Best Female Chef. This acknowledgment was a game-changer, both for her and for the UAE’s culinary scene. For Salam, this award wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a testament to the growth and evolution of Middle Eastern cuisine on the global stage. It also helped raise the profile of Bait Maryam, attracting food lovers from across the world who wanted to taste the magic that had earned Salam this prestigious title.
Being part of the MICHELIN Guide was a dream come true for Salam, but she made it clear that this was only the beginning. She is determined to continue evolving, to keep experimenting, and to further put Middle Eastern flavors on the culinary map.
Forbes 50 Over 50: A Symbol of Excellence
Salam’s incredible rise in the culinary world also earned her a place in Forbes Middle East’s “50 Over 50” list. This recognition was another proud moment in her career, as it highlighted the impact of her work not just as a chef, but as a businesswoman and an influential figure in the Middle East. Being recognized among such accomplished individuals underscores Salam’s hard work and commitment to excellence.
The recognition from Forbes also reflects the increasing visibility of women in leadership roles across various industries, particularly in the restaurant world. Salam’s success has inspired many aspiring female entrepreneurs to pursue their passions, knowing that the sky is the limit with dedication and the right mindset.
Lifestyle: The Balance of Passion and Work
Behind Salam’s incredible achievements lies a lifestyle that revolves around passion, hard work, and balance. She remains deeply involved in every aspect of her restaurants, from creating new menus to mentoring her staff. However, Salam believes that success doesn’t mean sacrificing personal happiness. She takes time to enjoy life outside the kitchen, whether it’s spending time with her family or traveling to find new inspirations for her dishes.
This balance is key to her success. Salam is a firm believer in the idea that creativity thrives when there’s room for rest, reflection, and personal growth. By nurturing her own well-being, she’s been able to nurture her restaurants and her team. She sees herself not just as a chef but as a leader who inspires her team to aim higher, to innovate, and to strive for greatness.
What’s Next: The Future of Salam Daqqaq
Looking ahead, Salam Daqqaq shows no signs of slowing down. Her future is as bright as her past achievements, with plans for further growth, both professionally and personally. She’s focused on expanding the reach of her restaurants, continuing to innovate in the kitchen, and perhaps even venturing into new culinary projects. But most importantly, Salam remains dedicated to her vision: to tell the stories of the Middle East through food, to empower women in the culinary industry, and to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Salam’s success story is not just one of culinary excellence; it’s a story of resilience, passion, and dedication. She has shown the world that with hard work, innovation, and a love for what you do, anything is possible. Through Bait Maryam, Sufret Maryam, and her ever-growing influence, Salam Daqqaq is truly a beacon of inspiration for those striving to turn their dreams into reality.
Her story is a reminder that no dream is too big, and no challenge is insurmountable. As she continues to make waves in the culinary world, Salam proves that success is not just about the accolades, but about staying true to your passion and believing in yourself. Do follow her on Instagram.
