Hakkasan, Doha
Michelin-star and multi-award winner Hakkasan restaurant has extended its reach across the world, heightening its fame and allowing it to share its specialty Chinese cuisine and ambiance on a global platform. HN chatted with Gert Kopera, executive vice-president, Restaurants Global, of Hakkasan Group, to discover more about the brand’s distinguishing traits, its business in the region and its future development plans
As a global brand with multiple accolades, how does Hakkasan ensure it stands out from the crowd?
Hakkasan is much more than simply a restaurant: it’s an experience. Every detail is carefully considered, from the signature jasmine incense that greets customers, through to the stunning interiors, creative interpretations of authentic Cantonese dishes and the personalized service. Music and lighting are another focus. Some restaurants are able to offer great cooking or beautiful interiors, but very few can offer design, sound, service and cuisine to such high standards. This puts Hakkasan in a class of just a few.
How do you assess gastronomy in the MENA and how has Hakkasan contributed to its development?
The MENA region is continually evolving and expanding its gastronomy. Destinations such as Dubai have long ensured the region is on the world culinary map. Visitors and residents alike are able to choose from a significant variety of well executed world cuisines. It’s no secret that Michelin is looking closely at Dubai and rumors are rife that Michelin stars could soon be awarded. As a global brand with a number of awards to its name, there’s no doubt that Hakkasan has played a role in helping to establish this reputation. Other brands have witnessed our pioneering success in MENA, creating confidence that culinary art at the highest level has its place and can therefore attract further investment.
What are the top regional markets you are planning to tap?
We already have a presence in several markets, including Hakkasan in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Doha. We are actively looking to grow our business, with openings planned in 2018 for KSA, including Hakkasan and several other brands in our portfolio.
Hakkasan, Dubai
Tell us more about the Organic Mixology (OM) cocktails initiative…
This is a partnership taking place at Hakkasan Las Vegas in honor of Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. During the month of November, for every OM Liqueurs’ cocktail purchased from select Hakkasan Group locations in Las Vegas, one dollar will be donated to ‘Keep Memory Alive’. These signature cocktails were created by Hakkasan chief mixologist Tim Weigel specifically for this worthy cause. The cocktails feature two of OM Liqueurs’ signature flavors, which include: Cranberry & Blood Orange; Coconut & Lychee; Meyer Lemon & Ginger; Dark Chocolate & Sea Salt.
What upcoming F&B trends do you think the region is likely to embrace and how is Hakkasan incorporating them?
We live in an increasingly visual, image-led world and no one should underestimate the influence of Instagram and social media on dining. People of all ages are starting to use Instagram as a research tool in deciding where to eat. We’re fortunate that our restaurants and our culinary offers are visually stunning and photographed beautifully! The dishes at Hakkasan are also very ‘instagenic’ and, most importantly, taste amazing. They are literally ‘art on a plate’ . . . and on your palate!
How are your regional outlets different than the ones farther afield?
Hakkasan is a strongly defined concept and every opening is based around this core DNA, so that guests who love Hakkasan in Mayfair or Hakkasan Hanway in London will be equally delighted by dinner at Hakkasan in Abu Dhabi. However, we are sensitive to each restaurant’s location and seek to creatively incorporate subtle touches to reflect the destination. For example, each Hakkasan offers a special ‘Only At’ menu composed of dishes, desserts and cocktails that are exclusive to that specific location.
What future openings do you have planned for the region?
We are planning several openings in KSA in 2018. Hakkasan will be opening in Riyadh, along with some of our other brands that we’re bringing to the MENA region for the first time. Watch this space for further details!
Gert Kopera
executive vice-president, Restaurants Global,
Hakkasan Group
About Hakkasan
Hakkasan was founded in London in 2001 and has become one of the world’s most distinguished global restaurants, lounge and nightlife brands. Executive Head Chef Tong Chee Hwee has led the Hakkasan kitchen since its inception and his dedication to Chinese cuisine has earned the group numerous awards, including multiple Michelin stars at Hakkasan locations across the world.
Hakkasan, Abu Dhabi
