Chef-Owner of Bait Maryam & Sufret Maryam | MICHELIN
Best Female Chef 2023 | 50 Over 50 by Forbes Middle East | Giving Back
In the vibrant city of Dubai, Salam Daqqaq stands as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion. As the chef-owner of Bait Maryam, she was recently awarded the title of Middle East & North Africa’s Best Female Chef 2023. This accolade recognizes her groundbreaking work in creating a community-focused restaurant that unites people through the rich tapestry of family recipes, transcending borders and backgrounds. Born in Palestine and raised in Jordan, Salam's journey began in Saudi Arabia, where she met her husband and started a family. After relocating to the U.S. and then to the UAE, she sensed that the time had come to pursue her lifelong dream: to become a chef. She reflected, “My dream has always been to become a chef,” recalling her experience teaching Arabic cuisine in a cooking studio in Saudi Arabia before life took her on a different path. In 2017, Salam opened Bait Maryam in Dubai's Jumeirah Lake Towers, a name that means "Maryam’s Home" in Arabic, paying homage to her mother and her culinary roots. The restaurant is more than just a dining establishment; it’s a sanctuary for expatriates yearning for a taste of home. The warm decor—wooden tables, vintage crockery, and traditional ceramic tiles—mirrors the familial service and the authentic food that fills the menu.
Salam describes her cuisine as Palestinian, yet it encompasses the broader Levantine culinary traditions that mothers and grandmothers have shared across generations. Signature dishes like her Fattet Musakhan—a hearty combination of chicken, sumac, and garlic-infused yogurt—reflect her innovative spirit while honoring her heritage.
At the heart of Bait Maryam is a mission: to create a place where everyone can feel at home, regardless of their background. Her nurturing energy is palpable, attracting a loyal following in a city filled with culinary giants. What motivates her every day is seeing people’s positive reactions when they eat or come to her restaurant. Her dedication extends beyond the kitchen; during the devastating explosion in Beirut in 2020, she organized a fundraising day for relief efforts, demonstrating her commitment to community and compassion.
Starting a restaurant with no prior experience in the hospitality industry was a significant challenge, but Salam faced it head-on, supported by her family and a growing community around her. The multicultural landscape of the UAE has further fueled her success, allowing her to spread the message of her Palestinian heritage far and wide.
Recognizing her role as a trailblazer, Salam embraces the responsibility of being a role model for aspiring chefs. Salam's partnership with her daughter, Nada, who manages operations while Salam oversees the kitchen, exemplifies the familial bond that Bait Maryam embodies. Together, they create a dynamic that infuses the restaurant with love and authenticity.
Receiving the title of Middle East & North Africa’s Best Female Chef is a crowning achievement for Salam, a dream realized through hard work and dedication. This recognition reflects not only her culinary skills but also her unwavering commitment to her community and heritage. In a city filled with transient residents, Salam Daqqaq has created a place that feels like home. Bait Maryam serves as a reminder that food is not just sustenance; it’s a way to connect people, share stories, and honor heritage. Her journey inspires many, proving that with passion, resilience, and a commitment to one’s roots, dreams can flourish in the most unexpected places.
Reflections on Chef Salam’s Journey
Chef Salam Daqqaq’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. Her journey from a trailing spouse to a celebrated chef encapsulates the idea that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams. The essence of Bait Maryam—creating a sense of belonging and connection—resonates deeply, especially in today’s fast-paced world where many seek authenticity and community.
Her commitment to her heritage and her innovative approach to traditional cuisine highlight the importance of storytelling in food. Salam's ability to evoke nostalgia through her dishes makes her a beacon for both culinary enthusiasts and those longing for a taste of home. It’s inspiring to see how she uses her platform not only to celebrate Palestinian culture but also to uplift others in her community.
As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, Salam Daqqaq stands at the forefront, proving that with heart and determination, one can carve out a place in the world—one delicious dish at a time.
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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bait.maryam/
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