Originally from Armenia, Hakobyan joins the Marriott family with seven years’ experience and a love for molecular gastronomy.
Hakobyan found his calling to the culinary world when he began his career in the army where he served for two years as a chef in the kitchen. With a degree in Culinary Arts, he got his first official break at the Mama Mia Pizzeria in Yerevan, Armenia. He then moved to Ankyun in the same city as demi chef de partie where he oversaw the salad section, learned the basics of molecular gastronomy and discovered a deep love for Italian food. After a year, Hakobyan traveled to Abu Dhabi to join the Italian joint, Porto Bello at the Grand Millennium Al Wahda as demi chef de partie which during his tenure, received Best Italian Restaurant by Time Out Abu Dhabi. During his five years at the property, Hakobyan was responsible for all the pasta and risotto dishes, along with being a reliever of the pizzaiolo chef.
Chef Hakobyan was then given the opportunity to join Mazina at The Address Dubai Marina as chef de partie specialty where he worked for almost two years. Over that period, he was responsible for curating the menu which included free pizzas, pastas, raviolis and other Italian delicacies. He also acted as the reliever for the chef in charge of the steak section.
Hakobyan has been recognised over the years with a Gold Medal in La Cuisine by Sial Middle East Abu Dhabi Five-Course Gourmet Dinner Menu 2013, Bronze Medal in La Cuisine by SIAL Middle East Abu Dhabi Fish and Seafood Practical Cookery 2014 and in the Five-Course Gourmet Dinner Menu. He also was given a Silver Medal in La Cuisine by Sial Middle East Abu Dhabi Australian Beef Practical Cookery 2014 and a Bronze Medal in the Emirates Salon Culinary Dubai Fish and Seafood Practical Cookery 2014.
In his new role at Courtyard by Marriott Green Community, Chef Hakobyan will be looking over the daily operations of Cucina, the hearty Italian restaurant located within the hotel and well-loved by the surrounding community. The chef will also play a key role in an exciting concept catering to leisurely weekend dining launching on September 22 at Cucina. – TradeArabia News Service