Singaporean Chef Reif Othman Brings Michelin Magic to Dubai

Singaporean chef Reif Othman has made a significant mark in the culinary world, particularly in Dubai, where he has successfully established his brand. This September, he returns to Singapore to launch a month-long pop-up of his acclaimed restaurant, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, at the Conrad Singapore Marina Bay. This event not only showcases his innovative take on Japanese cuisine but also represents a full-circle moment for the chef who began his journey in the vibrant food markets of Singapore.

From Humble Beginnings to Culinary Heights

Reif’s passion for food developed in his childhood, watching his mother operate a nasi padang stall. “Every Sunday, she dragged me to the wet market,” he reminisced. This exposure ignited his love for cooking, particularly as he witnessed his mother transform simple ingredients into exquisite meals. By the age of 16, Reif began working as a pizza chef in an Italian restaurant, where he received pivotal guidance from the head chef. “He told me, ‘You’re a good kid and you can be a good chef. Why waste your time?’” This encouragement marked a turning point in his life, steering him away from distractions and towards a culinary career.

After a short stint in finance following his National Service, Reif returned to the kitchen, honing his skills under renowned chefs such as David Mollicone at Raffles Grill and Violet Oon, a figure he credits for instilling resilience and strength in him. His culinary journey led him to Europe, where he faced challenges as a Muslim chef navigating kitchens that heavily utilized pork.

Success in Dubai and a Return to Roots

Reif’s breakthrough came when he relocated to Dubai in 2005, landing a position at the prestigious Burj Al Arab. Here, he thrived in a fine dining environment that respected his beliefs, allowing him to excel without compromising his principles. The chef soon transitioned to the acclaimed restaurant Zuma, where he served as executive chef for six years. Under his leadership, Zuma Dubai became one of the world’s top dining destinations, featuring on the World’s 50 Best list for four consecutive years.

In 2019, Reif launched his own restaurant, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, embracing a premium casual dining approach. His innovative concept specializes in skewered and grilled meats with a modern twist on Japanese street food. With multiple outlets in Dubai and franchise locations in Egypt, the restaurant has earned accolades, including a Michelin Bib Gourmand distinction.

As he prepares to unveil his pop-up in Singapore, Reif highlights the significance of this event. “It’s an opportunity for me to show Singaporeans what I’ve been doing in Dubai,” he remarked. The pop-up will run until September 30, 2023, allowing guests to experience signature dishes like the Wagyu Katsu Sando and the playful Hand Grab Wagyu.

Reif’s philosophy centers on creating dishes that resonate with his guests rather than catering solely to his own culinary ego. “I prefer listening to what my guests want,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of guest satisfaction in his cooking.

Beyond the culinary world, Reif has ventured into retail with a sneaker shop called Soleside, though he ultimately decided to focus on his restaurant endeavors. He also established a charity school in Zanzibar, which he views as a reminder to remain grounded and humble.

As Reif Othman brings his culinary creations back to Singapore, he reflects on his journey and the lessons learned along the way. He encourages aspiring chefs to master the basics and to continually seek new experiences. His story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep-rooted passion for food, embodying the spirit of a chef who is not only dedicated to his craft but also to fostering a legacy for future generations.