Interview with Chef Will Goldfarb: A preview of his tasting menu at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

Sponsored: Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort is set to welcome diners for a special culinary event with Chef Will Goldfarb, renowned as The World’s Best Pastry Chef, from 15-17 November 2024

This exclusive experience features a seven-course tasting menu that combines sweet and savoury elements at The Lotus Lounge, accommodating only 40 diners each evening. With over 30 years of experience in some of the world’s top kitchens, Chef Goldfarb is known for his creative desserts and playful culinary style. His innovative approach and artistry in desserts have earned him numerous accolades, including recognition on Netflix’s Chef’s Table: Pastry.

In this interview, Chef Goldfarb discusses his culinary journey and inspirations while highlighting the unique dining experience guests can expect during his special event at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

As someone who’s constantly challenging the conventions of pastry, how do you stay inspired and keep pushing boundaries?

Inspiration flows from the world around me—nature, people, and the connections that bind us. At Room4Dessert, I’m immersed in an environment that celebrates the elegance of simplicity and sustainability. Working closely with local ingredients and exploring fresh, untapped flavours keeps my approach dynamic. When fueled by genuine curiosity, I believe there are no limits to the boundaries one can push.

What are some challenges you face when balancing the traditional foundations of pastry with the push towards more sustainable and plant-based options?

Balancing tradition with sustainability requires carefully refining classic techniques. Traditional pastry often relies on sugar, dairy, and ingredients that might conflict with today’s environmental imperatives. The challenge lies in maintaining the essence of these techniques while reimagining ingredients in a more sustainable light. We continuously experiment with plant-based alternatives, blending respect for tradition with thoughtful choices that positively impact the planet.

The upcoming event at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort will offer a seven-course tasting menu. Could you give us a sneak peek into how you approached creating this menu and what guests can expect?

This menu is a journey of flavours and textures that immerses guests in the soul of Room4Dessert. Each course embodies our philosophy—celebrating natural ingredients and honouring the earth. Expect courses that harmonize sweetness with savoury notes, emphasising umami to create unexpected depth. Guests can anticipate an experience that is playful yet grounded, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the purity and potential of each ingredient.

Could you share how you selected the beverage pairings for this event, and how they enhance the flavors of each course?

In curating the pairings, I collaborated closely with the beverage team to create combinations that elevate and amplify each course’s unique qualities. The pairings are chosen to echo the essence of the dishes while adding complexity. We took special care to showcase unique flavours that complement and contrast the tasting menu, highlighting every aspect of the dining experience.

What legacy do you hope to leave in the world of pastry?

I hope to leave a legacy that champions sustainability, creativity, and reverence for tradition. If I can inspire others to view desserts not merely as indulgent treats but as expressions of culture, nature, and craftsmanship, then I’ll have made a meaningful impact. My aim is to encourage future chefs to look beyond the plate, creating experiences that are mindful of our planet and deeply connected to their surroundings.

What do you think is the biggest misconception the public has about the future of dessert?

That dessert will always be sweet! And there’s also the assumption that key ingredients like coffee, chocolate, and sugar will always be available, regardless of sustainability concerns. Our industry must prepare for a future where we consider the impact of each ingredient on our environment and supply chain.

Looking ahead, what upcoming projects or trends are you most excited about?

I’m thrilled about our event at Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort and eager to explore more opportunities there. We’re also excited to launch the next course catalogue for R4D Academy, introduce new experiences at Shelter Island, and share our GOAT bomboloni at Powder Room. Back home, we’re looking forward to the new season at Room4Dessert, and of course, the growth in our garden at AIR in Singapore during the rainy season. It’s an exciting time with plenty of projects that continue to evolve and inspire.

The Lotus Lounge from 15-17 November 2024, from 7pm-10pm. AED250 per adult. Call +971 (0)4 567 8304 or email restaurants.dubai@anantara.com.