'My favourite culinary destination is still my mum's kitchen': Liz Mariel Nunez

The chef at NOÉPE, Park Hyatt Dubai, lets us into her kitchen

Your most memorable food-related experience.
It's hard to choose only one experience. Whenever I travel to a new country, I try the
local food, and talk or cook with the local chefs to get the best authentic food-experience possible.
Who do you admire most in the culinary world, and why?
I would have to say Gastón Acurio. I love how he showcases Peruvian gastronomy and proudly shows the world his roots. I would also say Francis Mallmann; he has mastered the ancient technique of cooking with fire, which is one of my passions and where I feel most comfortable creating, as it reminds me of my father and where I grew up.
Your favourite culinary destination, and why?
Another tough question. I would pick a few countries from each continent. Wherever I go, it turns into a culinary adventure. However, out of all the places in the world, my favourite culinary destination would still be my mum's kitchen.
How often do you eat out? What is your favourite place around town?
Lately, I prefer eating at home with my partner or friends more than going out.
If you could cook for a high-profile personality, who would it be and what would you serve them?
I would absolutely love to cook for Francis Mallmann, and serve him some dishes from our Nikkei-inspired menu.
You're asked to invent an unusual dish - what would it be?
Coming from South America, cooking an unusual dish is an easy job. The most unusual dish I ever made was a 24-hour marinated and grilled alligator.
One ingredient/dish that you cannot stand.
I cannot stand okra, also known as ladies' fingers.
After cooking all day, do you cook for yourself at home too?
Yes, I do. Some days, I am exhausted; however, I always find the time to cook a nice meal at home.
Favourite comfort food?
Yucca Fries, every time!
If you could choose a last meal, what would it be?
Definitely any dish cooked by my mom.
Where can we find you, when not in the kitchen?
On a salsa night dance floor. I love to de-stress by dancing and having a good time.
- Staff reporter