Chef Coco Reinarhz on why he believes the world is ready to embrace African cuisine

Celebrated chef and entrepreneur, Coco Reinarhz, Founder of Coco Restaurants, recently shared his plans to introduce African cuisine to the UAE on the sidelines of the Dubai Expo 2020. In a conversation with CNBC Africa's Fifi Peters, Chef Coco discussed the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry and his vision for the future. He expressed his enthusiasm for showcasing the richness of African gastronomy on a global platform like the Expo, highlighting the opportunities emerging in the Middle East market. The interview shed light on Chef Coco's ambitions to open African restaurants in Dubai and the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry in a post-COVID-19 world. Let's delve into the key points discussed in this insightful conversation. One of the key themes that emerged from Chef Coco Reinarhz's interview was his passion for bringing African flavors to the forefront of the culinary scene in the UAE. He emphasized the uniqueness and beauty of African cuisine, expressing his desire to challenge the competitive market with something fresh and innovative. Chef Coco sees Dubai as a hub of possibilities, where dreams can turn into reality, particularly in the realm of food and hospitality. The first key point of discussion revolved around the impact of the pandemic on the hospitality industry and the subsequent shift in consumer preferences. Chef Coco acknowledged the challenges faced by the sector due to lockdowns and restrictions, leading to a reevaluation of the traditional restaurant model. He highlighted the importance of adapting to the new normal by focusing on home delivery services and creating intimate dining experiences that resonate with customers. The second key point addressed the regulatory environment for opening restaurants in Dubai, especially for overseas investors. Chef Coco noted that Dubai's regulations have become more investor-friendly, encouraging diversity and innovation in the market. He expressed his optimism about the ease of settling in Dubai as an African entrepreneur, citing the city's openness to global talent and creativity. Lastly, Chef Coco shared insights on the future of the hospitality industry in a post-COVID-19 world. He predicted a shift towards smaller, more intimate dining spaces, emphasizing personalized experiences and quality over quantity. Chef Coco foresaw a trend where customers seek unique culinary adventures within their homes or exclusive private dining settings, signaling a departure from large-scale restaurant formats. In conclusion, Chef Coco Reinarhz's interview offered a glimpse into his ambitious plans to revive the South African market with a new and improved dining experience. Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Chef Coco remains resilient and determined to redefine the landscape of African cuisine both locally and internationally. As he sets his sights on Dubai as a platform to showcase the flavors of Africa, one thing is certain - the world is ready to embrace the vibrant and diverse tastes of the continent.