Celebrated French pastry chef Pierre Hermé introduces his legendary creations at the luxurious Rosewood Abu Dhabi, promising an unforgettable culinary experience for dessert lovers.
Pierre Hermé, the internationally acclaimed French pastry chef famously dubbed the “Picasso of Pastry” by Vogue USA, has made a remarkable entrance into the UAE culinary scene with the opening of his first Abu Dhabi outlet, Majlis by Pierre Hermé, located at the luxurious Rosewood Abu Dhabi on Al Maryah Island. Renowned for his exquisite macarons and innovative desserts, Hermé aims to offer a unique blend of culinary artistry and live entertainment.
In an exclusive Q&A, Hermé delves into his creative process, the inspiration behind his desserts, and what guests can expect from this exciting new venture.
The Origin of the “Picasso of Pastry” Title
Hermé’s celebrated title originated from an article written by Jeffrey Steingarten in 1994, who spent a week observing the chef’s meticulous work. “While it’s flattering, I don’t dwell on it. My focus is always on the work itself—exploring ingredients, techniques, and pushing boundaries,” Hermé explains. His philosophy emphasizes audacity and an unwavering curiosity, which drive his constant innovation in the world of patisserie.
The Magic of Macarons
Famed for his macarons, Hermé reveals the secret to their enduring popularity: “With macarons, I strive for what I call ‘infinity’—taking one flavor and pushing it to its best possible expression.” Each season introduces new flavors, such as this autumn’s macaron infused with tomato leaves or a decadent combination of rose, caramel, and amber. “Precision is crucial. Every recipe must achieve a meticulous balance of sweetness, sourness, and texture,” he affirms.
Crafting Exceptional Desserts
For Hermé, an exceptional dessert stems from attention to detail. “Using the best quality ingredients, precision in the process, and passion in every creation is key.” Maintaining consistency across locations—from Paris to Abu Dhabi—poses a challenge, but it is essential for upholding his esteemed standards.
Excitement for Abu Dhabi’s Culinary Scene
Hermé expresses enthusiasm about bringing something new to Abu Dhabi’s gastronomic landscape. “The goal is to offer a unique experience through our pastries, service, and environment, elevating the culinary offerings of the hotel and creating an unforgettable experience for guests.”
A Diverse Menu at Majlis
At Majlis by Pierre Hermé, guests can indulge in a variety of Hermé’s signature pastries alongside savory options like ceviche and lobster rolls. This diverse menu invites diners to explore both the sweet and savory realms of Hermé’s culinary expertise.
Overcoming Challenges in New Regions
Sourcing the right ingredients remains a challenge for Hermé when establishing outlets in new regions like the UAE. “We import many items from France to ensure the quality matches our Paris locations. Thankfully, the UAE has a strong food scene, making it easier to find certain ingredients,” he shares.
Advice for Aspiring Pastry Chefs
Hermé’s wisdom for budding pastry chefs is simple yet profound: “Be curious, work hard, and never stop learning. Understanding the ‘why’ behind each element is crucial; it’s not just about following recipes.” He encourages aspiring chefs to embrace bold creativity in their work.
A Lifelong Passion for Pastry
Having been immersed in the pastry business for four generations, Hermé’s enduring passion fuels his creativity. “I never feel like I’m working. It’s about pleasure—creating pastries, experimenting with flavors, and sharing joy with others,” he concludes.
As Pierre Hermé opens the doors to Majlis by Pierre Hermé in Abu Dhabi, dessert enthusiasts can look forward to a transformative culinary experience, celebrating the intersection of art and gastronomy in every delectable bite.
