Mohammed Tarique Aziz: A Mastermind Behind Culinary Excellence with Global Influence

Mohammed Tarique Aziz, born on April 15, 1984, has emerged as one of the most sought-after culinary experts in the global hospitality industry. With over 17 years of international experience, Tarique has proven himself as an innovative chef, an exceptional leader, and an influential mentor. His journey reflects passion, hard work, and a vision to redefine culinary excellence worldwide. Mohammed Tarique Aziz career spans across multiple continents, including Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Pacific. He has been at the forefront of the hospitality industry's most challenging and dynamic environments, leaving an indelible mark on every establishment he has worked for. His story is one of ambition, creativity, and unrelenting dedication to his craft.

Early Life: The Roots of a Passionate Chef Of Mohammed Tarique Aziz

Growing up in India, Mohammed Tarique Aziz early years were shaped by a love for science and problem-solving. Like many young minds, he initially pursued a path in the sciences, thinking it would lead to a stable career. However, destiny had other plans. A chance exposure to the culinary arts sparked an unquenchable interest in food and hospitality. What began as a hobby soon turned into a lifelong passion. Eager to formalize his newfound calling, Tarique joined the Subhas Bose Institute of Hotel Management (SBIHM), where he completed his degree in Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition in 2006. His time at SBIHM provided him with the technical skills, theoretical knowledge, and creative mindset necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of hospitality.

The Journey Begins: Building a Strong Foundation

Mohammed Tarique Aziz started his professional career in 2006 as a Kitchen Executive Trainee at Le Méridien Bengaluru, India. This role introduced him to the intricacies of running a professional kitchen, managing guest expectations, and delivering high-quality food consistently. During his two-year tenure, he gained experience in all major kitchen sections, which helped him understand the broader operations of the culinary world. By 2008, Mohammed Tarique Aziz had been promoted to Chef de Partie, a position that required him to manage a section of the kitchen independently. This role tested his skills in teamwork, menu development, and time management, preparing him for the leadership roles he would assume in the future.

Expanding Horizons: Making an International Mark

The Cove Rotana Resort & Spa, UAE

In 2008, Mohammed Tarique Aziz took a leap of faith and joined The Cove Rotana Resort & Spa in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, as part of the pre-opening team. Pre-opening roles are notoriously challenging, requiring chefs to set up operations, design workflows, and train teams—all while ensuring the highest standards of service. Tarique excelled in this demanding environment, contributing significantly to the resort’s successful launch. His work at The Cove Rotana laid the groundwork for his reputation as a pre-opening specialist, a skill that would become a defining feature of his career.

Saudi Arabia: A Decade of Innovation and Excellence

Mohammed Tarique Aziz career reached new heights during his tenure at the Sunset Beach Resort, Marina & Spa in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, where he served from 2011 to 2018. Starting as a Sous Chef, he quickly rose through the ranks to become the Executive Chef, overseeing operations for 252 rooms and six outlets. This period was marked by numerous achievements:

• Opening “La Vista”: Tarique launched a semi-fine dining outlet that became a hallmark of the resort’s culinary excellence.
• Revamping Menus: He introduced innovative dishes that blended local and international flavors, catering to a diverse clientele.
• Ensuring Quality Compliance: Tarique implemented rigorous HACCP standards to maintain food safety and hygiene.

His leadership and creativity transformed the Sunset Beach Resort into a culinary destination, earning him accolades from guests and industry professionals alike.

A Global Culinary Leader

Noku Maldives: Merging Luxury with Culinary Innovation

In 2019, Mohammed Tarique Aziz assumed the role of Executive Chef and I/C Food and Beverage Operations at Noku Maldives, a luxury resort renowned for its pristine beaches and bespoke guest experiences. Here, Tarique elevated the dining experience to match the resort’s luxurious ambiance. His contributions included:

• Fusion Menus: Creating dishes that combined local Maldivian ingredients with global culinary techniques, offering guests a unique gastronomic journey.
• Sustainability Initiatives: Reducing food waste and incorporating sustainable practices into kitchen operations.
• Engaging Guests: Hosting live cooking sessions and interactive dining experiences that enhanced guest satisfaction.

Mohammed Tarique Aziz efforts not only enhanced the resort’s reputation but also earned him recognition as a thought leader in sustainable and innovative culinary practices.

Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach and Ayana Cruises, Indonesia

From 2022 to 2024, Mohammed Tarique Aziz took on a multifaceted role as the Executive Chef at Ayana Komodo Waecicu Beach and Ayana Cruises in Indonesia. Managing culinary operations for 205 rooms, seven outlets, and six luxury yachts, Tarique demonstrated his ability to handle complex, large-scale operations. Notable achievements during this period include:

• Hosting High-Profile Events: Successfully leading the culinary team during the ASEAN Summit in 2023.
• Cruise Dining Innovations: Introducing fine dining and buffet-style concepts that blended international and local cuisines.
• Seaweed Cultivation Project: Initiating sustainable practices like seaweed cultivation to support local communities and reduce the resort’s environmental footprint.

Mohammed Tarique Aziz leadership at Ayana underscored his versatility and ability to innovate in diverse settings.

Gem Forest Hotel & Spa, Nairobi

Currently, Mohammed Tarique Aziz serves as the Executive Chef (Pre-opening) at the Gem Forest Hotel & Spa Nairobi, part of the MGallery Collection by Accor Hotels. Since April 2024, he has been spearheading the pre-opening activities for this 105-room luxury property. His responsibilities include:

• Developing Unique Dining Concepts: Creating signature experiences like the Big Fat Indian Brunch and Pink October Awareness Events.
• Building a World-Class Team: Recruiting, training, and mentoring a culinary team aligned with the hotel’s vision.
• Maintaining Global Standards: Ensuring compliance with HACCP and other international quality benchmarks.

Awards, Certifications, and Recognitions

Mohammed Tarique Aziz commitment to excellence has earned him numerous accolades and certifications over the years, including:

• Certified Master Chef (2019): Awarded by the World Master Chef Society, UK.
• Recognition from Michelin Star Chef Daniel Chambon: For his contributions to French culinary promotions.
• Award for Five-Course Gourmet Dinner Menu (2010): Received at the Emirates Salon Culinaire in Dubai.

In addition to these achievements, Mohammed Tarique Aziz has completed advanced training programs in culinary marketing, operations management, and leadership with Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Publications and Media Features

Mohammed Tarique Aziz journey and insights have been featured in several prominent publications, showcasing his influence in the culinary world:

• “Why I Abandoned a Career in Science to Cook” (Citizen Digital, 2024): A deeply personal account of his career transformation.
• “Introducing Himalayan Thali at Taj Chia Kutir” (Telegraph India, 2022): Highlighting his ability to merge tradition with modern techniques.
• Interviews with Hospemag.me and Hotelier Maldives: Offering a glimpse into his culinary philosophy and global experiences.

Thought Leadership and Mentorship

As a passionate mentor, Mohammed Tarique Aziz has conducted over 10 training sessions for aspiring chefs, sharing his knowledge and helping them develop their skills. He believes in nurturing talent and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence in the kitchen. Tarique is also an active member of several professional organizations, including:

• World Chefs’ Choice Federation
• South India Culinary Association (SICA)
• Saudi Arabia Chefs Table Circle

His contributions to these organizations reflect his commitment to the culinary community and his desire to give back.

Personal Life: A Multifaceted Personality

Outside the kitchen, Mohammed Tarique Aziz leads a rich and fulfilling life. He enjoys:

• Traveling: Exploring new cultures and cuisines to inspire his culinary creations.
• Reading Novels: Expanding his horizons and gaining new perspectives.
• Sports: A passionate cricket enthusiast who finds joy in the game.
• Music: Listening to a variety of genres to relax and unwind.

Fluent in Hindi, Bengali, Urdu, and English, Tarique values social interaction and believes in building meaningful connections wherever he goes. ALSO READ :- Arvind Kumar Mishra: Best Visionary Leader Transforming Hospitality Management

A Vision for the Future

As he continues to lead the culinary world with innovation and excellence, Mohammed Tarique Aziz vision remains clear: to create unforgettable dining experiences that delight guests and inspire future generations of chefs. Whether it’s through his groundbreaking pre-opening projects, sustainable initiatives, or mentorship programs, Mohammed Tarique Aziz is committed to shaping the future of the hospitality industry. In his current role at Gem Forest Hotel & Spa, Mohammed Tarique Aziz is laying the foundation for a new chapter of culinary excellence, ensuring that every guest who walks through the doors leaves with a memorable experience.

Final Thoughts

Mohammed Tarique Aziz is not just a chef; he is a visionary leader, a mentor, and an innovator. His journey from a young trainee in Bengaluru to an internationally celebrated Executive Chef is a testament to his hard work, creativity, and unwavering dedication. As he continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the culinary arts, Tarique remains a shining example of what can be achieved with passion and perseverance. The world of hospitality eagerly awaits the next chapter in Tarique’s remarkable journey. ALSO READ: Binit Kumar Tripathi: Raising Hospitality Standards with Forward-Thought Leadership