Hospitality
Food Is Storytelling: Chef Henry Jordan’s Culinary Philosophy at InterContinental & Kimpton Dubai
In a fast-paced city like Dubai, where the restaurant scene is constantly reinventing itself, food is storytelling—and no one tells it better than Chef Henry Jordan. As Cluster Director of Culinary at InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay and Kimpton Dubai, Chef Henry brings more than recipes to the table—he brings history, identity, and emotion.
A Purpose-Driven Culinary Path
“From my first chat with General Manager Mohammed Mahmoud and Director of People Manohar Roach, I felt a rare synergy.”
Chef Henry’s decision to join the InterContinental and Kimpton properties was rooted in shared values—empathy, clarity of purpose, and creativity. Both brands offered him not just an operational platform, but an emotional canvas for meaningful guest experiences.
A Global Lens on Local Impact
Having worked in the U.S., Maldives, and Singapore, Henry’s approach is globally informed but emotionally personal.
“Food isn’t just sustenance—it’s storytelling, it’s history, it’s emotion.”
His dishes draw from personal stories, cultural exchanges, and deep respect for origin. This ethos shapes everything from menu design to guest interaction at both hotels.
Concept Development in a City That Craves Innovation
“Dubai demands bold expression, but it also craves connection.”
Chef Henry emphasizes collaboration, learning from past projects, and anchoring new concepts around the guest rather than the trend. By staying grounded in experience and intention, his team can craft venues that resonate far beyond the plate.
A Real-Life Approach to Wellness and Luxury
Chef Henry believes wellness should feel joyful, not rigid.
“Luxury today means freedom—freedom to eat clean or indulge without guilt.”
Through balance, education, and flexibility, his dining experiences empower guests to define their version of wellness. Whether you’re macro-counting or craving comfort food, you’re welcomed with warmth and without compromise.
Standing Out Through Soul, Not Just Style
In a competitive city where viral moments often overshadow value, Chef Henry chooses authenticity.
“Trends will pass, but soul stays. Our goal is emotional memory.”
By prioritizing thoughtful quality, consistency, and hospitality with heart, he envisions restaurants that feel like a second home.
Preserving Concept Identity in a Diverse Market
Rather than chasing universal appeal, he champions strong, clear restaurant identities.
“In a city of fusion, discipline is what truly stands out.”
Menus will reflect global flavors, but always filtered through each venue’s unique concept—ensuring consistency and integrity.
Looking Ahead: Elevation and Legacy
Over the next 12 months, Chef Henry aims to strengthen the existing offerings at InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay, while building bold new culinary experiences for Kimpton.
“This year is about setting the tone for who we are—teams, stories, spaces.”
For more on this exciting topic, check our Digital Magazine Hospitality – The Integrator