Spotlight: Chef Sara Aqel

Spotlight: Chef Sara Aqel 

Co-Founder and Executive Chef of Dara Dining 

Leading Dara Dining by Sara Aqel in Amman/Jordan is Sara's first project back home. A Mediterranean restaurant focused on Italian cuisine where the community can share a table and be part of building the concept.

Sara aims to showcase Jordan’s best produce and talent by curating a seasonal and sustainable menu that includes her signature dishes and representing the concept regionally and globally by supporting local craftsmanship and leading the way to sustainability. 

Prior to joining Fi’lia, Sara has worked for a number of renowned establishments in the Middle East La Capitale/ Four Seasons, Al Muntaha/ Burj Al Arab and most notably with Michelin-star crowned Chef Massimo Bottura and his team at Torno Subito, where her passion for Italian cooking was fully ignited and nurtured. She was fortunate to perfect the intricacies of Italian cuisine, whilst adding the essence of her own style of cooking into the mix. Staying true to herself. 

Sara Aqel a 28-year-old Palestinian, was born and raised in Jordan and comes from a family who expressed their feelings through food. She discovered from an early age that cooking was her passion and something she wanted to pursue professionally.

After graduating from high school at the age of 18, she went on to study at the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, Les Roches, one of the world’s leading hospitality schools, with a focus on Culinary Arts and Hotel Management. During her time at culinary school, she was the only student (out of 40 applicants) to be selected for an internship at the prestigious ‘The Hong Kong Jockey Club’ where she excelled.

Following her time in Hong Kong, she successfully completed her studies - holding degrees from Les Roches, as well as the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts in Jordan. 

Host or Publisher Alserkal Avenue