The culinary world just lost its Middle Eastern maestro. Chef Greg Malouf, the man who redefined Middle Eastern cuisine, passed away at 64. His vibrant flavours and modern twists on traditional dishes left their indelible mark not just on taste buds, but on the entire food industry. Australia grieves, but the world tastes his legacy.
The Godfather Of Middle Eastern Cuisine Bids Farewell
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From Melbourne to Dubai, the culinary scene paid their respects to a chef whose dishes told stories of spice, warmth, and cultural pride. With tributes flooding in from all corners of the globe, it’s clear: Greg Malouf didn’t just cook, he crafted culinary memories.
Matt Preston, the famous MasterChef judge, couldn’t have put it better when he said, “We lost a legend.” Chefs like Mohamad Orfali and Tom Arnel also shared their shock and sorrow online. Orfali, from Dubai’s acclaimed Orfali Bros, posted fond memories alongside poignant tributes. Arnel reminisced about their friendship, highlighting Malouf’s genuine spirit. Such heartfelt messages paint a picture of a man who was not just a culinary artist but also a beloved mentor and friend.
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Greg Malouf Crafted Memories In The Culinary World
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Malouf’s journey from Melbourne’s pub kitchens to Michelin-starred restaurants wasn’t just a rags-to-riches story, it was a spicy fairy tale. Born to Lebanese parents, Malouf faced early scepticism at home but turned that into motivation. He kicked off his culinary career in 1979 and stirred the pot globally, working across Europe, Hong Kong, and the Middle East.
In 1991, he returned to Melbourne, bringing a unique “modern Middle Eastern” touch to Australian kitchens. His time at MoMo earned him the title of “godfather of Middle Eastern cuisine.” His knack for fusing traditional dishes with a contemporary flair won him culinary awards and, more importantly, the hearts of food lovers everywhere. Malouf even sprinkled his magic in London’s Michelin-starred Petersham Nurseries Cafe before making Dubai his final culinary kingdom.
But Greg wasn’t just about restaurants. He penned cookbooks that took readers on sensory journeys through Lebanon, Syria, and beyond. With each page, Malouf blended food and storytelling, leaving a lasting flavour in every home kitchen.
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A Recipe for Remembering
As social media flooded with tributes, it’s evident that Greg Malouf wasn’t just another chef; he was a flavour pioneer. He brought Middle Eastern cuisine to the global stage, inspiring chefs like Dubai’s Mohamad Orfali and Tom Arnel. His passing is a reminder that while chefs may leave the kitchen, their recipes remain in the hearts of those they’ve fed.
Cover Image Courtesy: Matt Preston/Instagram
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