Comfort foods that bring top chefs happiness

Ravindranath K / The National

Sarah Dea / Arts and Life

Courtesy Pierchic

Silvia Razgova / The National

Few things bring greater joy in life than great food surrounded by great friends and family. Stacie Overton Johnson asked chefs around the country what comfort food they turn to when it’s happiness they’re looking for.

Danny Kattar

Executive chef, InterContinental Abu Dhabi

There is nothing like a nice juicy burger. The burger needs to be made from good quality meat with the right spices and add ons. Placed in a cushion-like bun with a bit of Dijon mustard, a hint of ketchup, a drop of hot Tabasco, a thin ring of onion, and topped up with a good quality cheese. This will make me go up to the moon and back with a big smile on my face.

Justin Galea

Food and beverage director, Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi

My comfort food has to be chocolate. It’s fair to say chocolate may have been my first love and one that’s stayed with me my entire life. In my home, if you were good or bad chocolate was the answer; a reward for good behaviour or a bribe to prevent you being naughty. Comfort foods are so important in our lives. By definition, they should not be part of our daily routine but foods we turn to when we need a lift.

Darren Velvick

Chef de Cuisine, The Croft

Anything natural or plant-based makes me happy. Over the years, I have changed the way I look at food. I have come to realise that food is more spiritual and has more power. I question everything I eat today from its nutritional value and whether it will do good for my body. I believe that if everyone ate healthier today, we would automatically feel happier.

Rosalind Parsk

Head chef, Pierchic

I love a roast. This makes me think of being back home. My mum cooks a roast every Sunday and it’s something I really look forward to when I go home. I think it’s sitting together as a family and having a meal. Life is pretty crazy and so it’s nice when you find the time for everyone to sit round a table and catch up on everyone’s news.

Stefano Viola

Executive sous chef, Villa Toscana, St Regis Abu Dhabi

Pasta is my favourite food. After a long day’s work, the only thing that relaxes me is a nice plate of pasta. It’s such a simple dish but can be altered with various flavours. I add a variety of condiments and sauces depending on my mood. It will always be my favourite food. It will always be a special dish to me. My favourite is a classic Sardinian dish, spaghetti alla bottarga which is made with cured, dry fish eggs.