The Story Behind Amaru's Cuisine with Chef Rohan

At Amaru, the essence of Latin American and Spanish cuisine transcends borders, inviting a journey of discovery that honors tradition while embracing unique interpretations. Helmed by an Indian chef, the kitchen celebrates the universal language of food, where diverse cultures connect through shared flavors and techniques. This unexpected connection is rooted in a deep love for culinary heritage, shaped by collaborations with respected chefs from the Spanish and Latin American regions.

Amaru's kitchen is a vibrant mosaic of global talent, where chefs contribute their individual flair, united by a shared inspiration and dedication to culinary mastery. The approach is grounded in honoring the essence of each dish, sourcing authentic ingredients, and ensuring creativity enhances rather than overshadows the cuisine's true spirit. The service team, representing Argentina, Colombia, and beyond, enriches the experience by sharing their cultural stories and passion with guests.

1. How do you ensure Amaru maintains an authentic Spanish and Latino culinary experience, while also bringing your own unique interpretation to the menu?

At Amaru, we believe the soul of Latin American and Spanish cuisine transcends borders, forging a journey of discovery that honors tradition while embracing unique interpretations. As an Indian chef leading this kitchen, I've come to appreciate the universal language of food, recognizing how diverse cultures connect through shared flavors and techniques. It's an unexpected connection, perhaps, but one rooted in a shared love for culinary heritage. Also being lucky enough to have worked with multiple respected chefs from both the Spanish and Latin American region over the past few years who have left their mark on me with their shared knowledge and love for food.

Our kitchen is a vibrant mosaic of talent, where chefs from around the globe contribute their individual flair. It's not about birthplace, but about shared inspiration and a dedication to mastery. We are privileged to have chefs who have honed their skills in Latin American and Spanish cookery, their expertise built on rigorous training and a deep respect for culinary tradition.

The foundation of our approach lies in honoring the essence of each dish. We meticulously source authentic ingredients, treating those rare gems with reverence, ensuring every flavor shines. Every ingredient counts! While creativity is encouraged, it must always enhance, never overshadow, the true spirit of the cuisine. We aim to add a personal touch, a whisper of innovation, while staying true to the heart of each creation.

This extends beyond the kitchen. Our service team, a vibrant tapestry of individuals from Argentina, Colombia, and beyond, shares their cultural stories and passion with our guests. They are proud to discuss the dishes from their respective countries, creating a truly immersive and complete experience.

What's particularly fascinating is the shared culinary heritage that bridges cultures. Both Asian and Latino cuisines embrace bold spices and versatile staple carbohydrates. Consider cumin, coriander, and chili peppers, vital in most Asian cooking, also integral to Latin American dishes like mole and sofrito. Similarly, rice and lentils in India find their counterparts in corn and beans in Latino meals, as seen in arepas, tamales, and countless other dishes. This shared foundation allows for a natural fusion of flavors, a bridge between cultures.

My Culinary background, in harmony with our exceptional team, enables us to craft an authentic experience, celebrating the shared passion for flavor and culture that unites us all at Amaru. We believe food is a universal language, and at Amaru, we speak it from the heart.

2. How do you ensure the dining experience at Amaru is not just about the food, but also about the overall ambiance and guest experience?

At Amaru, we believe the foundation of an exceptional dining experience begins with the food itself. We pride ourselves on offering a diverse and meticulously crafted menu that showcases the best of Latin American and Spanish cuisine. From the freshest seafood to vibrant, flavorful dishes inspired by regional traditions, we ensure every plate is a celebration of quality and authenticity.

But we also understand that a truly memorable experience extends far beyond the culinary offerings. We understand every first visit is a chance. We're determined to make that chance the moment guests choose Amaru as their favorite.

We have noticed that more people prefer casual dining, sharing dishes, and interacting with chefs to know more about what they are eating and the stories of their dishes. We are also changing the role of the chefs and bringing them out of the kitchen to create a more immersive dining experience for our guests.

At Amaru, we believe dining is a multi-sensory experience. We meticulously curate every element to create an unforgettable ambiance. This includes our vivid, open spaces, thoughtfully designed lighting, and the attentive service of our team. The way our cuisine is presented, combined with unique features like our retractable roof for starlit dining, enhances the overall guest experience. Our vibrant Friday brunches, featuring exceptional DJs and live bands, encourage a lively atmosphere where guests can dance and connect. Our Friday AMA ZONIA brunch featuring a live grill and multiple live cooking stations like paella and our liquid nitrogen passion fruit ice cream with a live DJ Entertainment along with a live band, Other weekly special events are Chicas Night (Sundays) and Paraiso Sunset Hour (Saturday to Thursday). Amaru is increasingly becoming a sought-after venue for corporate and community gatherings.

3. What is your vision for the future of Amaru? How do you plan to evolve the menu and the dining experience in the coming months or years?

I want Amaru to be considered the best brunch place in Doha. The place for family and friends to meet and celebrate. No repetition in menu, varying the dishes from week to week, connecting guests with traditional dishes and introducing them to creations from Amaru kitchen.  “Amaru by the pool” when the weather gets better, we would like to expand the Amarus gastronomic experience around the pool as well and offering people the opportunity to add swimming to their Friday afternoon.

4. What are some of the most innovative dishes you've created at Amaru, and what inspired them

Truffle and beef sandwich: JW Marriott touch for this steak house favorite, a special braised beef brisket sandwich served in buttered brioche bread with a side of fries and truffle-infused mayonnaise.

Beef Tiradito: Nikkei style seared beef tiradito finished in a homemade ponzu sauce and our house chimichurri.

Chicken Milanese: Marinated and breaded chicken breast with lemon paprika aioli and rocket salad.

Amaru Ceviche: Our take on the classic Peruvian dish served with fresh fish and a traditional aji Amarillo liche de Tigre.

Chilaquiles: Crispy totopos soaked in salsa rojo finished with fresh avocado, sour cream, jalapenos, salsa lluca and sliced prime beef striploin on top.

General Info:

AMARU

• Cuisine: Latin American, Spanish
• Location: Level 7, JW Marriott Marquis City Center Doha
• Time:
• SAT-THU:17:00 - 00:00
• FRI :12:00 - 00:00
• Paraiso Sunset Hour: Daily except Friday:17:00 - 20:00. Drink deals starting from QR 30.
• AMA ZONIA Brunch: Fridays:13:00 - 16:00, for QR 225(Soft beverage package) and QR 375 (Enhanced beverage package).
• Hola Chicas Ladies Night: Sundays:18:00 - 23:00, for QR 89, includes three drinks and a bite.
• Shisha service: Daily from the opening
• Phone: +974 5506 2798
• Instagram: @amarudoha

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