Name: Zaina H. Al-Humaidhi

Restaurant: The Gathering Bistro

Title: Marketing Manager

Faves:

Chef: Ina Garten

Cooking show: Chopped.

Cookbook: None in particular!

What experience most defined your decision and desire to get into the food marketing industry?

I desperately wanted to get out of the corporate world and work in a field that gives me more freedom and space to be creative. Marketing a restaurant is very tough, there’s a lot of competition, especially in Kuwait. It doesn’t limit itself to the basic marketing strategies that we learn, and the job itself also requires giving my input on new dishes, the overall look and feel of the restaurant, and so on, to create a whole experience for the customer.

What do you think is the next huge food trend in Kuwait?

Specialty coffee places and street food.

What food most reminds you of your mother’s house, and why?

Very hearty and delicious (but healthy) comfort food. My mother is an amazing cook herself and always cooked us the yummiest food that was also somehow healthy.

What are some of your other favorite restaurants in Kuwait?

There are so many amazing places in Kuwait, it would be difficult to choose honestly. It always depends on my mood.

If you could make one dish, what dish would you have loved to develop for The Gathering?

I enjoy collaborating with our executive chef on making a good salad. I think salads are very underrated.

If you had to choose, which dish from The Gathering would you recommend to someone who has just landed in Kuwait?

That’s a tough question! Have you seen our menu?! I wouldn’t be able to recommend one dish only, but I’m definitely sure that everyone will be able to find a dish that they’ll love.