Chef Salam Dakkak, known for her innovative take on Levantine cuisine rooted in tradition, will share her inspiring journey at Gastromasa’s 10th anniversary on November 6–7, 2025.
Celebrating its 10th anniversary with the theme “Stories of 10 Years,” Gastromasa will gather some of the world’s most visionary culinary figures on November 6–7 at the Haliç Congress Center in Istanbul. Among the standout guests of this year’s edition is Chef Salam Dakkak, a pioneering force who has brought Levantine hospitality and heritage to the global culinary stage.
Known for her heartfelt approach, cultural depth, and ability to transform dining into an emotional experience, Salam Dakkak is regarded as one of the most influential chefs shaping modern Middle Eastern cuisine. Her globally acclaimed restaurant Bait Maryam has earned recognition in the Michelin Guide for four consecutive years, while her innovative fine-dining concept Sufret Maryam reimagines Levantine flavors with elegance and creativity.
Named Best Female Chef in MENA by The World’s 50 Best and featured on Forbes 50 Over 50: Europe, Middle East & Africa 2023, Dakkak continues to elevate her culinary philosophy with a deep sense of purpose, identity, and hospitality.
At Gastromasa 2025, she will take the stage to share her inspiring journey, vision, and the emotional power of food rooted in memory, resilience, and love. Her presence promises to enrich the 10th anniversary of Gastromasa with a powerful story that connects cuisine to culture and people.
Who is Salam Dakkak?
Chef Salam Dakkak is a celebrated culinary artist and the visionary behind Sufret Maryam and Bait Maryam, two dining concepts that have redefined Levantine cuisine and hospitality. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and a profound connection to her roots, making her a standout figure in the culinary world.Inspired by her late mother, Maryam, whose love for cooking and hospitality brought people together, Chef Salam’s journey beganwith Bait Maryam. This beloved restaurant has achieved global acclaim, recognized by the Michelin Guide for four consecutive yearsand celebrated for its authentic flavors and heartfelt dining experience.
Chef Salam’s remarkable achievements earned her a place onForbes 50 Over 50: Europe, Middle East, and Africa 2023, a prestigious award that highlights her as one of the region’s most influentialfigures. She was also named Best Female Chef in MENA by 50 World’s Best, cementing her reputation as a culinary pioneer.Building on this success, Chef Salam launched Sufret Maryam in 2024, a high-end dining experience that elevates Levantine traditionswhile embracing innovation.
At Sufret Maryam, Chef Salam weaves heritage and modernity into an unforgettable culinary journey,paying homage to her roots and her mother’s enduring influence.Chef Salam’s story is one of grit, love, and deep connection. She has built her culinary empire not just with skill, but with anunparalleled ability to make every guest feel like family. Her passion for hospitality and authentic relationships sets her apart, creatingdining experiences that go beyond food to forge heartfelt bonds. Her journey is a testament to the power of leading with love, makingher a truly inspiring figure and a captivating guest for any audience.
Take your seat among the world’s most renowned chefs and be part of this inspiring trjourney through the international gastronomy scene.
For Tickets: https://www.biletix.com/etkinlik-grup/488889288/TURKIYE/tr/x-gastromasa-istanbul
🗓 November 6-7, 2025
⏰ 09.00 – 19.00
📍 Haliç Congress Center, Istanbul