In a world where the culinary arts meet innovation and tradition, Chef Elie Lteif stands as a true leader and visionary. With nearly two decades of experience in the kitchen, Chef Lteif’s journey is a testament to his unwavering passion for food, dedication to excellence, and commitment to elevating global culinary standards. As Culinary Advisor at Nestlé Professional, Chef Lteif continues to inspire, mentor, and shape the future of the culinary industry.
A Master of Culinary Arts
Chef Elie Lteif’s career began in 2001, where he first honed his skills and developed a deep love for the art of cooking. Graduating with honors from the National Lebanese Hospitality School in 2004, Chef Lteif’s expertise spans across a wide array of cuisines, with a passion for more than 10 different types. His academic training laid the foundation for a career that would see him work with some of the most renowned brands and prestigious restaurants across the globe.
Leading the Charge at Nestlé Professional
Since 2021, Chef Lteif has served as the Culinary Advisor for Nestlé Professional in the MENA region. In this role, he has leveraged his vast experience to consult on culinary trends, food innovations, and best practices. His leadership in culinary advisory has allowed him to work closely with chefs, food service operators, and manufacturers, providing invaluable insights that shape the future of food.
Chef Lteif’s role at Nestlé Professional blends his exceptional culinary skills with a strategic, business-focused approach to food. His work is instrumental in advancing Nestlé’s mission to elevate food quality and creativity across diverse markets in the MENA region.
Culinary Excellence Across Leading Hotels
Chef Lteif’s leadership journey also spans across a series of prestigious roles in high-end hotels, where his impact is evident. As Executive Chef at voco Hotels in Dubai (2019-2020), he was responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, implementing innovative culinary concepts, and ensuring excellence in every dish that left the kitchen. His role as Executive Chef at the Nassima Royal Hotel (2017-2019) and Metropolitan Hotel (2016-2017) further showcased his expertise in leading high-performing kitchen teams and delivering world-class dining experiences.
Chef Lteif’s culinary skills have earned him recognition in the hospitality industry for his ability to craft exceptional dishes while maintaining operational efficiency and upholding the highest standards of food safety.
Culinary Competitions and Achievements
Chef Lteif’s contributions to the culinary world are underscored by a long list of achievements, awards, and recognitions that solidify his reputation as one of the region’s top chefs. His leadership in competitions has earned him over 60 certificates and awards, showcasing his prowess in kitchen artistry.
Some of his notable achievements include:
Middle East Culinary Champion of the Year 2024
Gold Medal in Dubai Hotel Show, Chef Table Competition
Best Kitchen Team Dubai 2019
Silver Medal Award in Chef Competition 2018
Leading a kitchen team that won 59 medals and 4 trophies at the East Coast Salon Culinary Chef Competition and Gulf Food
World Master Chefs Society Member
These accomplishments, alongside numerous accolades in various kitchen and cooking competitions, highlight his excellence and relentless pursuit of culinary mastery.
A Culinary Media Icon
Chef Lteif’s influence extends beyond the kitchen. He has been featured in prominent newspapers, articles, and magazines throughout his career. His expertise and dynamic personality have made him a sought-after figure in the culinary media world. Chef Lteif has worked with popular TV shows like Fatafeat, the Genius Kitchen Mobile Application, and 6 seasons of the Ramadan TV cooking show Sararid Kholoud, as well as provided cooking reports for Al Arabiya.
His presence on television and other media platforms has allowed him to share his culinary passion with a global audience, inspiring a new generation of chefs and food enthusiasts.
Mentorship and Culinary Leadership
In addition to his technical skills, Chef Lteif is a natural mentor, dedicated to developing the next generation of chefs. He has played a pivotal role in training and guiding aspiring culinary professionals, helping them build careers and reach their full potential. Chef Lteif’s leadership has shaped some of the finest culinary teams in the Middle East, where he continues to empower young chefs to innovate, take risks, and excel in their craft.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Chef Lteif remains deeply committed to elevating the culinary industry. Whether through his work at Nestlé Professional, his involvement in culinary competitions, or his educational initiatives, he continues to drive innovation and excellence in the culinary world. His passion for food, combined with his commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering creativity, ensures that his influence will continue to grow for years to come.
Acknowledging Chef Elie Lteif’s Culinary Legacy
At The Spotlight, we pay tribute to Chef Elie Lteif, a true culinary leader whose expertise, vision, and achievements have made a lasting impact on the global culinary landscape. His career, marked by culinary excellence, mentorship, and innovation, is an inspiring example of what it means to be a true leader in the food industry. Chef Lteif’s legacy is one of dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the future of cuisine.