In December 2023, Erth became the first ever Emirati restaurant to receive one MICHELIN star, a huge feat for a cuisine that was mainly kept as a family secret for many decades. From home to restaurant, the cuisine’s traditional flavours found its way to the masses and has given insight on the tastes Emiratis grew up enjoying.
Erth pays homage to those traditional flavours in an elevated manner. Its menu boasts dishes such as Bzar marinated beef short ribs and Veal harees, which showcases Emirati classics made modern. Meaning ‘legacy’ in Arabic, the Abu Dhabi restaurant honours the country’s cultural heritage not only through familiar Emirati flavours, but also through the use of ingredients, cookware, interior design and hospitality reminiscent of local traditions.
In this article, we speak to chef Debi Prasad Rath, who mans Erth’s kitchen. He tells us about himself and how it feels to have earned the eatery one MICHELIN star in the 2024 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi, giving us a little more insight on the legacy Erth has created in the city.
At the heart of Emirati food is family. Traditionally, recipes were a best kept family secret, passed down across several generations, to be prepared and enjoyed all together as a gesture of love and unity. It’s a cuisine that combines locality and influences from surrounding cultures, but with each family having its own interpretation. In today’s culture, the cuisine has since shifted from being something you can only find in an Emirati home, to being found across the country. One MICHELIN star Erth revisits the way in which Emirati cuisine has previously presented itself, all the while keeping its legacy and culture alive.
Heading Erth’s kitchen is Indian chef, Debi Prasad Rath, who shares similar values connected to the cuisine. “My love for cooking originates from the heart of my family - my mother's kitchen,” he says, “I learned not just the techniques but also the passion and care that go into creating a memorable meal.” A family affair, cooking and eating together was not uncommon in chef Debi’s household and is where his love for the culinary arts stems from.
Growing up in Odisha, India, chef Debi keeps the memories of his family’s kitchen close to his heart. “Ever since my early years, I have been fascinated by the art of cooking. I started by assisting my parents in the kitchen, learning invaluable techniques from them,” he recalls. “My earliest food memory is of a dish prepared by my parents called Khichdi,” he continues, “the vibrant colors, tantalising aroma, rich taste, and comforting texture created a sensory experience that stayed with me, sparking my love for cooking.”
He turns his childhood passion into his profession by attending culinary school and hotel management school in his hometown. His culinary journey brings him to the UAE to pursue his career and where the young chef further honed his skills in the kitchen, particularly with Emirati cuisine. Thanks to his passion for creativity and his cooking style, which he describes as “a fusion of distinctive ingredients, techniques, and dishes, drawing influence from various cultures and regions,” he managed to get a deep understanding of local fare, apparent in Erth’s menu. Similar to Indian cuisine, Emirati food requires a fine knowledge in balancing spices and flavours.
“It's a process of respectful adaptation while staying true to the authentic flavours.”
Chef Debi’s interpretation of the cuisine has paid off significantly, particularly in December 2023 where he earned the eatery its first MICHELIN star during the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony Abu Dhabi 2024 and made culinary history in doing so. His dedication to culinary creations sings through the restaurant’s innovative plates, putting Emirati cuisine on a global map.
READ MORE: Check out the 2024 edition of the MICHELIN Guide Abu Dhabi
Describe the feeling you had when you received the MICHELIN Star.
Receiving a MICHELIN Star was an incredibly profound moment in my career. It was not just a personal achievement but a recognition of the collective efforts of our team. The honour holds great significance, symbolising the dedication and passion we pour into our craft.
How does it feel to be the first-ever Emirati Restaurant to receive a One MICHELIN Star?
Being recognised as the first Emirati restaurant to receive a MICHELIN Star fills me with gratitude. It's a proud moment for our team, and I extend my thanks to the organisation and mentors who have supported and guided us on this remarkable journey.
How did you celebrate the achievement of the MICHELIN Star?
We celebrated this milestone with a special gathering, joined by our CEO, Ms. Shaikha Al Kaabi, our COO, Mr. Amit Arora, and the entire team. It was a joyous occasion where we reflected on our collective efforts and shared the excitement of this prestigious recognition.
What has been the impact of the MICHELIN Star so far?
The impact has been remarkable. We've witnessed a surge in reservation requests, and the MICHELIN Star has brought significant recognition to our restaurant within the city and beyond.
What’s the most important quality that a chef should have?
The most crucial quality a chef should possess is commitment. Beyond being a creative cook, a committed chef is someone who continuously learns, challenges their skills and techniques, and earns the respect of their team.
Which piece of advice would you give to young chefs?
To young chefs, I would emphasize the importance of focus, persistence, strength, and humility. Stay dedicated to your craft, be resilient in the face of challenges, and always maintain honesty in your approach. Compete not just with others but with yourself to constantly improve.
What’s one dish you would recommend to try at the restaurant?
I highly recommend trying our Margooga Ravioli. It's a culinary delight that encapsulates the essence of our restaurant's unique flavours and style, promising a memorable dining experience.
