Pastry Chef Mitesh Pandey at Grand Millennium Muscat shares his journey and expertise in the world of pastry.
Additionally, Grand Millennium Muscat is celebrating National Day from November 18th to 30th where guests can enjoy an exquisite dessert selection at the Bait Al Shukolatah buffet in the lobby, every Sunday & Monday evening. This Omani-inspired menu features unique treats, such as Jabal Akhdar Olive Cake, Traditional Omani Halwa Tart, and Saffron Dulce de Leche, accompanied by the soothing sounds of live Oud music. This chocolate-themed experience creates an enchanting ambiance, inviting guests to savor flavors that celebrate the richness of Omani heritage.
Could you tell us about your journey to becoming a pastry chef? How many years of experience do you have in the culinary industry?
“I started my pastry journey in 2010 as a Commis Chef, and over the past 14 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with esteemed five-star brands like Radisson, IHG, Kempinski, and Anantara across three countries. Currently, I’m with Grand Millennium Muscat, where I am excited to learn more about the rich cultures, traditions, and especially the diverse cuisines.”
What would you say makes the Bait Al Shukolatah experience unique among other dessert offerings in Muscat?
“Our focus on locally inspired flavors combined with the indulgence of chocolate makes Bait Al Shukolatah a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a celebration of Oman’s heritage with an international flair, enhanced by the live Oud music and the refined ambiance of Grand Millennium Muscat.”
How do you blend local flavours and ingredients into your pastry creations?
“Every country boasts its own unique local flavors and ingredients. As a pastry chef, I always take into account what people cherish in their culture. Being in Oman, I understand that Omanis have a deep appreciation for their traditional Omani halwa paired with kahwa. Therefore, my goal is to create desserts that incorporate these traditional flavors, using Omani halwa and coffee to honor their culinary heritage.”
Can you describe your creative process when coming up with a new dessert? Where do you draw your inspiration from?
“The creative process in pastry arises from three key elements: the art of preparation, the inspiration drawn from extraordinary moments, and the fusion of sweets with culture. Many of my best ideas and inspirations for desserts come from my mentor chef, who has been a guiding force throughout my journey.”
How do you maintain consistency and quality in your pastries, especially during busy service times?
“Standardizing recipes and conducting regular taste tests help ensure consistency in the final product. Training staff on proper techniques and presentation standards is essential for maintaining quality. Although maintaining consistency and quality during busy service times can be challenging, proper planning and a well-trained team make it much easier to manage.”
What trends in the pastry world excite you the most right now? Are there any specific techniques or ingredients you’re currently exploring?
“There’s a strong trend toward local authenticity, with many guests seeking food and pastries crafted from locally sourced ingredients. We’ve created unique offerings like the Jabal Akhdar Olive Cake and Traditional Omani Halwa Tart, each paying homage to Oman’s culinary heritage. Exclusively served at Bait Al Shukolatah, these desserts provide a memorable experience that celebrates the rich culture and flavors of the region.”
How significant is presentation in your desserts, and what methods do you use to enhance their visual appeal?
“Desserts are the perfect way to conclude an exceptional culinary experience. To make them truly memorable and visually appealing, careful menu planning is essential, focusing on ingredients, flavor, and presentation. Visual appeal is crucial, as people first ‘eat’ with their eyes before savoring with their taste buds.”
What would you say makes the Bait Al Shukolatah experience unique among other dessert offerings in Muscat?
“Our focus on locally inspired flavors combined with the indulgence of chocolate makes Bait Al Shukolatah a one-of-a-kind experience. It’s a celebration of Oman’s heritage with an international flair, enhanced by the live Oud music and the refined ambiance of Grand Millennium Muscat.”
What do you hope guests will remember most about their dessert experience at Bait Al Shukolatah during National Day?
“We hope guests take away a sense of connection to Oman’s heritage through the flavors and ambiance. The combination of rich, locally inspired desserts and the atmosphere created by live Oud music provides a unique experience that we hope stays with guests long after their visit.”