Chef Nihad Numan is a renowned chef who has made a name for himself in the culinary world with his innovative dishes and unique approach to cooking. Born and raised in a small town in Turkey, Numan developed an early interest in food and cooking, which eventually led him to pursue a career as a chef. Over the years, he has worked in some of the world’s most prestigious restaurants, and has earned numerous accolades for his culinary creations. In this biography, we will take a closer look at Numan’s life, career, and achievements.
Early Life and Education
Nihad Numan was born on October 12, 1975, in the town of Sivas, located in central Turkey. He grew up in a family of food enthusiasts, where his mother and grandmother cooked traditional Turkish dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From a young age, Numan was fascinated by the process of preparing and cooking food, and he often helped his mother and grandmother in the kitchen.
As he grew older, Numan’s passion for cooking only intensified, and he began experimenting with different recipes and ingredients. After completing high school, he enrolled in a culinary school in Istanbul, where he honed his skills in the kitchen and learned the art of cooking.
Early Career
After graduating from culinary school, Nihad Numan landed his first job as a chef at a small restaurant in Istanbul. Although the restaurant was not well-known, Numan worked hard to create innovative dishes and elevate the menu. His talent and dedication did not go unnoticed, and soon he was offered a job at one of Istanbul’s top-rated restaurants.
At this new restaurant, Numan worked under the guidance of a renowned chef, who helped him develop his skills further and refine his techniques. Numan quickly rose through the ranks and became the head chef of the restaurant in a few years.
Career in Europe
In the early 2000s, Nihad Numan decided to broaden his horizons and explore the culinary scene in Europe. He moved to London, where he worked in some of the city’s most famous restaurants, including Gordon Ramsay’s three-Michelin-starred restaurant, Restaurant Gordon Ramsay. Numan learned a great deal during his time at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, working alongside some of the best chefs in the world and absorbing new techniques and cooking styles.
After a few years in London, Numan moved to Paris, where he worked at several Michelin-starred restaurants, including L’Ambroisie and L’Astrance. During his time in Paris, Numan continued to push the boundaries of traditional French cuisine, creating innovative dishes that combined traditional French techniques with his own unique flair.
Career in the United States
In 2010, Nihad Numan moved to the United States, where he took a job as the head chef at a top-rated restaurant in New York City. At this restaurant, Numan’s creative dishes and unique approach to cooking quickly garnered attention from food critics and diners alike.
Numan’s success in New York led to numerous other opportunities, including a stint as a guest judge on the popular cooking competition show, Top Chef. He also appeared on several cooking shows, including Iron Chef America and Chopped.
In 2015, Numan opened his own restaurant in Los Angeles, which quickly became a hit with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant, named Numan’s, focused on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes that showcased Numan’s culinary skills and creativity.