Chef Leonardo Galati at The Artisan Dubai

Welcome to the very first chapter of Behind the Pass, Longino & Cardenal’s new culinary series dedicated to uncovering the human stories, artistry, and passion that bring fine dining to life. Each episode takes you inside the kitchen - behind the pass - where creativity sparks, flavors are born, and chefs transform ingredients into experiences.

For this premiere, our protagonist is Chef Leonardo Galati, Executive Chef at The Artisan Dubai, one of the city’s most celebrated destinations for Italian fine dining. His story embodies the essence of Behind the Pass: authentic tradition, relentless discipline, and innovation rooted in culture.

What is Behind the Pass?

Behind the Pass is more than a series - it is a philosophy. Diners usually see the polished front of the restaurant: the elegance of the dining room, the perfection of plating, the choreography of service. But behind the pass - that critical line dividing the kitchen from the dining floor - lies the heartbeat of gastronomy.

This is where intensity meets artistry. Chefs lead their teams under pressure, ideas take shape, and cultural identity is expressed through food. With Behind the Pass, Longino & Cardenal invites audiences to witness this hidden world. It is a chance to understand not only what chefs cook, but why they cook.

Launching in Dubai was no coincidence. The city has evolved into a global culinary hub, home to some of the best restaurants in Dubai and a melting pot of cuisines. By starting here, we celebrate the UAE’s role as a crossroads of innovation and excellence in fine dining.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

The Artisan Dubai: A Destination for Italian Fine Dining

Located in DIFC, The Artisan Dubai has established itself as a benchmark for authentic Italian cuisine. From the moment you enter, the space resonates with understated elegance: soft lighting, refined interiors, and a warm ambiance that balances contemporary luxury with Italian charm.

The philosophy of The Artisan is rooted in three principles: authenticity, quality, and creativity. The menu highlights exceptional ingredients sourced from Italy.

What sets The Artisan apart is not just the food: it is the sense of journey. Dining here feels like being transported to Italy, yet anchored firmly in the vibrant energy of Dubai.

This duality - timeless Italian tradition expressed in one of the world’s most dynamic cities — makes The Artisan a reference point in the DIFC fine dining scene.

Meet Chef Leonardo Galati

At the helm of The Artisan stands Chef Leonardo Galati, whose name is increasingly associated with Italian fine dining in Dubai. Born in Italy, Leonardo’s culinary journey began with the flavors and traditions of his homeland. From a young age, he was drawn to the kitchen, fascinated by the ability of food to bring people together.

His career path led him through some of Italy’s and Europe’s finest restaurants, where he trained under acclaimed mentors and refined his skills. Over the years, Leonardo built a culinary identity rooted in discipline, creativity, and deep respect for ingredients.

When he arrived in Dubai, Chef Leonardo carried with him not only technique but also vision: to create a dialogue between tradition and innovation, to honor heritage while speaking to a cosmopolitan audience. His leadership at The Artisan is marked by precision, passion, and the belief that a chef’s role extends beyond cooking - it is about storytelling, hospitality, and connection.

A Culinary Journey That Starts Here

The launch of Behind the Pass marks the beginning of a storytelling journey into the world of gastronomy. With The Artisan and Chef Leonardo Galati as its starting point, the series sets a high standard for what lies ahead.

Future episodes will explore more kitchens, more chefs, and more stories across UAE and beyond.

We invite you to follow this journey, to step behind the pass, and to discover the artistry, humanity, and emotion that define the culinary world.

Watch the Full Interview on YouTube

👉 Click here to watch the interview with Chef Leonardo Galati at The Artisan Dubai

Don’t miss the chance to see the energy, insights, and passion of Chef Leonardo in motion.

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Behind the Pass is more than a series - it is a tribute to the chefs who turn dining into an art form. And it is an invitation to you, the reader, to explore gastronomy not only from the table but from the heart of the kitchen.