CarniStore: Curbside Alchemy Vol 2

CarniStore is pulling six top chefs out of their kitchens and onto the streets, where hustle, creativity, and good vibes sit center stage. A platform for culinary artists to push boundaries and blend bold flavours with unexpected flair, presenting street food with a twist—casual bites reimagined with the finesse of fine dining.

About the Chefs

Troy Payne

Chef Troy Payne, an Australian chef originally from Melbourne, is known for his passion for traditional cooking methods and mentoring young chefs.

He began cooking at 14, working his way through top kitchens by knocking on back doors and learning hands-on. At 24, he opened his first restaurant, Lady Hawke, in Australia. He later worked with renowned chef Greg Malouf, honing his skills in modern Middle Eastern cuisine.

After moving to Dubai, Chef Payne held roles like Head Chef at Clé Dubai and Executive Chef at The Sum of Us, later consulting and focusing on live fire cooking in the UAE’s beautiful deserts, before taking on Craft by Side Hustle in Abu Dhabi in 2023. This brewery restaurant at The Galleria Al Maryah Island features his Southern Louisiana-inspired menu.

Shaw Lash

As the Executive Chef and Co-Founder of Lila Taqueria and Lila Molino + Cafe, Chef Shaw shares her spin on the authentic, delicious culinary traditions of Mexico. She is committed to the traditional practice of sourcing and grinding heirloom Mexican corn to create fresh, hand-pressed tortillas, as well as forging and building lasting partnerships with local farmers, makers, and community suppliers in the UAE.

Since the launch of their homegrown taqueria (2022) on Jumeirah Beach Road and their subsequent all-day cafe at Alserkal Avenue (2024), Chef Shaw and her partner, Tarek Islam, are known for serving ‘authenticity on a plate’ with a nod to local UAE sourcing.

Chef Shaw is also an alumnus of the kitchens of Michelin Star Chef Rick Bayless and a protégé of culinary historian Diana Kennedy.

Rita Soueidan

Chef Rita Soueidan, born and raised in Dubai, is the Head Chef at Maisan15. She brings a unique blend of flavors to her culinary creations, influenced by her extensive travels, diverse experiences, and rich memories.

Drawing inspiration from the vibrant cultures she has encountered around the world, Rita crafts dishes that fuse her Middle Eastern roots with global influences. Her food reflects both a deep connection to her heritage and a passion for exploring new culinary landscapes, making each plate a personal reflection of her journey. Through her cooking, Chef Soueidan invites diners to experience the world through her eyes and tastebuds.

Faisal Naser

Chef Faisal Naser is a leading voice in modern Emirati cuisine, known for blending tradition with bold, global influences. As the founder of LENTO, a cult-favorite concept that began in Abu Dhabi and expanded to Dubai, Chef Faisal has built a loyal following with his elevated take on comfort food.

At LENTO, everything is made with intention. From house-aged cheeses to scratch-made condiments, Chef Faisal’s “quality over quantity” philosophy defines every dish. His Dubai branch pushes boundaries further, introducing limited-edition creations inspired by his travels and collaborations.

Chef Faisal is also a passionate ambassador for Emirati food culture. Rooted in heritage, driven by craft, and always innovating—Chef Faisal is shaping the future of Gulf cuisine from the heart of Dubai.

Ahmed Al Marri

Ahmed Al Marri is founder of Canvas Gelato, a Dubai-based artisanal gelato brand renowned for its innovative flavors and commitment to quality. Established in 2017, Canvas Gelato began as a home delivery service operating through Instagram, quickly gaining popularity for its unique approach to frozen desserts. ​

Al Marri’s culinary philosophy is rooted in authenticity and creativity. Rejecting the use of pre-made syrups and flavorings, he ensures that every component from sauces and jams to crackers and baqlawa is made in-house. This dedication to quality allows Canvas Gelato to offer unique flavor combinations such as Pistachio Baqlawa, Smoked Caramel and Bacon, and Goat Cheese with Figs.

Beyond its distinctive flavors, Al Marri’s brand has become a staple in Dubai’s culinary scene, with products featured in esteemed establishments like Mirzam Chocolate Makers, Kinoya, Milk Bakery and Cafe. Ahmed’s commitment to innovation and quality has earned the brand a loyal following and recognition as a leader in the artisanal gelato movement as well as pushing the boundaries of flavor.

Brando Moros

Chef Brando Moros is a visionary culinary artist whose career spans more than 16 years, driven by an unwavering passion for the transformative power of wood-fired grilling. Born and raised in Colombia, Chef Brando’s journey into the world of gastronomy began at an early age, ignited by his deep connection to his culinary heritage and an innate curiosity for the flavours and techniques that define exceptional cooking.

Chef Brando masterfully brings his philosophy of "elevating simplicity" to life, crafting a dining experience that is as soulful as it is innovative. Guided by his belief in the purity of natural ingredients, his dishes celebrate the elemental beauty of open-fire cooking. Through the interplay of smoky aromas, bold charred flavours, and refined techniques, he transforms simple ingredients into extraordinary creations that evoke both comfort and sophistication.