Since the beginning of January Deff has been overseeing the culinary creations at the Kempinski's stunning property on Palm Jumeirah. His experience and creativity takes shines through in each dish. He is a master at highlighting the flavors of carefully selected ingredients with a French touch and will be showcasing his talent at Brunello restaurant.
Deff started his career in Germany in 1983. In the late 80’s he had the privilege of working during six years with many of the most renowned Three-Star Michelin chefs in France such as Paul Bocuse, Joel Robuchon and Emile Jung.
After his time in France, he spent five years in Sao Paulo, first working at the prestigious restaurant Cantaloup, acclaimed as the best restaurant in Brazil, and then at Leopoldo, the most exclusive restaurant and club in Sao Paulo. During that time, he trained the Brazilian team for the prestigious Paul Bocuse d’Or culinary award. He also created the First Class and Business Class menus for Varig Airlines.
Deff returned to Germany in 1999 and opened as executive chef and partner the restaurant Theodor Tucher in Berlin, where he had the pleasure of serving politicians such as George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, diplomats such as Henry Kissinger, and other international celebrities.
In 2005 he followed his dream and immigrated to Canada/Quebec, where he started as executive chef at the Sofitel in Montreal and its Restaurant Renoir. Deff and his team were recognised with several prestigious awards during this time including:
- 2008 Best Hotel Restaurant – Journal Devoir
- 2008 Award of culinary Excellence - group Accor
- 2009 Restaurant of the year – Guide Debeur
- 2010 Canadian Culinary Championship, Bronze Medal Winner.
Deff was invited to move to Abu Dhabi in 2011 to open the new Sofitel at the Corniche. Under his leadership, the hotel was awarded the title of Best Seafood Restaurant in Abu Dhabi by What’s On magazine in its first six months of operation.
Deff Haupt will introduce new menus in Dubai's Brunello Restaurant, food tasting events, and cooking classes starting in February in.
