CAREER
Executive Chef of Seen Holding
Chef James Knight-Pacheco
Award-winning chef and television personality James Knight-Pacheco is the Executive Chef of Seen holding and a prominent figure in the culinary world. Born in Venezuela and raised in the picturesque South West of England, James’s culinary journey is marked by his passion for gastronomy and a commitment to elevating the dining experience.
James has honed his skills alongside some of the industry’s most respected chefs, including Raymond Blanc, Gordon Ramsay, and Michael Caines. His illustrious career spans prestigious restaurants and luxury hotels in both the UK and the Middle East, with notable roles such as Executive Chef at Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort in Oman. His expertise extends beyond the kitchen; he provides consultancy and culinary workshops that help restaurants and hospitality businesses refine their menus and enhance operations.
CAREER
Executive chef of Seen Holding
James Knight-Pacheco
Award-winning chef and television personality James Knight-Pacheco is the Executive Chef of Seen holding and a prominent figure in the culinary world. Born in Venezuela and raised in the picturesque South West of England, James’s culinary journey is marked by his passion for gastronomy and a commitment to elevating the dining experience.
James has honed his skills alongside some of the industry’s most respected chefs, including Raymond Blanc, Gordon Ramsay, and Michael Caines. His illustrious career spans prestigious restaurants and luxury hotels in both the UK and the Middle East, with notable roles such as Executive Chef at Six Senses Zighy Bay Resort in Oman. His expertise extends beyond the kitchen; he provides consultancy and culinary workshops that help restaurants and hospitality businesses refine their menus and enhance operations.
AWARDS
The Visionary Chef Transforming UAE’s Dining Scene
James is deeply committed to supporting the gastronomy scene in the region. He co-founded the Dubai Chefs Collective and hosts the acclaimed Chef JKP Podcast, which shares inspiring stories from the culinary community and has gained recognition as a top food podcast. Currently serving on the judging panel for the Caterer Middle East Awards 2024, he continues to shape the hospitality landscape within the MENA region and beyond.
Awards and Achievements
A celebrated judge and keynote speaker, James has made his mark as an engaging advocate for the culinary arts. He has delivered two TEDx talks, exploring the profound connection between food and memories, and has been featured on BBC prime-time cooking shows, including Out of the Frying Pan and The Restaurant. Recognized for his influence in the industry, he was named one of the “50 Most Influential People in Food and Beverage in the Middle East and Africa” by Caterer Middle East in 2018 and 2019, and received the title of “Executive Chef of the Year 2019” at the Hotelier Middle East Awards.
UAE’s Culinary Innovator
Thanks to the inventive, progressive approach to modern seafood dishes at Ryba restaurant, chef James seamlessly blends customer desires with industry knowledge to create unforgettable dining experiences. His culinary philosophy is deeply rooted in his upbringing within a female-led family that fostered his love for food and cooking. For James, food is not just sustenance; it is a celebration of memories, culture, and creativity.
Join us at Ryba
The Ultimate Seafood Dining Experience in Abu Dhabi
Exquisite Flavors
Ryba is renowned for its exceptional flavors, blending traditional seafood dishes with modern culinary techniques.
the Freshest Seafood
Freshness is at the heart of every dish, with seafood sourced daily from local suppliers to ensure the highest quality.
Best Kept Culinary Secrets
Tucked away in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Ryba is the city’s best-kept culinary secret, offering an exceptional seafood experience
A Must-Visit Spot for Seafood Lovers
For seafood enthusiasts, Ryba Seafood Restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Its diverse menu, featuring everything from succulent lobsters to perfectly grilled fish
LOCATION
Ryba Restaurant – 31 Al Marabi‘ St – Zayed Port – Al Mina, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 00000
hours of operation
Daily, 12PM to 11PM