Chef Tarique Aziz: Crafting the Perfect “Single Moment”

Chef Tarique Aziz’s culinary journey is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Kolkata, India, to a family of doctors and engineers, his path seemed set in stone. But at a pivotal moment in his life, Aziz made a bold decision to follow his true passion—cooking.

This shift from science to the kitchen was inspired by childhood experiences helping his mother, who had lost her sight. Little did he know, those early moments in the kitchen would set him on a path that would span continents and lead him to become the Executive Chef at the Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi – MGallery Collection.

For Aziz, cooking isn’t just about food—it’s about creating memorable moments. This beautifully resonates with The Singleton Whisky’s ethos: to celebrate life’s fleeting moments through the art of connection, food and drink – the Single Moment. It encourages us to slow down and savour the present, making every experience unforgettable. No one embodies this spirit more than Chef Tarique Aziz.

Aziz’s approach to cooking is about more than just perfecting a recipe—it’s about transforming a meal into an unforgettable experience. One of his signature creations, a rich risotto with lamb chops glazed in 15-year-old Singleton whisky, exemplifies this philosophy.

The whisky’s complexity adds depth to the dish, elevating the entire dining experience and forging a meaningful connection between the chef, the dish and the guest.” The true essence of life is about savouring the time you have with the people around you, enjoying not just the food but the conversation, the laughter and the shared joy that comes with a great meal,” says Aziz.

His use of whisky in the kitchen, is part of his broader effort to merge food and drink in ways that enhance both. With each pairing, Aziz is inviting guests to pause, to reflect and to enjoy life’s simplest yet most powerful moments.

As an Executive Chef, Aziz leads a team of 35-40 chefs at the Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi, where he cultivates an environment of camaraderie and creativity. Rather than running his kitchen like a military camp, Aziz fosters a collaborative space where every team member can thrive.

“It’s about delivering the best food while understanding the importance of working together,” he explains. His leadership style emphasizes sustainability, a key component of his modern approach to cuisine, where reducing food waste and experimenting with new flavours go hand in hand.

Having worked across the globe, Aziz brings a wealth of knowledge to every dish he creates, blending cuisines from Indonesia, the Middle East and beyond. Yet, no matter where he is, his mission remains the same: to craft those special moments through food. Whether cooking for royalty, celebrities or everyday guests, Aziz’s goal is to deliver a dining experience that resonates long after the last bite.

For Aziz, the ultimate Single Moment is personal. He regrets not having had the chance to cook a special meal for his mother, the woman who unknowingly sparked his culinary career. Yet, through his cooking, he honours her every day. And now, Chef Aziz hopes to create lasting memories for others—helping people connect, share and cherish the moments that matter most.In the world of Chef Tarique Aziz, every meal is more than just sustenance—it is a chance to experience the beauty of life’s most important moments, one dish at a time.

It is about that rare, perfect moment when everything comes together: the food, the drink, the laughter and the connection. With every drop of Singleton whisky, paired with a carefully crafted dish, you’re invited to slow down, savour the present, and make each moment one to remember. Because in life, it’s these moments that truly matter—and through the art of fine dining, they are never forgotten.

Next time you’re at the Gem Forest Hotel Nairobi, take a moment to savour a Singleton cocktail as you await Chef Tarique Aziz working his magic in the kitchen. With each sip, let it set the stage for a meal that goes beyond food—it’s an invitation to pause, enjoy, and appreciate the moments that make life memorable.