In conversation with QH, head chef of Jiwan Restaurant, Morgan Perrigaud talks us through his own culinary journey and what Jiwan has added to Doha’s gastronomic milieu.
QH: Share your culinary journey from Saint-Malo to Jiwan. How have Michelin-starred restaurants influenced your approach?
Perrigaud: Working at Michelin-starred restaurants opened my mind to the different techniques and ways of dining preferences across European restaurants. The exposure to meticulous attention to detail, refined presentation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence has become an integral part of my culinary ethos. These experiences not only honed my skills but also instilled a passion for pushing the boundaries of gastronomic creativity. This allowed me to adapt a little more easily to the Arabic cuisine.
QH: How do you blend Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours at Jiwan? Any signature fusion dishes?
Perrigaud: It is by tasting that we learn. Going out to the souq and eating locally so we can have ideas on combinations of products and spices that can work together helps a lot. As for signature fusion dishes, Jiwan takes pride in crafting culinary masterpieces that reflect a harmonious marriage of flavours.
QH: Balancing innovation and French culinary tradition is challenging. How do you maintain that equilibrium?
Perrigaud: Balancing innovation with the rich tapestry of French culinary tradition presents a unique challenge, one that we navigate skillfully at Jiwan. We find that drawing inspiration from Arabic cuisine provides an excellent platform for achieving this delicate equilibrium. Arabic cuisine, known for its inherent generosity, offers a dynamic canvas that harmonizes seamlessly with our culinary philosophy. Innovating or revisiting certain classics is, for us, a way of integrating more techniques and precision in giving it a contemporary twist.
QH: Doha’s culinary scene is diverse. How does Jiwan distinguish itself, and what role do local ingredients play in your menu?
Perrigaud: Jiwan offers a unique experience that sets it apart in the city’s diverse culinary landscape. It’s a destination that beckons exploration for individuals and families alike. Spices and local fish are a way for us to combine everything. The incorporation of locally available ingredients and the infusion of diverse culinary influences play a pivotal role in shaping our menu. At Jiwan, we passionately believe in showcasing the abundance of flavours that Qatar has to offer. Each dish reflects a celebration of this rich culinary tapestry.
Short Shots
Favourite travel destination: Britanny, France
Most favourite book: The only light we cannot see by Anthony Doerr
Most favourite Jiwan dish: Hammour tandoori with naan bread, cooked at the BBQ, and super tasty
Best advice received: Be humble
Favourite unwinding method after a long day: Like to chill with my family and friends
