Executive Pastry Chef Lucas Bonnaud, of The Ned Doha, talks about the focus and dedication needed to create delicious desserts time and time again.

What attracted you to the dessert side of kitchen life?
What captivates me is the love of endless creativity. In the world of pastry, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating art that stirs emotions. Each dessert is a chance to craft something visually stunning and memorable.

This calling must require intense concentration and attention to detail, how do you maintain that, particularly on big orders?
Absolutely, focus and attention to detail are crucial. My approach is rooted in consistency – it’s about forming a team of dedicated, passionate chefs who respect the integrity of the ingredients and who strictly adhere to the methodology. We all share a common goal: to excel and deliver perfection in every dessert we make.

What, would you say, is the most challenging aspect of your job?
The greatest challenge, and also the most rewarding aspect, is maintaining consistency and nurturing a passion for what we do. It’s about balancing – keeping the real essence of each ingredient while innovating with natural flavours to create something truly extraordinary.

What is your signature dish, how was it developed and what makes it popular?
My signature dish is a personal love story with coffee and hazelnuts. The Hazelnut Tiramisu, crafted specially for Ramadan which became an instant hit. Its success lies in the harmony of flavours and how they resonate with guests.
Now at Ned’s Café, you can try an array of pastries and cakes, one of my favourites being the Basque Cheesecake topped with fresh berries. This is just a taste of the sweet creations that await our guests at The Ned Doha.
My passion is also in designing sophisticated afternoon tea pastries. I’m excited to launch my new Afternoon Tea menu and share it with our guests very soon.
I am also planning something even more exciting for Ramadan, a unique experience exclusively for our guests and visitors at The Ned Doha. Stay tuned! ✤