Tala Bashmi is a Bahrain-born and Swiss-trained chef celebrated as the leading figure in modern Khaleeji Cuisine. As the head chef of Fusions by Tala, located in the Gulf Hotel Bahrain, she is dedicated to bridging the gap between traditional and contemporary gastronomy. Her culinary creations are deeply inspired by local markets, art, literature, and ancient Arabic manuscripts, allowing her to reimagine traditional dishes with a modern twist while preserving their original essence and flavors.

Under her leadership, Fusions by Tala underwent a significant transformation in 2019, including a menu redesign and an expansion of its capacity and staff. Chef Tala’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in her use of local and seasonal ingredients, as well as her efforts to minimize food waste by utilizing all parts of each ingredient.

Her innovative approach and dedication to showcasing the rich history and diversity of Arabic cuisine have earned her significant acclaim. In 2023, she was awarded the ‘Rising Star’ at The Best Chef Awards in Mexico and ranked #63 globally. Chef Tala continues to use food as a means of connecting diverse cultures and highlighting the rich culinary heritage of the region.