Abu Dhabi chocolate is continuing his mission of crafting chocolates that honour the UAE’s most iconic cities. (Photo: Chef Nouel Catis) No food has taken the world by storm in recent years like the viral Dubai chocolate. Created in 2021 by Filipino chef Nouel Catis, the Dubai Chocolate went viral first on TikTok in late 2023 and became a global sensation in 2024. The Dubai Chocolate has maintained its viral status ever since.
Meet Abu Dhabi chocolate
But the Dubai Chocolate may soon get a competitor, incidentally from the creator of the original viral sensation itself. Chef Catis has launched his latest creation, the Abu Dhabi chocolate, a salted caramel and halwa treat that he hopes will capture the capital’s distinct flavours and identity.
On the weekend, Chef Catis introduced the Abu Dhabi chocolate to the world, calling it his “way of paying homage to the UAE, a place I have long considered my second home.”
What is Abu Dhabi chocolate
According to Chef Catis, the Abu Dhabi chocolate is continuing his mission of crafting chocolates that honour the UAE’s most iconic cities, each one telling a flavor story rooted in place.
“The flavor profile was built to reflect the soul of the city: Saffron and cardamom, deep, aromatic, and timeless. Tahina and dates, smooth, earthy, and rooted in local tradition. Nostalgic crunch, a texture that recalls cherished memories,” Chef Catis explained in a post on Instagram.
“Each ingredient was chosen with purpose to echo the hospitality, warmth, and cultural richness that define Abu Dhabi,” he added.
The Abu Dhabi chocolate is priced at $27 (Rs 2,400) for a 200g bar, and will be available only through Rain Café outlets.
Who is Chef Nouel Catis
Born in the Philippines, Chef Catis first moved to the UAE in 2004 to work at the Burj Al Arab hotel as its first Filipino pastry chef. After a brief stint in China, Chef Catis returned to the UAE, where he worked as an in-flight chef for Etihad Airways for eight years.
In 2021, Chef Catis and Sarah Hamouda, the co-founder of Fix Dessert Chocolatier, co-created the viral Dubai Chocolate.
According to Chef Catis, the viral Dubai chocolate was inspired by the traditional Arab dessert Knafeh.
