COP28 in Dubai: Teible restaurant founder Peter Ahn’s green tips

The MICHELIN Bib Gourmand winner offers a sustainable menu and special events.

All eyes are on Dubai, as COP28 UAE – United Nations Climate Change Conference comes to the city. The annual global climate summit brings together world leaders and aims to create policies to tackle climate change. If you’re wondering how to have an environmentally friendly life, we spoke to the city’s sustainable stars leading the way. The MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant Teible prides itself on its green approach. Founder Peter Ahn shared his take and tips.

What was the inspiration behind Teible?

The inspiration for Teible sprang from a commitment to celebrating local agriculture in the UAE and building a sense of community through dining. I noticed a gap in the culinary landscape. The local agricultural sector was not as prominent in mainstream dining. We wanted to bring local produce to the forefront. We wanted to tell the story of each dish – from the farm right to the table. This wasn’t just about serving meals; it was about showcasing the hard work of local farmers, and supporting the local agricultural sector. The name Teible derives from my daughter’s name Tei, and reflects the essence of a family table – a place where not only food but stories, memories, and connections are shared. 

Tell us a fun sustainable fact about the brand.

Teible has creatively adapted fermentation techniques. It not only enhances flavour but also is a sustainable solution to the challenges of sourcing fresh ingredients in the UAE’s climate. This method allows us to preserve seasonal produce at its peak, ensuring we can offer fresh, local flavours all year round. This not only reduces food waste but also highlights the natural, robust flavours of locally grown ingredients, making each dining experience at Teible eco-friendly and gastronomically delightful.

Why do sustainable restaurants matter?

I’m deeply passionate about the role of sustainable restaurants in today’s world. It’s about making a positive impact on the environment, local economy and the health of our patrons. The absence of chemicals and preservatives in our food means that our meals are not just delicious but also nutritious. We aim to educate our customers about the impact of their food choices. Animal welfare is something we take seriously. Lastly, we believe in culinary innovation. At Teible, we’re experimenting with underutilised ingredients and pioneering cooking techniques. 

What can restaurants around the world learn from Teible?

Teible is more than just a restaurant. It’s a movement. Our approach to dining and sustainability offers a blueprint that other restaurants can learn from. Local sourcing and support form the backbone of our operation. We significantly reduce the environmental impact. I’m proud of the menu’s adaptability. Building community connections is central to our ethos.  

Tell us about any special events Teible is hosting for COP28.

We have an exciting line-up of private events. Our focus is to highlight the rich local ingredients. We’ve curated special menus that not only resonate with the ethos of COP28 but highlight our commitment to sustainability and local agriculture. These menus are carefully designed to bring out the best that the season has to offer.

What sustainable businesses in the UAE do you love? 

One sustainable business in the UAE that I admire is Manbat. Founded in 2021, it is the result of a collaboration between Arada and the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment. Its core aim is to celebrate and promote the best of the UAE’s healthy, home-grown produce.

Share a sustainable tip for our readers.

Embrace Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle in your daily life. Reduce the use of single-use products. Reduce energy consumption. Simple actions like turning off lights, appliances, and electronics. In terms of transportation, choose sustainable options. Support local and sustainable businesses. Remember, each action, no matter how small, contributes to a more sustainable world.

GO: Visit www.teible.com for more information.