Supper clubs in Dubai: Gabriela Chamorro of Girl and the Goose puts Nicaraguan food on the map

The menu includes homemade ceviche, guacamole and ice cream.

Gabriela Chamorro went from flying high in Emirates cabin crew to cooking in the kitchen. Born and raised in Nicaragua, she gained a love of cooking from her family. She shares: “During my childhood, I watched my grandmother cook, and it ignited a passion within me to become a chef”. She gained a degree from the Culinary Institute of Barcelona, and started the supper club in 2019. Located in in Dubai, Girl and the Goose was as a way for her to share food from her homeland. 

What was the inspiration behind Girl and the Goose?

Food has always played an important role in my life. Witnessing my grandmother’s culinary prowess in Nicaragua fuelled my drive to tread the same path. For me, cooking for others is an embodiment of my love and passion. I love how food can break down barriers and forge profound human connections. My goal was to create a space where like-minded people could come together, share moments and reconnect over a wholesome meal.

Tell us about the cuisine at Girl and the Goose.

My menus showcase a seamless marriage between traditional recipes and contemporary inspirations from around the world. The supper club aims to put Central American cuisine on the map in the UAE. Showcasing seafood, the dining experience is adaptable for vegetarians. I strive to maintain a gluten and refined sugar-free approach. My dishes include Guacamole Pani Puri, and Sweet Plantain Tempura with morita chilli. Plus, homemade ceviche and ice cream.

Share something amazing that has happened at the supper club. 

I’ve had the privilege of hosting residents, Emiratis and high-profile personalities. I consider my goal achieved when people enter as strangers and leave as lifelong friends. I’ve forged deep friendships, cultivated partnerships, witnessed love blossom and observed career networks being woven. The unique experiences range from a famous flamenco dancer showing their moves to a guest serenading us with their voice. 

Share something funny that happened at the supper club.

Once a guest was adamant about knowing what time the group on the previous night left. I openly shared the information, only to discover that these guests were friends engaging in a playful bet. They decided to wager on who would stay the longest. We said our goodbyes at 12:05am, and they proudly claimed victory.

What is the experience like at Girl and the Goose?

Guests can expect a thoughtfully curated experience, which is intimate and welcoming. The evening is infused with warm Latin hospitality. I ask guests to steer away from the typical questions: “Where are you from?” and “What do you do?” So, there are icebreaker questions. If someone is intimidated by the idea of attending a supper club, my experience is designed with you in mind. 

If someone is thinking about visiting a supper club, share etiquette tips.

We are a shoes-free home, so we kindly ask our guests to bring their best party socks. Be mindful of time and consider the traffic in JBR. And, bring positive vibes and an appetite for a culinary adventure. 

What are your ambitions for the future?  

Following successful kitchen takeovers at BOCA DIFC, Fairmont the Palm, Le Guépard, Radisson Damac Hills and Waldorf Astoria, I am now prepared to take a bold leap of faith and have been cooking up something special. 

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