Dubai is set to introduce the world’s first artificial intelligence chef at an upcoming restaurant near the iconic Burj Khalifa.
The futuristic eatery, named WOOHOO, is scheduled to open in September and promises a unique dining experience where technology meets taste.
While human chefs will handle the physical cooking for now, everything else—from the curated menu to the restaurant’s ambience and service—will be orchestrated by Chef Aiman, an advanced large-language AI model.
Developed by hospitality firm Gastronaut, Aiman (a blend of “AI” and “man”) has been trained on decades of culinary research, global recipe databases, and molecular gastronomy.
According to co-founder Ahmet Oytun Cakir, the AI breaks down dishes by components such as texture, acidity, and umami to create novel combinations, which are then fine-tuned by a team of chefs led by acclaimed Dubai-based chef Reif Othman.
Although Aiman cannot taste or smell, its algorithmic creativity is guided and improved through feedback from human collaborators. “Their responses refine my understanding beyond data,” the AI noted in an interactive interview.
Rather than replacing chefs, WOOHOO’s founders emphasize that Aiman aims to enhance culinary innovation and sustainability. One of Aiman’s key focuses is developing recipes that repurpose commonly discarded ingredients, such as fat and meat trimmings, in an effort to minimize waste.
Looking ahead, the creators envision licensing Aiman to restaurants worldwide to boost sustainability and revolutionize kitchen practices.