Chef Koyi Tanabe will be responsible for overseeing the culinary department of Salvaje Group Dubai, including Salvaje — a Japanese-Latin fusion restaurant — and Arrogante, a high-end Italian restaurant
Dubai : Salvaje Group is proud to announce the appointment of Chef Koyi Tanabe as the new Executive Chef overseeing operations of its flagship venues in Dubai: Salvaje Dubai and Arrogante. With over 16 years of international culinary expertise spanning Peru, Dominican Republic, Italy, and the Middle East, Chef Koyi Tanabe brings a wealth of knowledge, artistry, and leadership to his new role.
Born in Peru with Japanese heritage, Chef Koyi Tanabe embodies the perfect bridge between tradition and innovation. Trained in Japanese, Peruvian and Italian cuisines, his craft perfectly blends the elegance of Japanese precision with the passion and vibrancy of Latin American cuisine — a philosophy that mirrors Salvaje Group’s distinctive identity.
Chef Koyi Tanabe brings world-class expertise to Salvaje Group Dubai, having honed his craft at Maido Restaurant in Lima — ranked No. 1 in the World’s 50 Best Japanese Restaurants and led by renowned Peruvian chef Mitsuharu Tsumura. During his tenure at Maido, Chef Koyi gained invaluable experience, including the opportunity of preparing a special dinner service for the Top 10 Michelin-starred chefs in the world, a milestone that further refined his skills and global perspective.
At Salvaje Dubai, guests can expect his bold reinterpretations of Japanese – Latin fusion, with signature dishes enhanced through seasonal innovation.
At Arrogante Dubai, his vision will spotlight Italian culinary traditions with modern flair, creating an atmosphere where food, music, and design converge.
“Chef Koyi brings both authenticity and creativity to the table,” says Maxime Lejuez, General Manager, Salvaje Group. “His global journey and culinary artistry align perfectly with the group’s mission to deliver dining experiences that are sophisticated, immersive, and unforgettable.”
Chef Koyi Tanabe also worked at Eden Roc Cap Cana in the Dominican Republic — the country’s only Relais & Châteaux member hotel. Known for its strict admission standards, Relais & Châteaux properties are celebrated worldwide for their exclusive character, luxurious facilities, and unique identity that sets them apart from traditional chain hotels. This experience further strengthened Chef Koyi’s ability to combine authenticity with refined hospitality at the highest international level.
“Joining Salvaje Group is both a privilege and an exciting challenge,” says Chef Koyi. “Each brand has its own personality, and my goal is to enrich these identities with creativity, consistency, and passion — delivering moments that guests will remember long after they leave.”
With Chef Koyi’s direction, Salvaje Group emphasizes its commitment to reshaping Dubai’s culinary landscape by blending international experience with local authenticity and establishing new benchmarks for upscale dining in the city. He is preparing a new culinary boost for both venues through carefully updated menus. The focus will be on enhancing authenticity while introducing unique creations that set each restaurant apart.
Concept: Japanese–Latin fusion and high-end Italian dining under Salvaje Group
Location: Dubai Opera District, UAE
Culinary Lead: Chef Koyi Tanabe, new Executive Chef
Cuisine Highlights: Bold Japanese–Latin fusion at Salvaje Dubai; modern Italian classics at Arrogante Dubai
Experience: Immersive dining with seasonal innovation, music, and design-led settings
Chef Background: 16+ years international experience (Peru, Dominican Republic, Italy, Middle East); trained at Maido Lima and Eden Roc Cap Cana
Opening Hours: Lunch & Dinner, daily
Services: À la carte dining, events, private bookings.
