Chef Dave Mangiliman Born in the Philippines, Chef Dave Mangiliman has dedicated more than 21 years to the pursuit of culinary excellence, establishing himself as one of the respected voices in contemporary Japanese cuisine in the UAE. His international journey began in Dubai in 2006, where he immersed himself in the city’s dynamic dining scene, refining his craft in some of its most celebrated restaurants, including Yo! Sushi, Karma Kafé, Asia Asia, and Q43. These formative years shaped his philosophy—balancing the precision of Japanese techniques with modern creativity, seasonal ingredients, and exceptional guest experiences.In 2014, Chef Dave was appointed Executive Chef of Origami Japanese Restaurant. What began as a single boutique restaurant has since evolved into a thriving brand with six locations across the UAE. As the culinary force behind the company’s growth, he has led the development of its menus, culinary standards, and kitchen culture while mentoring the next generation of chefs.Chef Dave’s cuisine is rooted in respect for Japanese tradition while embracing thoughtful innovation. His approach focuses on clean flavors, meticulous craftsmanship, and understated elegance, allowing premium ingredients to speak for themselves. Every dish reflects his belief that true luxury lies in precision, balance, and consistency.Beyond the kitchen, Chef Dave is recognized for his leadership and commitment to building high-performing culinary teams. His dedication to excellence has been instrumental in establishing Origami as one of the UAE’s respected contemporary Japanese dining destinations. Today, Chef Dave continues to shape the evolution of Japanese cuisine in the region, creating memorable dining experiences that celebrate craftsmanship, authenticity, and innovation while inspiring the chefs who work alongside him.
