The “Dubai Chocolate” made of chocolate with pistachio & kunafa took the UAE — and eventually the world — by storm! Inspired by the Middle Eastern knafeh, the famous dessert snack blends crispy kataifi with luscious chocolate and pistachio.
Indeed, the Dubai Chocolate Knafe pays homage to the region’s heritage… but did you know that behind this viral dessert is a Filipino chef? We’re talking about Chef Nouel Catis, who has launched his own brand: SNA’AP Chocolates!
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Who is Chef Nouel?
Born and raised in Dipolog, Zamboanga del Norte, Chef Nouel Catis is a renowned pastry chef, entrepreneur, consultant, and dessert specialist. Known for combining tradition and innovation, he currently owns two brands: SNA’AP, which features chocolate bars that represent the rich diversity and culture of Dubai; and The Sweet Life, which offers a “build your own dessert” experience for everyone!
SNA’AP: Luxury Chocolate Reimagined
“SNA’AP Chocolates is the culmination of Chef Nouel Catis’ passion for reimagining chocolate,” according to the official website of the internationally acclaimed chef. Each SNA’AP bar is skillfully crafted to be a “cultural mash-up” or a reinvention of classic flavors. The result? A premium confection that embodies tradition, creativity, and joy in every bite!
Product Range
Being the trailblazer that he is, Chef Nouel is constantly whipping up something magical in his kitchen! When it comes to SNA’AP Chocolates, here’s a glimpse of the chef’s eye-catching creations:
- Dubai Chocolate Bars (Milk). Inspired by Middle Eastern flavors, these bars combine kunafah strands and pistachios with 39% milk chocolate.
- Dubai Chocolate Bars (Dark). These bars feature the same kunafah and pistachio goodness — this time encased in 60% dark chocolate.
- Strawberry Fields. Encased in creamy white chocolate, this dessert is made of strawberries, Lotus crumble, and cheesecake essence.
- Salted Caramel Rahash. Another confection based on Gulf traditions, this bar is a delicious blend of salted caramel, sesame fudge, and dark amber chocolate.
- Miss Purple Baklava. A fusion of Middle Eastern and Filipino flavors, this dessert features tahina, ube, and cashews wrapped in chocolate.
Video: Transforming Kunafah into a Chocolate Masterpiece
Eager to know the story behind every SNA’AP Chocolate Bar? Watch this video of how Chef Nouel transformed the traditional kunafah into a decadent dessert. This is actually the first episode of the #CreatedByChefNouel series, so be sure to watch out for future episodes!
Where to Buy SNA’AP Chhocolates in UAE
Note: Currently, Chef Nouel’s pop-up kiosk in Dubai Festival City is temporarily closed. But you can still order SNA’AP chocolates through Candy Hearts outlets, iChips, Odeon, or order via Deliveroo or Careem. You can also contact the shop by calling +971 50 591 2761 or sending an email to sales@chefnouelcatis.com.
To order a bar — or two, three, all flavors — of SNA’AP Chocolates please check the following options:
Whether you’re buying chocolate to satisfy your own sweet tooth, or looking for a gift/souvenir for family and friends, then you shouldn’t miss the SNA’AP Chocolate Bar experience! After all, as Chef Nouel likes to say, each of his desserts tells a story… each bite sparks joy and fun!
Meanwhile, for the latest updates on SNA’AP Chocolates, follow “SNA’AP Dubai Chocolates” on Facebook and Instagram.
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* Photos from Chef Nouel Catis