In this Local Icon series, Bundy shares her favourite culinary destination, go-to drink order, and more!
Ariana Bundy is an award-winning Iranian-American chef, author, and television host renowned for bringing Persian cuisine to a global stage. Her acclaimed cookbook Pomegranates & Roses received a Gourmand Award. She also authored Sweet Alternative, the first dessert cookbook entirely free from gluten, dairy, and soy. Today, she heads the MICHELIN-listed Ariana’s Persian Kitchen at Atlantis The Royal, Dubai.
Morning routine
I truly believe your morning sets the tone for the rest of the day, so I always start with a Joe Dispenza meditation – it helps me centre my thoughts and set clear intentions. Then I take my Cymbiotika supplements, and of course, there’s always a hot cup of saffron and rose tea. It’s my favourite little ritual – calming, fragrant, and such a comforting start to the day.
Go-to takeaway
I love Bowlful for clean, organic meals – it’s my go-to when I want something nourishing but fuss-free. If I’m craving comfort food, the spicy duck pizza from Funkcoolio is hard to beat. And for something sweet, it’s always a fruit Boba tea from YiFang or a creamy matcha soft serve.
Top culinary destination
Iran. From Tavozo’s dried fruits and nuts to Kabbabs and street foods like Ash. Don’t miss the pomegranate juice stands or saffron ice cream with Faloodeh. And a visit to one of my favourite Attaris is a must – part spice shop, part herbal pharmacy.
Listening to…
A lot of live talks by Joe Dispenza. His approach to mindset and energy resonates with me. I often have one playing in the background while I’m cooking, walking, or just having a quiet moment to myself.
Drink order
Kashani Lemonade – fresh lemon juice, agave nectar, rose water, and chia seeds. It’s my signature drink at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen; light, floral, and just the right amount of refreshing. And if I need a little pick-me-up, it has to be a Karak chai!
One dish you love creating
Anything I can top with Iranian Beluga – from Wagyu Kabbab to homemade potato chips, even ice cream. It’s indulgent, a little unexpected and always a showstopper.
On my playlist
I’ve been diving into Iranian music lately – it’s something I didn’t grow up with, so it feels like rediscovering a part of myself. One of my favourite songs right now is Mi Amor by Artaa & Saaren.