With more than 15 years of experience under his belt, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa’s Executive Pastry Chef, Anis Mouldi, talks about his passion for all things sweet.

What led you to become a pastry chef and what is your specialisation?
My journey to becoming a pastry chef was greatly influenced by my family’s rich culinary background. Hailing from Tunisia, I was fortunate to be born into a family with deep-rooted ties to the world of baking. My grandfather, celebrated as one of the finest bakers in our country, instilled in me a love for the craft from an early age. Additionally, having an uncle who excelled as a pastry chef further fuelled my passion for all things pastry related.
Growing up surrounded by the sights, smells and flavours of baking, I found myself irresistibly drawn to the artistry involved in transforming basic ingredients into exquisite delicacies. The sheer magic of this process, coupled with the joy it brought to those who indulged in the final creations, left an indelible impression on me.
It was this fascination with the alchemy of baking that ultimately led me to pursue a career as a pastry chef. I am deeply committed to honing my skills and expanding my knowledge in this specialised field, with a focus on creating unique and unforgettable desserts that bring delight to others.

Sofitel Bahrain hosted the Haute Croissanterie event recently. What’s the inspiration behind this curated croissant menu and what’s on offer?
The inspiration behind the curated menu is to enhance the guest experience by offering a unique opportunity to elevate their culinary journey. This concept aims to position Sofitel as a preferred destination for experiencing luxuriously decadent croissants infused with local culture. Picture this: a lineup of carefully crafted croissant creations that blend Sofitel’s classy vibes with a taste of Bahrain’s culinary scene. It’s all about adding a little flair to your pastry fix, while soaking in the best of both worlds.

What emerging trends in pastry and baking excite you most?
What really gets me excited is the art of transforming just a handful of ingredients into something truly spectacular and delicious. I’m particularly drawn to the world of sorbet and gelato. The way these frozen delights can be crafted with precision and creativity to deliver not only incredible taste but also stunning visual appeal, is simply mesmerising.

What is your signature croissant within the Haute Croissanterie selection and what makes it special?
Our signature croissant at the hotel is a delicious blend of French expertise and Bahraini flavours. Using local ingredients such as Bahraini Halwa and cardamom custard cream, each bite is a journey of taste and tradition. The halwa brings a rich sweetness, while the cardamom custard adds a subtle spice. It’s a unique culinary creation that celebrates the best of both worlds, making every bite unforgettable. ✤