Dedicated Professionals Behind Daftar
Meet the Team
“She believed she could, so she did it.”
With an unstoppable smile and boundless creativity, Isheeta Sharma has journeyed from small-town India to the heart of Dubai. Known for her positive energy, she’s made waves in experiential marketing, managing high-profile events like the 90th Interpol General Assembly and the Formula E Prix. When the world paused during the pandemic, Isheeta didn’t—she launched a venture that handled over 75 events in just a few months.
Now, she’s embracing a new adventure: the restaurant world. Combining her love for authentic Indian flavors and her knack for unforgettable experiences, Isheeta is launching Daftar in DIFC. Her vision? To create a dining spot that’s as vibrant and dynamic as the events she’s known for, blending the warmth of Indian tradition with a modern Dubai twist. For Isheeta, Daftar is more than a restaurant—it’s a new chapter in her story of resilience, flavor, and fearless ambition.
Tip: Considering her background, why not host your next event at Daftar? Isheeta would love to bring her event expertise to your table!
A true people person with a
passion for hospitality.
Gaurav Bhosle is the kind of leader who believes in empowering his team and fostering a work culture built on ethics and collaboration. With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Gaurav has a knack for creating and developing concepts that bring fresh ideas to life. He’s done it all—and he’s earned recognition along the way, including “Manager of the Year” at MMI/Emirates Leisure Retail in 2016.
Outside the hustle and bustle of work, Gaurav’s heart belongs to the great outdoors. A spiritual individual who loves animals and nature, he finds joy in hiking, exploring museums, and visiting historical sites around the globe. His curiosity about cultures and communities fuels his travel adventures, while his quieter moments are spent reading and reflecting. Whether he’s an introvert or an extrovert depends on the day—but one thing’s for sure, Gaurav brings warmth, dedication, and a worldly perspective to every interaction.
Tip: Next time you’re at Daftar, chat about the great outdoors with our General Manager—you’ll make his day!
While he might be a man of few words, Chef Sabu Panicker lets his dishes speak volumes.
With over a decade of experience in the Emirates, Chef Sabu has mastered the art of bringing authentic Indian flavors to life while adding his own modern flair. Known for his attention to detail and commitment to consistency, he stays true to the essence of every recipe, ensuring each dish remains rooted in tradition, yet plated with creativity.
Chef Sabu’s culinary journey has led his past restaurants to remarkable success, earning prestigious accolades such as spots on the Gault et Milleau list and inclusion in the Michelin Select restaurants. His focus on quality has seen him achieve Gold status for brands he’s worked with, all while upholding the highest food safety standards. He’s a true culinary craftsman, dedicated to delivering an extraordinary dining experience with every plate.
And here’s a tip for those lucky enough to spot him: while Chef Sabu may seem reserved with a quiet smile, don’t be shy to say hello. He might be soft-spoken, but his passion for food is loud and clear, and he’s always happy to share his love for Indian cuisine with fellow food lovers.