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FILIPINO PRIDE: FILIPINO CHEF BEHIND VIRAL DUBAI CHOCOLATE SEEKS AED 2 MILLION INVESTMENT ON SHARK TANK
Filipino pastry chef Nouel Catis, the creative mind behind the viral “Dubai Chocolate” (originally pistachio-kunafah), made a bold appearance on Shark Tank Dubai Season 3, asking for AED 2 million in exchange for a 20% stake in his company.
Catis, who hails from Dipolog City, has built a reputation for blending Filipino roots with culinary innovation, having worked in luxury kitchens across the Middle East and Asia. His Shark Tank pitch preceded the launch of his brand SNA’AP and his dessert platform The Sweet Life.
Reflecting on the experience, he shared on Instagram: “The moment I walked off that stage, I carried the sharks’ words with me — like a child being mentored by a parent. That experience lit a fire. I never looked back.”
More than just a pitch for funding, Chef Nouel’s appearance on the show marked his creative independence and confidence in owning his culinary vision. His journey showcases how Filipinos are rising on global stages, not just as workers, but as innovators and leaders in their fields.
In 2024, he was recognized at the Global Filipino Icon Awards, where he was named Emerging Global Filipino Icon for his contributions to food and culture.
This story originally appeared on the Global Filipino Magazine news page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.
#DestinationPH
Filipino pastry chef Nouel Catis, the creative mind behind the viral “Dubai Chocolate” (originally pistachio-kunafah), made a bold appearance on Shark Tank Dubai Season 3, asking for AED 2 million in exchange for a 20% stake in his company.
Catis, who hails from Dipolog City, has built a reputation for blending Filipino roots with culinary innovation, having worked in luxury kitchens across the Middle East and Asia. His Shark Tank pitch preceded the launch of his brand SNA’AP and his dessert platform The Sweet Life.
Reflecting on the experience, he shared on Instagram: “The moment I walked off that stage, I carried the sharks’ words with me — like a child being mentored by a parent. That experience lit a fire. I never looked back.”
More than just a pitch for funding, Chef Nouel’s appearance on the show marked his creative independence and confidence in owning his culinary vision. His journey showcases how Filipinos are rising on global stages, not just as workers, but as innovators and leaders in their fields.
In 2024, he was recognized at the Global Filipino Icon Awards, where he was named Emerging Global Filipino Icon for his contributions to food and culture.
This story originally appeared on the Global Filipino Magazine news page. Graphics and edits by Destination PH.
#DestinationPH
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Did You Know? Ube has been a staple in Filipino cuisine for over 400 years and is now a global sensation in desserts and drinks! 💜
#DestinationPH
#DestinationPH
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–– Hidden wonders of the Cordillera Administrative Region await. Cruise through an underground river and venture into thrilling cave expeditions.
Location | Lussok Cave and Underground River,
Luna, Apayao, Philippines
#Apayao
#DestinationPH
#LoveThePhilippines
Location | Lussok Cave and Underground River,
Luna, Apayao, Philippines
#Apayao
#DestinationPH
#LoveThePhilippines
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