Humanizing Chefs: Nabila Hingora
Name — Nabila Hingora @ Smiles ‘n Spice
Where do you Cook? — We prepare food out of a certified commercial kitchen facility
Where are you from originally? I am originally from India, but I was raised in Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Favorite Food(s) — homemade meals, including Goat Biryani, Ramen, Dumplings, Tandoori sandwiches, and various cuisines are always a pleasure
Favorite Chef(s) — I draw majority of my inspiration from chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Giada De Laurentiis, Rachael Ray, Ranveer Brar, Bobby Flay and numerous others. I connect with their cooking styles or find inspiration in their journeys.
Favorite Cincy Restaurant(s) (Past or Present) — Some of my favorites are Sultans Mediterranean, Truva Cafe, Genki Ramen, Sotto, Napa kitchen, around the area.
Favorite Food Memory or Meal — I fondly remember the moments where my siblings, cousins and I gathered around the dinner table, engaging in endless conversations, creating memories and enjoying fresh homemade dishes.
I first knew I wanted to be a chef when: I was a kid. Seeing how food brought smiles and brought everyone together in my family left a mark on my heart, and inspired me to share joy through cooking, which led me to experiment with different flavor profiles.
If I weren’t a chef, I would be — I’d definitely pursue a career as a fashion designer because I’ve always been drawn to the art of clothing and self-expression through style.
My first job was: assisting my dad with his business
Why I love my job, in three words -
Meals like Mom’s (our mantra)
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be: Lady Diana. She was such an inspirational figure, and I’d love to hear her perspective on life and her experiences.
My favorite book is — The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Favorite thing to cook after a busy service — nothing! get takeout
Favorite Movie(s) — Home Alone series, Bollywood movies, Devil wears Prada
Favorite TV show(s) — F.R.I.E.N.D.S, all the way!
Favorite Song(s) — I’m into songs like “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars, “Infinity” by One Direction, and, of course, some classic Bollywood tunes.
Favorite Band or Musician — Backstreet boys, One Direction, AP Dhillon
Favorite Place to travel — I love to go to London, New York, Paris and ofcourse Dubai!
Favorite Hobby(s) — Painting, cooking, listening to music
Favorite Quote — “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”
Biggest pet peeve — when people talk too loudly, lies, and they don’t practice cleanliness
Your motivational quote for other cooks/chefs — The special ingredient in your kitchen will always be LOVE ❤
My advice to future culinary pros — My advice would be to practice tirelessly, don’t lose focus, try experimenting with new ingredients and different foods to expand your palate. Never stop learning from your successes and failures. Pour your heart into your food!
