Somabay took center stage as the honorable Destination Partner for the celebrated Cairo Food Week 2024, which concluded with great fanfare from May 9th to 14th. This prestigious event, celebrated under the Soma Social Concept, showcased Somabay’s commitment to building diverse, inclusive, and thriving communities.
The inaugural Soma Social initiative made a resounding impact during CFW, offering guests an immersive glimpse into the luxury and community spirit that defines Somabay. The event was a testament to the dynamic partnerships Somabay has cultivated, bringing together culinary brilliance and unmatched hospitality.
Soma Social embodies a commitment to foster vibrant, diverse, and inclusive communities. By welcoming newcomers and strengthening existing connections, Soma Social celebrates Somabay and its partners through luxury living experiences and exquisite culinary events. This initiative promises exceptional hospitality and enriching social interactions, creating a thriving collective along the Red Sea.
Somabay, in collaboration with Kokomo, hosted two exclusive dinners at Kokomo Cairo branch in District5, New Cairo. The events, themed “Chefs on Fire,” featured renowned chef Jessica Rosval of the Francescana family’s Al Gatto Verde, and chef Omar Fathy, founder of Kokomo. These dinners, held on May 13th and 14th, delighted 70 elite guests and CFW fans with a meticulously crafted menu that showcased their culinary prowess.
Ibrahim El Missiri, CEO of Somabay, expressed his enthusiasm, stating: “We are delighted to unveil our Soma Social concept at CFW. This initiative celebrates our significant accomplishments alongside our esteemed partners in fostering dynamic, diverse, and inclusive communities.”
Echoing this sentiment, Ashraf El Sisi, Chief Hospitality Officer at Somabay, remarked: ” As the Egyptian Culinary scene emerges internationally, we are thrilled to see our partners collaborate with CFW for this celebration of Taste & Talent. Somabay has long been synonymous for delivering exceptional experiences, and we are committed to developing a world-class culinary experience for our multitude of visitors.”
Extending its hospitality beyond Cairo, Somabay invited distinguished members of the CFW international press team and chefs for a bespoke experience at Somabay’s Cascades Hotel. The tailored itinerary included culinary delights at Bamboo Shoot in Kempinski Hotel and Kokomo by the marina, orchestrated by Chef Omar Fathy. Guests enjoyed sundowners at the enchanting Sobar Rooftop, a breakfast on a boat in the Red Sea, and exclusive yacht trips to the best spots in Somabay, offered by Happy Turtle. Adventure activities included snorkeling, go-karting, horse riding, golf, and the invigorating Aquatonic Experience at Cascades Spa and Thalasso Hub.
The press team featured notable names such as Deniz Atlam from Forbes Turkey, Fernanda Roggero from Food and Wine Italy, and Steven Steinfeld from Wanted Magazine. Among the esteemed chefs were Chef Kelvin Cheung, a culinary pioneer of Third Culture Food blending Chinese, North American, and French influences in Dubai, who is also committed to wellness and sustainability, mentoring chefs, advocating diversity, and championing regenerative efforts globally. Alvaro Clavijo, who has created the beloved modern gastro-bistro El Chato in Bogota, offers a menu that tells his own culinary journey and the love story El Chato shares with the local community of producers. Accompanying him was his assistant, Francisco Arguello