IDAM, Michelin starred chef Alain Ducasse’s award-winning restaurant located on the top floor of the iconic Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), announced the appointment of Damien Leroux as its new Executive Chef. Leroux has been entrusted by Alain Ducasse to take over the running of the IDAM team. He follows in the footsteps of Frederic Larquemin in the role of Executive Chef.  
Alain Ducasse commented: “With a rich array of international experiences and such love and knowledge of the Mediterranean culture and produce, Damien brings a new energy to this culinary journey of French Mediterranean cuisine with an Arabian flair. ”
Born into a family of restaurant owners, Damien developed the love of cuisine at a very young age. At 16, Chef Bruno Cirino from L’Hostellerie Jérôme on the French Riviera introduced him to gastronomy, an experience that confirmed Damien’s love for “haute-cuisine”.
Leroux established himself for several years on the Mediterranean, where he met Alain Ducasse for the first time, a meeting which now brings Damien to IDAM, a world-class restaurant.  
Damien Leroux said: “I’m passionate about travelling and discovering new cultures. When Alain Ducasse offered me the opportunity to come to Doha, I did not hesitate. I’m delighted to continue the story that had been initiated since the creation of IDAM in 2012, and offer our guests the combination of Mediterranean cuisine twisted with Middle Eastern flavours.”
Since joining IDAM, Chef Damien Leroux has been recreating the timeless classics of local and regional cuisine, with most ingredients sourced locally in Qatar. He has been developing a stunning spring menu, which includes sensational dishes such as green asparagus salad with crushed olives, marinated small-scale red snapper with citrus and local red mullet, fennel and tiny potatoes.
This, coupled with Philippe Starck’s unique and exquisite interiors creates a sophisticated atmosphere for year-round fine dining.  
Later this year, IDAM, Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in the Middle East, will launch an exclusive outdoor terrace extending out from the restaurant’s 5th floor location at the heart of MIA. The space will come complete with an open dining area designed by Philippe Starck and unmatched sea views of the Doha skyline.