Today we’d like to introduce you to Shabo Emara.
Hi Shabo, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Qalyubia, just outside Cairo, Egypt, where my passion for cooking began early—helping my mother prepare meals using fresh ingredients from our family farm. My father was also a chef, and he inspired me to pursue the culinary path professionally. I graduated from the Cairo Hilton Culinary School, where I studied classical European cuisine and mastered courses in butchery, sauces, pastry, and banquets.
I started my career as a Chef de Partie at the Cairo Marriott Hotel before moving to the United States in 2009. I joined the team at the JW Marriott Resort & Spa on Marco Island, Florida, where I continued to refine my skills in fine dining. A few years later, I became an executive chef at a kosher restaurant on Florida’s east coast, which allowed me to expand my understanding of diverse culinary traditions and dietary needs.
In 2014, I opened my first restaurant, Shabo’s Mediterranean Barbecue in Hollywood, FL—an American-Mediterranean fusion concept that quickly became a local favorite. After nearly a decade of success, I decided to return to Southwest Florida and open Shabo’s Bistro in Naples in 2023.
Today, Shabo’s Bistro represents everything I’ve learned along the way: bold Mediterranean flavors, refined presentation, and a true passion for making every dish a work of art. For me, cooking has never been just about food—it’s about creating an experience that brings people together.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
(laughs) That’s a good question. The road definitely hasn’t been easy. When I came to the U.S., I had just $800 in my pocket, very limited English, and a big dream—to build a life and career doing what I love. Like many immigrants, I faced challenges adjusting to a new culture and language, and at times, I experienced racial discrimination and discouraging comments.
(for example- quote”go back to your camels”)
But I refused to let that stop me. Every obstacle became motivation to work harder, learn faster, and prove that passion and dedication can overcome any barrier. Those early struggles taught me resilience, humility, and the importance of staying true to who I am. Looking back, I’m grateful for every step—it made me the chef and person I am today.
We’ve been impressed with Shabo’s Bistro/5 Star Catering/Wise Spice, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At this point in my journey, my work really comes together through three branches — Shabo’s Bistro, 5 Star Catering, and my new brand, Wise Spice. At the Bistro, we focus on fresh, local ingredients and Mediterranean flavors presented in a refined, welcoming way. Through 5 Star Catering, I bring that same restaurant-quality experience to private homes, weddings, and events all around Naples and Marco Island.
I also love teaching — I host cooking classes for both adults and kids, showing that healthy food can be simple, delicious, and fun. My newest passion, Wise Spice, is all about sharing pure, natural ingredients: organic whole spices, seasoning blends, Arabic spiced coffee, and authentic serving pieces that celebrate real flavor and mindful living.
What sets me apart is that I don’t just cook — I educate and inspire people to eat better, live healthier, and enjoy food as an experience that connects us all.
What matters most to you? Why?
My family matters most to me—everything I do is for them. They’re my biggest motivation and my reason to keep pushing forward. No matter how busy life gets, family keeps me grounded, grateful, and focused on what truly matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://5starcatering.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.chef.s/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chefshabo/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chef-shabo-emara/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Chefshabo
- Other: https://shabosbistro.com/meet-chef-shabo/
