The Unlikely Path to Culinary Greatness

Dede’s journey defies convention. Born in Turkey, he was on the path to professional football, training with top clubs before a career-ending injury redirected his ambitions toward the kitchen. His story—detailed in an exclusive interview with The Irish Times—highlights how resilience and passion can transform unexpected detours into legendary careers.

“I was on the path to professional football in Turkey, but when my career was cut short, I found my true calling in the kitchen. It was never about giving up—it was about discovering what I was truly meant to do.”

Dede’s culinary education took him from Turkey to Ireland, where he honed his skills under the guidance of Michelin-starred chefs. His breakthrough came in 2020 when he opened Dede at The Customs House Baltimore during the pandemic—a bold move that paid off almost immediately. Within a year, the restaurant earned its first Michelin star, followed by a second in 2023, cementing its place among Ireland’s elite dining destinations.

2026 Irish Restaurant Awards: A Night of Culinary Triumph

The 2026 Irish Restaurant Awards, held at Dublin’s Clayton Hotel, celebrated Ireland’s culinary excellence with a star-studded lineup of winners. The event, attended by 1,000 industry professionals, raised funds for the Jack and Jill Children’s Foundation while spotlighting the country’s most innovative chefs, and restaurants.

Key Winners:

• Best Restaurant: Patrick Guilbaud (21 Upper Merrion Street, Dublin) – The first Irish restaurant to hold two Michelin stars since 1996, maintaining its prestigious status for over three decades.
• Best Chef: Ahmet Dede – A historic win for the 36-year-old, who also secured the award for Best Restaurant in the previous two years.
• Best Newcomer: Comet (Dublin) – Praised by The Irish Times’s restaurant critic for its “skilled, mature” cuisine.
• Outstanding Achievement: Paul and Máire Flynn of The Tannery Restaurant (Dungarvan), who announced their retirement after nearly 30 years in business.

Dede’s victory underscores a broader trend: Ireland’s culinary scene is evolving, with chefs like him blending global influences with local traditions. His rise also reflects a shift toward recognizing ambition and innovation over conventional career paths.

Why Dede’s Story Resonates Beyond the Kitchen

Dede’s background—rooted in sports but flourishing in gastronomy—mirrors a growing narrative in the culinary world. Many top chefs today come from diverse backgrounds, proving that passion often transcends traditional boundaries. His story is a reminder that success isn’t about following a script but about seizing opportunities when they arise.

For Ireland, Dede’s achievements are particularly significant. The country’s fine-dining scene has seen remarkable growth in recent years, with Michelin stars becoming a symbol of national pride. Restaurants like Patrick Guilbaud and Dede are not just culinary landmarks—they’re cultural ones, attracting global attention and elevating Ireland’s reputation on the world stage.

What’s Next for Ahmet Dede and Irish Fine Dining?

With his Chef of the Year title, Dede is poised to take his career to new heights. Rumors of international expansion and potential collaborations with other Michelin-starred chefs are already swirling. Meanwhile, Ireland’s culinary community continues to thrive, with regions like Waterford and West Cork making waves at the awards.

As Dede prepares to celebrate his milestone, one thing is clear: his story is far from over. For aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike, it’s a powerful reminder that greatness often begins with an unexpected turn.