Business News Exclusive: Alexander Sysoev on Transforming the Dining Scene with Great List
Business News proudly presents an exclusive interview with Alexander Sysoev, one of the most influential voices in the food industry and the visionary founder of Great List. Known for its fresh approach, Great List has redefined dining by prioritizing authenticity, spotlighting hidden culinary gems, and fostering meaningful collaborations with top chefs and restaurants.
In this engaging Q&A, Sysoev delves into the evolving trends shaping the F&B industry, reveals how Great List continues to elevate dining experiences in Dubai and beyond, and unveils ambitious plans for 2025, including expansion across the Gulf. Explore how Great List is setting a new benchmark as a trusted resource for food and travel enthusiasts.
Can you share more details about Great List and what sets its concept apart?
GreatList guide is curated by independent experts who view dining as a lifestyle rather than merely a profession. These experts base their selections on personal experiences, prioritizing authenticity over mere popularity or compliance with conventional standards. The focus is on discovering hidden gems that provide a welcoming and cozy atmosphere, even for the most discerning food enthusiasts.
The guide is continuously updated throughout the year, ensuring that it reflects the latest culinary offerings rather than being limited to an annual review. Experts actively monitor new openings, featuring promising options in the “New” section, which are carefully evaluated for a three-month period before they may be promoted to the main listings.
GreatList offers an elegant interface that highlights essential details about each restaurant. Users can explore various types of outlets—from fine dining to city cafes and coffee shops. With a variety of filters available, the guide empowers diners to make informed choices that align with their preferences, enhancing every aspect of their dining experience.
In what ways do you collaborate with local chefs and restaurants to ensure that Great List remains a relevant and trusted resource for both residents and visitors in Dubai?
All restaurants that undergo expert evaluation are awarded a special distinction—a metal medal featuring the GreatList logo, which is prominently displayed at their establishment. Upon inclusion in the guide, chefs and head bartenders create a curated list of recommended items specifically for the online version—highlighting dishes and beverages that are must-tries. This initiative ensures that visitors can savor the restaurant’s signature offerings, gain a deeper understanding of the venue’s concept, and leave with a memorable culinary experience.
Each featured Restaraunter, Chef, and Bartender has a dedicated profile on the website, providing an in-depth overview of their career journey and current restaurant projects. This feature allows diners to explore additional venues where a chef has contributed to the menu development, ensuring a cohesive culinary exploration tailored to their preferences. If you enjoyed a Chef’s creations at one restaurant, the guide will seamlessly recommend other establishments that may pique your interest, all the while enhancing your overall dining experience.
What trends do you observe in the city’s F&B industry, and how does Great List align with these developments?
At GreatList, our team of experts not just overlooking the new openings but also trends in the constantly evolving culinary market. Today, to thrive, restaurants must keenly attune themselves to the preferences and expectations of today’s discerning consumers, who are increasingly seeking more than just a meal; they are in pursuit of memorable experiences that resonate with their values and lifestyle choices.
We can also see the following key trends which become more and more important for diners — prioritizing sustainable practices (such as sourcing locally, reducing waste, and implementing eco-friendly initiatives), technology integration (from online reservations and digital menus to interactive dining experiences and mobile apps for convenience), experiential dining (themed events, interactive cooking classes, or chef’s table experiences), health-conscious choices (menus that feature nutritious, organic, and wholesome options), personalization (knowing individual customer preferences—such as dietary restrictions, flavor profiles, and favorite dishes), global flavors (embracing creative flavor combinations and showcasing authentic international dishes), and improved delivery options.
What should we look forward to from Great List in 2025?
Firstly, the expansion of our geographic reach in a Gulf region, extending our services to include Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Muscat.
We are also in the process of developing a comprehensive calendar that will highlight key culinary and cultural events taking place in the cities. This calendar will serve as an invaluable resource for both locals and travelers alike, ensuring that our users stay informed about upcoming festivals, food fairs, and other significant activities that celebrate the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
Furthermore, we are planning an additional curated selection of hotels. By offering insights into the best places to stay, we aim to create a more comprehensive travel experience that encompasses not only dining but also lodging—ensuring that our users have access to all the necessary information to plan their perfect getaway and making it easier than ever to explore the culinary delights and cultural richness of the Gulf region.
Being a leading restaurant guide in Russia, we aspire to achieve similar success on an international scale.
