Chef Glen Ballis
The Vision Behind INA
Chef Glen Ballis is an internationally celebrated chef and visionary with over four decades of experience redefining dining across the globe. Originally from Australia, Ballis worked his way up through prestigious kitchens, spending years in Australia, Asia, and Russia, where he launched over 50 original dining concepts to great success.
Known for his bold moves and groundbreaking approach, his innovative work has earned him a prominent place in the global food and beverage industry, and he remains a passionate mentor, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the culinary world.
Chef Ballis’ focus for INA centres around fresh produce, where only the highest quality ingredients are selected and take centre stage, with an emphasis on natural flavours, enhanced by the woodfired grill.The dishes he has created for INA reflect his years of travel, mastering techniques and drawing inspiration from multiple cuisines and cultures across the world where fire remains at the heart of the kitchen. It is Chef Ballis’ hope that over this dining experience, you will share the food with good company, savour natural flavours as you’ve never tasted them and indulge in an ambience that can only be found within the blissful oasis of these walls. Welcome to INA.
GLEN BALLIS
first venture in the UAE
Welcome to INA
GLEN BALLIS
Chef Glen Ballis is an internationally celebrated chef and visionary whose career spans over four decades across Australia, Asia, and Europe. Known for his instinctive, produce-led approach, Glen has shaped more than 50 original dining concepts worldwide, each rooted in authenticity, creativity, and fire.
FIRST VENTURE IN THE UAE
Now based in Dubai, INA marks his first UAE venture in collaboration with Fundamental Hospitality. Located on the vibrant J1 Beach, INA reflects Glen’s philosophy of returning to the essentials – embracing flame, flavour, and human connection. At the heart of INA lies Dubai’s largest wood-fired grill, where the best of land and sea meet in balance and simplicity.
WELCOME TO INA
Trained at the esteemed William Angliss Hospitality School in Australia, Glen began his journey inspired by his family’s culinary artistry. His path has since led him through leading roles with Banyan Tree, Shangri-La, and numerous acclaimed establishments, earning him recognition as one of the industry’s most influential chefs, including Chef of the Year and Man of the Year by GQ magazine.
Beyond the kitchen, Glen is an artist in every sense – a photographer and storyteller who captures the world with the same sensitivity and instinct that define his cuisine. Through INA, he continues to ignite experiences that transcend dining – celebrating fire as both craft and connection.