Israeli Chef Shahaf Shabtay Cooks Exclusive Shanghai Dinner for Johnny Depp
Israeli chef Shahaf Shabtay hosted Hollywood star Johnny Depp for an exclusive gourmet dinner at Mess Restaurant in Shanghai, earning high praise and a future invitation.
Israeli culinary pride shines internationally as acclaimed chef Shahaf Shabtay, known locally as the chef of Tel Aviv's luxury Pop & Pop restaurant and head chef of Arkia airlines, achieved a remarkable milestone this week by hosting Hollywood superstar Johnny Depp for an exclusive gourmet dinner.
A Hollywood Star in Shanghai
The intriguing encounter took place at Mess Restaurant in Shanghai, located inside the Mam Shanghai museum. The movie star landed in the Chinese city for his private art exhibition displayed at the museum, and during his high-profile visit, he enjoyed a bespoke gourmet meal crafted especially for him by the Israeli chef.
What do Hollywood stars eat? The meticulously curated menu featured creative and unusual combinations:
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Crispy Brazilian cheese bread with parmesan
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Rich pea soup with coconut foam
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A "tiramisu" of yellowtail fish accompanied by pineapple salsa and zesty jalapeno
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Tender filet mignon served with mashed potatoes, port wine, and miso reduction
Praise and Future Collaboration
"The meal left a real mark on the actor. At the end of the feast, Depp asked to call Chef Shabtay to his table, showered him with warm compliments on the unique dishes and flavors, and even invited him to cook for him at future meals." - PR Desk
This glamorous meeting adds to a series of international successes for Shabtay, who continues to represent Israeli cuisine and serve it to the world's most elite audiences. Meanwhile, Depp's global tour unfolds against the backdrop of a historic Hollywood comeback. In August 2026, super-producer Jerry Bruckheimer confirmed during Disney's D23 convention in Anaheim that the studios are in formal talks with Depp regarding his return for the sixth installment of the "Pirates of the Caribbean" franchise.
