Alexander Orlov: “Success comes to those who aren't afraid to step out of their comfort zone”

Alexander Orlov is a renowned restaurateur and the founder of the Bulldozer Group holding. He opens restaurants all over the world: in Dubai, New York, London, Paris, as well as in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Uzbekistan. Ten years ago, the first projects of Bulldozer Group were launched in Dubai, and since then, the pursuit of new opportunities and a competitive spirit have inspired Alexander Orlov to create unique restaurant concepts. Among his projects are Dragonfly, Frou Frou, La Baia, Suelo, and others. Each one stands out with its unique style and distinctive atmosphere.

However, Alexander is not one to rest on his laurels: the restaurateur is constantly on the move, opening new locations and introducing innovative gastronomic concepts. Three unique projects have recently debuted in Dubai, each one embodying its own distinctive concept. La Baia by the Beach, inspired by the atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast, offers authentic Italian cuisine and an ambiance infused with the spirit of La Dolce Vita. Two other projects are located in the elegant setting of The Lana Promenade, Dorchester Collection: Dragonfly, an exquisite Japanese restaurant in partnership with the renowned chef Reif Othman, and Frou Frou, embodying the chic elegance of Paris in the 1920s. Both restaurants offer stunning views of the Burj Khalifa.

We met with Alexander Orlov to discuss Bulldozer Group's new projects, the principles behind creating successful restaurants, and his ambitious plans for expanding the bathhouse business in Dubai.

Alexander, congratulations on the launch of three new conceptual restaurants in Dubai. Could you tell us a bit about each of them?

Thank you! La Baia by the Beach is located in Dubai's trendiest beach destination, J1 Beach, right in the heart of Jumeirah. I highly recommend trying the Mediterranean seafood, fresh pasta, and aromatic pizza made in the oven. La Baia is especially beautiful during sunset: from the terrace and the beach, you get an incredible view — on one side, the Gulf, and on the other, the Burj Khalifa.

Just recently, at The Lana Promenade, we have proudly launched the Japanese restaurant Dragonfly – a joint project by Bulldozer Group in partnership with the renowned chef Reif Othman, who has earned a Michelin Guide distinction for his culinary excellence. Here, Japanese cuisine with pan-Asian accents is served – bold and vibrant flavors. At the same location, just one floor below, we also opened Frou Frou – a French restaurant that embodies the elegance and charm of Paris from the early 20th century.

The concepts of your new restaurants are very diverse. What principles do you follow when creating a new project? Do you make decisions on your own, or do you also listen to your team’s opinions?

That’s right, our restaurants are conceptually very different, and that’s no coincidence. Usually, the ideas come from me. Sometimes, the top managers suggest opening a restaurant in a specific location, but the final decision is always mine. When developing a new project, there are many factors to consider: the concept, direction, menu, interior design, location – everything must be carefully thought out.

Each restaurant in Dubai is designed not only to delight but also to create unique gastronomic experiences, introducing new flavors and dishes from various world cuisines. Our goal is to showcase the distinctive features of Bulldozer Group to an international audience: quality, creativity, and innovation.

Dubai attracts entrepreneurs from all over the world, but the gastronomic market here is incredibly competitive. How do you manage to maintain your position and stay in demand?

It’s true: in Dubai, there are over seven thousand establishments catering to every taste and budget. Competing in such an environment is not easy, but I’m confident that success comes to those who offer original concepts and aren’t afraid of challenges. In my view, difficulties make us stronger, and courage gives a person power – almost a kind of magical influence.

In addition to the restaurant business, you've launched the large “Orlovskie Bani” project in Astana and are planning to open one in Dubai. What do you think will make it successful in the “land of eternal summer”?

We are indeed preparing a world-class new project – the Sacra bath and SPA complex in Dubai. There will be separate sections for men and women, hammams, Russian steam rooms, saunas, snow rooms, salt grottos, massage rooms, a beauty salon, private suites, a restaurant, and a rooftop lounge. Undoubtedly, the project is set for success, as nothing like it has been seen in Dubai before. Moreover, the SPA treatments are beneficial for health, promoting body recovery and improving metabolism, which positively affects weight and skin condition. As the saying goes, a healthy body is a healthy mind!

In Astana, our project has already gained popularity: visitors leave the bath with happy faces, in a great mood, and often express their thanks. For me, it’s important to work for the benefit of others — not only by selling food and drinks, but also by contributing to people's well-being.

What goals and objectives do you set for yourself in the coming years?

As long as I have the energy and strength, I aim to achieve the best possible results in the industry I'm involved in. All of my projects are focused on growth and expansion. For instance, at the moment, I'm considering the possibility of opening a hotel in Almaty.

You manage around 100 restaurants in different countries. How do you handle such a heavy workload?

I’m confident that people can handle any workload if they properly manage their time and resources. It all comes down to cognitive abilities. I enjoy staying in constant motion, developing, expanding my business, and creating new things.

What’s the key to your success?

The key to my success lies in self-discipline, a well-defined marketing strategy, and persistence. I always strive to put in maximum effort to achieve my goals, and I believe that victories only come when you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone. Constant development – both professional and personal – is my core principle. Without it, progress is impossible.

Thank you for the interesting conversation, and we wish you endless energy for the realization of your projects!