TRIED & TASTED

tastedTried

Our top dining experiences this month

THE HIDE, JUMEIRAH AL QASR

Hidden out of plain sight on the lower ground floor of the majestic Jumeirah Al Qasr, The Hide is the first culinary concept from Jumeirah Group to be reimagined in a series of major developments to its beachfront gastronomic portfolio.

The sophisticated deco-style grill and bar, that draws inspiration from old school glamour, offers ambient lighting, striking interiors and alluring décor. Vintage photographs adorn the walls indoors, with an ornate circular bar to one corner and an open-plan grill offering a glimpse into the work of The Hide’s culinary team. The outdoor terrace features intimate seating amidst a lush garden, which is where we chose to dine.

The highlights: The menu is an impressive creation from Executive Chef Eric Turgeon, that boasts modern meat cuts, treasures from the sea, healthy grills, vegetarian plates and plant-based options. I have to admit, it took us a short while before we could decide on Appetizers, as every option looked delightful. The Grilled prawns with sauce vierge (a French sauce made with diced tomatoes, olive oil, herbs and lemon juice) and topped with micro herbs arrived shortly; followed by a Charred octopus with Sriracha yuzu and avocado purée. Each dish, distinct in its seasoning, texture and presentation, offered a fine start to our evening. The shelled Grilled prawns were cooked to perfection and featured summery notes and a mild tang; while the Octopus lent sweet and spicy notes, with a slightly crunch bite which paired beautifully with the creaminess of the avocado.

Take a peek at the beverage menu that is teeming with an innovative selection. Treat yourself to flavours from fresh grapefruit and pineapple, orgeat lime, lemon, ginger, lavender, cinnamon, orange, and even a deeper chocolate, for that after dinner nightcap. Stunning presentation aside, the balanced blend of essences allows for each ingredient to shine through.

Diners are offered options aplenty for mains, and my dining partner decided to indulge in a Cabassi Wagyu 350g ribeye with a Béarnaise sauce and Truffle mac n’ cheese to accompany; while I opted for a lighter bite apt for a healthier January, an Alaskan halibut with Lemon butter and Sautéed baby spinach on the side.

The steak was buttery and luscious, while the halibut was sublime. Both were served with roasted garlic that squeezed out into a serving of sweet, nutty, garlicky goodness. If you are unsure about which side to order, we recommend the truffle mac n’ cheese – a portion enough to share. Expect a rich, velvety, lush bite.

Dessert was a staff-recommended Crème brûlée with an Irish cream twist, topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries; and a striking Chocolate rocher comprising textures of chocolate, salted caramel, cookie crumble and macadamia nuts. Each a stunner in its own way, we polished our plates clean.

The verdict: Perfect for date nights, friendly gatherings, cosy chats, business meetings and even a solo dinner.

Book now: Daily from 6-10:30pm. Dine à la carte. Call +9714 432 3232.

SCHENGEN LOUNGE, LUXEMBOURG PAVILION, EXPO 2020 DUBAI

The Luxembourg Pavilion, nestled within the Opportunity District, is home to the Schengen Lounge. Expect a dining concept that offers a gateway into Luxembourgish cuisine. You can choose to arrive to the restaurant that is sited at ground- level, by walking around the side of the Luxembourg Pavilion; or if you’re up for an adventure, enter the Pavilion and catch the fun playground slide that takes you down to the restaurant’s door.

The restaurant is managed by Luxembourgish Michelin-starred Chef Kim Kevin de Dood, in collaboration with the Jumeirah Group; and has been developed by the Luxembourg School for Hospitality and Tourism, which allows 31 of its students to complete part of their practical work placement in the pavilion, alongside the head chef.

The Schengen Lounge story is one that takes inspiration from the idea of “open borders” within the Schengen Area. Chef Kim Kevin De Dood’s gastronomical creations are influenced by the country’s international community and diversity, allowing diners to relish contemporary Luxembourg on a plate.

The highlights: Depending on the time of day or a diner’s preference, you can choose your meal from one of two menus – a light bites bar menu or the main menu. While we sipped on sparkling grape from Luxembourg, we perused the concise menu featuring a varied lunch and dinner section.

Our evening experience began with a scrumptious Snack platter for two comprising Crusted celeriac fritters with orange zest, Thai basil and a walnut cream that completely elevated the flavour of the fritters; Feierstengszalot (traditional Luxembourgish cold beef salad) which I almost did not want to share; a gorgeous Terrine of smoked river trout and crayfish; a classic Pâté with Riesling vinegar; and Gromperekichelcher (crisp potato pancakes) - which my partner inhaled in no time - accompanied by an apple compote. This generously portioned platter is perfect on its own if you’re not feeling entirely ravenous.

If you have space for mains, give the Homemade kniddelen a try. These Luxembourgish dumplings with smoked duck breast, crispy skin, tarragon and chervil are served in a light duck jus. Warm, comforting and indulgent, the dish is perfect for this weather. Meat lovers can tuck into the Braised beef shortribs with a yuzukosho jus and russet potatoes fondants, complemented by a dollop of caramelized onion purée. The dish is glorious in itself, but the creamy caramelized onion is lush.

We shared the Café gourmand featuring petit desserts such as Verwurelter (deep-fried classic Luxembourgish sweet), a Quetschentaart (mini plum tart), Honey and fleur de sel crème brûlée, and Dark chocolate truffles, which offered an epicurean end to our dining journey to Luxembourg.

The verdict: A great place to expand your palate range and receive an introduction to Luxembourgish cuisine. Expect robust dishes in a friendly atmosphere.

Book now: Saturday to Wednesday from 12-11:30pm and Thursday to Friday from 12pm-12am. Visit expo2020dubai.com/en/plan-yourvisit/where-to-eat/schengen-lounge.