TRIED & TASTED

tastedTried

Our top dining experiences this month

BEACH BY FIVE Five Palm Jumeirah

From a private beach, jacuzzis and VIP cabanas to stunning skyline views, a grand pool and high-energy beach parties, Beach by FIVE is perfect for an afternoon rendezvous. The alluring beach club features a charming ambience providing a sense of escapism for visitors. We found loungers by the buzzing pool and could instantly feel the eclectic vibe as the upbeat music livened the mood.

The highlights Chef Florian Barbarot is at the helm of this distinctive menu and brings forth his experience from two Michelinstarred establishment, L’Auberge de l’Ill, in addition to training in France, Tahiti and Taiwan. Chef Barbarot enthusiastically talked us through his newly unveiled French Riviera-inspired menu, and we couldn’t wait to dig in.

A delicate and silky Sea bream carpaccio doused in corn ice cream and spices, topped with tangy lime juice, was served first, followed by plump Scallops in aromatic coffee butter elevated with parsnip mousseline and mushroom consommé, garnished with a sublime porcini crust. Next up, the velvety Crab salad with a gazpacho of cucumber, lemongrass and coconut was outstanding, while the Quinoa salad with earthy flavours combined with the creamy avocado, yoghurt and mint dressing topped with burnt avocado and zesty citrus added freshness to this brilliant dish.

The Lobster club sandwich was a great sharing option for mains, especially by the poolside, filled with beautifully balanced cebette butter and spinach. The highlight of our lunch, however, was

the indulgent eight-hour Slow-cooked octopus served with hummus, cottage cheese and vegetable ratatouille on the side. An artistically plated creation, the octopus was tender and perfectly cooked, bursting with sublime French and Middle Eastern notes.

Desserts called for a classic Tiramisu without gluten, adorned with pear slices and filled with fluffy vanilla mascarpone and pieces of chocolate and cranberry. A light creation that elevated our meal. Lastly, the decadent savoury Cheesecake sandwiched with layers of cream cheese, and decorated with chocolate truffles, was absolutely divine.

Call +9714 455 9989.

TJ’s Taj Jumeirah Lake Towers

TJ’s is a contemporary sports bar featuring quirky décor that evokes an old-school charm. Sited on the ground floor, the venue features an inviting ambience with screens to catch the latest sporting games, interiors boasting a theme of gold, brown and beige tones, and eye-catching lighting fixtures, that set the tone for a splendid meal and weekend brunch.

The Highlights We headed down for the Saturday Serial Griller BBQ brunch and opted for a flavourful concoction with coconut cream and pineapple juice to get the weekend started. Helping ourselves to the appetisers section comprising a variety of salads, we added cured meats and cheeses to our plate with a side of fresh veggies. The buffet also features fresh fruits and plenty more. Enjoying our first course on the tented outdoor terrace, we instantly relaxed and enjoyed tunes from the live band.

Making a beeline for the buffet station starring BBQ grilled prawns, calamari, meats, non-halal roast, Frankfurt beef sausages, kebabs and grilled chicken, we shared a wide selection of the juicy grills. The highlight was the smoky, tender grilled prawns which had just the right amount of spice, accompanied by sides including sweet carrots, broccoli, and sour cream-loaded jacket potatoes. Heartier options that diners can tuck into include the macaroni bechamel, biryani and more substantial international dishes.

Quite full by the end of our meal, but not enough to skip dessert, we made our way to the dedicated counter. The dessert corner features everything from decadent tiramisu and jelly fruit cups to a delightful strawberry biscuit tart. I devoured the classic tiramisu – apt for a sweet end to the relaxed afternoon brunch.

Saturday, from 11am. Packages from AED169 per person inclusive of soft beverages. Call +9714 574 1111.

FIFA WORLD CUP SPECIAL

ARMANI/RISTORANTE

The essence of Italy is brought to life at Armani/Ristorante where a natural passion for the finest ingredients, exquisite flavour combinations and contemporary presentation come together for discerning diners. Italian culinary excellence is paired with uniquely personalised service, taking diners on a memorable journey from a classic aperitivo to the subtle nuances of the degustation style menu paired with expert recommendations

Green Planet Risotto “Riso E Gamberi Rossi”

SERVES 1

80g risotto (Riserva San massimo) 3 Sicilian red prawns (Mazzara del Vallo) 30g extra virgin olive oil 1g Maldon sea salt Seasonal flower and cress 1 lemon

THE ESSENCE OF AROMATICS HERBS

5g fresh tarragon 10g fresh basil 10g parsley 10g celery leaves 20g local spinach 10g fresh dill 10g fresh arugula 10g fresh oregano 10g fresh coriander 5g fresh sage

SICILIAN RED PRAWN BISQUE

3 red prawn heads 2 sundried tomatoes 300ml water 20g extra virgin olive oil 1 white onion

1 Blanch all the aromatic herbs in boiling salted water for 10 seconds, and transfer to the ice cube salted water to activate the shock technique. Transfer all the herbs and chill at -18C. Blend it three times and rest the solution every 30 minutes. 2 Pan-sear the sundried tomatoes with julienned white onions in a saucepan with olive oil. Add the head of Sicilian red prawns and sear for at least 15 minutes before deglazing with water. Reduce the bisque to 70% of the original volume. Strain and keep warm. 3 In a small pot, add the risotto rice and toast for 4-5 minutes. Once the rice is perfectly toasted, add a spoon of bisque and start the cooking process. After 14 minutes of gentle cooking, remove from the fire and add a generous spoon of the essence of aromatic herbs. Once the rice becomes a beautiful green colour, finish with the extra virgin olive oil. 4 Place the risotto at the centre of the plate, complete with the tail of Sicilian red prawn marinated with lemon zest and sea salt. Garnish with a seasonal flower and cress.

Visit armanihotels.com/en/hotels/armanihotel-dubai