GREEK ISLANDS The feel OF THE

AMMOS RELAUNCHED IN DECEMBER 2022, WHERE THE RESTAURANT RECENTLY UNDERWENT A COMPLETE RENOVATION OVER THE SUMMER MONTHS, WHERE NO STONE WAS LEFT UNTOUCHED.

Kasun Illankoon had the opportunity speak to Pavlos Tsochantaris – General Manager of AMMOS Greek Restaurant, about the newly improved set up and the importance of interior designs and how they give off an casual chic, Aegean coastal vibes, and how it offers nod to the rich history and culture of the Greek isles.

Tell us about the relaunch of AMMOS Greek Restaurant and how does it differ from before?

Over the summer months, AMMOS Greek Restaurant underwent a complete renovation, leaving no stone unturned. The previously taverna-style (very casual) Greek restaurant has now been transformed into a casual chic restaurant with premium food offerings, in keeping with Sunset Hospitality Group's vision to upgrade its favourite Greek concept.

The new AMMOS Greek Restaurant is all about cool, Aegean coastal vibes. As the day progresses and the sun sets, the casual chic vibe gives way to an elegant yet hip atmosphere. It pays homage to the Greek islands' rich history and culture. Traditional whitewashed walls and polished stone floors coexist with natural pared-back furnishings in the light-filled space. The end result is a stylish haven reminiscent of the most fashionable Grecian hotspots. Furthermore, the venue has been expanded to include more space on the stunning outdoor terrace, which boasts the best view of Ain Dubai.

When designing the interiors of AMMOS Greek Restaurant what factors were taken into account that would have an ideal impact on the customers?

Focus was on recreating the look and feel of Greek islands. Immense attention to detail was put into decoration, which is inspired by islands of the likes of Santorini and Mykonos with the aim of bringing originality and authenticity to the venue.

A light and airy space makes guests feel as if they are sitting in a restaurant miles away on a Greek island, where they can relax, escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai (a hideaway so to speak), and feel the sea breeze.

How does the lighting, kitchen, flooring, colours, reflect a Grecian chic vibe?

The Grecian chic vibe is portrayed through:

• Earthy tones

• Ceramic decorative elements

• Natural cane ceiling

• Ceiling hat lamps

• Busts deriving from Greek mythology

• Unique accent wall

• Bougainvillea trees decorating all pillars in the venue

• Light and airy space

• Outdoor as well as indoor seating with glass windows

• Floor in main dining area resembles stone-paved streets found in Greek islands

• Greek tiles in the bathroom

• Wall textures and design corresponds to Greek tradition and are part of what Greeks like to call a homely environment >>>

Floors were redone in traditional stone-paved style, numerous wooden and earthy elements were added, the ceiling was redone with rattan, a unique eye-catching wall was added that houses ceramics and other decorative elements.

Flowers play an essential role, especially bougainvillea in pink and white, which are very common in Greek islands and give guests the feeling they have been invited to garden party for a celebratory meal with friends and family.

AMMOS Greek Restaurant’s entrance resembles the entrance of houses in Santorini or Mykonos with its typically blue door and traditional Greek wall texture; entrance prepares you for a voyage to the Aegean sea.

Ornaments in the restaurant such as busts (traditional but with a modern touch), ceramics and vases are used to showcase pieces of Greek history. Elements from Greek islands and the mainland are used in perfect balance.

In your opinion, what shapes a good ambiance?

Through warm and heartfelt service, Greek culture demands that guests in a restaurant always feel as if they are in one's own home. At AMMOS Greek Restaurant, this is extremely important to us and is taken very seriously. Perhaps it is more of a mentality, rather than a responsibility – something deep ingrained in Greek culture. It is done by choice, not by force.

Moreover, the overall music at AMMOS Greek Restaurant is uplifting with international tunes. >>>

AMMOS GREEK RESTAURANT IS LOCATED AT THE POPULAR RIXOS PREMIUM DUBAI JBR WHICH HAS AN EXCELLENT REPUTATION FOR BEING A HAVEN FOR FOODIES IN DUBAI.

How to go beyond standard seating?

There’s a lot of movement at AMMOS Greek Restaurant with a dedicated bar area, indoors space, outdoor seating on the terrace which caters to both small and larger groups. It is important to go beyond standard seating and to generate an inviting environment. In fact, this decision shapes a restaurant’s business plan.

How does the type of furniture you display, provide the customer a perfect dining experience?

The spacious lounge dining area, chic sofa seating, stunning outdoor terrace, great views overlooking Azure Beach and Ain Dubai, and an inviting ambiance complete with blue and while details all contribute to a perfect dining experience. Aside from the furniture, the restaurant truly comes alive at night with live entertainment on Fridays, when DJs spin the hottest beats, encouraging guests to get involved and embrace the fun.

Tell us the balance between design and food. Excellent ingredients meet picture-perfect food presentation at AMMOS Greek Restaurant. The restaurant is balanced by chic Grecian interiors and authentic flavours, presented in a fresh new way, yet staying true to classics.

Sunset Hospitality’s goal and vision is always food quality and authenticity of the menu identity throughout all of the company’s F&B concepts.

Tell us about the menu and what stands out?

The main things that stand out at AMMOS Greek Restaurant are fresh fish sourced from Greek islands simple cooking that is not overly spiced).

Two dishes that stand out are Lobster Pasta which evokes the feeling of summer in Greece, and Greek ingredients like olive oil from Sparta and Feta cheese – a Grecian staple.

The inspiration behind AMMOS Greek Restaurant’s menu is to introduce guests to original Greek cuisine (which means fresh quality ingredients and as lobster can be caught easily in warmer months and, Souvlaki (perhaps the most famous Greek dish today, which comes with charcoal grilled pita bread, meat, hand-cut fries and a generous amount of tzatziki and vegetables. Souvlaki is a favourite among Greeks.

Tell us about the location, why is Rixos JBR an ideal experience for your customers?

JBR is popular, well-visited and a multinational area in Dubai, situated right next to the beach.

AMMOS Greek Restaurant is located at the popular Rixos Premium Dubai JBR which has an excellent reputation for being a haven for foodies in Dubai.

Moreover, besides valet parking, being next to Azure Beach, Sunset Hospitality’s beach club and winner of numerous awards over the years, has been a win for our customers too.