Palazzo Versace Dubai

Upon first glance Palazzo Versace Dubai will transport you to a 16th century Italian Palace, a neoclassical masterpiece, with subtle traces of Arabian architecture, the hotel is as beautiful as it is stylish. Envisage high ceilings, perfectly manicured gardens, Italian furnishings, and bold colours, true to the Versace brand.

Set in Jaddaf Waterfront, less than 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and 8 minutes from Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai, Palazzo Versace Dubai is conveniently located along the shores of the historic Dubai Creek. We have no issues in finding the hotel and appreciate that we are able to self-park, although the offer of valet is available.

A swift check-in, and our bags are whisked up to our room whilst the concierge gets us acquainted with the hotel. Every single piece of furniture and fabric that adorns the hotel’s 215 hotel rooms and suites, and 169 residences, is designed and tailor-made by the House of Versace, exclusively for the Palazzo Versace Dubai. For those interested a Versace jewellery and homeware, exclusive shops are available onsite, should you wish to take home your own Versace gown or a AED 200,000 Versace ring.

For those looking to relax the hotel boasts three outdoor pools, each decorated with mosaic tiles and surrounded by palm trees and flowers. Take in the beautifully landscaped gardens and unobstructed views of the Dubai Creek and skyline, whilst letting all your worries melt away. we opt for the creek view. Designed for the modern day traveller who seeks luxury on every journey, the suite measures an impressive 130sqm. Upon entering the suite, we pass a small restroom as we enter the large and opulent living room that includes a dining area and work desk. This is separated from the bedroom, which features a super king sized bed with pink and cream Versace linen. The bedroom has a refined yet cosy feel with the timber parquet flooring throughout the room adding a sense of warmth. A personal highlight is the spacious walk-in wardrobe and Hollywood-style vanity table. The bathroom is pristine, restroom and walk-in shower are separated and a large bathtub with marble tiling and hand-crafted mosaic decorate the wall.

The private balcony (which spans the length of the room and can be accessed from either the bedroom or living room) offers a small seating area, perfect to enjoy a morning coffee whilst taking in the Dubai Creek views. All the Grand Suites enjoy plenty of sunlight, with a choice between balconies, terraces and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking views of either the creek or the city. For those visiting for business the functional work desk with media connectivity panel and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi are a plus.

After relaxing in the suite, we get ready and make our way to our dining destination of the day, Vanitas, the signature Italian restaurant at Palazzo Versace Dubai. Each of the hotel’s 8 restaurants and bars is designed to have an al fresco terrace to reflect the heritage of Palazzos, where the internal court was the informal space to meet, dine and enjoy the weather. With a light

breeze in the air, we take a seat outside on the terrace. As we glance over the menu we are presented with warm bread, olives, Parmesan cheese and breadsticks. To begin we opt for the Burrata L’Artigiana, with heirloom tomatoes, smoked eggplant mash, quinoa popcorn and basil oil. We enjoy the eggplant mash, and the use of the quinoa is creative however the Burrata itself isn’t as creamy as we are accustomed to and could almost be mistaken for mozzarella. Staying with the starters, the Bruschetta Burrata (which is much creamier) with tomatoes, pickled shallots, mashed avocado and basil leaves makes for a much more enjoyable starter.

For our main course I opt for the Ravioli All’ Astice, a lobster filled potato ravioli, braised lobster and leeks cream, highly enjoyable this dish offers a range of flavours, sure to tantalize your tastebuds, and the portion is extremely generous. My dining companion orders the Polpo Grigliato, charcoal grilled octopus with salmoriglio dressing. This dish is absolutely spectacular and the star of our dining experience, cooked to perfection the charcoal plays wonderfully with the saffron infused potatoes.

Unable to resist, for dessert we opt to share the Cannolo Al Pistachio, a Sicilian cannolo filled with ricotta mousse and orange candied. With a coffee on the side this is a perfect ending to our dining experience.

Next, we head to the spa for a relaxing afternoon. The Spa has seven treatment rooms, a spa suite and hair and make-up salon. Both the ladies and gentlemen’s relaxation areas have plunge pools, hammams and saunas. For today’s visit, we each opt for the 60-minute Swedish massage treatment, priced at AED 550 per person, 90-minutes is also available for those wishing to extend their relaxation, priced at AED 750. This consists of a classic full body massage using soft to medium pressure to encourage circulation, promote relaxation and ease muscle tension.

The therapist shows us to the changing area. The changing area consists of private changing rooms, showers, and locker storage for personal belongings. We waste no time getting into our robes and heading to our treatment. Our treatment takes place in the couples room, which has its own private plunge pool and changing area. Dimly lit the treatment room offers a sense of calm from our hectic day. The massage is performed well, and the therapist uses a selection of massage techniques from soft gliding and stimulating movements, using hands and forearms to help sooth tired and aching muscles and leave us energized and revived. Every safety precaution is taken as the therapists always wear masks, and regularly wash their hands.

Overall Palazzo Versace Dubai makes for the perfect getaway, international travellers will adore the opulence and style of the hotel. For residents we would highly recommend a staycation, located just a stone throw away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy fine dining, immerse yourself in relaxation at the spa or spend a lazy day by the pool. Looking for an ideal gift? Valentine’s packages are available, with rates starting from AED 1,860, excluding taxes and fees, it includes, accommodation, room or suite, celebratory cake, a bottle of sparkling juice and floral arrangement in your room on arrival, 3-course romantic dinner, 60-minute spa treatment for him and her, breakfast and late check out.

By now, most residents of Dubai have visited The Pointe on Palm Jumeirah. However, with so many restaurants to choose from and a bit of overlap in the categories, selecting where to dine at this destination can be tricky. Today, we approach Samakjé, which translates as ‘fish expert’ in Arabic, and is located on the bottom floor on the east side of The Pointe (where Seafood Kitchen used to be located). There are stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, Atlantis The Palm, and The Palm Fountains on the expansive terrace.

The interior of the restaurant is fitted out with calming neutral hues, hanging pendant lights, and a bar outfitted in wood. At the rear of the dining room, we notice a well-stocked fresh fish market-style counter, where guests can pick their personal catch of the day. The downstairs is quite large, making it easier to stagger guests, and we are happy to see all social distancing regulations are in place.

My dining partner and I choose a table on the terrace to take advantage of the view and the perfect weather. We look over an extensive menu filled with seafood dishes. Of course, should you be torn between what to order, the staff are knowledgeable and on hand to give advice. Samakjé’s menu showcases both Mediterranean and Levant influences, and there is a range of classic mezze-style dishes (both hot and cold), a unique raw bar (trust me), soups, salads, and fresh fish. I am delighted to see a selection of raw dishes, including locally sourced Dibba Bay Oysters. I decided to start with the Mediterranean Sashimi (seabass) which arrives with a pomegranate-sumac sauce and other accompaniments. I’m not disappointed by this unique hybrid. Guests can build their own sashimi, and I’m impressed with my abilities. If you are looking to play it safe a Salmon Tartare is available.

I don’t think I’ve ever tried Lobster Kibbeh or Hummus Beiruti before. The hummus is rich, creamy, and the texture of the crispy fava beans and herbs make for a uniquely beautiful plate. I also appreciate the basket of freshly baked bread it’s served with. Unfortunately, I could’ve used just a bit more lobster flavour in the kibbeh. We also sample the Rakakat a fried pastry stuffed with cheese and served with a wild cherry dip. There are also a number of classics, including Vine Leaves, a generous portion of Fattoush, and my dining partner is delighted to find Fried Bezri, White Bait, deep fried in a seasonal batter served with a tahini tartar sauce. I’d never tried white bait before but I enjoyed the crispiness and accompanying tahini tartar sauce and fresh lemon. The portion is also generous for a group to split. Worth mentioning, this dish is limited and isn’t always available due to Samakjé only wanting to offer guests the best and freshest seafood.

For our mains, we opt for the Red Snapper from the fish counter (market price, as all the fish are) and choose to have it grilled, and sauces to accompany, all at the suggestion of our waiter. He also (correctly) thought we might enjoy Grilled Prawns, which are also worth ordering. You will be spoilt for seafood here with offerings ranging from Shrimps, Lady Fish, Seabass, Dover Sole, Red Snapper, Turbot, Squid, Hamour, Sea Bream and Blue Crab, with many more on display.

Those who love fish will be delighted by not only the range of selection but the options to prepare. With preparation of the whole fish, the serving is easily enough for three (or more) people, based on how much mezze you’ve indulged in. Be sure to leave room for dessert as the team at Samakjé will ensure you leave with that sweet craving satisfied.

With The Pointe becoming more of a known destination with the launch of the record-breaking Palm Fountain, a sundowner (or two) at Samakjé, and the selection of fresh fish, with the teams warm service makes it worth heading along for a bite. To ensure the best possible experience, make a reservation for the weekend, grab a seat on the terrace and take in the views of the fountains. Having just launched a Weekend Family Lunch offer on Fridays and Saturdays from 12noon to 5.00pm, guests are invited to enjoy a set menu for AED 195, a set menu with free flowing selected beverages for AED 295 and children under 12 can enjoy a special menu for AED 55.

Mediterranean Sashimi, AED 58 Lobster Kibbeh, AED 58 Hummus Beiruti, AED 32 Rakakat, AED 29 Vine Leaves, AED 32 Fattoush, AED 29 Fried Bezri, AED 58 Red Snapper, AED 169

Samakjé Restaurant & Lounge, The Pointe, Dubai, +971 4 584 6777

By Courtney Brandt