Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Edition 17 June 2016

COMPLIMENTARY

EDITION 17 | JUNE 2016

Forgiveness Goodness

Guidance

Ramadan Kareem

Blessings

Peace

Fasting

Kindness

Giving

EMBRACE THE TRUE SPIRIT OF THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMADAN. Savour authentic Iftar buffet at Rosewater for AED 185* Pamper yourself with Lebanese delicacies from a set menu at Li Beirut for AED 165* An exquisite buffet of regional delights at the lavishly decorated Layali Al Baraka venue for AED 165 Relish an Ă la carte selection of Suhoor offerings at Lobby Lounge Discover an ultimate harmony with 25% discount on all body and face treatments at Talise Spa

For more information, please call +971 2 811 5555 or visit jumeirah.com/jadramadan *Prices are per person and are subject to 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee and 4% municipality fee

To join now or learn more visit jumeirahsirius.com

facebook.com/Jumeirah.at.etihad.towers

EDITION 17

Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Published 12 times a year by Smart Communications FZ LLC

EDITOR’S BITE

Ramadan Kareem!

I am thrilled to announce that Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi will be organizing the first ever Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month this September. This is the first time that an initiative like this has come to Abu Dhabi and we are extremely proud to be the ones bringing it to our fantastic city!

For the whole month of September you can dine in style for AED 195 net at over 25 luxurious restaurants throughout Abu Dhabi. Restaurants will be serving up specially crafted 3 course menus to delight and inspire your palate.

Be sure to check out our website to keep up to date with the latest updates, www.diningandnightlifeabudhabi.ae As the sunsets this June the city comes to life, we round up the best places for Iftar and Suhoor.

For those not fasting we have a comprehensive list of venues serving food throughout the day.

Football fans will be happy to know that we have also featured a full schedule of all the Euro 2016 games with UAE times, ensuring you never have to miss a match.

For our Exclusive Culinary Travel feature we take a trip to Dubai to see what Rove Downtown Dubai has to offer. Rove is the first of its kind in the Dubai market, aimed at the modern day traveller this is one hotel worth taking note of.

Culinary Regards

Leanne Smart Leanne Smart | Editor In Chief

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Elizabeth Totton Sarah Dheays

Editor In Chief Leanne Smart Email: Leanne@diningandnightlife.ae Tel: +971 (0) 2 562 4229

Wayne Smart WayneSmart2013@gmail.com

Michael Hine CEO

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Leanne Smart Editor In Chief

Smart Communications FZ LLC PO BOX 769369, TwoFour54, Abu Dhabi Tel: +971 (0) 2 562 4229 www.smart-communications.ae info@smart-communications.ae www.diningandnightlifeabudhabi.ae info@diningandnightlife.ae

Contents Prego’s, Beach Rotana page 6 Abu Dhabi’s Best Suhoors Page 8 Iftars across Abu Dhabi Page 10 Daytime dining throughout June Page 16 Exclusive Culinary Travel, Rove Downtown Dubai Page 18 Khalid Al Dhiyebi, Assistant Director of Food and Beverage,Yas Island Rotana and Centro Yas Island Abu Dhabi Page 25 Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month Page 26 Chef Jimmy De Almeida, Bord Eau’s new Chef de Cuisine Page 31 Sarah’s Ramadan Recipes Page 32 Chef de Cuisine, Saaed Khattab, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Page 33 Euro 2016 Match Schedule Page 34

Prego’s

Authentic Italian Dining

06 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Located in Beach Rotana, Prego’s is one of the most renowned Italian restaurants in Abu Dhabi. Highlights on the menu include risotto, calzone, sea bream and freshly made pastas.

Prego’s offers diners picturesque views across the waves to the nearby Al Maryah Island, making the outside terrace a tempting proposition, but with temperatures rising, we decide on a seat inside the restaurant and enjoy the view from our table.

We select a variety of starters. The vitello tonnato with smoked veal belly is thinly sliced smoked veal belly, on a bed of creamy tuna sauce, topped with Pantelleria capers. I just want to take a moment to appreciate the detail of this dish. Not only was the veal divine and offset perfectly by the tuna but the Pantelleria capers added a level of sophistication. Capers from Pantelleria are tastier and slightly sweeter than regular capers. This is thanks to the soils mineral balance of the volcanic island in which they grow in.

The bruschetta is served with fresh burrata, rucola and summer truffles, a great light summer dish. It’s refreshing to see the team have elevated yet another dish. The summer truffles add a sense of luxury to this typically casual dish. Apart from the dramatic and elegant presentation the summer truffles have a less intense aroma than burgundy truffles allowing us to enjoy the soft, creamy burrata, delicious.

The small beef tartar, capers, sour cream and caviar is equally as light and flavourful. The ingredients blend well and the capers and cream add a slight sourness whilst the caviar contributes a mild sweetness. We love the extravagance of the caviar, small touches like these certainly do add a wow factor to a diners experience.

First up for our mains the oven baked white asparagus wrapped in cold cuts, fontina and parmesan cheese. Again credit to the team for their knowledge of seasonality, fontina cheese is best in the summer and its distinctive aroma is unmistakable.

The homemade rigatoni with short rib ragout, melted tomatoes and ricotta is delightful. The short rib adds incredible flavour to the ragout as the meat breaks down giving you a flavourful bite, time and time again.

My personal favourite is the homemade fettuccine, prawns, tomato ragout and rucola. The large succulent prawns are bursting with flavour and the pasta has been cooked to perfection. I would return just for this dish alone.

My colleagues’ favourite is the sea bream casserole, potatoes, capers, cherry tomatoes, olives seasoned with fresh herbs. The fish beautifully flakes off the fork and the smooth texture offers a true taste of seafood at its finest.

With little room left for dessert we are convinced by our friendly waitress to try the yoghurt parfait. White yoghurt parfait, whole wheat crumbles and warm berries are layered to offer scoop after scoop of scrumptiousness. On that sweet note our dining experience at Prego’s comes to an end.

Prego’s will be open throughout June daily from 8.30am-11.00pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Prego’s Beach Rotana 02 697 9011 June | 07

Abu Dhabi’s Best Suhoors Here are our top picks for Abu Dhabi’s best Suhoors.

08 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Magical Suhoors

Anantara Eastern Mangroves Recreate an authentic Bedouin experience at this enchanting Suhoor overlooking the Mangroves. Share tranquil moments with family and friends while relishing in a light a la carte menu, complemented by coffee, tea and an array of fresh juices.

AED 85*, served from 10.00pm-3.30am.

Anantara Eastern Mangroves, 02 801 5218

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan with one of the finest traditional tents in town, the “Layali EI Hilmiya” tent. In the tent, diners will enjoy a tastefully crafted a la carte Suhoor menu with a variety of live stations and Arabian themed live entertainment. The tent will be the envy of all football fans, as it is showing all the Euro The Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal 2016 matches from June 10th - July 10th.

AED 175* includes food and beverage, served from sunset-3.00am. Tucked away in the exquisitely lit palm garden, The Ritz Carlton’s Ramadan tent offers an Arabic a la carte Suhoor menu and a Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, 800 101 101 selection of signature shisha flavors. Traditional oud and kanoon band, board games, Arabic coffee and free-flowing conversations are the most authentic way to celebrate Ramadan with family and The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort friends.

Immerse into a relaxed atmosphere at the elegant Suhoor tent in AED 65*, Sun-Thur and AED 85*, Fri-Sat, served from the St. Regis Regal Ballroom terrace with live entertainment, 7.00pm-2.00am. authentic Arabic delicacies and a wide variety of shisha flavors.

The Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, 02 818 8282 Set menu available with a minimum spend of AED 80* during weekdays and AED 120* during weekends, served from 8.00pm-3.00am.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, 02 498 8888 An evening in the InterContinental’s magical Sahara tent affords diners an exclusive experience that is both lively and traditional.

Your evening will be filled with exciting quizzes and lavish prizes in Fairmont Bab Al Bahr addition to a memorable Suhoor menu.

Al Andalus tent is bigger and better this year! The modern Arabic AED 60*, a la carte menu also available, served from 9.00pmtent with influences from Andalucía harkens back to a time when Spanish and Islamic cultures created glorious architecture and art. 3.00am.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi, 800 423 463 Guests are invited to fully indulge in a delicious array of a la carte items, including savory and sweet treats.

AED 150* minimum spend for the Suhoor a la carte menu. Served Crowne Plaza Yas Island from 10.00pm-3.00am, Sun-Thu and 10.00pm-3.30am, Fri-Sat. Guests are invited to Crowne Plaza’s “Khaymat Al Barouk” tent, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, 02 654 3238 located on the terrace of Barouk Restaurant. Overlooking the golf course and the city’s skyline, the tent will offer a Ramadan inspired a la carte menu in addition to the usual menu. Kids will be entertained Emirates Palace at the Kids Club that will welcome them until 11:00 pm daily.

When Emirates Palace does anything, it’s memorable and their Suhoor experience is unrivalled. The Palace’s custom built pavilion AED 30 and a la carte menu, served from 8.00pm-3.00am. offers comfortable seating, sheer curtains and grand windows with Crowne Plaza Yas Island, 02 656 3158 stunning views of the beach will create a magical ambiance for your perfect Suhoor. In addition to a wide variety of shishas and traditional music the a la carte menus and buffets feature a Suhoor savings, à la carte evenings selection of Arabic mezze, Middle Eastern and International inspired culinary creations and gourmet desserts, whipped up by Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi the Palace’s team of culinary experts.

After your fast is broken, linger a little longer to dine on the special AED 150* minimum spend for the Suhoor a la carte menu. Served Suhoor à la carte menu in Yas Lounge and Skylite. Showcasing from 8.00pm-2.00am.

Ramadan specialties, guests can choose from a selection of dishes Emirates Palace, 02 690 7311 including baba ghanouj, kebbeh and falafel, a selection of mixed grills, makanek and soujok and desserts.

A la carte menu, served from 8.00pm-2.00am.

Rosewood Yas Viceroy, 02 656 0600 While every dining experience at Sambusek is memorable, Ramadan is an exceptionally unforgettable one. Enjoy a special Southern Sun Abu Dhabi Suhoor prepared exclusively by Chef Emad Zalloum in Sambusek’s Embrace the spirit of Ramadan at the Kahraman summer tent, where special summer tent with relaxing waterfront views and a live Oud guests are invited to have Suhoor during Ramadan. Sit back and player. AED 125* or à la carte. Served from 1.00pm-3.00am. watch the Euro 2016 as you dine on an a la carte menu.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, 02 813 5591 A la carte, served from 10.00pm-2.00am.

Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, 02 418 8888

Suhoors under AED 100 Sofitel Discover a night of bright lights and succulent Arabic foods with this special Suhoor a la carte menu, served at one of the city’s most popular tents. Sofitel’s Layali Tent in Grills @ Chill’O. AED 95*, served from 7.00pm-2.00am.

Sofitel Abu Dhabi, 02 813 7777 Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi Enjoy a most elegant Suhoor in Shangri-La’s Arabesque tent. The tent’s atmosphere is low lit, dreamy and recalls desert nights surrounded by family. Enjoy light nibbles, shisha and refreshing drinks into the early hours of morning.

AED 85* (excluding shisha, tobacco and cigars), Sun-Thu, served from 8.00pm-2.00am, Fri-Sat, served from 8.00pm-3.00am.

Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, 02 509 8618

Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi Make memories in the Umsyat tent with family and friends while watching the Euro 2016 or listening to the live Arabic Oud music while you feast on light, pre-dawn snacks.

A la carte, served from 10.00pm-4.00am.

Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi, 02 617 0000 *Prices displayed are per person. Prices are subject to 10% service charge & 6% tourism fee & 4% municipality fee. At the time of printing all the information displayed was correct. However it is advised to call the venue in advance.

June | 09

Ramadan Kareem A guide to Abu Dhabi’s best Iftars

10 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

The city comes alive after sunset and a myriad of Arabic hideaways pop up everywhere. The food is remarkable and offers you an ideal opportunity to experience delightful dishes that you may not be able to find any other time throughout the year.

Iftars over AED 200 Emirates Palace Annually, Emirates Palace prepares the most spectacular Ramadan pavilions in town and promises an Iftar to remember.

The custom built pavilion sits on the Palace Terrace and offers stunning sea views while you dine. Signature dishes and traditional delicacies of the Holy Month are served in the expansive buffet every night. Expect live cooking and carving stations, succulent grilled meats with traditional accompaniments and traditional Emirati favorites, a selection of continental delicacies and an assortment of desserts.

AED 265*, served from sunset-9.30pm.

Emirates Palace, 02 690 7311 Iftar in the Sky If no ordinary Iftar will do this Ramadan, book the St. Regis’ majestic Abu Dhabi Suite for a private gathering. Usually host to VVIPs the regal suite promises an unrivalled affair with awe-inspiring views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.

Blending Western and Arabian hospitality and featuring 24K gold accents, a private VIP elevator and an extensive Iftar buffet that boasts exquisite Arabian delicacies and Ramadan beverages. Tick this one off your bucket list this Ramadan.

AED 250*, served from sunset-11.00pm.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche, 02 694 4721 The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa is serving a VIP Royal Iftar in the presidential suite. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the Abu Dhabi Golf Course while sampling an exquisite selection of traditional foods and Ramadan inspired beverages.

AED 250* with a minimum of 10 guests, served from sunset-8.30pm.

The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, 02 616 9999 Hakkasan Hakkasan will be offering a new menu during Ramadan for guests to enjoy into the early morning hours. The four-course set menu begins with traditional Laban and dates, then diners may sample an array of signature dishes, including crispy duck salad, Hakka steamed dim sum platter and salt and pepper squid followed by stir-fry Chilean seabass, wok-fry beef rib-eye and tofu and eggplant cooked in a clay pot. Last but not least, indulge in traditional desserts like Umm Ali or date ice cream.

AED 245*, served from 7.00pm-1.30am.

Hakkasan Abu Dhabi, 02 690 7739 Byblos Sur Mer Experience the traditions of the Holy Month at one of the most celebrated Middle Eastern restaurants in town, Byblos Sur Mer. Gather your loved ones and enjoy authentic Lebanese cuisine with tranquil marina views.

AED 225*, served from sunset-9.00pm.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi, 800 423 463

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Dine in the shadow of the glowing Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque at CuiScene, as you share the ultimate Iftar experience with loved ones. A 325 square meter, air conditioned Iftar tent has been constructed next to CuiScene and, under the tent, diners may indulge in a vast selection of seafood, grilled meat, a fabulous lamb-loin carving station alongside traditional favorites, such as hot and cold Arabic mezzeh, thareed, hares and machboos.

AED 225*, served from sunset-9.00pm.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, 02 654 3238 Giornotte Giornotte comes alive at night by the light of ornate Arabic lanterns. Giornotte is serving an Iftar buffet to remember. The lavish menu offers an extensive range of Arabic family favorites, such as roasted camel and lamb ouzi and is complemented by International cuisines and live cooking stations with Ramadan beverages included.

AED 225*, AED 166* kids 13-16, AED 70* kids 4-12, kids under 4 are free, served from sunset-11.00pm.

The Ritz Carlton, Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, 02 818 8282 Sofra Bid Spice up your evening meal at the grandest Iftar in town at Sofra Bid. This buffet has all the traditional foods, such as lamb ouzi, along with magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque views.

While there, take in the world’s largest date sculpture and make a donation to the Make a Wish Foundation.

AED 205*, served from 6.45pm-8.00pm.

Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, 02 509 8618 Market Kitchen Market Kitchen by Jean-Georges Vongerichten, the multi-award-winning modern American restaurant will offer a 4 course Iftar tasting menu every evening throughout the month of Ramadan. The menu features Market Kitchen’s specials with local influences and ingredients.

AED 200*, served from sunset-8.30pm.

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, 02 674 2020 Asia de Cuba Asia de Cuba has been the toast of the town since it opened.

This New York City import offers chic dining and a vibrant social scene, the combination is very hard to find elsewhere in the city.

To mark the Holy Month of Ramadan, Asia de Cuba has created an innovative menu of Chino-Latino inspired fare with a hint of Arabic influence. To mark the breaking of the fast, diners will be served sundried fruit and nuts and sweet potato hummus with Chinese scallion bread on arrival. Then they will tuck into delicious bites of adobo chicken shumai, beet pica tartare and lamb picadillo empanadas, for AED 200. Those who opt for the AED 300 menu, will nosh on the venue’s signature dishes.

AED 200* or AED 300*, served from sunset-11.45pm.

Asia de Cuba, 02 699 3333

June | 11

Iftars from AED 150-200 Ginger All Day Dining While Ginger All Day Dining offers a vast range of delectable Arabic food every day, in honor of Ramadan, they pull out all the stops. Bring your whole family to this lavish Iftar buffet, which features an extensive range of Arabic delicacies, complemented by International cuisine and live cooking stations alongside an inspired menu of usual and more unusual Ramadan beverages.

AED 199*, served from sunset-11.00pm.

Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, 02 657 3333 Sambusek Share the spirit of Ramadan with your friends and family at Sambusek. Enjoy an innovative Iftar with relaxing waterfront views. Chef Emad Zalloum has specially crafted the buffet’s menu and a unique elegant summer tent has been arranged, offering relaxing waterfront views and a live Oud player.

Sambusek offers one of the most stylish Ramadan experiences in town.

AED 195*, served from 6:30pm-9.00pm.

Rosewood Abu Dhabi, 02 813 5591 Essence Celebrate the Holy Month with an Iftar buffet inspired by traditional Arabian-style at Essence, Beach Rotana. This lavish affair embodies the very spirit of Ramadan with its sumptuous Arabic food and ornate decor. This Iftar is our top pick for getting the whole family together.

AED 195*, AED 110* for kids, group of 10 or more AED 170*.

Beach Rotana, 02 697 9011 Punjab Grill Punjab Grill takes you on a culinary journey into the grandeur of undivided Punjab. The experience is an exploration of the extraordinary diversity of the region’s food and the rich influences of Pathani, Punjabi and Haryanvi cuisine. Enjoy delicious cuisine throughout the Holy Month at Punjab Grill.

AED 195, served 6:30pm-8:30pm, a la carte menu served from 8:30pm onwards.

Punjab Grill, Venetian Village, 02 449 9839 Oléa Few other hotels in the city have the sea lapping up on their doorsteps, and the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort might be the best place in town to indulge in an Iftar. Oléa offers Mediterranean inspired cuisine in a chilled out setting for guests breaking their fast or those just looking for fine fare.

This buffet will wet diners’ palates with a wide selection of courses, including fresh mezze and grilled seafood and meat.

AED190*, AED 95* for kids, served from sunset-9.00pm.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, 02 498 8888 Selections Take a large group of family and friends to this most unusual Iftar. Selections serves so many Arabic dishes but during Ramadan the chefs get to add a bit more spice to the lineup, and your group will shout for “more mezze” at this family-friendly Iftar.

AED 190*, AED 115* for kids 6-12 and kids under 6 are free.

Served from sunset-9.00pm.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi, 800 423 463

12 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel proudly introduces an extravagant Iftar buffet, exclusively put together for Ramadan by the renowned Executive Chef, George Gebrayel. The Iftar package is perfect for families and friends as it features a multitude of specially crafted Arabic and International dishes, sure to spoil the most critical foodie. Dishes are truly a work of art that can be enjoyed whilst taking in the scenic views of the Club Garden, soothed by an atmosphere created by melodies.

AED 190*, Iftar and Ramadan juices, 10 guests plus AED 180*, kids 7-12 years AED 100*, 50 guests plus AED 160*.

Armed Forces Officers’ Club & Hotel, 02 441 5900 Rosewater All year long, Rosewater serves up authentic Arabian traditions.

During Ramadan, the outlet goes the extra mile with a mouth-watering display of Arabian classics. Dine on sumptuous grills, freshly prepared seafood and refreshing Ramadan beverages. Savor each precious moment with family and friends as you enjoy authentic Arabic coffee service with live Oud music.

AED 185*, served from 7.00pm-11.30pm.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, 02 811 5666 Fairways Share the ceremonial breaking of the fast with loved ones in the relaxed, family friendly setting of Fairways. This delicious and authentic Iftar buffet features traditional refreshments, a selection of hot and cold mezzeh, Arabic and International fare and a variety of desserts.

AED 180*, Served from sunset-8.30pm.

The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, 02 616 9999

Jing Asia Feast on all your favorite Ramadan delights. Guests may enjoy an array of traditional Arabic cuisine from all over the region, including mandi, harees, grills and much more; specialty beverages, as well as a delightful variety of Arabic sweets and desserts at Jing Asia. Families may enjoy all our Ramadan offerings while children are attended in the Kids Club that will welcome them until 11.00pm.

AED 175, served from sunset-11.00pm Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island, 02 656 3158 Origins The sun setting over Yas Marina serves as an elegant backdrop to a unique Iftar experience at the Yas Viceroy. Feast at the award-winning restaurant Origins on an incredible array of mezze platters, seafood selections, traditional Arabic grills and Emirati dishes as well as delicious pastries and desserts crafted specially by the hotel’s in-house Arabic chef.

AED 165*, served from sunset-10.00pm.

Yas Viceroy, 02 656 0600 Li Beirut Visit Li Beirut for a culinary voyage that will take you through some of Lebanon’s most cherished authentic, homemade creations prepared by Chef Jouni Ibrahim. Be pampered with Lebanese delicacies from the set menu every evening for Iftar and make your experience memorable.

AED 165*, served from 7.00pm-midnight.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, 02 811 5666 Tamba Tamba, a new Indian inspired restaurant in ‘The Hub’ at The World Trade Center, has announced an equally new kind of Ramadan Iftar menu. Tamba’s one-of-a-kind culinary experience expertly blends non-traditional dishes with traditional spices. Highlights include a new spin on a selection of traditional Ramadan juices, 48hrs slow cooked lamb shank, served with a tasty rogan sauce; salmon tikki served with a distinctive mango and date jam and a decadent, caramelized banana toffee cake served with pecan nut praline and cardamom ice cream.

AED 180, Sat-Wed, 12noon-1.00am, Thu-Fri, 12noon-2.00am.

Iftar is available until 8.30pm after which an a la carte menu is available.

Tamba, 02 304 8219 The Terrace on The Corniche Celebrate the Holy Month of Ramadan with sweeping Corniche views, fantastic food and entertainment for your kids. The Terrace will be transformed into a magical throwback to simpler, Bedouin times. Bring the whole brood to this very family friendly Iftar.

AED 175*, kids under 12 are free, served from sunset-11.00pm.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Corniche, 02 694 4721 Cedar Lounge Try out the newly reopened Cedar Lounge for a traditional Lebanese Iftar experience. This lavish family style Iftar includes homemade Lebanese cold and hot mezze and a number of live grill and buffet stations serving traditional meat dishes, Afterwards, dive into decadent desserts, such as kunafa, umm ali and Arabic inspired ice creams.

AED 175*, served from sunset-9.00pm.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, 02 654 3238

Choices Celebrate the descent of the sun at this extraordinary meal at Choices with your family and loved ones during the Holy Month. Enjoy a delectable Iftar buffet, prepared with a unique blend of Arabic specialties and traditional Ramadan favorites.

AED 165*, served from sunset-10.00pm.

Yas Island Rotana, 02 656 4000 Layali Al Baraka Tent The lavishly decorated Layali Al Baraka Tent makes an excellent gathering spot this season. You will find an exquisite buffet of regional delights, live cooking stations, sumptuous seafood grills, a live Saj station and customary Iftar beverages served with the traditional dallah. Each appetizing dish will charm your palate.

AED 160*, served from 7.00pm-11.00pm.

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, 02 811 5666 Urban Kitchen Embrace the spirit of the Holy Month at Urban Kitchen, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. Savor a selection of delicacies from around the world while being treated to live musical entertainment. Highlights of the buffet include the world famous lamb ouzi, hot and cold mezze, live shawarma and falafel stations, savory mixed grills all served with a selection of freshly baked Arabic breads.

AED 159, AED 80 for kids 6 -12, kids under 6 are free, served from 7.00pm-9.30pm.

Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi, 02 698 8137

June | 13

La Terrazza All-day dining restaurant La Terrazza will serve a lavish nightly Iftar during the month of Ramadan, complete with all the Arabic food you know and love in addition to some International delicacies and some inspired fusions. Relax in the storied Middle Eastern atmosphere this historic hotel has created.

AED 155*, AED 75* for kids 6-12, kids under 5 eat free, served from 7.00pm-11.00pm.

Hilton Abu Dhabi, 02 692 4247

Iftars from AED 100-150 Layali El Hilmiya Tent Widely considered the most fabulous Ramadan tent in the capital.

Indulge in a lavish Iftar buffet, complete with live cooking stations and Arabian themed entertainment. You will find a tempting array of hot and cold mezzes and traditional saj will be prepared before your eyes. Not be missed are the season specialties such as achtaliyeh, kunafa and katayef.

AED 150*, served from sunset-8.30pm.

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, 02 674 2020 BU! If you prefer your Iftar whipped up with a bit of trendy Latin flair, drop into the city’s newest hotspot, BU! Trinity to break your fast in style.

This set-menu at AED 150 features a choice of nibbles, appetizer, main and a dessert platter.

AED 150, served from 7.30pm-3.00am.

The Hub, World Trade Center, 02 666 8066 Umsyat Tent Break your fast with Arabic culinary delights, live cooking stations, Emirati specialties and traditional drinks. In the Capital Grand’s traditional Umsyat Tent, a bountiful buffet table will offer traditional culinary delights including cold and hot mezze, ouzi, carving and saj stations and a variety of Arabic desserts.

AED 149*, 50% off for kids 6-12, kids under 6 dine for free, served from sunset-10.00pm.

Hilton Capital Grand Abu Dhabi, 02 617 0000 Tamarind Embark on a culinary journey this Ramadan at Tamarind. This delectable Iftar buffet offers everything from fresh and light salads and cold mezze to savory Arabic main dishes. Be sure to finish this meal on a sweet note by hitting up the venue’s impressive dessert spread.

AED 140*, served from 7.00pm-11.00pm.

Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana, 02 495 4548 Assymetri Dine at Assymetri’s fabulous nightly Iftar and you may leave more than just full and happy. Diners will have the chance to win air tickets to India to embark on a culinary journey of another kind. Break your fast with a lavish Iftar buffet at Assymetri filled with an irresistible array of authentic Arabic and International delicacies that suit every palate.

AED 135*, served from sunset-10.30pm.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island, 02 656 2000

*Prices displayed are per person. Prices are subject to 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee & 4% municipality fee. At the time of printing all the information displayed was correct. However it is advised to call the venue in advance.

14 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

June | 15

Daytime dining in Abu Dhabi during Ramadan For those who are not fasting during the Holy Eastern Mangroves Month there are several daytime dining options. Here is your neighborhood-byFlooka will be open from 11.00am-11.30pm. neighborhood guide to where you can find Flooka, 02 441 8244 good eats during the day.

Carluccio’s will be open from 9.00am-midnight. Carluccio’s, 02 641 2231 Downtown Jones the Grocer Al Mamoura, Sun-Wed, 9.00am-11.00pm.

Fri-Sat, 10.00am-11.00pm.

Khalidiya, Sun-Wed, 11:30am-11.00pm.

Fri-Sat, 9.00am-11.00pm.

Cho Gao will be open from 12noon-4.00pm.

Spaccanapoli will be open from 12noon-4.00pm. Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, 02 616 6166

Fairways is open from 6.30am–11.00am.

The Lounge is open from 7.00am-11.00pm.

The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort & Spa, 02 616 9999

Jones the Grocer Al Raha, Sun-Wed, 11:30am-10:30pm.

Fri-Sat 10.00am-10.00pm.

Al Muneera, Sun-Wed, 9.00am-11.00pm.

Fri-Sat, 10.00am-11.00pm.

Café Firenze will be open from 6.00am-midnight. Al Zeina, 02 556 4643

Prego’s will be open from 8.30am–11.00pm for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Andiamo! will be open daily 9.00am-1.00am.

Rodeo Grill will be open from 12.30pm-3.30pm Al Zeina, 02 556 5775 for lunch. Beach Rotana, 02 697 9011 Nando’s will be open from 12noon-11.30pm.

Fifth Street Café will be open from 7.00amAl Zeina, 02 555 8012 1.00am throughout the day, serving dishes from the a la carte menu. Fifth Street Café, Nolu’s will be open from 11.00am-3.00pm.

Courtyard by Marriott, WTC, 02 698 2255 Al Bandar, 02 557 9500 Original Fusion will be open from 12noon2.00am. The Hub, World Trade Center Mall, 02 444 0467 Vascos will be open from 12noon-11.00pm, serving an a la carte lunch from 12noon3.30pm. Dinner will be served from 7.00pm11.00pm. Hilton Abu Dhabi, 02 692 4247 Third Place Café will be open from 8.00am11.00pm. Third Place Café, 02 681 1877 The Terrace on The Corniche, will serve breakfast from 6.30am-10:30am and Café Lunch served from 12noon– 3.00pm.

The St. Regis Abu Dhabi Corniche, 02 694 4721

The Hawksbill will be open from 6.00am-9.30pm. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, 02 557 8000 Al Fanr will be open from 11.00am-10.00pm.

Manarat Al Saadiyat, 02 657 5888

Khalifa City A & Al Raha Beach Olea will be open for breakfast from 6.30am-

Aqua is open for breakfast from 6.30am10.30am and lunch from 12noon-3.30pm.

Dai Pai Dong is open for lunch from Café 28 will be open from 6.00am-midnight.

12noon-3.00pm. Rosewood Hotel, 02 813 5591 Abu Dhabi Golf Club & Resort, 02 558 8990 Bentley Bistro & Bar will be open from 12noon-2.00am. Galleria Mall, 02 626 2131

Saadiyat Island

Masdar City Jim’s Kitchen Table will be open from 8.30am-7.00pm. Masdar City, 02 491 9401 Barbacoa will be open from 12noon-10.00pm.

Barbacoa, 02 304 8125 Melius will be open from 8.00am-2.00am.

Irena Building, 02 558 3000

11.00am and lunch from 12.30pm-3.00pm.

Pool & Beach will be open from 8.00am8.00pm and serves lunch from 12noon-6.30pm.

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi, 02 498 8888 Cabana 9 will be open from 8.00am–6.00pm.

Saadiyat Beach Club, 02 656 3500

Yas Island Hickory’s will be open from 6.30am-10.30pm.

Yas Links Golf Club, 02 810 7710 All Yas Waterworld outlets will be open from 10.00am–6.00pm. Yas Island, 02 414 2000

Al Maqta Venetian Village Outlets open from 3.00pm-onwards during the week.

Olives, weekends, 12.30pm-11.00pm.

Olives,02 404 1941 Brasserie Flo, weekends, 12.30pm-11.00pm.

Brasserie Flo, 02 404 1931 Inakaya, weekends: 12.30pm-11.00pm.

Inakaya,02 404 1921

Takeaways & Deliveries Zaytinya is open from 11.30am-midnight.

Al Seef Mall, 02 447 4489 Pizza di Rocco is open from 11.00am-midnight.

Salam Street & Etihad Plaza locations, 800 ROCCO Biryani Pot is open from 10.00am-midnight.

Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island, 02 676 6555

Mondo Pizzeria will be open but call ahead for timings. Abu Dhabi Country Club, 02 657 7785

Smoking Doll is open from 11.30am-11.00pm.

Boutik Mall, Reem Island, 600 560 603

Cooper’s will be open from 12.30pm-2.30am.

Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, 02 657 3333

Easy Bites is open from 10.00am-10.00pm.

Al Salam Street, 02 644 8440

Sho Cho is open for lunch from 12noon3.00pm. Sho Cho Japanese Restaurant & Lounge, 02 558 1117

16 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Rove Downtown Dubai

18 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Overview How many times have your family or friends asked, “Do you know somewhere, stylish, in a great location and affordable, for a few days in Dubai?” Now you can confidently recommend Rove Downtown Dubai. This is the first property under Rove Hotels, a joint venture between Emaar Properties and Meraas.

If Millennials designed their ideal hotel, Rove would be it. Free Wi-Fi, self-check-in, 2pm check out, minimalistic rooms, a pool, sundeck, 24-hour gym, 24-hour self-service laundromat, boutique convenience store, relaxed dining, luggage lockers and safety deposit boxes. The design embodies a modern Dubai, a cool vibe, celebration of heritage, vibrancy and style. Developed by Emaar Hospitality Group, Rove Downtown Dubai offers the modern traveller everything they could want and more. A fuss-free stay with all the necessary conveniences for the on-the-go, tech-savvy independent traveller.

Modern art is a big focus at Rove Downtown Dubai. Dotted around the hotel you can find perfect Instagram worthy moments, from large warehouse containers, small Banksy style graffiti to inflatable toys hanging from the walls.

The property features 420 bright and airy rooms, located on 14 floors. The hotel is in walking distance from Dubai Mall, making it the perfect stop for business or leisure travellers.

Those on business can enjoy Rove Downtown Dubai’s flexible setups for meetings, events, networking and digital hangouts, meeting rooms can be booked online by the hour. A ‘Pit Stop’ is also offered for more relaxed gatherings. Lunch options during business events include grab and go bento boxes or dining at the neighbourhood hangout.

June | 19

Room As we enter Rove Downtown Dubai we are energetically greeted by the reception team. The hotel is already buzzing with guests and the bustling vibe echoes throughout the hotel. We take our bags and head to the room.

The room is immaculate it features a 48’ flat-screen TV, a designer bed by Simmons, a sofa bed for extra guests, a modern bathroom including power rain showers and hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities and a convenient mini fridge. Some of the rooms also interconnect making it great for families. Our room is overlooking Downtown Dubai and we have a great view of the Burj Khalifa.

Rove Downtown Dubai has its finger on the pulse with modern day travellers. Small touches like the Rove paper coffee cups, instead of the traditional in room cups, allowing you to take your coffee to go, genius!

Culinary The Daily is Rove Downtown Dubai’s all day neighbourhood hangout. The Daily offers guests breakfast, lunch and dinner in a relaxed, urban setting.

As we entered The Daily we are greeted by the team. The team throughout Rove are warm and welcoming and you can feel a genuine sense of enthusiasm. We are here for lunch, there is a wide selection of sandwiches and fresh salads available. I eventually decide to go for the veal and cheese croissant whist my colleague opts for the beef wrap. With this we order two organic colas. I love the fact that The Daily has organic cola, again big points for the small touches.

20| Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

My veal and cheese croissant is delicious and flakes beautifully with each bite. The beef wrap is equally as yummy. The Daily, similar to the hotel has a cool vibe, forget the tie, you can relax in shorts and a t-shirt whist enjoying a bite to eat.

Chef Spencer Lee Black is leading the culinary team at Rove Hotels, in his new position, Director of Culinary.

Some of you will remember Chef Spencer from his previous role at Vida Hotels and Resorts. Here he launched the food and beverage portfolio at Manzil Downtown Dubai, Vida Downtown Dubai and The Pavilion. In short he’s the guy behind the Urban Picnic Brunch at 3in1 in Vida Downtown Dubai and the Vida Food Truck, one of the first entrants on the Dubai food truck scene.

With these achievements behind him Chef Spencer Lee Black is now channelling his insights to develop the culinary concept for The Daily. Having trained at the prestigious Culinary Arts Programme of the Western Culinary Institute in Portland, Oregon, a resume boasting Head Chef positions across New York and nearly fourteen years in Dubai, we are excited to see what Chef Spencer has planned for The Daily.

On our second day we met with Chef Spencer to have a sneak peek of the new menu he will be introducing and as you can see from the pictures its good, it’s really good.

Chef Spencer told us “Eat Global. Meet Local is the philosophy behind The Daily. The team and I are working on delivering a selection of locally and globally inspired dishes. On the menu you will find mac and cheese, steak and chips to a healthy salad option. The dishes are fresh and contemporary and for larger groups we are focusing on family style sharing”.

June | 21

For those visiting Rove Downtown Dubai in June, Iftar will be available at The Daily. The Iftar menu will feature a wide variety of delicious and multicultural cuisine, served sharing style, dishes include, lamb ouzi, vegetable salona, chicken moulokieh and Arabic mix grill. Priced at AED 125 per person, AED 60 for children aged 6-12 years and children under 6 years dine free.

The Verdict Rove Downtown Dubai is approaching the hospitality market in with a cosmopolitan, high-tech, cultural and social outlook, a new niche for Dubai. Aimed at the modern day traveller Rove has moved away from the norms to instead offer guests a fuss free experience.

What we like about Rove Downtown Dubai the most is the convenience. From the onsite convenience store to the PlayStation area Rove felt like our home away from home. The modern lobby area integrates contemporary urban styles with enriching Arabesque features making it the perfect place to meet with friends or catch up with your emails. The onsite Starbucks is also a great feature.

Over all from arrival to departure Rove Downtown Dubai provided us with a relaxing stay. The location of the hotel is perfect close enough to Downtown but far enough to ensure you can still enjoy some ‘me’ time.

To book your stay visit www.rovehotels.com

22 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

We enjoy the luxury of having a Personal Concierge so we can spend more time together.

Enjoy a personal concierge service with Virtual Concierge while having access to exclusive offers.

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and Executive Pastry Chef Dean Cole of the Ryder Grill prepared a very special, contemporary English grill menu.

This initiative worked very well, our guests were excited to experience something they could not find elsewhere in the city.

During the calendar year we will have more chefs visiting, so watch this space!

What changes have you made since you started working at Yas Island Rotana?

I have pushed the creativity boundaries. It’s always a fine balance when you work with such a large brand as you have to adhere to the brand standards, but with special promotions this year we are trying to do something different.

Have you experienced more people asking for healthy options?

Khalid Al Dhiyebi Assistant Director of Food & Beverage Yas Island Rotana & Centro Yas Island Abu Dhabi

All our menus have something healthy to offer, from gluten to organic. They are becoming increasingly popular. However we’ve gone the extra mile for our guests. Yas Island Rotana’s chefs developed a visionary sustainable organic garden within the hotel. The organic garden was set up on the hotel grounds, managed directly by the chefs. It supplies the hotel with fresh seasonal produce, such as basil, mint, melons, water spinach, cherry tomato, eggplant, tomatoes and many other cooking and aromatic herbs. This initiative was completely self-driven, with the chef and his staff working on non-operational hours, days off and even holidays – advancing and experimenting with new techniques, varieties, and planning menus in such a manner as to use produce directly in the buffet.

How did you start your career in food and beverage?

A good friend of mine was studying hospitality so I took a natural interest. I completed my Degree in Hospitality and Event Management and my Masters in International Hospitality Management. I then went on to successfully complete an internship with Hilton Kuala Lumper. Shortly after I met with the Rotana team and they asked if I would like to do the Rotana Tarot Management Program. The program exposed me to guided leadership development, in-depth operational exposure and mentoring from some of Rotana’s top executives. After that I landed my first management role at Finz, Beach Rotana then moved to the corporate office, managing food and beverage projects and assisting in opening new Rotana properties. After this I joined Yas Island Rotana where I’ve been for 2 years but I’m currently in my 6th year with Rotana.

What do you like most about working in food and beverage?

I enjoy working with a variety of people from different nationalities and different cultures. Food and beverage isn’t just about, well, food and beverage. The job itself increases my knowledge of how to market your product, engage with guests, be creative and train the team to deliver an exceptional service. Private functions are a passion of mine, I really enjoy meeting people and every function varies from the next so you are always having to innovate.

In your opinion what are the three most important aspects to ensure a restaurant is successful?

People, your whole team need to be capable of going beyond expectations and providing guests with a great professional service and exceptional food. Marketing is also a key element.

The marketing team have to be creative and passionate as they are the ones communicating the restaurants message. Menu, the menu offering has to be clear, concise, not too big but with a good variety, it needs to have key unique selling points.

How big a role do you think food and beverage plans in the overall hotel offering?

Food and beverage accounts for a large percentage of the hotels revenue so it definitely plays a massive role within the organization. Rotana is known for its food and beverage, which is great. Rotana even has a dedicated rewards program. The Rotana Rewards Exclusive card is a great loyalty program for food and beverage. With the Rotana Rewards Exclusive card you can earn points as you dine or stay in any Rotana Hotel. You can start accumulating Rotana Awards points the moment you enroll in the Rotana Rewards Exclusive program. All you need to do is present your card at any of our Rotana properties to enjoy exclusive privileges that have been handpicked to complement your lifestyle.

Why would you encourage people to visit Yas Island Rotana?

What is the most challenging aspect of your role?

Predicting new trends. We always have to stay ahead of these trends. This industry is very competitive, especially with new food and beverage outlets opening across the city.

It’s important to monitor the trends, adapt to them and even better them. We must differentiate ourselves and stay ahead of the competition.

Tell us about the upcoming promotions.

As you know Blue Grill recently hosted the Executive Chefs from the Belfry Hotel & Resort. Executive Chef Robert Bates

Yas Island Rotana has a wonderful variety of dining options, truly something for everyone. Blue Grill, the only steakhouse located in Yas Plaza, focuses on a variety of top quality prime cuts. Chef Alan takes great pride in ensuring high quality products. The menu also features delicious seafood, soups, salads and poultry. Rangoli, our modern Indian restaurant serves authentic cuisine in a contemporary setting. We focus on authentic dishes and steered clear of fusion cuisine. Y Bar, themed on a New York urban setting offers a wide selection of beverages with 10 hops on tap and we also have Choices.

The all-day dining restaurant offering international specialties, brunch and themed buffets. This is hugely popular with families.

Yas Island Rotana 02 656 4000

June | 25

Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month

We are proud to present Abu Dhabi’s inaugural Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month.

From 1 -30 September 2016, immerse yourself in luxury five-star dining at bargain prices.

As a guest what do I need to do to experience Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month?

Simply select and visit your favourite participating restaurants and enjoy a special fixed price menu. We do recommend making a booking via Zomato, for AED 195 net for 3 courses we’re expecting quiet a crowd!

Enjoy a selection of gourmet 3 course cuisine for only AED 195 net in over 25 Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month What type of restaurants can guests expect?

Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month aims to participating venues. highlight a range of cuisine, in the most highly acclaimed restaurants across Abu Dhabi. Already confirmed are For 30 days, Abu Dhabi’s best restaurants will offer special Michelin Starred Celebrity Chef Michael Caines restaurant, menus at unbeatable prices. This is the perfect time to try that Pearls by Michael Caines, Tori No So and Brasserie Angélique restaurant you’ve had on your bucket list, get the family all at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Sambusek at Rosewood Abu together or just explore Abu Dhabi’s stylish dining scene.

Dhabi and 18°at Hyatt Capital Gate.

Tickets and passes aren’t required but reservations are Will the menus vary at each restaurant? recommended.

Absolutely! Each restaurant will be showcasing their cuisine Zomato, our official booking partner will be launching a special with a unique and tailored menu specially designed for Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month. section on their website, allowing you to easily book the restaurant of your choice.

Are reservations required?

Reservations are strongly encouraged via Zomato but walk-ins Visit www.diningandnightlifeabudhabi.ae to keep up to date are welcomed. However we would advise calling the restaurant with participating restaurants and menus. in advance to avoid disappointment.

Mark your calendar and discover Abu Dhabi’s diverse and Where can I find more information? sophisticated culinary destinations!

Visit our website, www.diningandnightlifeabudhabi.ae

FAQs What is Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month?

A first of its kind, Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month is a great opportunity to visit the award-winning restaurants you’ve always wanted to try and to rediscover old favourites at unbeatable prices.

26 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

VOX Cinemas introduces Luxury Cinema Concept, THEATRE by Rhodes to Abu Dhabi VOX Cinemas have extended their successful THEATRE by Rhodes concept to customers in Abu Dhabi for the very first time.

The luxury cinema concept is available at Yas Mall and Nation Galleria, giving movie fans the chance to indulge in a luxury menu created exclusively for VOX by Michelin Star, celebrity Chef Gary Rhodes and his team.

VOX Cinemas owned and operated by Majid Al Futtaim Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim has already achieved great success with the concept THEATRE by Rhodes, when it was launched in Mall of the Emirates last September.

We attended the exclusive launch of THEATRE by Rhodes at VOX Cinemas, Yas Mall. To begin our experience we are escorted to the exclusive lounge where we enjoy a refreshing mocktail and give our order to the waitress before making our way into the movie theater.

The menu features a selection of sweet and savory dishes like the Lobster and Chicken Caesar Tacos, ‘Rhodes’ Foie Gras Panini, Mini ‘New York’ Deli Beef Burgers, Date and Banana French Toast Fingers and Knickerbocker Glory. We select the Crab and Asparagus Bruschetta for The Preview (starters), the Lobster and Chicken Caesar Tacos for The Main Movie (mains) and the Knickerbocker Glory for The Credits (dessert).

The movie theatre offers large, comfortable, reclining armchairs with blankets and pillows. With 36 exclusive seats, it allows movie fans to enjoy interactive cinema seating and table service.

The food arrives steadily throughout the movie. Each dish is as divine as the next. The Crab and Asparagus Bruschetta is light and flavorful whilst the Lobster and Chicken Caesar Tacos are bursting with chunks of lobster, freshly served on crispy tacos. This dish was our favorite. To finish the Knickerbocker Glory, layers of berries are topped with vanilla and strawberry ice cream, finished with vanilla cream and sprinkled with toasted almonds. Portions are generous ensuring you leave the cinema feeling happy and full.

This menu is so good you can retire your traditional routine of dinner and a movie and just do both at VOX Cinemas, THEATRE by Rhodes.

Commenting on his involvement in the launch of THEATRE at Yas Mall and Nation Galleria, Chef Gary Rhodes said: “A world first and a culinary wonder, THEATRE by Rhodes , complements the movie experience VOX Cinemas has always been known to offer. We wanted to create a menu that truly went hand in hand with the blockbuster releases VOX Cinemas perfectly orchestrates, with never-before-seen dishes like our Crab and Asparagus Bruschetta or our Upside Down Strawberry Cheesecake Mousse. I am extremely proud to finally be taking this concept to the capital in partnership with VOX Cinemas and have been working hard with the team to ensure every detail from staff training to kitchen set up and menu preparation is up to par for VOX’s relentless movie enthusiasts.”

Tickets cost AED 160. Cinema goers can book their tickets online through www.voxcinemas.com

June | 27

Ghassan Khattar Executive Chef, Zaytinya Chef Ghassan boasts over 20 years’ experience, across some of the finest hotels in the region. Chef Ghassan brings his expertise in Arabic cuisine and hospitality management to Zaytinya, the family-friendly Lebanese restaurant.

Starting his career at the Carlton Towers Dubai, Chef Ghassan has worked in the kitchens of some of the most prestigious hotels in the region like the Dubai Park Hotel, Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah.

During his previous stint as Executive Chef at Madinat Jumeirah, Chef Ghassan was in charge of all the Arabic restaurants and banqueting in the resort. He also led the team that catered for the Dubai World Cup and was personally responsible for the dining arrangements of the VVIP’s including HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

With a passion for authentic Arabic cuisine Chef Ghassan shares with us his easy to make Umm Ali recipe.

Umm Ali Umm Ali is a delicious traditional Arabic dessert equivalent to bread pudding. Serve it warm or enjoy with a scoop of ice cream.

Serves 5

Ingredients 1 pack of puff pastry, should contain 10 small square slices 1 large croissant ½ a cup of sugar 5 cups of milk 1 tsp rose water 2 tsp pine nuts 2 tsp sliced almonds 2 tsp sliced pistachios ½ a cup whipped cream

Method 1. Take the puff pastry out of the freezer and leave to defrost for 2 hours.

8. Flake the puff pastry and croissant into small pieces and place half the amount in an ovenproof baking dish.

9. Sprinkle the nuts but keep a small handful for later.

10. Place the other half of puff pastry and croissant flakes into the ovenproof dish.

11. Slowly add the milk mixture to the dish, until the milk fully covers the puff pastry.

12. Allow to rest for 5 minutes. This will allow the puff pastry to absorb some of the milk.

13. Add milk again until it covers the puff pastry.

2. Preheat the oven to 220C.

14. Bake in the middle rack of the oven for 15 minutes at 220C.

3. Place the slices of puff pastry on a baking sheet.

15. Place under the broiler for a couple of minutes to get a golden top.

4. Place puff pastry into the oven for 5-10 minutes, until golden brown.

16. Sprinkle with the remaining nuts and serve warm.

5. Take the puff pastry out of the oven and allow to cool.

17. Enjoy!

6. Whilst the puff pastry is cooling mix the nuts and place into the oven for 4 minutes then set aside.

28 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

7. In a pot add the milk, whipped cream, rose water, sugar and simmer gently. Adjust sugar and rose water, to taste.

Iftar menu at Capital Centre Arjaan

by Rotana Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana is conveniently located a few steps away from Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and a few minutes drive from Abu Dhabi Corniche and Yas Island. All of which make the hotel the perfect choice for a relaxing and enjoyable Iftar.

Tamarind, the hotel’s all day dining restaurant offers a selection of international cuisine from daily breakfast and lunch buffets to an à la carte menu. Today we are visiting Tamarind to experience their Iftar menu.

A wide selection of cold mezza is available, this includes, hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, muhammara, fattoush and malfouf.

Our favorite is the muhammara, this hot pepper dish is delicious, not too spicy but just enough flavor to keep us going back for more.

The hot mezza features, meat sambousek, cheese sambousek and spinach fatayer as well as a popular lentil soup with condiments.

Although these are standard on an Iftar buffet the quality does greatly vary depending on where you dine.

The ones we are enjoying today are crisp and flavorful and the cheese sambousek is packed with thick bites of fete cheese. A big thumbs up from us.

The main course options are as follows, vermicelli rice, mix grill, dawood basha, samak harra, sheik el mahshi and kibbeh bil laban. Be sure to try the sheik el mahshi, this lamb stuffed aubergine casserole is a wonderful warm and appetizing dish. However our favorite has to be the dawood basha, briefly explained, Arabic meatballs in a thick tomato sauce.

The rich tomato sauce has beautifully flavored the plump lamb meatballs and this is perfectly paired with the vermicelli rice Now to our favorite part, the desserts. Arabic desserts have to be some of the best desserts in the world and the selection at Tamarind does not disappoint. Mahalabia, umm ali, halawat el jibn, halva and basbousa are all on display, allowing you to enjoy your dining experience right to the end.

Iftar buffet is available for AED 140* per person, inclusive of traditional Ramadan juices and soft drinks.

Tamarind Capital Centre Arjaan by Rotana, Abu Dhabi 02 495 4548 *The price is inclusive of 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee and 4% municipality fee.

30 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Chef Jimmy De Almeida Bord Eau’s new Chef de Cuisine

Chef Jimmy is as adroit in a five star hotel’s fast-paced kitchen as he was in a tall, green vegetable garden in the Portuguese countryside where he spent summers with his grandmother falling in love with fresh, sun-ripened vegetables. He recalls summers spent “harvesting” veggies from the garden for his grandmother, but he says, “I’d usually return with an empty basket because I would sit there for hours and eat everything that grew because it all tasted so good, green beads, sweet peas and tomatoes, anything that was ripe” Moments like this foretold Chef Jimmy’s eventual passion for vegetables, healthy, fresh and local foods.

His path to becoming a chef was one paved in fresh seafood, herbs and vegetables, perhaps a likely one for a talented chef living in the south of France. He has worked the hallowed kitchens of La Voile, Le Louis XV Alain Ducasse in Monaco and, most recently, Le Jardin Restaurant in Geneva, which are all Michelin-rated. He joined Bord Eau in the Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri in mid May and you might want to note this face, because Jimmy is a young chef poised to shake up the capital’s fine dining scene. Chef Jimmy prepared Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi a sampling of menu items to come and gave us an exclusive interview, his first since landing in Abu Dhabi.

What are your plans for Bord Eau? My goal is to prepare fine French food that is meant for sharing and prepared in a much more healthy way than the past, with less fats like butter and cream. I would like to cook with as many local, sustainable ingredients as possible and introduce more fresh seafood and seasonal vegetables to the menu.

Is sharing conducive to fine dining?

My plan is to prepare dishes that are easily shared between diners. For example, if people can’t decide and want to share two starters, I will prepare two smaller portions of each starter so that they are easily shared and decisions are less hard to make. All meals can be adapted easily in the kitchen to share. If a table wants to share one large main dish, for example a large fish, I can prepare it to be shared and it will be served individually so that none of the elegance you expect from fine dining is lost to reaching over the table. I think this is perfect for the summer months when people may want to eat lighter and smaller portions.

Have you started experimenting with local ingredients?

Yes, that’s the first thing I do anywhere [laughs]. My very first day in fact (one week ago), I was asked by an Emirati guest to prepare five courses using only local fish and ingredients. It was a trial by fire. I made a five-course menu for his table using local ingredients prepared with French sensibilities, and it was a great success. With regard to local fish, I have been experimenting with the local tuna (bonita) and I am enjoying the results. I have been pairing it with balsamic vinegars and smoked eggplant or ripe local tomatoes. In the summer, I may have to import some from France but I am eager to avoid this practice.

Explain your passion for vegetables.

This comes from my grandma. I was born in France but I spent all my holidays in Portugal with my grandma. She had a very big garden.

I spent my childhood in her garden, tending it, playing in it and mostly eating everything that grew raw. Every vegetable can be eaten raw and learned to love them that way.

Maybe this is why you became a chef?

I don’t know but maybe it helped. My first job in a kitchen working for one of Alain Ducasse’s restaurants was amazing. We had a working garden and all summer long we used the vegetables only from the garden for our menu. We had 25 varieties of basil and mint.

Early every morning, the entire staff would pick cherries and other fruit for the daily meals. No one was above any job in the kitchen and growing our food and knowing our food so well made it taste far better. Spring and summer are the best time to be a chef.

You want your menu to be as sustainable as possible. How can you do this?

Because people are from everywhere and travel so much, they perhaps forget the seasonality of produce; I would like to help remind them. Those strawberries you are eating from the North may not taste the best in winter. I’d prefer to buy my asparagus from a closer source during the spring, even though I prefer the taste of my French variety. I have to compromise and I’d like to show diners how compromising on some ingredients can still taste just as good, maybe even better to eat sustainable ingredients that are seasonal.

I want a three-month seasonal menu this is my goal.

Chef Jimmy’s new menu is expected in the fall of 2016. Watch this space…..

Bord Eau Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri 02 509 8511 June | 31

Ramadan Recipes Sarah Dheays aka Diary of a Lifestyle Mommy is an expat foodie, travel and lifestyle blogger living in Abu Dhabi. Sarah shares with us some of her families Ramadan recipes she grew up enjoying.

Luqaimat

Atayef

Pronounced Lu-kay-mat in Emirati and the Gulf Region and ‘Awameh’ Aw-ah-meh in the Levantine region. I grew up on these addictive dough balls. During Ramadan my mum would let me be in-charge of frying them, since I was the eldest. She was so fast, using only the palms of her hands and squeezing the dough between her index finger and thumb. Such a great technique, one which I still need to master.

Atayef has been a traditional Ramadan dessert for many years, I grew up on them, Atayef or Qatayef are basically mini pancakes made from batter. The result of the batter being poured onto a round hot plate, except only one side is cooked, then folded. The pastry is filled with either unsalted cheese or a mixture of hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, pistachios, raisins, powdered sugar, vanilla extract and cinnamon. It is then These dough dumplings are deep fried then tossed into a sugar syrup, deep-fried or, less commonly, baked and served with a hot giving them that crunchy exterior. Nowadays people use date syrup (most syrup or sometimes honey. commonly in the Gulf Region). This may not be the healthiest dessert option but it’s a custom dessert in Ramadan. Unfortunately these cannot Ingredients be baked due to the consistency of the dough, similar to doughnuts.

Atayef Pancakes. You can find these at most bakeries I share with you my mother’s recipe for these delicious treats. throughout the Holy Month.

Ingredients 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 tbsp corn starch 2 tsp sugar ½ tsp dry yeast 1 tsp vegetable oil ¾ cup water Pinch of cardamom powder (optional)

Additions 2 cups vegetable oil for frying Date syrup or honey for topping Sesame seeds to garnish (optional)

Instructions • Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, cover with a towel and set aside for the yeast to rise. This should take approximately an hour.

• Pre heat the vegetable oil.

• Take the dough and use your hands to make small dumplings.

• Using a large spoon slowly drop the dough balls one by one into the hot oil. You will notice them floating.

• Toss the dough balls using your spatula till they are golden brown, then set aside on a paper towel to remove the excess oil.

• Place your dumplings on your plate before serving.

• Drizzle with honey or date syrup and add some sesame seeds.

• Serve and enjoy.

Ramadan Kareem Sarah Words by Sarah Dheays, Diary of a Lifestyle Mommy www.Diaryofalifestylemommy.com Instagram: diaryofalifestylemommy Twitter: @lifestylemommy1 Pinterest: Sarahdheays

32 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

Cheese filling 2 cups Akawi cheese, drained and unsalted. I leave mine to soaking in fresh water overnight 1 cup ricotta cheese (optional) 1 tbsp rose water 1 tbsp sugar 3 tbsp honey for topping Walnut filling 3 cups finely chopped walnuts 1 tbsp brown sugar 1 tsp cinnamon A pinch of nutmeg 1 tbsp orange blossom water

Additions ½ cup vegetable oil for brushing Atayef before baking

Instructions • Preheat your oven to 190C. • In a large bowl mix the Akawi cheese with ricotta using a fork.

Make sure that the cheeses are incorporated. Add the rose water and sugar. Do the same with the walnut.

• Using a teaspoon start stuffing the Atayef pancakes and closing them. As you would to a calzone or pastry. Make sure the edges are sealed properly.

• Lightly brush vegetable oil on each Atayef, this will add some crispiness.

• Line them on a baking sheet or nonstick baking tray and bake them for around 20 minutes or until golden brown.

• Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with pistachio.

• Serve with tea and enjoy.

Chef de Cuisine, Saaed Khattab Fairmont Bab Al Bahr With Iftars underway throughout the city we speak to Chef de Cuisine, Saaed Khattab, the Arabic chef behind many of the delightful creations available at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr this Ramadan.

How did you come to be Chef de Cuisine at Cedar Lounge?

Well, my father is Syrian and my mother is Lebanese so food has always played a large role in my life. I would always watch my mother as she would cook. One day I decided to surprise her, so I got a stool and made her a bowl of rice. I was only 12 years old at the time so I couldn’t even reach the counter, hence the stool. When she tried the rice she was surprised and told me it tasted delicious and that one day I would be a great chef.

At the age of 17 I started working in my father’s pastry shop, we also did a lot of other Arabic food which meant there was a lot to learn and I had to learn fast. I worked with my father for about 7 years before I started working in hotels.

In my first hotel role I worked with a great Syrian chef, he taught me all I know. After this I went to Lebanon for about 2 years followed by Bahrain and Saudi Arabia where I spent 3 years perfecting Arabic cuisine. I started working in Cedar Lounge in 2010 and worked here for 2.5 years. I then left the hotel and came back when the position of Chef de Cuisine became available.

I’ve always felt a special connection with Cedar Lounge as I was here in the beginning, it has been amazing to watch the restaurant grow from strength to strength.

Tell us a bit about what you will be doing this Ramadan at Cedar Lounge?

Our General Manager and Executive Chef have been working tirelessly alongside the rest of the team this year to create an exceptional Ramadan offering. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr has to deliver a high standard, this is what our guests expect and what our guests deserve.

So this year Iftar at Cedar Lounge will be a lavish family style Iftar which will include a selection of homemade Lebanese cold and hot mezze served directly on the table. We will also have a number of live grill and buffet stations serving traditional meat dishes, alongside a variety of desserts including fresh kanafah, umm ali, baklava and Arabic ice cream.

As Chef de Cuisine for Cedar Lounge I will be overseeing the restaurant but apart from this I will also be creating the pastries and the Suhoor in the Al Andalus tent.

Describe the offerings at Cedar Lounge.

When you first enter Cedar Lounge apart from the great aroma of fine cuisine you will notice the sleek, modern, décor and the stunning uninterrupted views of the lush garden. We offer guests traditional Lebanese cuisine with a twist. The menu features soup, cold mezza, salad, hot mezza, raw selection, grills, meats, seafood and desserts. The quality of each dish is paramount. We make everything in-house. We want guests to feel the authenticity and freshness of our dishes. We want guests to taste the thought and devotion that goes into each dish.

What’s your favourite dish on the menu?

To eat, the fish sayediyah, hammour with brown rice and tajen sauce, it’s exceptional. To make, the lamb ouzi because again we’ve adapted a traditional recipe. Instead of meat on top of rice we decided to take puff pastry and stuff it with roasted leg of lamb and oriental rice. We’ve kept the authenticity but adapted the cooking method. It’s a big hit!

What makes Cedar Lounge different from other Lebanese restaurants in the city?

My concept is a mix of Syrian and Lebanese cuisine, the best of both. Our clients want something different. We have many restaurants in the city, as a chef we have to define our concept. For example, vine leaves … at Cedar Lounge we reinvented the concept. We have created vine leaves but sushi style. We roll the rice in the leaves as you would to make a sushi roll and serve it so. This has been a big hit and it’s not available anywhere else. We try and take traditional recipes and present them in a new and innovative way.

My wife sometimes thinks I’m crazy and I’d have to agree. I’m always thinking and researching new creative ideas that we can implement at Cedar Lounge. Some of my best ideas have come to me in my dreams. I think if you love your job you can be a leader in the industry because you have so much passion you never stop innovating. I love what I do and I’d never stop pushing the boundaries.

This Ramadan be sure to visit Fairmont Bab Al Bahr as the hotel unveils one of the capital’s largest and undoubtedly most luxurious tents. Guests are invited to enjoy a range of offerings including traditional Iftar in CuiScene and Cedar Lounge, Suhoor in Al Andalus tent and a community campaign capturing time-honoured practices during the Holy Month.

Iftar at Cedar Lounge is available daily during the holy month of Ramadan from sunset until 9:00pm. The Iftar is priced at AED 175* per person, including water and Ramadan juices.

Fairmont Bab Al Bahr 02 654 3238 *Please note all prices will be subject to 10% service charge, 6% tourism fees and 4% municipality fees.

June | 33

Euro 2016 Fixtures Dates groups and UAE times.

GROUP A Friday, June 10: France v Romania, 11.00pm Saturday, June 11: Albania v Switzerland, 5.00pm Wednesday, June 15: Romania v Switzerland, 8.00pm Wednesday, June 15: France v Albania, 11.00pm Sunday, June 19: Romania v Albania, 11.00pm Sunday, June 19: Switzerland v France, 11.00pm GROUP B Saturday, June 11: Wales v Slovakia, 8.00pm Saturday, June 11: England v Russia, 11.00pm Wednesday, June 15: Russia v Slovakia, 5.00pm Thursday, June 16: England v Wales, 11.00am Monday, June 20: Russia v Wales, 11.00pm Monday, June 20: Slovakia v England, 11.00pm GROUP C Sunday, June 12: Poland v Northern Ireland, 8.00pm Sunday, June 12: Germany v Ukraine, 11.00pm Thursday, June 16: Ukraine v Northern Ireland, 8.00pm Thursday, June 16: Germany v Poland, 11.00pm Tuesday, June 21: Ukraine v Poland, 8.00pm Tuesday, June 21: Northern Ireland v Germany, 8.00pm GROUP D Sunday, June 12: Turkey v Croatia, 5.00pm Monday, June 13: Spain v Czech Republic, 5.00pm Friday, June 17: Czech Republic v Croatia, 8.00pm Friday, June 17: Spain v Turkey, 11.00pm Tuesday, June 21: Czech Republic v Turkey, 11.00pm Tuesday, June 21: Croatia v Spain, 11.00pm GROUP E Monday, June 13: Republic of Ireland v Sweden, 8.00pm Monday, June 13: Belgium v Italy, 11.00pm Friday, June 17: Italy v Sweden, 5.00pm Saturday, June 18: Belgium v Republic of Ireland, 5.00pm Wednesday, June 22: Italy v Republic of Ireland, 11.00pm Wednesday, June 22: Sweden v Belgium, 11.00pm GROUP F Tuesday, June 14: Austria v Hungary, 8.00pm Tuesday, June 14: Portugal v Iceland, 11.00pm Saturday, June 18: Iceland v Hungary, 8.00pm Saturday, June 18: Portugal v Austria, 11.00pm Wednesday, June 22: Iceland v Austria, 8.00pm Wednesday, June 22: Hungary v Portugal, 8.00pm LAST 16 Saturday, June 25: Match 1: Runner-up Group A v Runner-up C, 5.00pm Saturday, June 25: Match 2: Winner D v Third-place B/E/F, 11.00pm Saturday, June 25: Match 3: Winner B v Third-place A/C/D, 8.00pm Sunday, June 26: Match 4: Winner F v Runner-up E, 11.00pm Sunday, June 26: Match 5: Winner C v Third-place A/B/F, 8.00pm Sunday, June 26: Match 6: Winner A v Third-place C/D/E, 5.00pm Monday, June 27: Match 7: Winner E v Runner-up D, 8.00pm Monday, June 27: Match 8: Runner-up B v Runner-up F, 11.00pm QUARTER FINALS Thursday, June 30: Winner Match 1 v Winner Match 2, 11.00pm Friday, July 1: Winner Match 3 v Winner Match 4, 11.00pm Saturday, July 2: Winner Match 5 v Winner Match 6, 11.00pm Sunday, July 3: Winner Match 7 v Winner Match 8, 11.00pm SEMI FINALS Wednesday, July 6: Winner QF1 v Winner QF2, 11.00pm Thursday, July 7: Winner QF3 v Winner QF4, 11.00pm

34 | Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi

FINAL Sunday, July 10: Winner SF1 v Winner SF2, 11.00pm

Gather for a Delightful Ramadan Iftar This Ramadan, join us at Tamarind restaurant at Capital Centre Arjaan

by Rotana – Abu Dhabi and savour our authentic Iftar buffet for AED 140* per person, inclusive of traditional Ramadan juices and soft drinks.

For more information please call +971 (0)2 495 4548 or email fb.capitalarjaan@rotana.com. *The price is inclusive of 10% service charge, 6% tourism fee and 4% municipality fee.

Other terms and conditions may apply.

Arjaan Hotel Apartments P. O. Box 44012, Abu Dhabi, UAE. T: +971 (0)2 495 4444, F: +971 (0)2 495 4400, arjaan.capital@rotana.com

rotana.com

Immerse yourself in luxury five­star dining throughout the month of September.

Enjoy a selection of gourmet 3 course cuisine for AED 195 in over 25 Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Restaurant Month participating restaurants.

For more information visit www.diningandnightlifeabudhabi.ae

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