FACT Bahrain October 2018

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Ladies, allow yourselves to be inspired!

Orsay, the German brand, introduces its new collection. Nothing is better than looking gorgeous with this aaordable fashion. Get your Orsay outďŹ t and stand out.

The new collection is available at Orsay City Centre Bahrain +973 17581569 2

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CON TE NT S

08 22 25 FACT FINDS

BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST

OUTDOOR FUN

39 53 77 FACT DINING AWARDS

STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT

FASHION FOCUS

81 85 93 CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

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SPA & WELLNESS

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• THE EDITOR

Good Food, Good Mood

“

“If we’re not meant to have midnight snacks, why is there a light in the fridge?”

I

'm about to hit you with something big; FACT is celebrating the lead up to its 9th annual dining awards season – that’s nine whole years of discovering the best, the most delicious, the different, the unusual, the fancy, the casual, the popular – and the not-so popular – food and beverage spots in Bahrain. We’ve seen restaurants come and go, we’ve seen fine dining venues win over the hearts of many, we’ve seen casual eats take over our instagram feed, and we’ve really done (or should I sat eaten) it all. And no matter how many years pass by, Bahrain’s foodie culture and diverse culinary landscape, will always inspire, excite and satisfy us. As the genuine and ultimate authority on all things food on the island, we’re happy to announce the nominees of the FACT Dining Awards Bahrain 2018. Turn to p39 and check out our list of round one of those who made the cut. You’re sure to find some of your old favourites, some newbies and maybe some surprising choices – the good thing is that YOU decided who wins the public vote. Go to www.fact-magazine.com and cast your vote today – we’ll have some awesome prizes to give away as part of the awards’ season on our Facebook too – so keep an eye out for those!

Those who, just like us, can’t wait for the cooler season ahead, we’re getting you prepped and geared up for glorious months of al fresco dining, outdoor activities, garden gatherings and more as mercury levels start to decrease. Starting p25, have a peek at some of our best open-air venues and more cool hangouts for the winter. Anyone looking for real local wanderlust, turn to p53 and check out our Staycation Spotlight at the 5-star Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain. A breathtaking property that we just can’t get enough of. Our Culinary Spotlight pick comes from the ever gorgeous CUT by Wolfgang Puck (p81); whilst our On The Menu takes us to Italian pastures in Primavera at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain (p85); and this month’s Foodie Corner stops by Mawasim at Galleria Mall, a brand new eatery that has rocketed in popularity (p89).

I’ll be here, contemplating my favourite eateries in Bahrain and when to stop by each one again. Hope you all have a food-filled month – keep it yummy! ☺

Shabana Adam Editor-in-Chief shabana@fact-magazine.com Insta: @shabs_a 4

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition • OCTOBER 2018 VOLUME 12, ISSUE 02

DIRECTOR OMAR SHAHEEN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER GREG HUGHES EDITOR-IN-CHIEF SHABANA ADAM (shabana@fact-magazine.com) ASSISTANT EDITOR AANCHAL DUGGAL SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS SYED MUHAMMED RAIHAN JYOTI RAWAT PHOTOGRAPHY SHOBIN JOSEPH CONTRIBUTORS GEORGINA JENNSEN HELEN HOUGHTON JAYNE GREEN YVONNE COLE REGIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR RAMI KHALIL PRODUCTION & DISTRIBUTION AJIT KUMAR NEIL MAHMOOD ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0131 E-mail: rami@nansgroup.com PRINTED BY DAR AKHBAR AL KHALEEJ

All Rights Reserved. Opinion expressed within does not necessarily represent the opinion of the publisher. All efforts have been made to ensure accuracy of the information within this publication.

However, FACT M.E. Bahrain cannot accept legal responsibility for any erroneous content or omissions. FACT M.E. Bahrain Publishing W.L.L. Office 53, Building 872, Road 3618, Block 436, Seef. Ministry of Information. Subject Registration Number: CFB779

Indulge in delicious pastries, freshly baked cookies, exquisite macarons and homemade chocolates at CafĂŠ DĂŠlices.

Recharge with a cup of freshly brewed coffee while you enjoy a sumptuous and healthy light lunch or order one of our specialty cakes custom-made just for you.

Al Abraj Street, Business Bay P.O Box 32300 Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 424 3333 | Fax: +971 4 424 3334 | Email: info@gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com www.gulfcourthotelbusinessbay.com

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Combining all four editions of FACT in Bahrain and the region, keep up with us on instagram for the best behind-the-scenes photos from food shoots, local events and all things awesome in the Gulf, plus loads more from the FACT team.

Your one-stop culture fix for life in Bahrain | First for local talent, arts, fashion, dining and all the coolest events | We’ve got tech, travel, motoring and exclusive interviews with all the industry and celebrity-world movers and shakers too | Get your copy of FACT Bahrain in local supermarkets now!

FACEBOOK FACT Bahrain 15k likes Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine, all for our readers!

“

I won’t be impressed with technology until I can download food.”

ISSUU.COM FACT Bahrain 92,412 reads of the September issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu. com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and more, in Bahrain.

OUR FAVE FEATURE • NOMINEES REVEALED P39 •

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150 Government Ave., Manama Kingdom of Bahrain www.campbellgrayhotels.com

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• CHECK IT OUT

FACT FINDS

Downtown Dining OCTOBER IS THE MONTH OF EXCITING FOODIE HAPPENINGS AT THE 5-STAR DOWNTOWN ROTANA. CHECK IT OUT…

Baharat spiced Sunday

The great Americana Foodfest

and tempt your senses with the Infinite Sushi Night. Every Tuesday from 6pm to 10pm. Feast on all your family favourites such as Volcano Maki, Lobster Maki, Crispy California Maki, Rainbow Rolls, Yellow Fin Tuna Sashimi, Salmon Nigiri and more throughout the evening for just BD15++ or BD22++ including Unlimited Drinks! Sounds yummy.

Vamos Wednesdays

THE GREAT AMERICANA FOOD FEST Taking place at Flavours on 2, this new Friday Brunch is a culinary journey through the States. Embark on a gourmand’s dream road-trip across the 50 States of America with Flavours on 2's newest themed Friday Brunch. Enjoy favourites from both coasts and a selection of legendary southern dishes! A great ambience with live cooking stations and live performances to keep you entertained for only BD22 net with soft drinks or BD32 net with selected beverages. The fun will not stop here! You can also enjoy free pool access! Served from 12.30pm to 4pm.

FACT can personally vouch for these mouthwatering slow-cooked short ribs!

THEMED LUNCHES Discover the new exciting themed lunches at Flavours on 2 for only BD9.5++ - let the food coma begin! All lunches are served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

Baharat Spiced Sunday Explore an array of traditional oriental food ranging from mezze to the delicious homemade Ouzi.

Asian Bowls Tuesday Enjoy far eastern cuisines and famed Asian street food such as stir-fries, wok tossed and Teatro’s special sushi.

Vamos Wednesdays Let’s Go the Spanish way! Try the various options that go beyond the famous Tapas. Don’t forget to indulge in the special slow infused grape juice, Sangria.

INFINITE PIZZA AT TEATRO Enjoy all-you-can-eat Pizza and tempt your senses with the Unlimited Pizza Night every Wednesday from 6pm to 10pm in Teatro. Bite into limitless oven fresh Pizzas which are prepared on demand for just BD7++ - it’s all you can eat like never before.

Pots. Pans. Boards. Thursday A hearty meal before your weekend starts with some lipsmacking bite size favourites. Indulge in the rustic buffet look with lots of bakes, roasts and puffs. ✤

INFINITE SUSHI AT TEATRO Teatro Downtown knows how to turn Tuesday evenings into an infinite experience. Enjoy authentic Japanese delicacies

GO: CALL 1311 9999 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• LISTEN UP

SOUND OF MUSIC The 27th Bahrain International Music Festival (BIMF) will take place from October 27 – 18 and FACT has the lowdown on all the great shows and performances that you can enjoy…

THE BAHRAIN AUTHORITY FOR Culture and Antiquities celebrates the annual Bahrain International Music Festival held under the “Muharraq Capital of Islamic Culture” program, from October 18 to 27. The Kingdom of Bahrain has managed to become a focal point of social and cultural movement, where the programs and events keep on gaining both regional and worldwide acknowledgment. This October marks the 27th anniversary of the renowned festival, a veritable artistic platform which brings together talented musicians and performers from all corners of the globe. The acclaimed musical acts headlining this year’s festival represent diverse cultures and genres from the Arab world and beyond. Bahrain's esteemed Cafe Lilou joins in the festivities once again this year with a special and exclusive menu inspired by the BIMF’s featured acts, which will be available in all branches for the duration of the festival. ✤

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Hussain Al-Adhamy Date: October 18 Time: 8pm Venue: Bahrain National Theatre Country: Iraq Age: 10 years and above Genre: Song Tickets will be sold at Virgin Megastore City Centre 10

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Nawa Institute Date: October 19 Time: 8pm Venue: Cultural Hall Country: Palestine Age: 10 years and above Genre: Song Free admission In Collaboration with the Embassy of Palestine

Discover the taste of Italy.

Bringing to life the Trattoria Moderna experience, Primavera launches an unassuming, yet irresistible new menu with a mix of what is familiar and what excites. In many ways, Primavera adheres to the very essence of its name - a sense of renewal and beginning, with food that is fresh and bright.

Discover the new Primavera.

Call +973 1758 6499.

Building 112, King Mohammed VI Ave, Block 428 Al Seef District, Manama, Bahrain 973 1758 0000

Š 2018 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. fact magazine

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• LISTEN UP Country: France/ Syrian Arab Republic Age: 10 years and above Genre: Song Free admission Jassim Bin Harban “The Art of Women’s Songs” Date: October 27 Time: 7pm Venue: Dar Almuharraq Country: Kingdom of Bahrain Age: 10 years and above Genre: Lecture and Live Show Free admission Ismaeel bin Dawwas Band Date: October 20 Time: 8pm Venue: Tree of Life Country: Kingdom of Bahrain Age: 10 years and above Genre: Music Free admission A Tribute to Mohammed Ali Abdullah Presented by the Bahrain Music Band Date: October 21 Time: 8pm Venue: Cultural Hall Country: Kingdom of Bahrain Age: 10 years and above Genre: Song Free admission Natacha Atlas Date: 23 October 2018 Time: 8:00 p.m.

Venue: Cultural Hall Country: Egypt, UK, Belgium, France Age: 10 years and above Genre: Music Free admission In collaboration with the Embassy of France Nabyla Maan Date: October 25 Time: 8pm Venue: Cultural Hall Country: Kingdom of Morocco Age: 10 years and above Genre: Jazz/music Free admission Waed Bouhassoun “The Passion of Poetry” Date: October 26 Time: 8pm Venue: Cultural Hall 12

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GO: VISIT WWW.CULTURE.GOV.BH FOR MORE INFORMATION.

COMING SOON TO BLOCK 338

THE GARDEN A N I N T I M AT E O U T DO O R E X P ERIE N CE

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hola@vinotecabcn.com | www.vinotecabcn.com fact magazine

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OCTOBER FOOD FIX INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Business Lunch at Medzo Enjoy a day time treat with Italian flair. Are you limited on time with a busy schedule but still want a lush lunch? This is how you can have both! A nutritious and high quality lunch awaits with a menu including a selected range of dishes that will fit in your busy work day. Dishes starting from BD3, also offering half portions to keep you light. Available from Monday to Thursday, October to December.

GO: CALL 1722 7777 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA Gulf Night Out The Gulf Hotel’s exclusive and legendary poolside event, The Gulf Night Out, is back! Starting from October 23, every Tuesday onwards, go and enjoy the themed dining experience that goes all out with a variety of cuisines from the hotel’s 10 fine dining outlets and live cooking stations. The Gulf Night Out will also feature live performances from Bahrain’s top local band Al Rayash, followed by a Lebanese performance from the hotel’s outlet Zahle.

The Gulf hotel boasts the largest number of food and beverage outlets within a single property on the island. No pool party is complete without a barbeque station; this one is no different.

Watch out for the smoky surprises from the grills. This is a night 14

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of guaranteed fun, whether you are with friends or family. The buffet starts from 8pm.

GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

ROYAL GOLF CLUB East Meets West Live Carvery and Sushi every Friday in the award-winning Links Restaurant. Get unlimited Carvery & Sushi from 12noon to 4pm for only BD14 net per person with live entertainment by singing duo Tusa. Also enjoy a 3-hour unlimited beverage package available for an additional BD15 net per person.

GO: CALL 1775 1262 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS Ghouls’ Nigh Out Cellar 59 at ART Rotana is planning an epic party on Thursday October 25. The chilled bar will be transformed into an abandoned house for all the night creatures to gather at. The night begins with an astounding entertainment line up, starting from their in-house DJs to wild performances of guest dancers.

The fun starts from 9pm with free entrance for the ladies and three complimentary drinks; BD10 for the gents. ✤ GO: CALL 1600 0111 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.W

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS halloween at meisei 3 consecutive nights starting 31st october

(main event on 1st november) spine chilling cocktails food from hell’s grill electrifying beats from dj salime

book now +973 17007770

www.meiseirestaurants.com

meiseibahrain

meiseibahrain

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UNLEASH YOUR INNER CREATIVE! Art-inspired afternoons at the iconic Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay’s beach resort sets the tone for a colourful autumn…

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN Bay invites guests to find their hidden talent during a series of monthly inspirational art classes hosted in Bay View Lounge. A soaring architectural statement rising on its own private island in the heart of the kingdom, this piece of art by its own right is the perfect spot for inspiring art sessions. With more than 3,500 artworks distributed around the property, two-thirds of these created by local Bahraini artists, the Hotel aims to play host to oneof-a-kind studio sessions to help guests awakening their inner artist while enjoying breathtaking views of the Manama skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows.

The unique Four Seasons Art at the Bay program came to life in collaboration with Artdivano Concept Gallery, a local establishment that has been providing unique services for art lovers in the region for more than ten years. Guests may spend a full afternoon learning exclusive tips and tricks through the teachings of a local artist in the privacy of the Royal Majlis – Bay View Lounge conveniently located in the Hotel lobby. “Innovation is what Four Seasons has always been known for. We aim to introduce new offerings all year long for our valued guests, which connect them to the destination and the Bahraini people through Four Seasons eyes,” says Vincent Chasseignaux, Director of Food and Beverage.

The Art at the Bay classes will focus on how to recreate 16

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paintings by the world’s most prestigious artists such as Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet and Gustav Klimt.

Guests will learn special painting techniques on a 50 x 50 centimetre (20 x 20 inch) canvas using acrylic colours.

During the interactive classes, guests may savour carefully crafted canapes and a selection of beverages prepared by Executive Chef Hyung Gyu Kim. ✤

FOUR SEASONS ART AT THE BAY 2018 SCHEDULE Saturdays from 3pm to 6pm at the Royal Majlis – Bay View Lounge: - October 6, Vincent Van Gogh - Wheatfield with Crows - November 3, Claude Monet - Water Lilies - December 1, Gustav Klimt - Lady with Hat Classes are priced at BD36 net per person including canapes and beverages.

Guests can reserve their preferred art session by calling 1711 5500 for more information.

11 OCTOBER 5PM-10PM 29 NOVEMBER 5PM-10PM 5PM-10PM

LIVE DJ

Playing hits from the 70’s 80’s & 90’s

LIVE BBQ BBQ & FULL BAR ON THE 7TH LIVE 7TH TEE TEE BOX BOX Tee times times from from 5PM with beverage tastings Tee tastings throughout throughout the the course and lots of prizes to win. course win.

Non-Members BD27 net Members Non-Members Members BD25 BD25 net net Excluding Alcohol: Alcohol: Non-Members Non-Members BD15net Members Excluding Members BD13net BD13net Kids Half Price fact magazine

CALL +973 +973 17750777 FOR RESERVATIONS CALL RESERVATIONS

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OCTOBER SPECIALS THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN Pinktober Treats On October 12, enjoy a special pink scrumptious brunch with savory dishes and decadent desserts in the main hotel restaurant La Med. BD30 with soft drinks, and BD35, with select beverages, served from 12noon to 4pm. Throughout the month, pick up a Pink & Sweet Delight between 10am and 11pm from The Ritz Gourmet Lounge. Pair your teatime with yummy special pink pastry by Executive Pastry Chef Jonathon Challenor. Á la carte starting from BD4. The hotel will also be lit up as part of “Manama – The Pink City” campaign throughout October. The hotel will donate 5% of all proceeds from these food and beverage deals to the Think Pink Society Bahrain.

GO: CALL 1758 6499 FOR MORE INFO.

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY The hotel’s lobby lounge, Bay View, will present the 'Pink Hug' a refreshing balanced mocktail with sweet and citrus notes prepared with homemade lemon grass, and ginger tea, topped up with fresh pomegranate juice, and elder flower ice sphere.

Pink Hug is available for purchase for BD4++ and BD0.5 will be donated to Think Pink Bahrain from each drink bought. Blue Moon Lounge on the hotel’s 50th floor and CUT Bar & Lounge 18

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offer guests special pink drinks; Forbidden Kiss and Cracklin Rosie. BD1 from each drink is donated to Think Pink Bahrain.

GO: CALL 1711 5000 FOR MORE INFO.

CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN On October 26, the Scream Halloween Themed Brunch comes to you with a deadly twist. Served rom 12.30pm to 4pm for BD31 net with unlimited select beverages and BD12.750 for kids aged seven to 12-years-old. Celebrate all things spooky at the Scream & Shout Halloween Themed Party. On October 29, from 12.30pm to 4pm, dance to all your favourite songs and sip on great drinks in a spooktacular atmosphere at Harvesters. Free entry for all.

GO: CALL 1753 1122 FOR MORE INFO.

LE MERIDIEN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE The annual Oktoberfest Themed Friday Brunch is your ticket to fun. Enjoy the setting and food at Baharat with Bavarian delicacies, chilled hops and live music. The brunch series is available on October 5, 12 and 19. Experience Oktoberfest for BD26 net including soft drinks and water, or BD38 net including selected free flow beverages. Live music from the vibrant duo, Deux Sons. Book for 10 + people and receive 20% discount. From 12.30pm to 4pm. ✤ GO: CALL 1717 1144 FOR MORE INFO.

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EXCITING OFFERS AT SOFITEL Known as a world-class luxurious establishment that is distinguished by its prestigious state-of-the-art facilities and award-winning restaurants while also boasting the only Thalassa Sea & Spa in the Middle East, Sofitel Bahrain has become a landmark property within the region that has a clot to celebrate this month SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA Sea & Spa ensures you and your loved ones a unique experience full of fun filled events that are hosted for your entertainment monthly.

The month of October is no exception as it is truly a special month at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. This month will see the hotel lavishly host an extended version of the traditional Dia De Los Muertos Mexican holiday from October 25 to November 1. Join the grand traditional celebrations at the iconic 5-star bar and restaurant, Tapas, and enjoy a variety of authentic Mexican dishes as you dance the night away to the tune of melodic Latin songs with your friends.

The excitement doesn’t end there as the spookiest night of the year is upon us and Sofitel Bahrain is yet again ready to host the island’s best Halloween Beach Party! Join in on November 2, for a hair-raising occasion as the moon shines bright on the shores of Zallaq for a spine chilling night full of excitement and bewitching entertainment featuring international producer, DJ Djoly, for BD38net per person!

Buy your eerie early bird tickets before October 20 at a flat 20% OFF! You can also purchase your event passes online today from www.eventsbh.com and avoid the queue at the door! Avail the Halloween Beach Rooms Promo; book a Luxury Room with sea view with two Halloween Beach Party tickets and lavish 20

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buffet breakfast for two people for only BD199net*.

Savour a signature, mouth-watering buffet and enjoy hypnotic live entertainment like the electrifying; laser and fire dance shows, as you live through an unforgettable event full of excitement, scary costumes and fun times with your friends.

Dance off with your friends and enjoy a party full of eerie surprises at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. ✤

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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JACK RABBIT SLIMS

• BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST

“AND ALL THAT JAZZ!” The lush sprawling greens of the Royal Golf Club in Riffa will host Bahrain’s 2nd Open Air International Jazz Festival on October 26, showcasing exciting international and local jazz, swing, electro, blues and ska bands.

C

orporate social responsibility seems to be a bit of a buzz-word nowadays, however, Bahrain Jazz Fest 2018 have certainly ensured that they aren’t just talk. With a selection of local food vendors and a secondary stage for local artists in Bahrain to perform, they are ensuring that there is a platform for talent throughout the Kingdom, which isn’t something we’ve had the pleasure of seeing before. The opportunity to hear such a vast selection of musicians performing live in one place is also a rarity, but, Bahrain Jazz Fest 2018 have gathered a jaw-dropping line-up of talent including their headline act Ana Popovic who is considered to be one of the world’s very best female blues artists! Furthermore, you can download their mobile app which provides an on-the-go immersive digital experience of the event (regardless if you’re an iOS or android user!) where you can browse through their interactive map for details on information about their world class artists, park-and-ride details, videos, schedules, food trucks, partners and much more!

7TH WAVE STAGE 2018 LINEUP. Doyoureallylikeit? Is Bahrain’s most recent four piece psychedelic pop funk band to hit the music scene. The group’s great dynamic and cultural diversity along with their energetic 22

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stage presence allows their music to cater to large audiences bringing entertainment to another level. You wouldn’t want to miss this high energy band at the Bahrain Jazz Fest.

Byron Gindra is an incredible 17 year old South African musician, singer and songwriter with an eclectic blend of acoustic pop, rock and hip-hop. He has managed to compete musically in one of USA’s biggest music talent show ‘American Idol’ and has also performed at the International Arts Talent Showcase where he grabbed second place. He has collaborated with multi selling platinum artist singer/songwriter Sandi Thom.

Make sure to catch his breathtaking performance on October 26th at the Bahrain Jazz Fest.

The Jack Rabbit Slims has been described as dynamically funky bursting with energy. Grounded in soul, ‘The Jacks’ as they are referred to, have refined their sound into neo-Funk, a fusion of funk infused rhythms with pop melodies. The band focuses on dance driven grooves led by powerful vocals which created an infectious sound that can only leave you moving and dancing at the Bahrain Jazz Fest whether it’s their soulful ballads or their energizing funk grooves.

Mystic visions is a Bahraini fusion band delivering soothing sounds within the realm of soul, jazz & rock infused with hints of blues undertones & sheer magic!. The diversity in their individual tastes allows for their contributions to co-create unique sounds with harmonious melodies influenced by a wide range of musical backgrounds.

Stefan & Asma from the 7th Wave Performing Arts School combine both western and arabic influences and styles in a unique way, performing popular songs with their own unique twists. Make sure to catch their feel-good set on October 26. ✤

BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST •

BYRON GINDRA

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OHLALA | GMI

PRE-FEST EVENT LISTINGS (FREE ADMISSION) A number of insightful workshops and gigs featuring local musicians will also continue to be hosted throughout October which aims to bring Bahrain's music community together.

October 5 Jazz Jam ft. The Relocators and Doyoureallylikeit? Nakheel Centre, Saar Time: 4pm to 6pm October 12 Jazz in the Air ft. This Might Be Jazz, First Class Band and DJ Enzo 28th Floor of Wyndham Garden Manama, Juffair Time: 9pm onwards October 19 MYSTIC VISIONS

An evening with Ala Ghawas, Virgin Megastore, Bahrain City Centre Time: 6pm to 8pm onwards October 25 Bahrain Jazz Fest’s headline act Ana Popovic will be finishing off the pre-event activation with a Meet and Greet hosted at Room 2 Rock,

MA

Adliya where you will be able to to get up close and personal with the award winning blues singer and get memorabilia autographed etc.

N

TEFA

Time: 7pm to 8pm

GO: JAZZFESTBAHRAIN.COM / @BAHRAINJAZZFEST. DOWNLOAD BAHRAIN JAZZ FEST APP AT THE APP STORE OR GOOGLE PLAY. fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

#OKTOBERFEST #OPEN #AIR #AT #TAPAS #SOFITEL #BAHRAIN 24

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#VIP #WINE #DINNER #AT #RASOI #BY #VINEET

SEASONS CHANGE It’s that time of year when we pick our favourite outdoor dining spots, activities, hangouts and even all-important garden party tips to mark in your calendars and start planning those lunches, brunches and dinner gatherings with your nearest and dearest in Bahrain.

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WHERE: FLAMINGO BAR & LOUNGE, MOVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN GO FOR: RELAXED AMBIENCE Pool views and terrace seating doesn’t get more picturesque than this; Flamingo Bar & Lounge has become well-known for its outdoor offerings when the cool weather picks up. Grab a drink with friends and enjoy your choice of flavoured shisha while watching your favourite sport’s match on the giant 4x4 metre screen. This is the place you go for a chilled-out outdoor atmosphere, where the only priority is to wind down and have a good time. The drinks and nibbles are an added bonus!

GO: CALL 1746 0000 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: WAIKIKI KITCHEN, ELITE CRYSTAL HOTEL GO FOR: POLYNESIAN DINING Waikiki Kitchen is a concept restaurant that gets it just right on the inside with memorabilia straight from Hawaii and in keeping with the paradise, laid back nature of Polynesian culture. You can sip on awesome drinks and tuck into yummy food right by the beautiful pool. Whether it’s poolside bites or delightful cocktails – this is an ideal spot from which to admire the busy streets and unwind for the evening.

GO: CALL 1736 0360 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: BAY VIEW LOUNGE, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY GO FOR: BEAUTIFUL, INSTAWORTHY VIEWS We just can’t get enough of this place!

If you’re wanting to impress with your choice of dining destination, Bay View Lounge is no doubt the right place to make your fellow diners say “wow”.

Savour light international fare or stunning afternoon tea on the beautiful outdoor terrace with private majlisstyle seating providing the perfect setting for a business meeting or predinner cocktails. The Manama skyline beautifully reflected in the background means that you’re guaranteed an instagrammable shot. This is where you’ll be causing some serious Snapchat envy – and the food is exquisite too!

GO: CALL 1711 5000 FOR MORE INFO.

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WHERE: TAPAS, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA GO FOR: ESCAPE FROM THE CITY When you just want to get away from it all and escape the feeling of being in Bahrain, yet need a reminder of just how beautiful our little piece of paradise is, Tapas will help you with all of that. Outside on the terrace, you’re so close to the sea that you can practically feel the waves as they motion to the shoreline. Uninterrupted sea views are teamed with excellent shisha offerings as well as scrumptious tapas and cocktails. Take your pick from an array of eclectic flavours from around the world, including everything from Chilli Prawns and King Crab Bruschetta to yummy seafood and mezze options.

GO: CALL 1763 6363 FOR MORE INFO.

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• OUTDOOR DINING

yummy and generous in portion size, while shisha is served to accompany premium-quality drinks. Typhoon really gives a whole new meaning to “pond life” and we adore its one-of-akind set up.

GO: CALL 1771 3000 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: NASMAT POOL LOUNGE, THE WESTIN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE GO FOR: LAID-BACK VIBES Discover the distinctive ambience of al fresco dining at the relaxed Nasmat Pool Bar. The stimulating poolside setting is an idyllic venue to enjoy refreshing beverages and a variety of light snacks, with traditional shisha service available to unwind. This irresistible Mediterranean lounge is an impressive spot in the heart of the bustling Seef District for enjoying the best of Bahrain’s cool weather.

You’re literally attached to City Centre Bahrain, so when you’ve shopped ‘til you dropped, there’s no better place than Nasmat to kick back, relax and sip on your beverage of choice.

GO: CALL 1717 1000 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: ELEMENTS POOL & LOUNGE GO FOR: PEACEFUL CATCH UPS WITH FRIENDS We’re always surprised by the calmness and tranquility of this place – just seconds from Manama Souq, it is a haven of peace. You’ll feel nothing but zen at this poolside lounge. Not only is it a gorgeous outdoor venue with cabanas and touches of green, it serves up some of the best liquid concoctions and bite-sized food. This is the place to escape from the stress of city life and 28

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enjoy a moment of peace with light treats and molecular drinks, while the resident DJ enlivens your senses. It’s one of our favourite winter spots, and we’re sure it’ll fast-become yours too!

GO: CALL 1722 7777 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: TYPHOON BAR, THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA GO FOR: UNIQUE SETTING This place really comes into its own when the winter comes around.

The terrace has everything from a running fish stream with colourful koi to comfortable seating and large tables – ideal for pre-dinner drinks or after-work sundowners with friends.

The huge garden landscape surrounds the outdoor area, giving a feel of being somewhere tropical. The food is fresh,

WHERE: SIP & DIP, ELITE SEEF RESIDENCE GO FOR: GOOD SERVICE On any given winter’s evening, you’ll find this place filled with a casual crowd of locals, expats, couples, friends, and anyone looking to take respite from the hustle of daily life in a beautifully-ambient outdoor area.

Aptly named for its convenience, the Sip & Dip is an African-themed poolside bar offering an extensive choice of flavourful shisha as well as refreshing beverages and a wide selection of light snacks, juicy burgers and sandwiches. This is a cosy setting where waiters are incredibly friendly and efficient – making your time around the mood-lit pool even more worthwhile!

GO: CALL 1758 3388 FOR MORE INFO.

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• OUTDOOR DINING

WHERE: LUMEE SAAR KITCHEN GO FOR: CREATIVE FOOD This family-friendly venue is one of our favourite in Bahrain for consistently providing the most delicious and authentic dishes and drinks. This is one place that has pulled in excited diners craving for something new, creative and delicious, right from the start.

It’s outdoor area is small and cosy, so getting a table there will be down to luck, however, if you do manage to get a seat outside, be prepared for an explosion of tastes, textures and yummy culinary treats. A generous à la carte menu includes breakfast, lunch and dinner options, and diners can also choose anything from the open deli displaying fresh daily specials such as salads, juices, pastries and baked goodies infused with multicultural influences.

GO: CALL 1769 4848 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: COCO’S, ADLIYA GO FOR: POCKET-FRIENDLY MENU A small villa-style restaurant, Coco’s flaunts understated Parisian charm; this restaurant has a beautiful seating area outside that combines elements of a garden patio and a busy terrace. The place is always heaving with would-be diners queuing up to eat the amazing and affordable food that the venue has become so known for. If you bag yourself a table in the garden, just sit back and chill out to the gentle sounds 30

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from the speakers, whilst sipping on your favourite drinks. Delightfully green and reminiscent of the stylish French Riviera or a chic Italian courtyard, Coco’s was literally made for the cooler climate!

GO: CALL 1771 6512 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: FOODS AT HOME GO FOR: HOMELY CUISINE Serving up the best, authentic local food we’ve tried in the area, this place has become a staple for us – especially to give visitors a taste of great, home-style cuisine. This Persian culinary gem is incredibly popular with anyone looking for good food in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Featuring traditional Bahraini décor and cosy outdoor seating, the menu focuses extensively on Persian cuisine with a bit of Bahraini, Lebanese and

Indian delicacies thrown in. We highly recommend their Kebab Kubeideh and Red Tea! GO: CALL 1700 0888 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: NOMAD URBAN EATERY GO FOR: ARTISAN DINING When Nomad opened in Seef, it changed the entire boundary between casual and upscale eateries. This place offers wholesome food in an aesthetically pleasing setting, with international dishes and innovative beverages galore. A fascinating blend of creative dishes, contemporary interiors and a warm atmosphere, Nomad has become a holy grail for foodies all over Bahrain. Make yourself at home in their whimsical garden terrace as you savour some heavenly delicacies!

GO: CALL 1700 0330 FOR MORE INFO.

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• OUTDOOR DINING

WHERE: LINKS, ROYAL GOLF CLUB GO FOR: HEARTY COMFORT FOOD If you want a laid back setting, Links is where you’ll find it. With a large outdoor area that is often frequented by groups of friends, families and those who just love good food and drinks, Links is a great option for a real evening-out vibe. A brand new revamped menu is packed with more unusual dishes like cheesy garlic snails as well as the classics like Fish and Chips. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, get the out-of-this-world malva pudding – as far as dessert goes, it’s going to change your life (no exaggeration!).

GO: CALL 1775 0777 FOR MORE INFO.

WHERE: CAFÉ AMSTERDAM / LA VINOTECA BARCELONA GO FOR: EUROPEAN FEELS When the winter breeze arrives, there’s no better place to feel it blow through your hair than the garden-cum-patiocum-terrace area of the ever-popular BMMI restaurants; Café Amsterdam and La Vinoteca Barcelona. Located in Adliya, these eateries not only serve up some of the best international, gourmet-style cuisine, from tapas at La Vinoteca, to homely favourites like juicy burgers and pies at Café Amsterdam, but the two venues share an incredibly cool outdoor area which is frequented by diners who love to chill with great food, drinks and company.

WHERE: LANTERNS RESTAURANT & LOUNGE GO FOR: CREATIVE FOOD Another incredibly popular spot for food and drinks, Lanterns has become an institution in Bahrain amongst those who love the authentically-Indian vibe and excellent food. Featuring three distinct areas, the Truck Bar, the Courtyard Garden Lounge and the dining room, Lanterns’ outdoor chilled water air conditioning system - that drops the temperatures by 15 degrees – has become one of the coolest spots in town. It’s social, it’s festive and this is where you’ll find a real atmosphere whilst tucking into delicious Indian cuisine.

GO: CALL 1700 7404 FOR MORE INFO.

GO: CALL 1724 6777 FOR MORE INFO.

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WHERE: WU, ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS GO FOR: SOPHISTICATED FOOD Embark on a culinary journey through the Far East with WU’s one-of-akind dining experience! Offering a vibrant blend of cultures, the carefully created dishes are served in portions perfect for sharing and are served to your table progressively for a truly exciting dining experience. Take in the beautiful beachside views from their modern outdoors as you enjoy five distinctive cuisines presented through a contemporary approach with a casual twist.

GO: CALL 1600 0111 FOR MORE INFO.

HAUNTED POOL PARTY Halloween Celebration

25th Oct Friday 1pm - 08pm

Special Performance

DJ ARSON | DJ SMILEY | DJ XTC GET THRILLED AT THE HAUNTED HOUSE OF WAIKIKI KITCHEN Free Entry with Welcome Drink for all Ladies BD 10 – Entry with one Drink for Gents BD 25 – Unlimited House Beverages & Live Grills

+973 66 666 360

WakikiBahrain

Waikiki-Kitchen-Bahrain

WaikikiBahrain

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• OUTDOOR FUN

OUTDOOR ADRENALIN Boat Ride: Though boating is a great summer activity, it’s just as thrilling and enjoyable in the cooler weather. If anything, even more so, as the water is cooler and the crowds are fewer.

There’s nothing like going on a boat ride where you’re treated with the gift of a cool breeze. Anchor at your chosen spot and go snorkelling, or, better yet, book a tour and pick a boating package that suits you and your group.

Experience it: Visit Al Bander Hotel & Resort. Call 1770 1201 for more information.

Horse Riding: Keeping adrenalin at an acceptable level, horse riding is a great pastime for both amateurs and more experienced riders too.

Horses are known to be one of the kindest and most gentle animals you will encounter so don’t be afraid to give this a go even if you’re not a pro. For beginners, there are a whole host of classes available with all the required safety measures you’ll need.

You’ll love this sport for the close engagement with an animal and its relaxing benefits (even though it might seem quite a vigorous activity!).

All you need to do now is invest in some good riding boots!

Experience it: Visit Twin Palms Riding Centre. Call 3956 6809 for more information.

Motor Sports: When we say Motorsport activities we mean everything that gives you the rush of being on the road. This includes quad biking, go-karting, 4x4 driving, drift nights and lots more. Motorsports are an exhilarating activity that involves speed, fun and thrill. It’s adventure galore, especially as you strap in with the cool winter weather on the way.

Make sure to choose somewhere that has all the proper safety features too.

Experience it: Visit Bahrain International Circuit. Call 1745 0000 34

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for more information.

Jet Skiing: Do you love feeling the adrenaline rush flow through your body, the cool wind blow on your face, and waves in the water passing by? Yes! Enjoy a thrilling Jet Ski ride across the beautiful gulf waters all around Bahrain. Jet skiing is an actionpacked watercraft experience where cruising around the sea or pottering around inland lakes and reservoirs will turn into an incredibly fun activity.

Remember to check that all safety measures are in place!

Experience it: Visit Marina Club Bahrain. Call 1729 1527 for more information.

Downtown

Take a culinary journey through the States Embark on a foodies' dream-road-trip across the 50 States of America with Flavours on 2's newest Themed Friday Brunch. Enjoy favourites from both coasts and a selection of legendary southern dishes!

A great ambience with live cooking stations and live performance to keep you entertained for only BD22 NET with soft drinks or BD32 NET with selected beverages.

The fun will not stop here! You can also enjoy free pool access.

For reservations or more information, please call +973 1311 9999 or email fb.downtown@rotana.com *Prices are subject to 10% government levy and 10% service charge.

PO Box 18345, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, downtown.hotel@rotana.com

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• GARDEN GAMES

GARDEN PARTY VIBES ALL YOU NEED TO THROW THE ULTIMATE OUTDOOR BASH IS A GOOD SPACE AND FACT’S USEFUL TIPS AND TRICKS TO SET UP THE PERFECT PARTY SETTING IN YOUR BACKYARD… Self-serve drink station: This is a party must and deserves a long table all to itself.

Arrange a variety of beverage options with all the necessary accessories.

Popular drinks for garden parties include fruit punch, iced tea and lemonade.

Make sure all drinks are served at the temperature they’re supposed to be!

THE GAMES:

Larger than life: If you’ve got some cardboard boxes lying around, cut numerous large squares and write a letter on each one – voila, garden Scrabble anyone? Don’t forget, there are plenty of online websites that sell giant games like Connect 4 and Jenga too.

IN THE BEGINNING:

Level Out: The area you choose when you plan a party outdoors should be flat enough for tables and chairs, and the terrain should allow for guests to mingle comfortably without the fear of stumbling.

The Theme: Decide on a theme, if you want one, then make, buy, or borrow any decorations you may need. Don’t forget to inform guests on your invitations. Line up any help you need: anyone who can help with pre or post-party cleaning, or to pass drinks or appetisers, replenish buffet food, tidy up, and generally take some weight off your shoulders.

Create a playlist: Whether it’s the best of summer songs, DJ recommended chill-out tunes, or something relative to your guests’ personal tastes, music is key. Either set up speakers outside, or use a portable sound system to play your music.

THE FOOD:

Grilling: A bbq is the perfect choice because it allows for smoke to travel 36

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into open air, but also helps to lure all your hungry guests to the table. Meats, chicken, seafood and some veggies can all be cooked on a bbq, so even if you have fussy eaters – everyone will be catered to.

Get into teams: Get absolutely everyone involved and go for the classics like charades, musical statues and musical chairs – these games get people energised and in a fun spirit – that’s what you want for a successful garden party.

Fresh fruits & salads: Autumnal produce like nuts, beetroot, figs, mushrooms, pomegranate, pumpkin and cranberries, are just some of the foods that play into the garden theme.

Use what you have: Assess the mood at your party and if guests are relaxing and prefer a chilled atmosphere, just whip out a deck of cards and gather around with drinks for some quick, fun games. ✤

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NOMINEES REVEALED! VOTING IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 9TH FACT DINING AWARDS BAHRAIN 2018. HAS YOUR FAVOURITE BEEN NOMINATED?

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

INTERNATIONAL

• BAHARAT, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • TRADER VIC’S, Seef • LINKS, Royal Golf Club • NOMAD URBAN EATERY, Seef • MY CAFÉ, Adliya • SILK’S, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • CHOICES, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • CAMELOT RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Adliya • MAHONIA, Adliya • CELLULOID, Amwaj Islands

ITALIAN – FINE DINING

• PRIMAVERA, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • LA PERGOLA BY PERBELLINI, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • FIAMMA, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • OLIVETO, Adliya • MEDZO, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • VENTO, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • CAFE ITALIA, Adliya

ITALIAN – CASUAL DINING

• ROSSO, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • OTTO, Hamala Hills • FATTO, Seef • CUCINA ITALIANA, Juffair • CICO'S, Adliya • SAN CARLO CICCHETTI, Al Aali Complex 40

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• MARZIPAN, Galleria Mall • TRATTORIA, Wyndham Garden Manama

MEDITERRANEAN

• LA VINOTECA BARCELONA, Adliya • TORINO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Adliya • PREGO, Royal Golf Club • FLORENCE, Adliya • MASSO, Palace Boutique Hotel • CACAO LOUNGE & RESTAURANT, Riffa • YA HALA, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands • LA MED The Ritz Carlton Bahrain

MIDDLE EASTERN

• SAFFRON BY JENA, Muharraq • DAR ZOWAYED, ADLIYA • SAFFRON, Al Areen Palace & Spa • MARASH, Muharraq • FURN BISTRO & BAKERY, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • LUMEE SAAR KITCHEN, Saar • AL ABRAAJ, Various Locations

LEBANESE

• PASHAWAT, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • ZAHLE, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • ABD EL WAHAB, Moda Mall • RAYES, Coral Bay • REEM AL BAWADI, Ramada Manama City Centre • ZAYT ZAYTOON, Various Locations • CAFÉ BLANC, Seef • WAFI GOURMET, City Centre Bahrain • AREESH, Amwaj Islands

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

SEAFOOD

CHINESE

• LA MER, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • SAMAK, Coral Bay • REEF FISH MARKET, Reef Island • LA PERLE FISHMARKET, Novotel Al Dana Resort • THE FISH MARKET, Al Bander Hotel & Resort • WAVES, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • LE DOMAIN, The Domain Hotel & Spa

• CHINA GARDEN, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • P.F. CHANG’S, City Centre Bahrain • DAVID’S STIR FRY CRAZY, Adliya • SOIE, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • HONG KONG, Um Al Hassam • BEIJING RESTAURANT, Adliya

INDIAN - FINE DINING

IRANIAN

• TAKHT JAMSHEED, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • ISFAHANI, Various Locations • GOLESTAN, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • PERSIAN GARDEN RESTAURANT, Al Aali Mall • TEHRAN GRILLS, Daih

JAPANESE

• MEISEI, Adliya • BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef • MAKI, Moda Mall • SATO, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • IMARI, The Domain Hotel & Spa • SUMO SUSHI & BENTO, Various Locations • RUKA, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • MIRAI, Adliya • ORA RESTAURANT, Hotel Diva

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TURKISH

• KOSEBASI, City Centre Bahrain • NAMLI, Seef • MADO, Seef • TURKISH MASHAWI, Ramli Mall • BOLULU HASAN USTA BAHRAIN, Manama • GUZEL TURKISH RESTAURANT, Manama

• NIRVANA, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • SPICES, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • RASOI BY VINEET, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • IT’S MIRCHI, Ramee International Hotel • RIVAAJ, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • JASHAN, Wyndham Garden Manama

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

STEAKHOUSE

• CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • FLAMES STEAK & SEAFOOD, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • LEGENDZ STEAKHOUSE, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • PLUMS, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • LE SAUVAGE, The Domain Hotel & Spa • THE MEAT CO., Adliya • THE FOUNDRY, Adliya

INDIAN – CASUAL DINING

• MEWAR, Galleria Mall • LANTERNSs, Various Locations • COPPER CHIMNEY RESTAURANT, Seef • AKBAR, Ramada Palace Hotel • ASHA’S, Various Locations • NATTINPURAM, Ramee Baisan Hotel • SWAGAT, Manama Souq

NORTH AMERICAN

• BENNIGAN’S, Al Safir Hotel • CHILI’S, Various Locations • TONY ROMA’S, Various Locations • RIC’S KOUNTRY KITCHEN, Juffair • IHOP, City Centre Bahrain • T.G.I. FRIDAYS, Manama • TEXAS ROADHOUSE, The Avenues Bahrain

LATIN AMERICAN

• BRASA DE BRAZIL, Juffair • VIA BRASIL, Wyndham Garden Manama • BRAZIL RODIZIO GRILL & LOUNGE, Adliya • BIG TEXAS BBQ AND WAFFLE HOUSE, Juffair • BONGOS SUBS & SPUDS, Segaya

MEXICAN

• MARGARITA MEXICANA, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • SENOR PACO’S, Adliya • CASA MEXICANA, Adliya • CANTINA KAHLO, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain • CALEXICO, Adliya • EL GRINGO, Hamala 44

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BURGER JOINT

• CRAVE, Seef • THE GRUB SHACK, Hamala • SLIDER STATION, Adliya • MOOYAH, Riffa • SHAKE SHACK, Various Locations • THE BLOCK, Seef • BLUEFIELD BURGER, Juffair • FIVE GUYS, The Avenues Bahrain • FIRE FLY Burger, Hala Plaza

IN-MALL

• BUTCHER SHOP & GRILL, City Centre Bahrain • DEAN & DELUCA, The Avenues Bahrain • VAPIANO, City Centre Bahrain • PAUL RESTAURANT & BAKERY, Seef Mall • WAGAMAMA, City Centre Bahrain • LUMEE SAAR KITCHEN, Saar Mall • THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY, The Avenues Bahrain

“Food and movies are two of our biggest passions. We asked ourselves how great it would be if we combined the two, thus Celluloid was born.�

NOW OPEN LAGOON AMWAJ

People who love to eat are always the best kind of people

@celluloidamwaj celluloid amwaj celluloidamwaj Tel : +973 160 101 60 www.celluloid.biz

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

FAMILY-FRIENDLY

• LUMEE, Various Locations • DOME CAFÉ, Various Locations • MARASH, Various Locations • NINO, Seef • CHEZ SUSHI, Saar • AL ABRAAJ, Various Locations • YA SALAM, Various Locations • THE CHEESECAKE FACTORY, The Avenues Bahrain

CASUAL DINING

• NU ASIA, Seef • LE PAIN QUOTIDIEN, The Avenues Bahrain • THE BLOCK, Seef • BAKER & SPICE, Al Aali Shopping Complex • NOMAD URBAN EATERY, Seef • THE FLORIST’S DAUGHTER, Al Aali Shopping Complex • FATTO, Seef • PASSION RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Adliya

ALL-DAY DINING

• FLAVOURS ON 2, Downtown Rotana • AL SAFIR RESTAURANT, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • SILK’S, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • THE EATERY, The Grove Hotel Bahrain • LE CHOCOLAT, Various Locations • SWISS CAFE, Swiss-Belhotel Seef • ATMOSPHERE, Wyndham Grand Manama • THE PALM LOUNGE, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain • CAFÉ MOSAIc, Wyndham Garden Manama

AL FRESCO DINING

• MEISEI ROOFTOP, Adliya • VINOTECA BARCELONA, • THAI OVERLOOK, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • CALEXICO, Adliya • TRADER VIC’S, Seef • TAPAS, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • VENTO POOLSIDE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • LANTERNS, Adliya • LABAG The Ritz Carlton 46

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• YA HALA, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands • TERRASSE@28, Wyndham Garden Manama

VALUE-FOR-MONEY • COCO’S, Adliya • HASH HOUSE, Adliya • AL ABRAAJ, Various Locations • EMMAWASH, Budaiya • SAFFRON BY JENA, Muharraq • FOODS AT HOME, Budaiya • TAKE AWAY, Seef • CHARCOAL GRILL, Manama

BUSINESS LUNCH

• GOLESTAN, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • NIRVANA, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain • WAVES, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • FLAVOURS ON 2, Downtown Rotana

• CUT BY WOLFGANG PUCK, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef • MEDZO, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • BAHARAT, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • EAST MEETS WEST BUSINESS LUNCH, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain

THEMED NIGHTS

• THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA • ELITE SEEF RESIDENCE • CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN • LE MERIDIEN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE • ELITE CRYSTAL HOTEL • WYNDHAM GRAND MANAMA • SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

LOUNGE

TEA ROOM

• BLUE MOON LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • ELEMENTS POOL & LOUNGE, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • TXOKO, The Domain Hotel & Spa • HAZEL ROOFTOP LOUNGE, Adliya • ALTO LOUNGE, Downtown Rotana • BIZARRE LOUNGE, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • CODA JAZZ LOUNGE, Juffair • THE PALM LOUNGE, Juemirah Royal Sarai Bahrain

• BAY VIEW LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • THE LOBBY LOUNGE, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain • TEA GARDEN, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • THE TEA ROOM, Trousseau • ESPRESSAMENTE ILLY CAFÉ, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • FURN ROTUNDA, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

PATISSERIE

BAR

• BOUDOIR, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • DOWNTOWN, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • CUT BAR & LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • CELLAR 59 BAR, Lounge, Tapas, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • TRADER VIC’S, Seef • CALEXICO, Adliya • CIGAR LOUNGE, Gallery 21 • BURLINGTON CLUB, The RitzCarlton, Bahrain

PUB

• FIDDLERS GREEN, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa • HARVESTERS, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • JJ’S IRISH RESTAURANT, Adliya • RED LIONS, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • SHERLOCK HOLMES, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • PLAYERS LOUNGE, Wyndham Garden Manama • CLUB 360, Juffair

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SHISHA LOUNGE

• AROMA CAFÉ, Seef • SIP & DIP, Elite Seef Residence • AL BINDAIRA CAFÉ, Seef • VERANDA CAFÉ, Adliya • AMMAR TIMES CAFÉ, Adliya • KASBAH RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef • MAWASIM RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Galleria Mall • MARZIPAN, Galleria Mall • AL HADIQA POOL AND BEACH, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain

CAFÉ

• LE CHOCOLAT, Various Locations • CAFÉ LILOU, Various Locations • FAUCHON PARIS, Moda Mall • ANGELINA PARIS, Adliya • GALLERY CAFÉ, Adliya

• CAKE BOUTIQUE, Seef • DELICE, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • HAUTE CUPCAKES, Seef • PATISSERIE ART, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • MACARON, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • JENA BAKERY, Muharraq • FIGS & OLIVES, The Domain Hotel & Spa • FURN BAKERY, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

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• FACT DINING AWARDS

COFFEEHOUSE

• COFFEE REPUBLIC, Various Locations • COSTA COFFEE, Various Locations • STARBUCKS, Various Locations • ESQUIRES, Various Locations • GLORIA JEAN’S COFFEE, Various Locations • CARIBOU COFFEE, Various Locations • COLUMBUS CAFÉ & CO, Various Locations • % ARABICA, The Avenues Bahrain • DOSE, Zallaq

LADIES NIGHT

• MEISEI, Adliya • CELLAR 59, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • AN NADA LOUNGE, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • WAHINE TUESDAY, Trader Vics’s • MEZZANINE LOUNGE, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • TXOKO LOUNGE, The Domain Hotel & Spa • BLUE MOON LOUNGE, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

FRIDAY BRUNCH

• THE GRAND FRIDAY BRUNCH, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • BAHRAIN BAY KITCHEN, Four 50

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Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • BAHRAIN’S SWEETEST BRUNCH, Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • LE DOMAIN [34] & LE SAUVAGE, The Domain Hotel & Spa • FRIDAY JAZZ BRUNCH, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain • LAMED, The Ritz Carlton

FAMILY-FRIENDLY BRUNCH

• GULF GRAND BRUNCH, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • FLAVOURS ON 2, Downtown Rotana • ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS FRIDAY BRUNCH, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • CHOICES, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • CONSTRUCTION BRUNCH, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • FAMILY BRUNCH, AT ATMOSPHERE Wyndham Garden Manama • CAFÉ MOSAIC, Wyndham Garden Manama

SATURDAY BRUNCH

• RE/ASIAN CUISINE BY WOLFGANG PUCK, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • ANGHAAM BRUNCH AT TAPAS, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • ROSSO, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands

• CANTINA KAHLO, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

INDEPENDENT WEEKEND BRUNCH • BUSHIDO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Seef • VINOTECA BARCELONA, Adliya • SATURDAY & SUNDAY ROAST, Lanterns Restaurant

FACT DINING AWARDS •

NEWCOMER

• RIC'S KOUNTRY KITCHEN, Juffair • BBQ SATURDAYS AT AL HADIQA POOL AND BEACH, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain

• RIVAAJ, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • SAN CARLO CICCHETTI, Al Aali Complex • MARZIPAN, Galleria Mall • BEBABEL, The Avenues Bahrain • MEWAR, The Galleria • VIA BRASIL, Wyndham Garden Manama • PLAY RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain • KATSUYA BY STARCK, The Avenues Bahrain • TEXAS ROADHOUSE, The Avenues Bahrain • 400 GRADI, The Avenues Bahrain • YA HALA, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands • JACK’S BAHRAIN, Riffa

RAMADAN TENT EXPERIENCE

• LAYALI AL ZALLAQ TENT, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • AL BAHRAIN BALLROOM, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • MASAYA PAVILION, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • KHAIMAT AL KHALEEJ, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • NOOR TENT, Elite Resort & Spa • QASR AL SULTAN TENT, Al Areen Palace & Spa

RAMADAN IFTAR EXPERIENCE

• CHOICES RESTAURANT & TERRACE, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • AL MAHA TEXT, Downtown Rotana • LA MOSAIQUE, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • AWALI BALLROOM, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • SELECTIONS, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • FURN BISTRO & BAKERY, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • AL MURJAN BALLROOM, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • THE PALM LOUNGE, Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain fact magazine

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• SOCIETY

#GRAND #OPENING # OF #THE #PRIVE #JAZZ #LOUNGE 52

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#ROLLING #COLONES #AT #SHERLOCK #HOLMES

FIT FOR ROYALTY

THE JUMEIRAH ROYAL SARAY BAHRAIN, DESIGNED BY WORLD-CLASS ARCHITECT FLORIS SMITH, SITS RESPLENDENTLY NEXT TO ITS VERY OWN PRIVATE BEACH AND MARINA IN ONE OF MANAMA’S MOST VIBRANT LOCATIONS, AL SEEF DISTRICT. FACT DISCOVERS THE LABYRINTH OF LUXURY… fact magazine

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STAYCATION SPOTLIGHT •

T

he hotel’s décor and architectural features draw inspiration from the homes of Arabian Royalty and luxury from around the globe. The Khalifa Heritage House proved to be a massive influence and is incorporated in many elements including the wood carvings, mirrors and flooring.

The public areas within the hotel are elegant and ornate. Marble floors with tessellated Arabic patterns and archways complete with white fretwork lead guests from one beautiful space to another. The choice of fabrics, textures and injections of colour throughout take the hotel interior to new levels of luxuriance. Ochres, greys and marine blues are used to great effect. The methods of illuminating spaces are by far the most outstanding element of the décor within the Jumeirah Royal Saray. Chandeliers on a grand scale created from varying sized droplets of glass reflecting light in a mesmerising fashion and beyond this layers of light descending from the ceiling like a glowing wasps’s nest.

As we arrived we were escorted to the beach front area which was the epitome of tranquility. Waves lapped onto the sand and sea birds strolled along the sand as the sun began to set. The Al Hadiqa Pool and Beach provides an inspired choice of food and drinks and the Cobb salad and Crispy Calamari which was delivered in a bamboo tray with an array of condiments suited the setting perfectly.

The hotel boasts 174 rooms, 10 exclusive summer houses and 4 Royal

Residences enjoying garden or sea views. Dark woods contrast with delicate shades of grey, oyster and silver. Marble is used to great effect in the bathroom area reflecting light and adding a further layer of luxury. The expansive bed with an equally inviting sofa at its foot enjoyed views over the private beach and gulf beyond. The egg shaped in-room bath was both a design feature and an indulgent addition to any stay. You may feel that the room facilities and décor can’t be bettered but venture onto the balcony and you will discover the most inviting day bed perfect for relaxation at sunrise and sunset.

The Palm Lounge was our dinner destination and is the most brilliantly unique example of sophisticated classic elegance and contemporary design. Whites, greys and wicker work blend Arabian elegance and colonial chic. Colour is injected in the form of green tumblers and woven place settings. The luxuriant metallic bar stools sit below irregular glass prism suspended from the ceiling providing what can only be described as a sense of curiosity.

The menu blended the best of indulgence and clean eating. The wild porcini mushroom soup was both interactive and perfectly executed.

Thyme and hazelnut biscotti absorbed the unctuous liquid poured by diners themselves at the table. Cold mezze staples such as hummus, tabbouleh and baba ganoush could be combined with lamb sambousek, falafel and spinach fatayer to provide a mezze to rival any other. If burgers, sandwiches and pasta were not enough to tempt you then the Chef’s Selection featuring Salmon with Labneh and Walnut Salad, fact magazine

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Wagyu Short Rib and Goats Cheese and Spinach Quiche would certainly hit the spot.

There are very few restaurants of this standard where dessert actually seems to steal the show but the Palm Lounge delivers both in terms of quantity and quality. They offer both Signature Pastries and Seasonal Treats ranging from the aptly named Velvet Sphere, Exotic Pave and Black Forest Stone. I feel it would be unfair but totally necessary for me to divulge that alongside this the restaurant offers Eclairs, Mille Feuille and a series of signature tarts. The hot chocolate was another showstopper as I was provided with a dark, decadent lollipop to plunge into steaming creamy milk.

Sensational.

After waking from a rejuvenating sleep we headed back to the Palm Lounge to investigate what the breakfast experience would entail. I would challenge anyone not to feel completely satisfied by the selection of pastries, fruit and cooked dishes.

Waffles, buttermilk pancakes, eggs benedict and full cooked western breakfasts would cater to any palate and appetite.

The poached eggs with avocado loaded onto a toasted ‘boat’ of crusty bread was possibly the most thoughtfully presented breakfast dish I had ever been presented with. Spanish Cortado and Turkish Coffee provided refreshment alongside delicate lemongrass and ginger tea.

The Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain is a revelation. It employs elegance, contemporary and traditional influence and the very finest dining experiences to further enhance the Al Seef district. It is undoubtedly the most relevant go to location on the island right now. ✤

GO: CALL 7770 7070 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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• WEEKEND ESCAPE

BAHRAIN’S NEWEST OASIS AFTER MUCH AN T I CIPAT IO N, B A HR A I N’S OA SI S, Z A LL AQ S P R I N G S, WI LL O FFI C I A LLY O P E N I T S D O O R S TO T HE PUB LI C I N M I D-O C TO B E R.

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WEEKEND ESCAPE •

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allaq Springs is an original concept of serenity, located in the heart of Zallaq, within the Southern Governorate.

It includes water springs, 10 waterfront restaurants and cafes and 19 shops surrounded by ponds that cover 3399m². Zallaq Springs is a unique destination which is inspired by international spaces of tranquility, including the Japanese Zen gardens. It has been developed to be the first of its kind botanical garden in the Kingdom. The project is spread across an area of 25,338m², with a spacious car park.

Zallaq Springs is the perfect location to inspire meditation and contemplation while immersed in an unpolluted, natural environment.

Tenants like Peninsula Farms Café, BeRehab and Equilibrium complement this wellness destination to de-stress and focus on the body, mind and soul. The property also provides a platform for athletic communities to retreat to a sanctuary beside their cycling routes, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The property accommodates cycle parking stands for cyclists; with exclusive shower rooms for them to freshen up and rejuvenate. Zallaq Springs has been designed for visitors to unwind from their daily routines and immerse themselves in the beauty and serenity created by an enchanted retreat within Bahrain.

The property hopes to provide an avant-garde central point for everyone to meet, relax, eat, socialize at the various restaurants and cafes that are soon to open this year including Coffee Republic, Latte Art, Shakespeare & Co and Venice.

Shaikh Salman Bin Khalid Al-Khalifa, Chief Operating Officer, Al Zallaq Real Estate Company, said: “Zallaq Springs is a unique property with an unparalleled ambiance. It is a lifestyle experience for the community that promotes familial bonding and healthy living while relaxing and unwinding in a stress-free environment.”

Zallq Springs houses an astounding 3,342 aquatic plants, 3699 shrubs, and 110 trees of a diverse variety. This is further accentuated with the presence of birds such as flamingos, ducks, and swans. The birds are locally bred, nurtured, and preserved by Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve, a reserve that seeks to protect and nurture the kingdom’s animals and birds. The project aims to be synonymous with relaxing, leisurely activities for the entire family. Surrounded by the beautifully flowing pond water, aquatic plants and birds, prayer room facilities, shower rooms for athletes, special bicycle parking and further accommodated with spacious car parking spaces – this property seeks to become a touristic hub in the Kingdom.

GO: VISIT WWW.ZALLAQSPRINGS.COM OR FOLLOW @ZALLAQSPRINGS ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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• ENTERTAINMENT

BIG SCREEN First Man WHAT’S IT ABOUT?

A riveting look at the life of the astronaut, Neil Armstrong, the film follows the legendary space mission that led him to become the first man to walk on the moon. Focusing on Neil Armstrong and the years 1961-1969, the film delves deeper into the event that changed the world.

DIRECTOR: Damien Chazelle CAST: Ryan Gosling, Jason Clarke, Claire Fox

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

First Man offers a brand new take on the most defining moment for America. Damien Chazelle’s spectacular and enthralling drama offers an intelligent treatment of the revolutionary event. For a story that’s been told so many times before, Chazelle’s narrative is as gritty as ever and is entrenched in realism. Based on the book by James R. Hansen, the film explores the sacrifices and the cost on Armstrong and the nation of one of the most dangerous missions in history. The visceral, first-person account restricts the action almost entirely to the point of view of the astronauts, giving you a never before seen glimpse into everything the men experience. From the volatile opening sequence to the shards of glass looming up out of cramped windows, this is as real as it gets. Redefining what space travel is, First Man takes your imagination for a ride while capturing what the stakes were. And they were pretty high.

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Highlights

“

The visceral, first-person account restricts the action almost entirely to the point of view of the astronauts, giving you a never before seen glimpse into everything the men experience.–

First Man

Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween WHAT’S IT ABOUT:

On Halloween night, two boys named Sonny and Sam find a manuscript in a house previously owned by R.L. Stine.

When they open it, they unleash Slappy who has plans of his own. Now it’s up to Sam, Sonny and Sonny’s sister Sarah to thwart his mission before time runs out.

DIRECTOR: Ari Sandel CAST: Wendi McLendon-Covey,

Madison Iseman, Jeremy Ray Taylor

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING?

Halloween comes to life in Ari Sandel’s new comedy adventure! Based on R.L. Stine’s 400-million-selling series of books, the Goosebumps sequel is filled with holiday cheer. It’s Halloween night in the small town of Wardenclyffe when two boys named Sonny and Sam find a manuscript in an abandoned house that was previously owned by R.L. Stein called “Haunted Halloween”. Unbeknownst to them, by opening the manuscript they release Slappy, who plans to create his own family with the help of his Halloween monster allies. With Slappy on the loose, it is now up to Sonny, Sam and Sonny’s sister to stop Slappy’s plot before all is lost.

Featuring witches, monsters, ghouls and a talking dummy, Goosebumps 2 is everything you could ask from a Halloween classic!

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FULLY BOOKED

ON THE RECORD

NON-FICTION

Fashion Climbing: A Memoir with Photographs

By Bill Cunningham

ROCK

Trench

By Twenty One Pilots

Veering in opposite directions, the band’s upcoming fifth LP is a concept album that aims to tell a number of stories.

Following their Grammy-winning 2015 album, Blurryface, this newest release takes their musical genius to a whole new level. Featuring a distorted bass guitar, crisp drumming and dark washes of synth, Jumpsuit is a surprising departure from their usual upbeat pop sound.

But as the atmospheric single goes into the bridge, there is a change of pace followed by a softer sound, which might be more familiar to long-time fans. A mesmerising combination of different kinds of mediums, the album brings together various characters, themes and stories like never before. Featuring a lighter, more upbeat vibe, Nico and the Niners alternates between rapping and singing along with rippling synths, programmed kick-drums and down-pitched vocals.

The track continues the reggae theme of some of their previous songs with clear and expressive vocals, making it another compelling single from the band. Following a brand new theme and concept, Trench showcases Twenty One Pilots in a whole new light - and we’re enjoying it.

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ALTERNATIVE/ INDIE

Wax

By KT Tunstall Evoking the elements of spirit, body and mind, KT Tunstall’s second offering of her KIN trilogy is finally here and we have a lot of feelings! Focusing on the body and our complex relationship with physicality, Wax is all about human-ness, which we often dismiss as flaws. Wanting to escape the madness of the world, bad relationships and wanting to start over, River talks about emancipation through nature. Putting KT’s stunning vocals centre stage, the inspirational, emotionally charged song builds with rocking, rhythmic guitar textures and an infectious chorus. Powerfully delivering on the concept of the album, the subject matter beautifully touches on salvation, sin and being saved.

Written by KT herself and Martin Terefe, the song represents the grit, dirt and physicality of the overall album. An electric guitar record about the physical and the obstacles of that, the record is heartfelt and relatable and is packed with uplifting energy.

The land of glamour and style, New York City is the fashion haven Bill Cunningham had always dreamt of. Growing up in an Irish suburb of Boston, spending his evenings after school in the city’s chicest boutiques and secretly dressing up in his sister’s clothes. Without any support from his family, he decided to drop out of Harvard and fight tooth-and-nail to pursue his one true love - fashion. A true original, the book is great inspiration for following your dreams and passion.

FICTION

Cherry

By Nico Walker It’s Cleveland, 2003 when a college freshman meets Emily and they fall hard and fast in love. But soon Emily moves back home to New York and he flunks out of school and joins the Army. Desperate to keep their relationship alive, they marry before he ships to Iraq. When he comes back, riddled with PTSD, they attempt a normal life but soon realise that things can never go back to how they used to be. A raw, bleakly hilarious and poignant read!

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ISLAND RIDES •

THE POWER OF PORSCHE

PORSCHE HAS ONCE AGAIN MADE IMPRESSIVE IMPROVEMENTS ON AN ALREADY EXCEPTIONAL VEHICLE. FACT TAKES THE ALL NEW THIRD GENERATION PORSCHE CAYENNE OUT FOR A SPIN…

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• ISLAND RIDES

W

e at FACT are always excited to be handed the keys to a Porsche, especially when that Porsche is a third generation Cayenne! Having driven some of the finest SUVs the motor world has to offer, it is always an interesting experience to see what a famous and luxurious automobile brand such as this can contribute to the segment. Thanks to Porsche Centre Bahrain, we recently got the opportunity to conduct a detailed inspection of this beautiful machine as well as to put her through the proverbial paces.

As our eyes met the smooth contours of the Cayenne, the improvements to the body were instantly apparent. Although the design has remained true to the now iconic Cayenne shape, there is no doubt that this latest model is more streamlined and athletic in appearance, with its increased length and lowered height. The pronounced bonnet comes complete with a redesigned headlight contour as well as its characteristic large air intakes. The sleeker contours of the body have resulted in narrower side windows which add to the sporty presence of this SUV. The alloy wheels are now wider and give one an inkling of the car’s intentions for the road. The rear wing has been reshaped to further compliment the broad rear end of the vehicle and the integrated light strip is a nice touch. All-in-all we really liked the improvements to and overall design of this third generation beauty.

Once inside the cabin of the vehicle, we were greeted with what can only be described as a deluxe environment. What was instantly apparent was the space and comfort. From the body room to the comfortable seats, this is one car in which you would not mind sitting out a traffic jam. No expense has been spared on the high-end materials and trimmings with everything looking and feeling just the way you would expect from Porsche. The Porsche Advanced Cockpit concept has been designed to connect the vehicle and the occupants through the intuitive control system. The centre console comes complete with Direct Touch Control and boasts a new 12.3-inch touch display. This gives one effortless accessibility to and easy management of all the vehicle’s control functions. The system has been superbly designed, is very user-friendly and allows one to feel in command of the experience.

Settings can be configured for up to six individual profiles and can store a large number of interior settings, as well as specifications for lights, driving programmes and assistance systems. With plenty of room for the passengers throughout the vehicle and a luggage compartment that has been increased in capacity by 100 litres from its predecessor, this car has certainly been designed with your comfort and convenience in mind.

As we slipped out of the carpark and onto the tarmac, we could not help but smile as we hit the Bahraini roadways in this mechanical marvel. For a large machine, she is certainly graceful and we soon found ourselves in a state of bliss inside this quiet casing of pleasure, watching the kilometres roll by. This vehicle is far more than a pretty face however. These third generation Cayennes come complete with five pre-programmed drive and chassis modes that can be activated in accordance with the terrain via the control system.

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The completely redesigned, lightweight chassis enables one to get more performance out of the vehicle, and what a performance it was! This third generation model combines both efficiency and power with its new, ultra-responsive, eight-speed Tiptronic S gearbox. The six-cylinder turbo engine is able to deliver 450 Nm of torque and 340 hp. This is an increase of 40 hp on the previous model. For a large vehicle it is super-fast, shooting from 0 – 100 km/h in just 6.2 seconds and boasting a top speed of 245 km/h.

Believe us when we say, it is more than you’ll ever need! The power offered by this car is more than equalled by its responsive handling and breaking system, allowing one to feel confident throughout the experience.

By the time we had to deal with the difficult task of handing back the keys, we were well satisfied by this SUV. Porsche have certainly accomplished an impressive feat with this new generation Cayenne. ✤

ISLAND RIDES •

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• ISLAND RIDES

“

FOR A LARGE MACHINE, SHE IS CERTAINLY GRACEFUL AND WE SOON FOUND OURSELVES IN A STATE OF BLISS INSIDE THIS QUIET CASING OF PLEASURE, WATCHING THE KILOMETRES ROLL BY.”

GO: CALL PORSCHE CENTRE BAHRAIN ON 1745 9911 FOR MORE INFORMATION. 68

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• MOTORING NEWS

MCLAREN 720S GT3 IS ON THE WAY! Track testing of the first GT race car to be developed by McLaren Automotive’s new customer racing division is well underway and will see the McLaren 720S GT3 test extensively across Europe, the US and Middle East. The new GT3 challenger, which is based on the acclaimed 720S supercar, is being readied for its competition debut in 2019 when it will be eligible for all GT3 grids globally.

The track-based phase of the development programme follows extensive computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and incorporates a punishing test regime that will validate key performance data and longdistance durability.

“It was an incredibly exciting moment for us to see our new 720S GT3 begin the intensive track-based phase of a development programme that we are confident will provide our customers with a first-class GT race car,” said Mike Flewitt, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer.

“Enabling our customers to go racing is integral to the business strategy of McLaren Automotive and we are committed to supplying teams with exceptional GT cars and the world-class support to get the most out of them.”

As with the road car, at the heart of the 720S GT3 is the light but immensely stiff carbon fibre MonoCage II chassis structure. A race-prepared version of the M840T 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine provides the power. The focus

on pure engineering, innovative aerodynamics and efficient design that makes the 720S road car so incredibly impressive provides the ideal starting point for the journey from multi-talented supercar to be the strongest contender yet from McLaren for GT3 racing honours. ✤ WWW.BAHRAIN.MCLAREN.COM

ALL-NEW 2019 TOYOTA AVALON Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the sole distributor of Toyota vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has unveiled the all-new 2019 Toyota Avalon premium sedan at its showroom in Sitra.

Underpinned by a Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform and powered and enhanced by a new fuel-efficient 3.5-liter V6 engine and a host of comfort and safety features that are complemented by Toyota Safety Sense, the 2019 Toyota Avalon embodies consumers’ overarching desire for high-caliber, design-centric, and technologically-savvy modes of attainable and premium transportation.

“Throughout development, we focused on the all-new Avalon being authentic and exhilarating,” said Randy Stephens, chief engineer of the 2019 Toyota Avalon. “One of the key components in getting there was the new platform and suspension. These underpinnings allow us to provide an unequaled foundation to deliver the performance that matches the styling and the technology while offering a fine blend of luxury and sportiness in the premium mid-size sedan segment.”

Donning a cutting-edge design, the all-new Avalon expresses its distinguishable personality, while embodying Toyota’s 70

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next-generation ‘Under Priority’ brand identity – a direction that prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency, cooling, and pedestrian protection.

Stunning all-LED slim projector headlights speak to its sportiness and elegance. They complement the front end’s design, highlighting the aluminum hood’s longitudinal lines and lightweight build; the wide, modern grilles built for air-slicing sleekness; tangential vents at its lower portion crafted for the effective direction of passing air across the front tires and along the Avalon’s muscular sides. ✤ WWW.TOYOTA.COM.BH

MOTORING NEWS •

JAGUAR EXPERIENCE BAHRAIN Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover announces the start of the Jaguar Experience season at the Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir. The Jaguar Experience will run in tandem with the BIC Open Track, Night Open Track and Track Experience days.

This season of the Jaguar Experience begins in the end of September and will take place on selected days in the forthcoming months, hence providing customers with ample time to make their bookings based on their convenience. Customers will be able to choose from two of the high performing Jaguars available which are the F-TYPE Convertible V6 and F-TYPE Coupé V6.

Being the first Jaguar Experience to run alongside the Land Rover Experience in the Middle East, Jaguar Experience Bahrain will enable Jaguar enthusiasts from all over the region to enjoy a fast-paced and exhilarating adventure at an incredible cost of just BD60.

To complement the drive experience, Jaguar Experience Bahrain has a dedicated lounge acting as the central hub of operations showcasing a diverse range of stunning branded goods that will be for sale, giving guests the perfect opportunity to purchase endearing souvenirs of their visit. The lounge is where guests will

be welcomed and given an extensive brief on all aspects of the drive by the highly trained team on-site. Before the actual drive, participants will be taken out onto the track for a few hot-laps, wherein the instructors would provide tips on car placement, visual cues, braking points, the racing line and much more. Upon completion of the entire experience, guests will be taken back to the lounge where they will be presented with a Certificate of Completion from Jaguar Experience Bahrain. ✤ WWW.EUROMOTORS.COM.BH/JAGUAR

THE ALL-NEW JEEP WRANGLER The undisputed off-road champion and a unique vehicle for everyday urban adventures, the new generation of the iconic Jeep Wrangler offers excellent levels of comfort and superior driving dynamics. The all-new Jeep Wrangler is a one-of-a-kind vehicle that is ready to write a new exciting chapter in the legendary history of the Jeep brand, a story which began in 1941.

“It is with this clear objective that the iconic Jeep Wrangler has been completely renewed while remaining true to itself, with legendary off-road capabilities, authentic Jeep styling and advanced technology features,” said Sam Yacoub, General Manager of Behbehani Brothers, the sole authorised distributor of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram vehicles in the Kingdom.

“The result is the most capable Wrangler ever, courtesy of unmatched technical contents, which, depending on the trim, include two advanced four-wheel drive, active, on-demand full time systems - Selec-Trac and Rock Trac, plus Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited slip differential and electronic front sway-bar disconnect,” he added.

Now available in Bahrain from Behbehani Brothers, the fourth generation Jeep Wrangler is offered in three different trim levels: Sport, Sahara and Rubicon - all available in two- or four-door configuration. ✤ WWW.BEHBEHANI.COM.BH fact magazine

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PLUGGED IN •

APP-LICIOUS LET’S SEE WHAT’S ON THE SMARTPHONE AGENDA FOR OC TOBER…

Glympse

WWF Free Rivers

The popular location-sharing service stands out from the rest owing to its combination of features and ease of use. The app sends a “glympse”, a link that your contacts can open to view your current location, as well as ETA to a location. Users can also share their locations as a group, selectively configure their location sharing and expire particular glympes to stop displaying their location. Location sharing has never been easier!

Turn your smartphones and tablets into educational tools with WWF Free Rivers.

The interactive app shows the powerful impact river systems have on nature and human civilisation and how we can damage or preserve these vital systems.

The app uses iOS’s ARKit technology to render different river systems, such as those in African savannas, Himalayan Mountains or the river deltas of Southeast Asia. Fun and education all rolled into one!

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PLUGGED IN •

PICTURE PERFECT In a world obsessed with watching everything through the lens, having a camera that captures that perfect Insta-worthy shot is what dreams of made of. Be it an exotic holiday or a gorgeous brunch, you know you just have to snap it! If you’re someone who loves taking photos, Nikon’s new COOLPIX Q15035 should be right up your street.

I

ntroducing a world of close-up perfection, super-telephoto shooting sees a new level of clarity and quality with the new COOLPIX Q15035. A compact digital camera that combines superior photographic performance for high quality, breathtaking images with 125x optical zoom, the new COOLPIX is set to be the new contender in the world of optical zoom. If you’re a photography aficionado, you will love its 125x optical zoom NIKKOR lens. The lens enables super-telephoto shooting in the coverage of wide-angle 24mm to super-telephoto 3000mm focal length. While the Super Extra-low Dispersion (ED) and ED lens elements offer superior compensation for chromatic aberration as well as sharp and high-resolution images. Image clarity has never been better, thanks to the 2359k-dot OLED electronic viewfinder.

With a viewfinder magnification of approximately 0.68×, this highperformance viewfinder makes framing and viewing images comfortable and easy, even in the bright outdoors. Adding on to the sharpness is the Dual Detect Optical VR, which offers vibration reduction equivalent to a 5.0-stop increase in shutter speed, allowing for worry-free super-telephoto photography. Giving you

full shooting enjoyment, the deep grip of the camera ensures a firmer and steady hold, even with hand-held shooting. The camera further pursues superior operability with features that include a focus mode selector that can be used to change the focus mode after focus has been acquired, and a control ring that allows the adjustments of settings such as white balance and manual focus.

This COOLPIX also comes equipped with an accessory terminal and an accessory shoe that supports a wide variety of accessories, including external Speedlights. Offering a truly rich and diverse imaging experience, Nikon COOLPIX Q15035’s state of the art features and efficient operability definitely make it one of our favourites in the market right now. With a newly improved EXPEED image-processing engine and 4K UHD/30 support, the COOLPIX Q15035 is one to watch out for! ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.NIKON-ME.COM/EN_ME FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FASHION INSPIRATION: ORSAY It's great to reminisce about good memories associated, of course, with fashion, and Orsay has your wardrobe covered…

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The iconic retro style served in a modern way surprises with its freshness in the latest autumn collection from Orsay. Classic designs side by side with black and grey colours, highlighted with pink fur - that's it! Red or green tartan celebrates its spectacular comeback in the company of belts with slogans and a doublebreasted jacket. It is a real clash of the British style with street style.

Colourful, floral vintage patterns flirt shamelessly with urban chic.

And you just cannot imagine this season without tux belts, zippers and a plush jacket. Effective, cowboy accessories, metal details and black leather conquer the catwalks... and the hearts of women. This is how the Wild West looks in a beautiful, ladies' version! ✤

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

BRUNCH OF CHAMPIONS One of our beautiful contradictions in life is that we crave for all new and adventurous food finds, yet we feel great satisfaction in revisiting certain experiences; ones we trust, those that we once enjoyed, and are unquestionably worth it. FACT’s Layal Al Mahmoud lets her love of Friday Brunch take a luxurious turn to CUT by Wolfgang Puck at the oh-so-gorgeous Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. fact magazine

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A

s we settle down after a busy summer vacation packed with new discoveries and memorable adventures, we’re ready to take in the island's routine; work, school, Thursday night gatherings, and, of course, Friday brunches.

Stepping into my favourite lobby in Bahrain, I take a minute to admire the grandeur, the wise olive trees, the charming piano; a smile on my face and all the warmth of good vibes in my heart. We stride to CUT

by Wolfgang Puck and friendly hostesses welcome us – it sort of feels like our second home!

The layout of the restaurant is down-to-earth with elegant touches. The modern design is uplifted with classic furniture; flooring in dark brown, uniformed geometrical patches decorate the ceiling, atomic lights, and wooden tables and chairs in earthy colours. Simple sophistication done right. If you’ve never been to CUT, you should prepare for many “ooohs” “mmhs” and “wows” – for the food is served to the table and every dish is guaranteed to blow your taste buds away.

An exquisite menu, delicately crafted to satisfy each and every w taste, you will most definitely take advantage of all five items on offer. Five different categories are featured on the menu: from the sea, from the grill, pasta and more, chef's favourites, and the sweets. All choices are plated with the idea of sharing in mind; you go with a couple of friends, you get to savor the majority of the choices. Sounds great!

We started with a wide selection of what is considered an entree dish; the sea bass ceviche gently teased our palate, the fresh melon salad is super light and those drops of aged balsamic vinegar created an adorable twist. The fresh ricotta crostini is like the Italian summer all-in-one bite with homemade creamy ricotta cheese and marinated cherry tomatoes… what a dream dish! The talk of the table though was the sophisticated tuna tartare sandwiches for its tangy wasabi aioli, recipe perfection. Don't be intimidated by the prime steak tartare, it is delightfully light and tasty.

Warm plates started to pour in. New York sirloin skewers tasted like candy meat, the prime beef sliders and buttermilk fried chicken are simply delectable in their own rights, then comfort is plated in a bowl of slow cooked beef meatballs on a pillow of creamy polenta – this was our standout dish. The organic chicken sandwich is a brilliant choice if you are a shawarma lover. Don't miss the chicken pot pie, a crunchy golden pastry hiding creamy chicken goodness – it’s winter on a plate. The New York steak frites is beyond delicious and Oh. Em. Gee. the mac and cheese is heavenly – maybe one of the best we’ve ever tried.

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If you prefer a seafood dish, you can go for the pan seared black sea bass or travel to New Orleans with the shrimp and grits; it's homey, balanced, and the spicy chicken chorizo adds a new layer of flavoUr. And, if you like to start with a breakfast feel, the avocado toast and poached eggs is exactly what you need.

Needless to say, cocktails and all kinds of beverages are available and prepared to perfection, but, a freshly concocted bloody mary at your table is not only a delight to have but also a great snapshot moment.

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT •

Executive Chef Brian Becher gave us a peak ending to our extraordinary experience by serving all the sweet choices to our table. The banana cream pie is always good to have with a scoop of the best dulce de leche ice cream ever, the chocolate brownie is an obvious choice for any chocolate enthusiast, the strawberry shortcake with homemade marshmallows washes the palates with harmony and balance. If you’re full and thinking of skipping dessert – don’t! Go for the chef's selection of house made ice creams which are refreshing and light, providing the ideal happy medium. The new creation of caramelised fuji apple crumble with warm sweet apples against the melting vanilla ice cream and crunchy crumbles, is an absolute treat.

Four hours passed by like a breeze with one great dish to another. To top it off, CUT celebrates all the ladies visiting Friday Brunch with a discount of BD10 on their brunch package. Could you really ask for anything more? ✤

GO: CALL 1711 5044 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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ON THE MENU •

ITALIAN REIMAGINED

Quintessentially Italian and uniquely original, Primavera at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain has always been FACT's go-to for mouth-watering Italian cuisine. A culinary heaven in the heart of the island, Primavera, also known as “Trattoria Moderna”, offers an extensive traditional menu that provides its guests an indulgent gastronomic experience, as Aanchal Duggal explores… fact magazine

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ith a style that reflects genuine Italian cuisine as characterised by two Michelin starred chef, Oliver Glowig and Chef de Cuisine Vincenzo Nigro, Primavera focuses on local and seasonal ingredients throughout its menu. Featuring an exquisite indoor setting and an outdoor veranda overlooking the pool and hotel gardens, Primavera makes for the ultimate dining excursion. Introducing your palate to so much more than just pizza and pasta, the restaurant’s innovative style is what gives it a culinary edge. Reflecting their need for variation in full force, our first dish of Uovo croccante con spuma di parmigiano had us “oohing” and “aahing” from the very first bite. Crunchy crumbled and fried soft egg on a bed of parmesan foam and sautéed spinach, the dish features a number of delicate elements that complement each other beautifully.

Giving your Eggs Benedict a run for its money, this dish feels like a big, warm hug on a plate!

A delectable blend of Italian classics and local influences, the restaurant offers its own distinctive reinterpretation of Italian food culture. Fagotelli di parmigiano al burro e salvia had both our cameras and forks at the ready. An elegant presentation of homemade fresh fagotelli, filled with parmesan mousse, crispy sage and butter, the pasta is unlike anything we have ever had before. The pasta is done just right and is filled with creamy parmesan goodness, while the crispy sage adds the perfect amount of flavour and texture to the mix. A melt-inyour-mouth medley of tastes, the dish is comfort food at its finest!

Armed with Chef Vincenzo Nigro’s creative flair and culinary genius, the restaurant offers a taste of Italy where reliable food traditions meet modern techniques. Our next dish of Coda di bue arrotolata, purea di sedano e sedano croccante was an indulgent treat to our senses. Roll of oxtail with celeriac cream and crispy celery, the beef is tender and juicy and offers a complexity of flavours. While the oxtail was definitely the star of the plate, the rich and luscious celeriac puree was the flawless addition to this delectable creation. An epic conclusion to our incredibly satisfying meal, our dessert for the day was all kinds of delicious.

Pastiera Napoletana con gelato di ricotta is love at first bite. Crispy Neapolitan tart with deliciously smooth and creamy ricotta ice cream, the dessert is what food dreams are made of!

Serving staples such as homemade pasta as well as specialty dishes that spotlight an innovative fusion of Italian and local flavours, the restaurant consistently offers a refreshing lineup of unparalleled gastronomic delights. From brilliant 86

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service and contemporary décor to bold and exciting flavours, Primavera truly enlivens the authentic Italian experience and charm. If you’re looking to expand your palate and immerse your taste buds in a medley of sophisticated flavours, Primavera is the place to go! ✤

GO: VISIT PRIMAVERA AT THE RITZ-CARLTON, BAHRAIN. CALL 1758 6499 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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FOODIE CORNER •

THE MAGIC OF MAWASIM

A delectable blend of a variety of cultures and regions, Mediterranean cuisine’s diversity and versatility is what makes it so loved and devoured all over the globe. Mawasim Restaurant & Lounge is one such place that celebrates this gastronomy and FACT’s Aanchal Duggal can attest to that…

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• FOODIE CORNER Light on your palate yet bursting with mouthwatering flavour, there is no way we’re ever saying no to some good Mediterranean food! Looking to indulge in a soul-satisfying meal and giving in to our Mediterranean hunger pangs, we decided to head over to Mawasim Restaurant and Lounge. Bringing bold yet simple flavours of the Mediterranean on a plate, Mawasim offers a carefully curated menu that is enough to satisfy your every craving.

With effortlessly chic décor complementing the theme of seasons, the restaurant brings the very essence and taste of the Mediterranean right to the heart of the island. Designed by Chef Maher Ramzi, the menu is deeply entrenched in the traditions of the region while still introducing new and fresh tastes of the modern global palate. Our first dish of White Quinoa Salad is the epitome of Mediterranean goodness. Super fresh and packing a ton of flavours, the salad is a delicious melody of herbed chicken, fresh quinoa seeds, green leaves mixed with herbs, tomatoes, shallot, cucumber, diced avocado and pomegranate seeds served with a balsamic mint dressing. It tastes so good; you’ll forget that it’s actually quite healthy! Armed with decades of valuable insight on food from across Europe and the Middle East, Chef Ramzi is an artist in his own right. Our next dish of Crunchy Ravioli was the perfect display of his culinary genius. Stuffed with fresh spinach and creamy basil, served with homemade marinara sauce, the dish offers a delightful combination of flavours and textures. The fried exterior offers just the right amount of crisp, while the vibrant homemade sauce truly brings the dish together. An instant hit!

With a culinary journey that can be best described as a mix of the old and the new, Chef Maher Ramzi offers his guests a menu that is simple yet features the many flavours and ingredients of the Mediterranean cuisine.

Adding his own special twist to a much loved classic, Tikka Bahraini is a one of its kind pizza and is everything you need in your life right now! Thinly sliced juicy beef marinated with aromatics, sliced onions, potato fries with mint yogurt sauce, topped with Oman chips - the dish is innovation at its very finest. The beef is done just right and the Oman chips are the perfect surprise, while the beautifully contrasting flavours are like a party in our mouths. We won’t be going back to regular pizza anytime soon! Baked with love and a whole lot of deliciousness, bread is at the heart of the menu at Mawasim. Featuring their special homemade bun, the Special Mawasim Burger is everything you could ever want from a burger. Flame grilled burger served with Chef’s secret sauce and French fries probably one of the best burgers in town. Offering a satisfying perfect bun to patty ratio, the bun is light yet flavourful, while the meat is tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Burger enthusiast or not, you’ve got to try this!

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the restaurant definitely hits the spot when it comes to scrumptious seafood dishes. Fillet of sea bass, marinated with Mediterranean herbs and spices, coated with house special sauce, served with saffron rice, our next dish of Middle Eastern Sea bass will take your taste buds on a ride. The fish is rich and perfectly done with delightful flavour seeping through, while the assortment of vegetables is the perfect addition to the dish. While dessert has always been our weakness, the sight of our dessert for the day had us squealing with pure delight.

Homemade pancakes, layered with creamy ricotta and fresh berries, the supremely delicious Berry Cake is a treat to your senses. Your next Instagram masterpiece, this gorgeous creation will be starring in our dessert dreams for days to come! Apart from some AHMAZING food, the restaurant also serves an array of refreshing beverage options as well as a number of exotic shisha flavours. Offering aromatic, organic and fuss-free ingredients, Mawasim is the only happy place you need to relax with your loved ones as you indulge on some delicious dishes! ✤

GO: VISIT MAWASIM RESTAURANT & LOUNGE IN GALLERIA MALL. CALL 7723 2377 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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AWARD WINNING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

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khalifashaheen

www.khalifashaheen.com

+973 17 593993

SPA & WELLNESS •

WELLNESS GAME CHANGER Looking to indulge, relax and rejuvenate? Enter The Heavenly Spa at The Westin Bahrain City Centre – they are not afraid to be different and inviting! fact magazine

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THE VOLUMINOUSLY FLUFFY ROBES AND PILLOW-LIKE SLIPPERS ARE INCREDIBLE AND AMPLIFY THE SENSORY EXPERIENCE, WHICH ISN’T HARD TO ENVISAGE SINCE I WAS STANDING IN AN ILLUSTRIOUS SPA RENOWNED FOR ITS STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE.”

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With the promise of calm and quiet at the forefront of their philosophy, visitors to The Heavenly Spa should prepare to be refreshed, revived, rejuvenated and ready to take on any challenge that comes your way. The sense of serenity is apparent from the moment that you enter the open plan reception area. Earthy tones and the soothing trickle of a water feature begin to ease away any tension immediately.

Luxuriant products and the smooth, clean lines of the décor set the tone for your ‘Heavenly’ experience.

I was welcomed warmly and shown to the Changing Area.

This title simply doesn’t suffice. The voluminously fluffy robes and pillow-like slippers are incredible and amplify the sensory experience, which isn’t hard to envisage since I was standing in an illustrious spa renowned for its standard of excellence.

However, the state of the art, digital lockers, White Tea Aloe products, hairdryers and straighteners were such a thoughtful addition. They afford guests the opportunity to freshen up following treatments and actually proved a thankful commodity during my visit as I was able to leave looking just as groomed as when I arrived which allowed me to attend my afternoon meetings without worrying about my appearance.

A smiling house attendant was at hand to direct me to the relaxation area and take care of any special requests that may arise... including unzipping the back of your dress when you aren’t overly flexible.

I ventured into a corridor illuminated solely by glowing columns softly dispersing flickering candle light from which the relaxation and treatment rooms are accessed. It epitomises the desire to induce calm and relaxation within every inch of this tranquil oasis. When entering the relaxation area you are met by soothing sounds and muted lighting. Ergonomically designed loungers which hug the contours of the body and abundant supplies of detox water are available throughout your visit in the relaxation area. Although the draw of the Sauna, Steam Room and soothing Jacuzzi Bath may tempt you

to explore the facilities on offer beyond the relaxation zone.

Balinese Massage techniques employ skin rolling and long, firm sliding movements followed by strong palm pressure that stimulates blood flow deep within the muscle tissues. I spoke with Joy, my masseuse, prior to the massage and requested quite intense pressure as I felt that I was heavily knotted from the stresses of being a social butterfly. She obliged dutifully, employing the signature White Tea Aloe oil with its soothing, antioxidant qualities to kneed my muscles and manipulate my joints spectacularly. I have never left a treatment room feeling so energised and feeling the skeletal benefits of the massage immediately - I can wholeheartedly say that this was the most beneficial massage that I have ever experienced showcasing immediate results. This was strikingly different from the usual sense of disappointment that you can feel immediately after some other establishments. The right combination of sleep inducing motions allowed for the ultimate in full body massages.

The vast array of treatments available at The Heavenly Spa with titles such as ‘Hope’, ‘Dream’ and ‘Wish’ can be tailored to meet individual needs and special requirements. The extensive amount of attention to detail ensures that visitors from a variety of walks of life will find a wide selection of treatments with which to pamper themselves. In addition the hotel is promoting their #FeelWell package ‘Swimming Pool Day Offer’ Use over the summer period. Access to the beautiful pool area with its expansive umbrellas proving shade as guests lounge on contemporary, cream loungers and sofas is available weekdays for BD8 net per adult and BD3 net per child with weekend rates of BD10 net per adult and BD5 net per child. ✤

GO: CALL 1717 1122 OR @WESTINBAHRAIN ON INSTAGRAM FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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• PEP TALK

Fitness Reality Yvonne Cole is a Personal Trainer and believes that when you eat clean, train hard and trust the process, your consistency and patience pays off.

In three months, it will be 2019 and some people still haven’t achieved the resolutions they made in 2017, and why is this? Do you want the results Bad Enough? Are you working out for the wrong reasons? Not Holding Yourself Accountable? Looking for Shortcuts?

Not eating the right foods? Not working out enough?

YOU MAKE EXCUSES. January 1 has arrived, and you start off with all good intensions by getting yourself a personal trainer or joining a gym. As the year progresses that initial enthusiasm you started with has waned and you’re putting in less and less effort and all your good intensions have gone out the window. But you keep working out as you feel something is better than nothing but physically nothing has changed.

Week after week, and month after month, your trainer has the same conversation with you as to why after 11 months you are still at the same place you were in month 1 and your only response is a sheepish smile. It is time you had a hard look at yourself and ask yourself a few questions. The Bottom Line is are you really ready for this journey? Sit down and take a hard look at yourself and answer some of the questions above. Remember your Personal Trainer only wants to see you succeed and achieve your goals. So, start following their advice. ✤

GO: Email ymcfitness@gmail.com or call 3466 0453 for more information.

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Bye, Summer Georgina Jennsen is the lady behind the popular lifestyle blog, blonde in bahrain. a social media influencer who loves all things luxurious.

Although it seems like this steamy summer will never end - trust me, it will. And when it does, Bahrain feels like a completely different island, with a whole host of different al fresco activities to enjoy. Here are a few of my personal faves: Outdoor music festivals - grab a blanket, a few bottles of your favourite bevy and prepare to be entertained. The allday Jazz Festival at the Royal Golf Club will be on for the second time and is not to be missed. The Rugby Club’s Trib Fest is always full of fun as well.

Yoga classes - some activities are best enjoyed outdoors, and yoga is definitely one of them. Lotus pose is surely lovelier under a crisp sunny sky, and child’s pose that much more chill with the sound of birds chirping in the background.

Horse riding - even though most horses and their riders have been quietly slogging away behind the scenes all summer, it often feels more like work than pleasure. Come cooler weather however, horse riding is pure joy.

Dining - and finally, we really can’t talk about winter, without talking food. Restaurant rooftops to be specific. Because there’s something about dining under the stars that makes food taste even more delicious. Add some sweet sounds, a little candlelight, and et voila - the best date night ever.

Enjoy! Xx ✤

GO: Keep up with Georgina at www.blondeinbahrain.com and on instagram @blondeinbahrain.

DON'T MISS •

KARAOKE IDOL 2018 Calling all budding, talented, amateur singers…

HERE IS YOUR CHANCE to conquer your dreams of singing live in front of a big crowd! One of JJ’s Irish Restaurant’s most popular annual traditions, Karaoke Idol, is back for another smashing season! Now in its 14th year, this sensational live singing show will be held every Tuesday from November 6 till the grand finale on December 18. There is a cash prize of BD 1000 up for grabs along with guaranteed fun times.

Karaoke Idol 2018 kicks off with the first round on November 6th; there will be six qualifying rounds in total, with the last round taking place on December 18th. From the 12 contestants each week, our panel of professional judges will select 2 lucky singers that will make the cut and secure a spot in the grand finale. Each week, there’s online voting as well to save 1 of your favorite contestants that was not selected by the judges. From these 6 contestants, 1 wild card entrée with the most online votes will go directly to the final round as well. What’s more – all the online voters will get a chance to win a trip for 2 to Dubai! The online voting winner for Dubai raffle draw must be present at JJ’s on the finale of Karaoke Idol to collect the prize.

In total 13 contestants will go head to head in the final show, where they will sing their hearts out for a chance to be crowned the Karaoke Idol 2018 winner. The winner will be awarded BD700, second place will get BD200, and third place will win BD100 in cash.

This is truly an entertaining event where all the excitement, food, drinks and music are mixed in together to give everyone the best karaoke experience possible. This year, we’re expecting a bigger

line up and even more talented singers to take center stage at JJ’s. So, what are you waiting for? Don’t be shy, give it a try!

Every Tuesday, the Karaoke Idol competition will start when the first 12 participants register their names starting from 8pm.

Please note: this is a competition for amateur singers only, entries from professional vocalists or any band members will not be accepted. ✤

GO: CALL AHMED ON 3384 3005 FOR MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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ISLAND INSIDER

Priya Shankar Marketing & Communications Manager, Crowne Plaza Hotel Bahrain In a country where 5-star hotels and resorts reign in hospitality, what makes Crowne Plaza Bahrain stand out from its competitors?

Firstly, our brand hallmarks differentiate us from the competition and ensure a consistent guest experience from property to property.

Being centrally located in the heart of the business district, with easy access to banks, embassies and local attractions and with our newly renovated rooms, the choice of restaurant & bars combined with our strong loyalty program makes it one of the most flexible destination for both business and leisure. Special amenities are nothing without special service, and here the hotel truly shines. Whether parking your car, acting as your personal Concierge or offering you timely service, our savvy colleagues go the extra mile to make your stay in Crowne Plaza Bahrain, efficient.

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Tell us your three favorite cultural hotspots, activities or must-see attractions in Bahrain and why...

Block 338: Located in the heart of Adliya, it is a charming pedestrian quarter crammed with international restaurants, art galleries and small boutiques. It offers a wide range of restaurants appealing to all ages and tastes. In addition to this, it has a maze of labyrinthine alleyways, with graffiti and street art installations to gander at. Traditional Bahraini breakfasts: Bahrain’s rich food history, tradition and its culinary diversity never cease to surprise me. The taste of Bahrain is a unique and delicious one, enjoying a mixture of eggs, noodles, legumes and breads, enhanced with a medley of Indian and Arabian flavors and spices.

Bahrain National Theatre: The National Theatre is a landmark that embodies the artistic and cultural dynamism of the Kingdom both regionally and globally.

Share with us some of your professional goals for the next 12 months...

It is definitely to increase and maintain our brand awareness and market share with the newly renovated rooms and refreshed brand standards. Besides that, our focus for the next few months is to increase the restaurant and bar offerings whether it is through new menus or signature dishes/drinks or tying up with the local vendors, to give you more choice and better value seven days a week. So, watch out for innovative and exciting offers coming your way. Also lastly, one of the key strategies is to continue participate and support Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority on their great campaigns to develop unique tourism products and experiences.

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