LUXURY Dining Destinations June 2019
Contents. . .
04| Karibu 05| Catharina’s on 15 06| Al Dabké
Luxury Dining Destinations brings you closer to your dream vacation dinner date or ultimate fine dining experience on your travels. In this month’s edition we feature the last of the fabulous 2019 nominees from Asia, Europe, the Indian Ocean and The Middle East. In just a few weeks we will be off to St. Petersburg, Russia to celebrate their achievements at the annual gala event. For a full list of all luxury dining venues entered in the awards, visit our website.
at 07| WOOBAR W Koh Samui
08| Red Oven Restaurant ½ Otto e Mezzo 09| 8BOMBANA KITCHEN 10| BLUE’S By Loima
11| Restaurante do Forte 12| Restaurante Armazém do Sal
13| SEASIDE SANTORINI 14| Melia Restaurant & 15| Fino Cocktail Bar STORIES 16| WET SANTORINI
17| Rakas Restaurant
18| Swarna 19| Fenesse Asian Fusion 20| Samsara Restaurant
21| RIDGE – La Cuisine 22| Rosemary Café
Catharina’s on 15
Africa
The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa - Port Shepstone, South Africa
T
he Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa’s restaurant, Catharina’s on 15 is built on the edge of the sand stone cliffs of the Oribi Gorge, one of South Africa’s natural gems. Each dining experience is enhanced by the amazing vistas of the gorge and Mzimkulwana River. The restaurant can seat 40 to 50 guests and the food is fine dining with an African twist, consisting of 4 or more courses. Head chef Chris Whitham only uses fresh ingredients from the locally grown vegetable and herb gardens...........from field to fork. Catharina’s on 15 has a lovely selection of local and foreign wines which are paired with the meals.
info@thegorge.co.za
www.thegorge.co.za 4 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Africa
Karibu K
Cape Town - South Africa
aribu Restaurant welcomes you to the gateway of Africa; set between the picturesque view of Table Mountain and the tranquil blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Karibu offers a traditional South African menu with Cape Malay influences consisting of a wide variety of local seafood, steaks, venison, ostrich, Bobotie, Potjiekos, and delicious vegetarian dishes, accompanied by an exclusive, award winning wine list featuring the best of South African wines. All of this in warm surroundings, next to an open fire with superb attentive service.
kariburestaurant@mweb.co.za
www.kariburestaurant.co.za Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 5
Africa
Al DabkĂŠ Hilton Cairo Heliopolis, Cairo - Egypt
A
veteran in Middle Eastern cuisine, Chef Michel Ghawi brings more than 25 years of experience in Lebanese cuisine to Al DabkĂŠ restaurant. His colorful gastronomy is a delight for the senses; colors, aromas, flavors, presentations and garnishes that come alive in his kitchen. Leaving Lebanon in 1984, Michel made it his mission to capture the essence of Lebanese cuisine.
antonio.ostuni@waldorfastoria.com
www3.hilton.com 6 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Asia
WOOBAR at W Koh Samui W Koh Samui - Thailand
An iconic bar with an iconic view: WOOBAR® delivers WOW by day and by night. Whether you’re taking in the views of the northern coast of the Gulf of Thailand or chilling in the midst the W Music Curator’s tracks, innovative lighting and nibbles, becoming the ultimate destination for unique W Happenings – experience lifestyle events that reflect your passion for music, design and fashion. WOOBAR® will lure you to repose in the island of Koh Samuis’s preferred lounge destination.
bf.wkohsamui@whotels.com
www.marriott.com Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 7
Asia
Red Oven Restaurant SO Sofitel Bangkok - Thailand
BEST ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT FROM THE MARKET AROUND THE WORLD! Sleek rouge touches, floor-to-ceiling windows, leafy green views of Lumpini Park — Red Oven Restaurant at SO Sofitel Bangkok welcomes guests with an ocean of colourful culinary delights from around the globe. With fragrant herbs, warm spices and a waft of barbecue smoke at every turn, Red Oven’s setup with live cooking stations resembles a worldly food market. This 2019 Red Oven, introducing a brand-new à la carte menu, will further establish the restaurant as an irresistible foodie destination.
h6835-re@sofitel.com
www.so-sofitel-bangkok.com/wine-dine/red-oven 8 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Asia
8 ½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA Galaxy Macau Hotel - China
Bombana strikes a perfect balance between tradition and innovation – between the ingredients and Chef Antimo Merone’s execution of the dishes. With a commitment to using only the freshest seasonal products, the menu evolves subject to the availability of premium ingredients. Dine in luxury, with private rooms available at this one Michelin starred restaurant and allow your taste buds to take you on a culinary journey they’ll never forget.
bombana@galaxyentertainment.com
www.galaxymacau.com Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 9
BLUE’S KITCHEN By Loima Asia
Mumbai - India
The conception of Blue’s Kitchen by Chef and Restaurateur Kanokwan Loima, a Thai national, supported by multi-faceted business tycoon Deepak Jindal, began in 2016. The love for food and strong belief in “The eyes appreciate food first, when we see it, then the nose consumes the aroma from the flavours and lastly the taste buds once we devour the dish”, led them to Blue’s Kitchen by Loima. Good presentation, great aroma and the best taste is the primary focus. Ingredients are sourced from the originating countries to ensure authenticity and they can happily boast about being the best dining experience for authentic Thai and Japanese Cuisine in the heart of Mumbai. The entire menu is recommended, however, the most loved dishes are the sushi, Katsu Curry and Blue’s Kitchen Special Blue Fried Rice. A special favourite is the crunchy Prawn Tempura – you can hear the crunch two tables away!
blueskitchenbandra@gmail.com
www.blueskitchen.in 10 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Restaurante do Forte
Europe
Funchal - Portugal
Linking the soul of Restaurant do Forte to the essence of the 17th Century SĂŁo Tiago Fortress is a rare encounter between history, architecture and gastronomy. These spaces can be interpreted in a genuine experience distinguished by its gastronomic diversity, which combines an international cousin with typical Madeiran ingredients.
reservations@forte.restaurant
www.forte.restaurant Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 11
Europe
Restaurante Armazém do Sal Funchal - Portugal
Restaurante Armazém do Sal is located on Rua da Alfândega in the city of Funchal, Madeira, in a 200-year-old building that once served as a salt warehouse. After two centuries the old building gave way to a new and exciting restaurant which serves the Madeirian population and many visitors from all over the world. Armazém do Sal captures the customers at the table with a contemporary cuisine, inspired by traditional Portuguese cuisine which naturally highlights a regional influence. Dishes are seasoned with feeling and made with the best ingredients, and can be accompanied by some of the best wines on the market, reflecting the careful selection of suppliers. This space gives a unique experience to all guests. Go and visit.
reservations@armazemdosal.com
www.armazemdosal.com 12 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
SEASIDE SANTORINI
Europe
Santorini - Greece
Since 2004, SEASIDE has been the most stylish beach bar/restaurant in the iconic Greek island of Santorini. Located at Perivolos Beach, the Cosmopolitan ambience of the restaurant appeals to distinguished guests, offering a culinary experience with great food, signature cocktails and a vast selection of top-class spirits and wines. At the same time, the comfortable sunbeds and the VIP beach Cabanas on the famous volcanic black beach, allow guests to spoil themselves and relax. Services at SEASIDE SANTORINI provided from a friendly and experienced staff, exceed expectation while guests from all over the world enjoy a lifestyle beach with a relaxing scenery along with a culinary experience through a selection of exquisite dishes. When the sun sets, the chill-out music vibes will soften the atmosphere, and this is the perfect time for a cool cocktail from the SEASIDE Lounge bar. SEASIDE is also an ideal beachfront place in Santorini to organise any of your special occasions and events. Private dinners, proposals, wedding receptions, pre and post wedding rehearsals and business gatherings are available on request.
reservations@seasidesantorini.com
www.seasidesantorini.com Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 13
Europe
Melia Lesante Blu Exclusive Beach Resort, Zakynthos Island - Greece Melia restaurant with panoramic views of the Ionian Sea offers international fine dining dishes, exceptionally prepared by Executive Chef, Nikos Ispiroudis. By reservation only, the team will take you through a memorable gastronomic journey accompanied perfectly with the wine list, selected and served by the Head Sommelier. Breath-taking sunset skies complete the magical scenery. Melia Restaurant is open from May to October from 20:00 to 23:00 within the Lesante Blu, adults only resort, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World.
info@lesanteblu.gr
www.lesanteblu.gr 14 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Fino Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
Europe
Santorini - Greece
Fino opened 5 years ago in the center of Oia, the capital of Santorini, in order to fill the gap in the field of the island’s gastronomy. The interior decor combines classic and cosy industrial elements to encourage relaxation and enjoyment of the food and company. The purpose of Fino is to indulge its guests on a gastronomic dream trip. The lobster risotto and the beef tartare are highly recommended along with the chef ’s daily specials! You will also discover intriguing cocktails, such as the Fino cocktail and the Grape refreshment. The staff at Fino keep the standards of service high and welcome their visitors with a genuinely welcoming smile. Moreover, Fino organises special events in the restaurant upon request, including but not limited to, wine and food tasting, parties for special occasions and themed nights.
Finococktailrestaurant@gmail.com
finosantorini.gr Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 15
Europe
WET STORIES SANTORINI Santorini - Greece
The hottest beach bar in Santorini is located on the beautiful beach of Perivolos. Cosmopolitan and popular, Wet Stories Santorini is the ultimate celebrity spot on the island. The best Greek bands and the greatest DJ’s meet every summer at Wet Stories for a chilled vibe. The experienced bartenders at the beach bar will create delicious summer cocktails for their guests. Moreover, the kitchen offers the funkiest dishes in order to deliver a delicious experience! Take advantage of the exclusive services and allow Wet Stories create a memorable meal, wedding party, private event or dinner, with the seaside at your feet. Wet Stories provides a range of activities such as rackets, beach volley and water sports.
info@wetstoriessantorini.gr
wetstoriessantorini.gr 16 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Rakas Restaurant
Europe
Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Rovaniemi - Finland Rakas, a panoramic restaurant, located in the main building of the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, charms you with its unique ambience and menu, with meals made from local Lappish ingredients, prepared with a modern twist. Relax by the beckoning fireplace beneath the pine cone lamps, and enjoy delicious flavours that create out-of-theordinary, divinely tasty moments.
rakas@rakasrestaurant.com
www.rakasrestaurant.com Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 17
Indian Ocean
Swarna Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives
Swarna translates to ‘gold’ in Sanskrit, reflecting royalty, opulence, and the rich heritage of Indian cuisine. The gold standard at Jumeirah Vittaveli, this exclusive fine dining restaurant will delight you with creative flavours, complemented by an impressive arrangement of dishes, including crockery that was specifically chosen to enhance the visual presentation. The restaurant features three open-air dining cabanas, one Chef ’s table, and one swing for after-dinner relaxation, all dotted throughout a Maharaja-style garden setting. The menu offers a selection of set menus with creative interpretations of traditional Indian recipes. On alternating days, you may choose to dine on authentic Thalis (platters), designed for traditional Indian cuisine aficionados.
JVMReservations@jumeirah.com
www.jumeirah.com 18 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Fenesse
Indian Ocean
Jumeirah Vittaveli, Maldives
This fine dining French restaurant in the Maldives invites you to tantalise your palate in an elegant yet warm setting. Fenesse restaurant features classic French cuisine presented in contemporary style, here guests can enjoy the freshest ingredients prepared by the dedicated team of professional chefs. The restaurant offers semi-indoor seating surrounded by panoramic glass doors that introduces the gentle sea breeze and private overwater terraces under the starry night skies, ideal for romantic dinners, with endless views over the Indian Ocean. Service is discreet and professional, ensuring guests will spend an evening where all their wishes are fulfilled before they can even voice them.
JVMReservations@jumeirah.com
www.jumeirah.com Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 19
Indian Ocean
Samsara Asian Fusion Restaurant Hideaway Beach Resort and Spa, Haa Alifu Atoll - Maldives
Samsara is a food-lover’s paradise situated in a very romantic location on stilts over the lagoon. The kitchen lead is taken by the Resort Executive Chef, Sebastien Pinson, along with Indian Chef Shriyal Ramsawrup. The menu presents an exquisite choice of modern Indian specialties - light and fragrant as well as the newly launched Thai Cuisine which is refreshing and spiced. Complemented by a great selection of sushi variations - this is where fine dining becomes a pleasure. With a menu as dramatic as the setting, Samsara deserves at least two visits: one to begin exploring the outstanding a la carte menu and one to experience the Teppanyaki Table.
reservations@hideawaybeachmaldives.com
www.hideawaybeachmaldives.com 20 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
Middle East
RIDGE – La Cuisine Doha - Qatar
Designed and conceptualized by Vladimir Scanu and the creative talents of Al Nweila Doha, Ridge is born from the foothills of the world and its towering peaks. The restaurant is characterized by charm, gravity, sleek design, gourmet food, majesty and harmony, granting you an aura of excellence and happiness. Some excellence is defined by the selection of utterly respected designers from different part of the globe into an interior with feels of blue, brown and gold. Hashikura Matsukan, reinventing ancient utensils and bringing the authentic Asian touch, infusing with the excellence of Italian ceramics and Danish furniture. Almost “Ombré” and definitely “Appliqué” like a decorative design made of one piece of fabric sewn on top of another with utter artistry; Ridge - La Cuisine showcases food rooted from Japan while touching France, Italy and Northern Europe to capture an international parterre of gourmands. A dedicated Kobe Menu, featuring Asan Piperade, Signature Ridge Foie Gras Tempura, Wagyu Beef Gyoza, Nabe Rice Mushroom & Truffle and Oyster Dynamite to mention a few.
inforidge@alrabiainvestment.com
ridgelacuisine.com
Luxury Dining Destinations | June 2019 | 21
Rosemary Café
Middle East
Doha - Qatar Designed and conceptualized by Vladimir Scanu and the creative talents of Al Nweila Doha, Rosemary Café is a uniquely stylish, classy and romantic luxury café concept. Parisienne lifestyle inspired, its white and pink tones and ceiling covered with pink roses make it a ladies inspired concept. Luxury marble and glass elements define the “Patisserie” Shop where authentic made macarons, French bakeries and fine pastries are showcased “Filigree” like and favoured for their delicate feminine finish, overlooking an imperial pink sky “dehor”. Almost iridescent, Rosemary Café changes shades as it catches the light like a continuous rebirth across one day, every day... Rosemary Café features delicacies from breakfast to dinner, a truly stunning Afternoon Tea experience, some of the historical dishes of French Culinary Heritage, such as Egg Florentine, Truffle Omelet, Baba Savarin au Rum et Crème, to more international dishes. A delightful selection of cold and hot beverages prepared by true artisan baristas are to be tried, such as hot chocolate with mint, Rose milk and Hot strawberry. This is where one finds the Champs Elysee in Doha.
rosemarycoffee.com 22 | June 2019 | Luxury Dining Destinations
The State Hermitage Museum Official Hotel
Spa
R e s ta u r a n t
6 July 2019
St. Petersburg - Russia