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First of all... Welcome to the February issue of Bahrain Confidential. It’s the season of love and what better way to cherish it than with good food, heartfelt gifts, and an appreciation of that special someone in your life? In these pages, we’ve curated some helpful guides for you to get into the Valentine’s spirit. As always, we bring you stories from the world of hospitality and beyond and a look at the biggest events on the island. The Bahrain Confidential Team
Happy reading!
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ArabianMagazines.com Established since 2001, Bahrain Confidential is a Bahrain-based monthly publication available both in print and online editions. It is the definitive guide to high-end Arabian luxury and lifestyle. It covers the best in lifestyle, luxury, fashion and dining, as well as local events, art, society, fashion, beauty and travel. The monthly print edition of Bahrain Confidential is distributed to Bahrain’s highest spending consumers and decision makers.
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FEBRUARY 2024
Issue 247
10
Jewellery and Watches For Your Valentine
CONTENTS 04
08 8 Flowers That Symbolize True Love
Guides The Valentine’s Day Dining Guide 8 Flowers That Symbolize True Love Jewellery and Watches For Your Valentine 8 Spots for Chocolates and Sweet Treats in Bahrain
14
Features Celebrating Bahrain’s Best Restaurants
16
Dining Greeking Out at InterContinental Bahrain’s Pop-up, Rigani
16
Fun, Flavour, Flamenco: The Salero Bahrain Saturday Brunch 22
Wedding Season Plan Your Dream Wedding at Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa
24
Staycation Enjoy a Sparkling February With Your Loved Ones at These Hotels in Bahrain
26
Travel Summer Getaways: Gulf Air Announces Its Seasonal Destinations! Travelling To The UK: Multi-Entry ETA
24
Dining Guide
DINING GUIDE Celebrate the season of love at the most exquisite dining spots on the island. We’ve curated the ultimate guide for you to express your love language over specially crafted Valentine’s events in Bahrain. Address Beach Resort
Venue: Address Beach Cabanas Event: 4-course set menu for two, including paired selected beverages and live music with chauffeurdriven Mercedes Benz EQ Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 130 Net per couple Contact: 77998888 Venue: The Restaurant Event: 4-course set menu paired with selected beverages Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 85 Net per couple Contact: 77998888 Venue: The Lounge Event: Dolce & Gabbana Address Valentine’s Afternoon Tea Experience Date: 12th - 29th February Timings: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Cost: BHD 32 Net per stand for 2 Contact: 77998888
4 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Dining Guide The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence and Spa
wine and for PC/NSA/GFG - BHD 48 per couple with selected bottle of wine (subject to applicable taxes)
Venue: Bo.Sabi
Contact: 17713000 / 36551333
Event: Valentine's Day set menu Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM Cost: BHD 50 Net
Venue: Sato
Contact: 38111474 Venue: Mondo, Taste of Italy Event: Valentine's Day set menu Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM Cost: BHD 50 Net Contact: 17531666
Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay Venue: Byblos
Event: Valentine’s Day Dinner by the beach Date: 14th February Timings: 6:00 PM - midnight Cost: BHD 130 Net - BHD 400 Net (depending on selected beverage package) Contact: 17115500 Venue: re/Asian Cuisine and CUT by Wolfgang Puck Event: A la carte menu Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM onwards Cost: BHD 50 per person Contact: 17115044 / 17115046 Venue: Bahrain Bay Kitchen Event: Month of Love Brunch Date: 16th and 23rd February Timings: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Cost: BHD 35 including soft beverages, BHD 48 including select beverage package BHD 65 including premium package with Veuve Clicquot Champagne Contact: 17115500
The Gulf Hotel Bahrain
Venue: Al Waha Restaurant Event: Valentine’s Day Inspired Buffet Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 18 and BHD 23 with selected wine and beer (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333 Venue: Margarita Mexicana Event: Valentine’s Day celebrations with Latin beats Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 52 per couple with a selected bottle of
Event: Koi no Yoru - Dining at Tatami Room with a special set menu Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 75 per couple - private dinner with selected bottle of wine, BHD 60 per couple with selected bottle of wine, and for PC/NSA/GFG - BHD 54 per couple with selected bottle of wine (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333 Venue: Rasoi by Vineet Event: Eternal Love - Valentine’s Dinner with a 5-course set menu Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 29 and 20% discount for PC/NSA/GFG members (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333 Venue: China Garden Event: Embrace the Love - Valentine’s Dinner Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 52 per couple with selected bottle of wine and for PC/NSA/GFG - BHD 48 per couple with selected bottle of wine (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333 Venue: Royal Thai Restaurant Event: Swasdee Love - Dinner Experience Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 52 per couple with selected bottle of wine and for PC/NSA/GFG - BHD 48 per couple with selected bottle of wine (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333 Venue: Zahle Lebanese Restaurant Event: Tawila al-Hob - Valentine’s Feast Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 52 per couple with selected bottle of wine and for PC/NSA/GFG - BHD 48 per couple with selected bottle of wine (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333 Venue: La Pergola Event: The Italian Affair - Valentine’s Dinner Date: 14th -16th February Cost: BHD 52 per couple with selected bottle of wine and for PC/NSA/GFG - BHD 48 per couple with selected bottle of wine (subject to applicable taxes) Contact: 17713000 / 36551333
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 5
Dining Guide Venue: Typhoon Event: Valentine’s After Party Date: 14th February Timings: 9:00 PM - 12:00 AM Contact: 17713000 / 36551333
Hilton Bahrain
Venue: Origin Kitchen and Culture Event: Love on Lock - 5-course Valentine’s Day Dinner with live entertainment and love padlock Date: 14th February Cost: BHD 50 net per couple Contact: 33692013
InterContinental Bahrain
Venue: Legendz Steakhouse
Venue: Silk’s Restaurant & The Gallery lobby lounge Event: Valentine’s Night Brunch on 15th February Date: 15th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 35.5 Net per person Contact: 33640032 Venue: Silk’s Restaurant & The Gallery lobby lounge Event: Valentine’s Mövenpick Brunch on 16th February Date: 16th February Timings: 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM Cost: BHD 42 Net per person Contact: 33640032 Venue: The Gallery lobby lounge
Event: 4-course degustation dinner Date: 14th February Timings: 6:30 pm - 10:30 pm Cost: BHD 28 per guest (Inclusive wine/beer pairing & sparkling wine)
Event: Romantic High Tea Date: Every day, except Fridays Cost: BHD 15+++ per couple non-alcoholic Champagne, tea, or coffee and BHD 149 net per couple with a bottle of Moët & Chandon
Contact: 17208313 / 36967701
Contact: 33640032
Venue: Elements
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain
Event: 4-course Al Fresco Romantic Dinner Date: Daily Timings: 7:30 pm - 10:30 pm Cost: BHD 28 Net (Selected wine pairings)
Venue: La Med
Contact: 17208313 / 36967701
Event: Mystical Valentine’s Brunch Date: 16th February Timings: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Cost: BHD 35, includes soft beverages, BHD 45, includes select beverages, BHD 60, bubbly brunch
Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort & Spa
Contact: 17586499
Venue: Due Mari
Event: 5-course menu with select house beverages and live violin performance Cost: BHD 88 per couple Contact: 33663462
Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Venue: Silk’s Restaurant
Venue: Primavera Event: Sogno d’Amore Veneziano - set menu experience Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 90 per couple Contact: 17586499
Event: Love in Paris - Valentine’s Day Dinner Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 55 Net per couple with soft drinks and BHD 65 Net per couple with a bottle of house wine
Venue: Nirvana
Contact: 33640032
Contact: 17586499
Venue: Xenia Bar & Lounge
Venue: Plums
Event: Valentine’s Special Date: 14th - 16th February Timings: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM Cost: BHD 32 Net per couple Contact: 33640032
6 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Event: Noor-e-Ishq - Valentine’s Day Dining Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 60 per couple
Event: Velvet Elegance - a Valentine’s Evening Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 80 per couple Contact: 17586499
Dining Guide Venue: Cantina Kahlo Event: Amor Fiesta: A Mexican Valentine’s Day Celebration Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM onwards Cost: BHD 70 per couple Contact: 17586499 Venue: La Plage Event: Cupid’s Soirée - Al Fresco Dinner Date: 14th February Timings: 8:00 PM - 12:00 AM Cost: BHD 80 per couple, 5-course menu, includes 1 bottle of Prosecco BHD 150 per couple, 5-course menu, includes 1 bottle of Champagne Contact: 17586499 Venue: Thai Lounge Event: Valentine’s Day Dining Experience and Reflexology Date: 14th February Timings: 5:00 PM onwards Cost: BHD 140 per couple; includes 4-course set menu and Thai-style reflexology Contact: 17586499 Venue: The Ritz Gourmet Lounge and The Lobby Lounge Event: Les delices de l’Amour - Afternoon Tea Date: 14th - 16th February Timings: 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Cost: BHD 30 per set Contact: 17586425 Venue: The Ritz Gourmet Lounge Event: L’Amour sur un plateau - Dessert Platter Date: 14th - 16th February Timings: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Cost: BHD 18 per set
Cost: BHD 26 Net per stand for 2 Contact: 77488100 Venue: The Bistro by Origins Event: The V to My Valentine’s Dinner Date: 14th February Timings: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Cost: BHD 85 Net per couple inclusive of carefully selected grapes Contact: 77488100
The Westin and Le Meridien City Centre Bahrain Venue: Pool
Event: 4-course set menu dinner on a private cabana by the pool Cost: BHD 50 per couple (non-alcoholic package) and BHD 60 per couple (with selected beverages) Contact: 17171000 / 38885862 Venue: Mezzanine Lounge Event: 5-course set menu dinner at Mezzanine private cabanas Cost: BHD 60 per couple non-alcoholic package and BHD 80 per couple with selected beverages Contact: 17171000 / 38885862 Venue: Furn Bistro & Bakery Event: Valentine’s Dinner Offer - romantic afternoon tea and special Valentine’s cake Cost: BHD 25 net per couple Contact: 17171000 / 38885862 Venue: Salero Spanish Restaurant Event: 5-course set menu dinner Cost: BHD 50 per couple non-alcoholic package and BHD 60 per couple with selected beverages Contact: 17171000 / 38885862
Contact: 17586425
Venue: Baharat Restaurant
Venue: La Gourmandise and The Ritz Gourmet Shop
Event: Special Valentine’s Day Buffet Cost: BHD 18 per person non-alcoholic package and BHD 29 per person with selected beverages.
Event: Sweet Treats Date: 14th - 16th February Timings: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Cost: A la carte Contact: 17586425
Vida Beach Resort Marassi Al Bahrain Venue: Stage 2
Event: Nuts About You Afternoon Tea Timings: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 7
Valentine’s Day
8
Flowers That Symbolize True Love
W
hile chocolates and cards are staples of Valentine’s Day, there is perhaps no gift more evocative of love's blossoming nature than flowers. On this day that celebrates love and affection, get your special one a beautiful arrangement of flowers that are imbued with meanings of love, loyalty, and adoration. From the classic allure of red roses to the delicate whispers of tulips, each bloom we'll explore carries a message that transcends words, making them the perfect emissaries of your most profound sentiments this Valentine's Day.
Image Credits: Fleur
Image Credits: Maison des Fleurs
Image Credits: Maison des Fleurs
Baby’s breath
Roses
Sunflower
Baby's Breath is known to represent sincerity, purity, and everlasting love. They make for perfect gifts for a special someone, children, and parents.
Symbolising true love, the red rose is a perfect way to declare your adoration for the special someone.
In many cultures, the bright yellow petals of the sunflower are believed to symbolize happiness, joy, loyalty, and commitment.
8 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Valentine’s Day
Image Credits: Maison des Fleurs
Image Credits: Alia Flowers
Orchids
Chrysanthemum
Orchids are perhaps the most eclectic of any flowers. They represent luxury, opulence, passion, beauty, and strength.
The chrysanthemum is known to represent love, loyalty, happiness, friendship, and joy.
Image Credits: Maison des Fleurs
Image Credits: Vintage Flora
Image Credits: Floward
Lavender
Tulips
Daisies
Known for their remarkable features and relaxing scent, lavenders are perfect expressions of love and thoughtfulness.
Tulips, specifically the red ones represent true love and affection.
Daisies symbolise new beginnings, cheerfulness, beauty, innocence, hope, fun, and affection.
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 9
Valentine’s Day
Timeless Selections Jewellery and Watches For Your Valentine If your love language is exchanging exquisite pieces of jewellery, Bahrain’s luxury marketplace is your oyster. As Valentine’s Day approaches, here’s a guide you’re going to appreciate, featuring some elegant high-end jewellery and watch collections to make the special day extra special. Tiffany The Return to Tiffany®Love Tiffany Blue® Heart Tag Bead Bracelet in Silver is modern and features a heart-shaped tag with a striking enamel finish. Inspired by the iconic key ring first introduced in 1969, the Return to Tiffany collection is a classic that’s been reinvented.
Chopard Chopard’s “My Happy Hearts” jewellery collection features the heart and mobile diamonds, from the iconic brand’s legendary creations. The heart motifs of the diamond earrings form a delicate constellation, to be worn alone or stacked as a stylish 18-carat gold accessory.
All image credits: Bahrain Jewellery Centre
10 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Valentine’s Day
Piaget This Yves Piaget Rose was created in 1982, inspired by Yves Piaget’s passion for roses. A generous shape with numerous petals, an intense perfume and a deep pink colour, the floral beauty is a voluptuous and glamorous creation in gold and diamonds.
Vacheron Constantin Vacheron Constantin’s Patrimony SelfWinding has a refined feminine identity, featuring a redesigned curve and domed gradient tone dial. You can’t miss the simplicity of this timeless piece, bathed in 18K rose gold with a blush pink dial, and a bezel set of 72 diamonds.
Patek Philippe Patek Philippe is a master of complicated watchmaking. That’s what makes the watch an incredible timeless piece and perhaps the best gift you could give a watch connoisseur.
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 11
Valentine’s Day
8
Spots for Chocolates and Sweet Treats in Bahrain As the island air fills with Valentine's Day fervour, it’s the perfect time to indulge in crafty treats and chocolates to delight your special someone. From luxurious chocolatiers to confectioners in Bahrain, here’s a guide to make sure your Valentine’s Day is sweet and unforgettable.
Haute Cafe & Patisserie
Leaves
Maya La Chocolaterie
Cookies, cakes, cake pops, doughnuts, and delightful assortments – name whatever you like and Haute Cafe has that for you. They can even customise cakes and cupcakes.
Founded in 2005, Leaves’ chocolates are handcrafted in Bahrain by a small team of artisan chefs and customized by expert designers. Whether personalized arrangements or loose chocolates, you will find a great gift at this shop.
Maya La Chocolaterie is an upscale chocolate boutique. For Valentine’s, they are offering several chocolate boxes. You can choose from chocolate-covered strawberries, hot chocolate bombs and even coated almonds.
12 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Valentine’s Day
Lolly Cakes Lolly Cakes is Lateefa Janahi’s creative Bahraini bakery established in 2010. Find edible greetings, Be Mine cakes, teddy bear arrangements, heartshaped cookies, cake pops and more at the bakery in Riffa.
Vibes If you want to personalise your cakes in the shape of a letter or toppings, Vibes is worth checking out. They also provide French cakes, designer cakes, cheesecakes, and mini-bites. Go through their strawberry collection for some Valentine'sthemed treats, covered in chocolates, and served with stems of fresh red roses.
Lalabella
Raw Candy
Creolate Chocolatier
Satisfy the chocolate connoisseur in you and indulge in LalaBella’s premium creations. Their bespoke floral arrangements and gifts add the perfect touch to your Valentine’s Day celebrations!
For the vegan love bugs, Raw Candy Plant-based Cafe prepares an amazing selection of cookies, chocolates and bakes. The cafe at Bahrain Financial Harbour specialises in delicious treats that are free of gluten, dairy, and refined sugar.
If you want to experience premium flavours, stunning presentations and pure chocolate bliss, Creolate Chocolatier is the place to go!
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 13
Feature
Celebrating Bahrain’s Best Restaurants
M
Most restaurants in Bahrain are good, and many are special… but some are extra special. Bahrain’s Best Restaurants 2023 honours these establishments – the best of the best and the people behind them. These dining establishments will be recognised and presented with their awards at a gala event on the 21st of February.
14 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Who decided?
The winning restaurants for Bahrain’s Best Restaurants 2023 were decided by 74 experienced and distinguished judges best qualified to know what makes a restaurant great – leaders of Bahrain’s 5 and premium 4-star hotels, and other hospitality experts. To our judges, we simply asked them to recommend their five favourite restaurants in Bahrain. We offered no suggestions, categories, price ranges, order of preference, or anything else. The only rule was judges could not recommend any restaurant connected to their own company. Voting was fully transparent – every judge can see the restaurants voted for by every other judge. By following the above method, we ensured a fair, unbiased, and authentic award. Of the restaurants voted for, we discovered 20 clear winners, and a further 17 restaurants considered worthy of special recommendation. Nicholas C. Cooksey, Publisher and Editorin-Chief of Gulf Insider Media said: “We congratulate all the restaurants and the people behind them. Their hard work and dedication are truly appreciated and we hope they will continue to serve Bahrain’s culinary scene with excellence for many years to come.” n
Feature
Greeking Out at InterContinental Bahrain’s Pop-up, Rigani
O
n any given day, a typical Greek dining table is a festival of food. Those gathered around it love to eat and love to feed. That pretty much sums up our experience of dining with Chef Emmanouil Kyriakidis at Rigani, a dine-in pop-up at InterContinental Bahrain. Far from the long, blue Mediterranean shores, Chef Kyriakidis, the Director of Food & Beverage at the luxury hotel in Manama is on a mission to bring authentic flavours of his home, Greece to the people of Bahrain. As plate after plate arrived at our table, we filled up on the many stories and flavours of this Mediterranean destination. He
16 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Feature he has curated, including the music in the background. Needless to say, while exploring the succulent flavours at Rigani, we knew we were home. While ample daylight makes it a beautiful spot to dine in during the afternoons, Rigani certainly comes into its element after sundown when the warm white lamps overhead and lanterns on the table create a serene vibe for fine dining. Olive oil, feta cheese, oregano, and most of the ingredients you’ll taste at Rigani are sourced from Greece. The dégustation (tasting) menu features 14 dishes – salads, spreads, appetizers, main course, and desserts – each taking you on a whirlwind journey through fresh flavours, textures, and a traditional Greek experience.
The Spanakopita
It was incredible to watch the Spanakopita being prepared by Chef Grigoriadis. A long-time colleague of InterCon’s F&B Director and an expert in Greek cuisine, Chef Grigoriadis brings with him the craft of authentic Greek food to Rigani. While preparing the Spanakopita, he reminisced about the meticulous technique women employed while preparing this much-loved local bake, almost a right of passage for anyone learning the ropes of a Greek kitchen. The Spanakopita, or as we like to call it, the showstopper at Rigani, is a delicious and crispy savoury pie prepared with phyllo dough and a filling of spinach, olive oil and feta cheese. Best when it’s hot from the oven, the Spanakopita is one you’d want to go back to Rigani for again and again. We know we do!
Spreads and Salads
spoke fondly of the culinary and dining traditions, often referring to his late grandmother preparing the food he now serves at Rigani. The ‘home’ he wishes to share with us is evident in the ambience
Clockwise from top: Skordalia, Melitzanosalata, Fava, Tzatziki, Patatosalata, and Horiaitiki Spreads and Salads are integral to a Greek dining table. The traditional Greek salad, or Horiaitiki, was a medley of locally sourced fresh vegetables and greens along with purely Greek feta cheese. We also tried the Patatosalata because who doesn’t love a bright-looking classic potato salad when combined with capers, capsicum, onion, and parsley? Among the spreads, Tzatziki wasn’t the only one that kept us indulged. Chef Kyriadikis introduced us to quite a variety:
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 17
Feature
Spreads and Salads Fava – a slow-cooked split lentil spread with diced tomato and onion, best served with a generous sprinkle of lemon on top. Melitzanosalata – A mildly chunky mix of roasted eggplants, parsley, tomato, green capsicum, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and feta cheese. The Melitzanosalata bears a resemblance to Baba Ganoush or Mutabbal. The discerning difference is in the feta cheese. Skordalia – Amash up of potato and garlic, blended evenly with vinegar and a lot of olive oil.
Appetizers
While the Spanakopita is going to remain etched in our memory for a long time, it wasn’t the only delicious appetiser we tried. The crunchy Zucchini & Eggplant Fritters paired perfectly with the spreads, especially the Tzatziki. The Lahanodolmades (or Dolma), features a delicious filling of cabbage leaves, minced meat and an “avgolemono” (egg and lemon) sauce.
18 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Main Course
The spreads, salads, and appetizers are more than capable of leaving you satiated. But, your authentic Greek experience is incomplete without trying the Greek Mousakka. To many, the Mousakka is considered the national dish of Greece, given how frequently it’s relished by tourists and served in almost every Greek tavern. This layered preparation of potatoes, eggplant, spiced ground meat, tomato sauce, cheese and béchamel is one of the top Greek dishes you need to try. We also tried a helping of three other dishes from the main course menu that deserve recognition for their versatility and flavours: Arni Gastra, Patates Ladorigani – a signature dish at Rigani featuring a slow-cooked lamb shank, potatoes and oregano. Garides Makaronia – Spaghetti with shrimp in a traditional tomato sauce with dill. Gemista – Baked Stuffed tomatoes and capsicum baked until soft with rice, tomato, mint, dill, parsley and raisins.
Value for Money
A large variety of the dishes individually are nominally priced, allowing anyone dining at Rigani to have a full-course meal at approximately BHD 35 for 2. A dégustation (tasting) menu for first-timers or novices to Greek
Feature cuisine. This menu features 4 salads and spreads, 3 appetizers, 5 main course dishes, and 2 desserts and is priced at BHD 18 for 2 people. If you’re familiar with the cuisine, a more elaborate menu featuring a wider selection of dishes is also available. As an ambassador of Greek Cuisine, Chef Kyriakidis wants everyone to know what authentic Greek cuisine is.
A Gateway to Homemade Greek Food
For Chef Kyriakidis, Rigani is the gateway to simple, home-cooked Greek food – no fusions, no twists. His mission with this dinein experience isn’t just about putting the best flavours of his homeland together, but a way for diners in Bahrain to experience the what, why, and how of Greek food. Rigani was until now a cloud kitchen, available only through online ordering. The dine-in experience is certainly a new addition to InterContinental Bahrain’s F&B offerings and it’s one we recommend you check out. n To book your table at Rigani, contact: 17208313 or 36967701
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 19
Feature
Fun, Flavour, Flamenco The Saturday Brunch Returns to Salero Bahrain
V
Vermut a tu Salud makes a comeback at one of Bahrain’s favourite Spanish restaurants, Salero. We visited the restaurant at The Westin City Centre Bahrain for an afternoon of fun, flavour, and the most intoxicating flamenco performances by their in-house band. Chef Ruben Torres put together a lavish spread. We indulged in assorted Spanish tapas such as the signature Patatas Bravas, which is traditional fried potatoes with spicy sweet paprika sauce and aioli; as well as mixed croquettes enhanced with chicken, prawns, and mushrooms. Of course, no Spanish Fiesta is complete without Paella – Chicken and Vegetable Paella alongside Seafood Paella was the menu highlight. Refreshing red and white Sangria complemented the dishes perfectly. Intricate foot taps on the wooden floorboard, accompanied by soulful vocals and the strumming of guitar uplifted the entire brunch experience. The Spanish Folkloric tradition, Flamenco gives Salero an edge. Together, with Spanish tapas and refreshing Sangria, we were whisked away to Spain with this indulgent Saturday brunch. You can check out Vermut a tu Salud every Saturday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Salero, on the first floor of The Westin City Centre Bahrain. n
20 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
NOW OPEN
ONLINE PUBLIC VOTING For the first time, Bahrain Confidential is conducting an online poll so the public can vote for their own favorite restaurants.
To vote for your favorite restaurants, scan the QR code
Or Visit https://www.bahrain-confidential.com/best-restaurant-award/vote/ @bahrainconfidential
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Royal Elegance Plan Your Dream Wedding at Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa
B
ahrain, a hidden gem in the Middle East, offers a captivating blend of ancient heritage and modern luxury, making it an ideal wedding destination. With its stunning landscapes, exquisite venues, and rich cultural traditions, Bahrain truly has something to offer for couples looking to make their special day and event to remember for a lifetime. If you’re looking for an ideal destination wedding, Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa may be the ideal location for you. Lose yourself in a world of luxury with Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain’s ‘Royal Elegance’ wedding package. Every celebration takes on a regal hue, as the team meticulously weaves each detail into a perfect wedding story. From selecting the right venue to designing the ideal setup, couples can rest assured that their wedding day will be stress-free and extraordinary. For those seeking a truly bespoke experience, the resort creates customized packages that include every element of your dream wedding. Indulge in culinary enchantment with tailored menu
22 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Feature tastings, bespoke wedding cakes, and lavish buffet spreads. The resort’s culinary team ensures that every dish is prepared with utmost care and sophistication, adding a sprinkle of magic to your special day. Whether you envision an indoor wedding filled with elegance and intimacy or an outdoor ceremony under the twinkling stars, the resort offers breathtaking settings that will leave you in awe. From verdant gardens to untouched beaches and a secluded peninsula, nature’s finest tapestries provide the perfect backdrop for your special day. No matter the size of your celebration, Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain can accommodate both close-knit gatherings and grand spectacles with up to 400 attendees. Their venues have the unique ability to create an intimate atmosphere while still maintaining a grand ambience.
For those seeking a truly bespoke experience, the resort creates customized packages that include every element of your dream wedding.
Unwind and indulge in luxury at the resort’s 196 contemporary rooms and suites, along with the exclusive 11-bedroom Gulf Summer House. Your guests will be treated to a world of indulgence, complemented by six signature dining experiences and an award-winning spa. Rest assured, their comfort and satisfaction are of utmost importance. Conveniently located in the picturesque Zallaq area, the resort is a short distance from the Bahrain International Circuit and just 45 minutes away from Bahrain International Airport. Situated on the southwest coast of Bahrain, it serves as the perfect destination for an extravagant yet private affair. n For enquiries, call: 33663450 or visit the website
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 23
Feature
Enjoy a Sparkling February With Your Loved Ones at These Hotels in Bahrain
E
lite Hospitality Group is set to dazzle guests with unforgettable experiences and the promise of joy and happiness for guests at their luxurious properties in Bahrain.
Imagine rejuvenating weekends at the Elite Resort and Spa Hotel Muharraq, where families are welcomed by the serene beauty of Bahrain Bay. Modern, spacious suites equipped with the latest conveniences await, promising to elevate the senses of each guest. The Elite Resort & Spa is currently inviting guests to a romantic Valentine's Night celebration on February 14th, 2024. La Brasserie Specialty Restaurant will be hosting an exquisite
24 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
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midnight, accompanied by a free drink. Nestled in the vibrant Seef area, Elite Seef Residence Hotel offers a warm, relaxed atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Spacious one- and twobedroom suites come with fully equipped kitchenettes, living rooms, and dining areas, making them ideal for short- and long-term stays. Guests can enjoy the added comforts of complimentary Wi-Fi services and a breakfast buffet.
five-course meal, complemented by live entertainment and a curated selection of house beverages, all for a special rate of BD 34 net per couple. Families looking to kick off the New Year in style can revel in the Friday Brunch at La Brasserie Specialty Restaurant. An array of delectable dishes at a special rate of BD 12 net per person is available from 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Additionally, Thursday and Friday evenings are transformed with Grill Nights, featuring authentic live grills at a special rate of BD12 per adult and BD6 net per child aged 6 to 12. The room service team at Elite Resort and Spa takes pride in presenting the Hookline Sinker, a chef's special featuring fish and prawns for the month of February. Shift7, the sea view lounge bar, is offering two complimentary drinks during Happy Hour every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 7 PM. Meanwhile, La Brasserie tempts with burgers and pizzas from 12 PM until
Under the starlit sky, Captain Jack’s Poolside is a sanctuary for relaxation. Weekly entertainment featuring Khaleeji Night every Thursday and Friday from 8 PM ensures vibrant evenings. In celebration of love, Valentine's Night will be hosted at Captain Jack’s on February 14th, 2023, offering a four-course set menu and house beverages at an exclusive rate of BD28 net per couple. Sundays at Elite Seef Residence are transformed into Caribbean Nights, where guests can indulge in a special cocktail offer of buy one, get one free all night. The daily Business Lunch Buffet at Julio’s Specialty Restaurant presents a tempting selection for BD 6.5 net per adult, inclusive of bottled water, canned juice, or soft drinks. To add to the indulgence, all in-house guests are entitled to a 15% discount on every room service order, available 24 hours a day. Elite Hospitality Group ensures that every need is met with finesse and care. n For bookings and inquiries please call: 17558200 or visit www.elitegrouphotels.com
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 25
Feature
Nice – Sundays and Thursdays starting from 2nd June to 29th September
Summer Getaways Gulf Air Announces Its Seasonal Destinations!
P
lanning for your Summer break? Consider the gorgeous shores of Nice, France, swim with the aquatic life in Egypt, or immerse in the rich coastal culture of Turkey this year. Gulf Air has announced the comeback of its seasonal flights to four destinations during the summer, spanning from June to September. Two weekly flights (Airbus A320 and A321) will ferry passengers to these destinations. Scroll to check out the schedules:
26 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Nice - Image Credits: John Jason
Feature Image Credits: Rodrigo Dias
Sharm El Sheikh and Alexandria - Wednesdays and Saturdays starting from 1st June to 14th September
Image Credits: Flo P
Bodrum Thursdays and Saturdays starting from 15th June to 14th September
Bodrum - Image Credits: Mehmet Belet
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 27
Travel
Travelling To The UK? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About The MultiEntry ETA
28 Bahrain Confidential February 2024
Travel
What can you do with an ETA? With the ETA, you can:
• Visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, to be with family and friends, or on business or short-term study.
• Visit the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Visit the UK for up to 1 month for a Permitted Paid Engagement
• Transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through UK border control
T
he United Kingdom has enabled nationals in Bahrain and other countries in the Middle East to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) starting 1 February. The ETA is your permit to enter the United Kingdom multiple times over two years without the need to apply for a visa to visit the country. Scroll to check out key information on applying for an ETA. Who can apply for an ETA?
You need to be a national of Bahrain. Other countries included in this special provision are Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Once you’ve completed the application process, you will receive an email confirmation with your ETA.
• Travel to the UK for another reason
How much does an ETA cost? It costs £10 (~ BHD 4.7) to apply for an ETA. Babies and children travelling to the UK will also need an ETA to enter the country. How to apply? The fastest way to apply for an ETA is through the UK ETA application. You will need to upload photos of the passport and of the person applying for the ETA. Keep your original passport, emails, and payment method (credit card, debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay) ready while applying for the ETA. What happens after you’ve applied? Once you’ve completed the application process, you will receive an email confirmation with your ETA. This will also be linked to the passport you’ve used to apply for the ETA. The ETA lasts for 2 years. You can travel to the UK multiple times over the two years or until your passport expires (whichever comes first). If you get a new passport during the two years, you will need to apply for a new ETA. n
Bahrain Confidential February 2024 29
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