3 minute read
GREEK CHIC
Traditional meets modern with both cuisine and décor at Gaia in DIFC, serving up the best of the Med
A single visit to Gaia is all it takes to discover why this Greek restaurant rose to prominence on Dubai’s dining scene within a short span of time. Tucked away in the bustling neighbourhood of Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the venue has quickly established itself as a popular hangout among Dubai’s chic gourmands.
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Given that DIFC’s dining scene is packed with restaurants serving up cuisines from all across the globe in a variety of settings, we’ve seen quite a few hits and misses. But Gaia became an instant crowd favourite – no surprises here – thanks to an exceptional menu. You can expect to be wowed every time you visit. And with chef Izu Ani at the helm, who charms with his creative spin on classic Greek cuisine, you know it’s culinary magic waiting to happen.
It seems like everything chef Ani touches turns to gold lately. Following the success of Le Petite Maison, La Serre, Carine and The Lighthouse, he set his sights on Gaia, and together with head chef Orestis Kotefas, he conceptualised a menu that champions humble and authentic Greek cuisine that relies solely on fresh produce. And this concept shines through in every creation on offer.
We recommend making reservations when you plan on visiting because Gaia is fully booked almost every evening. In fact, one of the first things we noticed on our visit is the social buzz – a house full of diners eagerly waiting to sample the culinary brilliance showcased by the restaurant’s chefs. But once you settle down, you’ll notice how truly stunning the venue is.
The clean neutral interiors are highlighted in creamy whites, greys and beige, while comfy seating and bright chandeliers light up the expansive space. Solid marble furnishings and rose gold elements
add a touch of elegance to the venue, and it all comes together as a nod to a traditional taverna, but with Gaia’s modern touch.
Taking centre stage at the venue is an ice market, brimming with fresh catches, from lobsters, prawns and squid to more local varieties. Here you can take your pick of seafood, with the help of the restaurant’s staff who will be happy to assist with recommendations.
We started off with the choriatiki salata (Greek salad) and we recommend you do, too. Giving you a true taste of the Med with fresh and flavourful ingredients, the dish is one of the restaurant’s many highlights. Simply put together with a mountain of tomatoes, barrel-aged feta and homemade pickled olives, it works well as a light starter, offsetting all the indulgence that lies ahead.
From the menu’s raw section, the most recommended items include the salmon carpaccio, served simply with lemon, olive oil, chilli and dill. The lightly smoked tuna carpaccio with black truffle dressing is also not to be missed. Fans of oysters can take their pick from the fresh market, while caviar is also on offer. Paired with some bubbly, this makes for the ideal treat.
Up next, we opted for the restaurant’s fresh catch of the day as our mains – the calamari. With very little in the way of other ingredients – tomatoes, pickled shallots and a dash of lemon juice – the fresh flavour of the squid really shone through.
While the calamari is grilled to a slight crisp on the outside and tender on the inside, the leftover dressing goes well with the crusty bread on your table, so don’t be afraid to dunk it right in.
Accompanying our seafood mains was a vegetarian option – the creamy mushroom pasta topped with white or black truffle –definitely an item you shouldn’t miss. But if there’s one thing you’ll find yourself coming back for, it’s the wonderfully delicious filo mille feuille, made up of crispy filo sheets, sweet fresh cream and drizzled with pistachios. We couldn’t ask for a sweeter end to our meal!
