Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi Edition 14 March 2016

Easter Celebrations In Abu Dhabi

COMPLIMENTARY

EDITION 14 | MARCH 2016

Aloha Abu Dhabi

Mothers Day

Special events crafted to special guests. Stay tuned!

Open from 6.00pm till late

Barfly by Buddha Bar at the Venetian Village Within the grounds of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal Contact us at 02 404 1951 or barfly.abudhabi@venetianvillage.ae www.venetianvillage.ae/barfly Facebook.com/barflyabudhabi @barflybybuddhabar

EDITION 14

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

EDITOR’S BITE

Hello Foodies This month the city is alive with food and beverage celebrations. Whether it’s Mother’s Day, St Patrick’s Day or Easter one thing is for sure, by the end of the month we will all be reaching for our elasticated waist trousers.

This month I hit the road and travelled to The Chedi, Muscat, a tranquil resort with a selection of delicious restaurants. The Chedi is perfect for a weekend getaway and with flights costing a mere AED 350 it’s well worth a visit.

The Dubai Food Festival is in full swing and will last until 12 March. I would highly recommend visiting Etisalat Beach Canteen located on Kite Beach, Dubai. The free to go to event offers something for everyone. Be sure to try one of the delicious home grown restaurant concepts and whatever you do don’t leave without visiting Wofl, the waffles are amazing.

Also this month Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi has teamed up with Best Bites. Best Bites is a Facebook group for Abu Dhabi foodies, always on the lookout for the best dining options. From next month Best Bite members will be in with a chance of seeing their reviews printed in Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi.

The team and I are pleased to announce that this year Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi will be a sponsor of Aloha Abu Dhabi. This five day extravaganza running from 23 – 27 March will be held at Al Muneera, Al Raha Beach and will feature an array of street performers, food stands, fashion brands and live music.

Bon appétit!

Leanne Smart Leanne Smart | Editor In Chief

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cONTENTS Emirates Palace Chef Page 07 vENETIAN vILLAGE fESTIVAL Page 08 mOTHERS dAY Page 14 tHE cHEDI, mUSCAT Page 16 sT.pATRICK’S dAY Page 22

aLOHA aBU dHABI Page 25 EASTER Page 26 aMERIGO’S Page 32 dUBAI fOOD fESTIVAL Page 34 fOODIE nEWS Page 37

Culinary Specialist This month we speak to Emirates Palace’s Executive Sous Chef, Carmine Pecoraro.

Executive Sous Chef, Carmine Pecoraro is at the heart of Emirates Palace’s culinary prose. With a brigade of over two hundred and forty four chefs and fourteen kitchens, Chef Carmine brings to bear over sixteen years of experience in the luxury hotel industry, having managed multi-national teams and large scale operations in Europe and the Middle East.

He is passionate about his team, engendering and enriching their gourmet journey as chefs and continuously garners the epicurean curiosity and decadence that is characteristic of Emirates Palace.

Tell us about yourself My name is Carmine and I am the Executive Sous Chef at Emirates Palace. My role is to oversee the kitchens of all fourteen restaurants. I do this with the rigueur and finesse necessary to challenge the status quo and maintain Emirates Palace’s position as a culinary haven.

Which outlet is the biggest challenge and why?

I would say Le Vendome, we have a variety of guests from various countries dining there on a daily basis, from the Far East, India, GCC, Africa, Europe and the Americas, so finding a balance of what everybody can eat and enjoy is definitely challenging.

Any new and exciting events happening at Emirates Palace?

Yes, we have Flavours of the Palace coming up in April, which we are already preparing for. Flavours of the Palace is an alfresco gourmet feast. Guests can journey through eight artisan displays where they can redeem vouchers to sample teasers and experience our chefs’ unique twists on signature dishes from our award winning restaurants.This is in addition to our delectable monthly culinary promotions which we have running in our outlets throughout the hotel.

Do you like to cook at home?

If I can, I do, however my wife wears the ‘chef hat and apron’ at home. She usually prepares the meals for the family.

Who is your favourite celebrity chef and why?

Tomas Keller, he is a genius, he has utmost respect for the products he uses and this transforms onto the plate.

What do you enjoy cooking?

I really enjoy cooking seafood, fish in particular, just simply pan fried with a few condiments and enjoy.

What made you want to become a chef?

Playing in my father’s vegetable garden when I was very young and eating the produce as it came out of the ground or off of the plant. My father loved to cook, there was always something on the stove or in the oven and ready to be eaten. This greatly influenced me.

How has fine dining evolved since you started you career?

I feel there has been a great transformation in the past few years. Previously ‘fine dining’ was very formal, the food was very complicated and was spread over many courses. Today the scene has definitely changed 180 degrees, the eateries are more trendy and the food more simplified, focusing on key ingredients and flavours on the plate.

Do you work with any local suppliers?

We use local eggs throughout the hotel and we do occasionally source our vegetables locally during the cooler winter months.

However we are currently looking at a project where we will be growing some of our own produce here on the grounds of Emirates Palace.

Describe your role in 3 words Rewarding, satisfying, challenging.

Emirates Palace, 02 690 9000 MARCH 2016 | 07

Venetian Village Festival Located within the grounds of The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, the Venetian Village is Abu Dhabi’s newest dining destination. The stylish waterside development features six trendy restaurants showcasing an eclectic range of cuisines and gourmet concepts.

The Venetian Village will play host to the first Venetian Village Festival on the 4 and 5 of March 2016 from 3.00pm to 9.00pm.

Visitors will be able to enjoy a range of gourmet food samples provided by the esteemed restaurants’ pop-up stalls, alongside a vast array of entertainment.

Inakaya, the award winning authentic Japanese restaurant known for merging traditional cuisine with theatrical performances, will offer guests the opportunity to sample some of the best sushi in the region as well as specialities from the dedicated robata grill.

Recently launched, Barfly by Buddha Bar will be constructing an outdoor mocktail bar with a mixologist performing a flair show throughout the evening.

Furthermore, Todd English’s Olives, the restaurant concept developed by the widely acclaimed celebrity chef Todd English, is set to provide tasters, such as beef carpaccio, fresh pasta and a live pizza station.

To complement the culinary entertainment, the French restaurant Brasserie Flo will provide an oyster shucking station alongside their dessert samples and coffee.

To further embrace the celebration, the Venetian Village Festival will hold a wide range of activities for all ages.

Starting at 3.00pm, visitors will be amused by face painters, a roaming magician, a juggling unicyclist, a caricaturist, human statues and a stilt walker throughout the afternoon on both days.

From 6.00pm to 9.00pm each day, a four-piece jazz band will share the stage with the Barfly resident DJ in the central piazza, overlooking the Grand Canal shore.

Etihad Airways will be part of the event offering visitors special fares to a wide range of destinations, while a lucky few stand a chance to win a dream trip for two to Venice from Etihad Holidays on each day of the Venetian Village Festival.

With a vast range of complimentary cuisines on offer and entertainment to see the evening through, the Venetian Village Festival promises to be the perfect event.

For more information on the restaurants, visit www.venetianvillage.ae

08 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

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10 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

The first Inakaya opened in Roppongi, Tokyo in 1970 and has since expanded to New York, Hong Kong and Abu Dhabi Located in the Venetian Village, Inakaya is a traditional izakaya. Dubbed an interactive theatre, Inakaya presents a distinctive dining experience called robatayaki, a Japanese grilling art that is as much a performance as it is a way of cooking.

As soon as we arrived to Inakaya we are given a warm Japanese welcome. The enthusiastic staff are dressed in kimono and happi coat-style uniforms. The restaurant itself has been well designed to offer a comfortable yet interactive dining experience. If the timing is right, diners will also be able to enjoy the thanking performance performed by the energetic Inakaya team.

We decide to take a seat in the open conservatory area allowing us to take in the tranquil views of the canal.

For starters we order the tuna salmon tar-tar, tidbits of tuna and salmon in miso tartare sauce topped with crispy crackers, the giant prawn tempura, a deep fried jumbo tiger prawn with sweet wasabi mayonnaise and the Wagyu beef tataki, seared wagyu beef with green salad, enoki and shimeji mushrooms in truffle soy dressing.

The tuna salmon tar-tar is light and refreshing with the miso sauce adding a subtle tang to the dish. The giant prawn tempura is bursting with flavour, from the crisp batter to the sweet wasabi mayonnaise this dish is rich and flavourful. However the simple yet surprising flavours of the Wagyu beef tataki are not to be overlooked. This dish alone would be perfect for a light, healthy lunch.

Francis, the restaurant manager recommends we try the Kobe skewers, prepared using the traditional Japanese robata, skewers of Kobe beef are presented with freshly grated wasabi and original dipping sauce. Patiently grilled to perfection by specially trained master grill chefs, it is a joy to taste, as it is to watch the theatre and flare of Inakaya’s seated grill masters.

This dish is literally mouth-watering, the Kobe beef is succulent and cooked to perfection.

From the main menu we select the black cod fillet. Grilled miso marinated black cod, glazed in Japanese pickled plum with miso basil sauce. The glazed pickled plum sauce adds a tantalizing taste to the black cod. This dish has been crafted to perfection.

We couldn’t leave Inakaya without sampling the sushi so we place a small order of dragon-eel, sushi rice in nori roll with avocado on top, the crunchy roll, a California roll with tempura flake on the top and spider soft shell crab, tobiko and lettuce with sushi rice in nori, rolled inside out.

The sushi is beautifully presented on a red boat bowl emphasizing the colourful sushi. Again the sushi was sublime.

For our dessert we select the mochi ice cream in mango, chocolate and cheesecake flavour alongside the yuzu and passion fruit sorbet. Presented in a Japanese box on a bed of ice this was one of the most refreshing and best tasting desserts we have had the pleasure in trying. So much so, a few days after we returned just for the mochi ice cream.

This authentic Japanese restaurant offers some of the best tasting Japanese cuisine in Abu Dhabi. Staff are attentive, friendly yet not intrusive.

Well done to the team at Inakaya, very well done indeed!

Inakaya Venetian Village Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal 02 404 1921

MARCH 2016 | 11

Recipes by Carolyn Robb Carolyn Robb was the personal chef to TRH Prince and Princess of Wales, Prince William and Prince Harry for ten years. In celebration of the Queens 90th birthday Carolyn shares with us some of her wonderful recipes. Each recipe is easy to prepare and practical. The following recipes are from Carolyn’s new cookbook; The Royal Touch: Simply Stunning Home Cooking From A Royal Chef.

Chilled Lemon Tart With Strawberry Salad This lemon tart provides the perfect finalé to a special meal. It has a biscuit-crumb base and a chilled filling that make it a lot quicker to prepare than the traditional baked lemon tart with a pastry crust.

For the base you can use your favourite sweet biscuits: McVitie’s Digestives, Walkers shortbread fingers or Graham crackers all work well. Serve the tart with a summery, minted strawberry salad and the vibrant red berries next to the fresh, lemon-yellow filling will leap off the plate at you shouting, ‘Eat me!’

Ingredients You will need: One 15 – 18cm (6 – 7 inch) flan ring or china flan dish For the base: 140g / 5oz sweet biscuits * (1½ cups) 70g / 2½oz butter (5 Tbsp)

For the filling: 150ml / ½ cup double cream * 1 x 397g / 14oz tin * sweetened condensed milk 3 lemons, zest and juice For the strawberry salad: 200g / 7oz strawberries 100g / 3½oz raspberries 30ml / 2 tablespoons icing sugar * A few drops of lemon juice A few stems of mint

Method Makes one 15 – 18 cm (6 – 7 inch) tart, 4 - 6 servings Make the base: Crush the biscuits, melt the butter and mix them together. (The type of biscuits you use will determine how much melted butter will be needed to bind the base.) Press the biscuit mixture into the base of the flan ring or dish, and chill.

Make the filling: Whip the cream and fold it into the condensed milk.

Grate the lemon zest directly onto the cream mixture and stir it in with the lemon juice.

Pile the filling onto the crumb base. Level the top, cover and chill for at least an hour.

Make the strawberry salad: Wash, hull and slice the strawberries and place them in a bowl.

Crush the raspberries with the icing sugar and lemon juice and rub them through a sieve to make a smooth purée. Drizzle the purée over the strawberries. Shred the mint and sprinkle it onto the fruit.

Transfer the tart to a pretty plate, remove the flan ring and serve with the strawberry salad.

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Scones With Vanilla And Orange Zest One of the abiding memories I have of the Garden Parties that I attended at Buckingham Palace, is of the mountains of cream scones and cucumber sandwiches. Forever more, scones will be synonymous with Garden Parties for me. This is my favourite recipe for scones and my advice is to eat them fresh from the oven and never to stint on the cream and jam!

Ingredients You will need: A 4cm (1½ inch) pastry cutter and 2 flat baking trays 450g / 1lb plain flour * (3¾ cup) 60g / 2oz golden caster sugar * (¼ cup) 2.5ml / ½ tsp salt 15ml / 3 tsp baking powder

100g / 3½oz butter (7 Tbsp) 175ml / ¾ cup buttermilk 50ml / ¼ cup milk 1 free-range egg (UK medium / USA large) * 5ml / 1 tsp vanilla extract * Zest of 1 orange

Method Makes approximately 15 scones Preheat the oven to 220ºC / 425ºF. Sieve the flour, sugar, salt and baking powder into a large mixing bowl.

Rub the butter into the dry ingredients using your finger tips, until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

Blend together the buttermilk, milk, egg and vanilla extract.

Make a hollow in the centre of the ‘crumbs’, finely grate the orange zest into it and pour in most of the liquid.

Add in the remainder later if the dough seems dry. Traditionally, a small round-bladed knife or palette knife is used to mix the dough. You want to achieve a lightly-bound dough that is neither sticky nor dry and crumbly.

Lift the ball of dough onto a floured surface and knead it just 3 or 4 times to get rid of any cracks, working quickly. If the dough is over-worked it will result in ‘tough’ scones.

Pat the dough out to a thickness of 2cm (¾ inch). Cut out the scones, dipping the pastry cutter into flour each time, so that it makes a clean cut and does not drag the dough when cutting through it. Place scones onto the baking trays.

Gather the trimmings, lightly bring them together and pat the dough out again to cut out more scones.

Bake for 10 – 12 minutes, until well risen and golden.

For fruit scones, add in 60g (⅓ cup) sultanas or raisins. For savoury scones, replace the vanilla, orange zest and sugar with 60g (½ cup) of grated mature cheddar cheese and 15ml (1 tablespoon) finely chopped chives, added in at Step 5; top with a little extra cheese and a light dusting of paprika.

MARCH 2016 | 13

14 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

Spoil your mum this Mother’s Day! Yas Viceroy On 4 March, mothers will enjoy a complimentary Friday Brunch at Origins. Offering an outstanding international buffet as well as a delicious selection of local and regional specialty dishes, lucky mums will get to dine in style whilst soaking up the vibrant surroundings of the hotel and Yas Marina Circuit. To add to the experience, Yas Viceroy will be gifting mothers with a special present as a thank you for all their hard work.

Time: 12.30pm – 4.00pm The rest of the family can join in too with one of the below packages; AED 225* including soft beverages AED 375* including Italian fizz AED 480* including French bubbly Date: Friday 4 March Yas Viceroy, 02 656 0700

Le Royal Méridien Honour your mum this Mother’s Day with an elegant menu that's bursting with the season's best ingredients at the Fizz Factory Royale Brunch. Beginning with a complimentary glass of bubbly for mothers on arrival.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Celebrate Mother’s Day at the award winning Byblos Sur Mer. Choose from special set menus with unlimited soft drinks, tea and coffee and be entertained by Lebanese performers.

Time: 12.30pm – 4.30pm Starting at AED 250* Date: Monday 21 March InterContinental Abu Dhabi, 02 666 6888

Iris Yas Marina Mum’s can enjoy Iris picnic brunch’s mouth-watering BBQ brunch comprising of live stations, salad bars and signature beverages.

Time: 12.00noon – 4.00pm AED 200 includes a buffet with soft drinks, mocktails and juices.

AED 350 includes a buffet with house grape and draft hops AED 400 includes a buffet with premium adult beverages AED 450 includes a buffet with bubbly Children enter free!

Date: Saturday 19 March

Time: 1.00pm – 4.00pm AED 190* with soft popping selection AED 299* with house pouring grape and hops AED 95* kids from 6 to 12 years Date: Closest Friday to UAE Mother’s Day

Iris Yas Marina, 055 160 5636

Le Royal Méridien, 800 101 101

Time: 2:00pm - 6:00pm AED 160* for two people

The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort Indulge in a delectable Mother’s Day afternoon tea at The Drawing Room. Take in breathtaking views as you spend quality time with your loved one.

Time: 2.00pm – 6.00pm AED 140* per person including a selection of tea or coffee AED 180* per person including a selection of tea, coffee and 1 glass of bubbly Exclusive Offer: Buy 2 and Pay for 1. Available only on Sunday 6 March and Sunday 20 March Date: Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea available from 1 - 22 March The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, 02 498 8888

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Treat your mum to a fabulous lunch with delicious carvery at Rosewater this Mother’s Day. Enjoy a truly unique dessert buffet and a lovely rose to say a special thank you to mum.

Time: 12.30pm – 3.30pm AED 200* soft beverages and juices AED 250* buffet only and a glass of pink bubbly AED 310* house beverages including a glass of pink bubbly Date: Monday 21 March

The St Regis Abu Dhabi Savour a special edition Mother’s Day signature St. Regis afternoon tea exclusively available for the month of March.

The St Regis Abu Dhabi, 02 694 4553

The perfect getaway Six Senses Zighy Bay shows its appreciation for mums everywhere by providing them with an all-important break to one of the most beautiful locations in Northern Oman.

Located only two hours’ drive from Dubai, nestled between a long stretch of white sandy beach and the dramatic Hajar Mountains, the 82-villa resort presents a unique experience to rest and rejuvenate amidst luxury surroundings.

Mum can relax around her own individual plunge pool hidden within the privacy of high cobblestone walls or even enjoy the beauty of doing nothing on the beach looking out onto the Gulf of Oman.

For a mother-daughter weekend, no girls’ getaway would be complete without indulging in a spot of pampering and the award-winning Six Senses spa is a true refuge for both mind and body.

Villa Pool rooms start from AED 4,161 per night.

Reservations can be made to +968 2673 5888 or reservations-zighy@sixsenses.com

Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, 02 811 5666 *Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fees

MARCH 2016 | 15

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Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi’s Exclusive Culinary Travel The Chedi Muscat, Oman

MARCH 2016 | 17

Overview Occupying a prime beachfront location where the majestic Al Hajar Mountains meet their luminous reflection in the serene waters of the Gulf of Oman, the 5 star resort rises amidst an elegantly landscaped 21 acre oasis with 158 Omani influenced guestrooms and villas.

Ideally located The Chedi Muscat suits leisure and business travellers alike as main tourist attractions, financial centre, 3 golf courses and airport are only a 15 minute drive away.

Those looking for a leisure escape can enjoy the 370 meter private beach, 3 pools, including an adult’s only pool, 2 floodlit tennis courts, 6 distinct restaurants, a 1,500 square meter Balinese spa and wellness centre with 13 exclusive spa suites and 21 acres of lush gardens.

Travelling to The Chedi Muscat The journey to The Chedi Muscat from Abu Dhabi takes around 1 hour by air. Economy flights range from AED 300 to AED 700 depending on the time of year. On this occasion we flew with Oman Air and paid AED 350 per person. The flight was enjoyable and the Oman Air team provided a first class service, even though we were travelling in economy. As we arrive to Oman we purchase a 10 day tourist visa for AED 50.

We are warmly greeted by a member of The Chedi Muscat team and escorted to the hotel in a stylish new Mercedes. A spectacular welcome, The Chedi Muscat certainly knows how to make a great first impression and you know what they say, first impressions are everything.

As we arrive at The Chedi Muscat we are welcomed by Nicholas, the front office manager. Nicholas and his team are professional and approachable and instantly make us feel welcome.

Chedi Club Suite After a warm welcome we are escorted to our room on one of the resorts buggies. Our concierge takes the time to introduce us to our surroundings.

For our visit we are staying in the Chedi Club Suite. A private villa located 25 meters from the private beach. The Chedi Club Suite is partitioned into three sections, a living area, the bedroom and the bathroom. The décor is Omani influenced with a hint of Asian Zen, a theme that is seen throughout the hotel. Soaring ceilings and large windows allow guests to feel a sense of space whilst the luxurious furnishings add warmth and elegance to the room.

The living room features a large comfortable beige L shaped sofa, perfect for relaxing. Bronze lanterns hang from the ceiling giving the room a soothing ambiance.

The bedroom is large, spacious and minimalistic. Above the bed is a large silver dome featuring Arabic style lighting. The bathroom features a terrazzo sunken bathtub, an impressive walk-in rain shower with a hand held shower, a separate toilet and bidet, two wash basins and two closets with draw space complete the open plan bathroom. Our room offers a private outdoor seating area with endless ocean and garden views, making it the perfect place to unwind.

The Chedi Club Suite is inclusive of return airport transfers, complimentary mini bar, selected laundry, daily newspapers and access to The Club Lounge. At The Club Lounge guests are invited to enjoy afternoon tea and evening beverages and canapés as well as complimentary Wi-Fi.

18 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

Spa After settling into our room we make our way to the spa. Separately located, the spa’s location has been carefully selected to be close to the sea and the gardens, emphasizing relaxation and tranquillity.

Balinese therapies, Indian Ayurveda and indigenous rituals are amongst the highlights on the spa’s comprehensive menu, delivered in 13 meditative spa suites that combine dramatic Omani architecture with calming Asian interiors.

Mystical and enchanting the scents and décor of the spa evokes memories of our Asian travels.

Today we are here to experience The Chedi Jade Massage. Performed by two therapists, the dynamic treatment is designed to dissolve deep muscle tension. We change into our robes, eagerly anticipating our massage.

The massage has us completely relaxed as the therapists use a variety of massage techniques including Shiatsu, Balinese, Thai, Swedish, and Lomi-Lomi.

The spa team perform the massage perfectly and the exotic oils leave our skin feeling delightful.

MARCH 2016 | 19

Dining Tonight we are dining at The Beach Restaurant. Located on the beachfront and overlooking the Gulf of Oman.

The restaurants décor is stylish and sophisticated whilst the crashing waves add a sense of relaxation.

We are quickly greeted by the restaurant manager, shown to our table and offered the menu. The restaurant serves a selection of seafood ranging from caviar to Omani specialities such as Omani lobster. For those who would rather avoid seafood the menu also features fine cuts and poultry.

To begin our dining experience we order six pieces of Fine de Claire oysters and Iranian sevruga caviar. The Fine de Claire oysters are amongst the freshest oysters we have ever had the pleasure of tasting, delicate white flesh with a subtle salty taste, divine. The caviar is equally as fresh and well presented. Large, shiny and rich black the quality of the caviar is evident.

The Beach Restaurant team has spent time on every small detail and it is refreshing to see that mother of pearl spoons are being used to serve the caviar.

For our first course we order the lobster ravioli with oyster leaf, leek puree and shellfish foam and the Omani prawn and Hamachi ceviche, blossom vinegar, sumac crisps and tomato essence jelly.

The lobster ravioli is full of flavour and the foam adds a welcome dynamic to the taste. The ceviche is beautifully presented and the blossom vinegar invigorates our senses. Light and flavourful the ceviche is sweet to taste and the blossom vinegar works in harmony with the prawn and Hamachi.

For our second course we order the pan fried sea bass with soft polenta, green beans, vierge salsa and chanterelle.

Diverging from the seafood theme we decide to put the team to the test and order the grilled Wagyu marble 7 with mashed potatoes, root vegetable confit, green pea puree and thyme jus. We ask for this to be prepared medium to well done.

The pan fried sea bass arrives perched in the middle of the plate, the golden glow of the sea bass is illuminated by the reds and ambers of the vierge salsa and chanterelle. The sweet taste of the chanterelle is endearing and compliments the moist and flaky sea bass.

The Wagyu has been cooked to perfection and the pea puree adds a vibrancy to the plate that can only be described as sublime. We are left in awe of chef’s talents.

Finally to conclude our dining experience we opt for the chocolate discovery, a chocoholics dream and the Omani pearl, a fusion of traditional sweets such as halwa and modern hazelnut shortbread. Both desserts are sensational.

The Beach Restaurant offers delicious and innovative dishes carefully crafted by their masterful chefs.

We highly recommend travelling to The Chedi, Muscat just to dine here.

The Verdict The Chedi Muscat, Oman provides the perfect getaway for those looking to relax and unwind. The team are welcoming, accommodating and no request is ever too much. The hotel is catered for those in need of a break, from the calming gardens to the majestic spa The Chedi Muscat is a small slice of paradise in a busy world.

The Chedi Muscat Muscat, Sultanate of Oman Reservation Email: reservation@chedimuscat.com +968 24 52 44 01 20 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

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The capital city goes green this March as venues do their best to channel the Emerald Isle.

Dining & Nightlife Abu Dhabi rounds up the best places to party this St. Patrick’s Day

22 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

TOAST Europe 2016

The Westin’s Irishlicious Brunch

Why restrict yourself to just one way to ring in St. Patrick’s Day? The family-friendly event, Toast Europe 2016, is to getting the party started with St. Patrick’s Day festivities one week early. There will be all kinds of family-friendly activities.

Everyone can indulge in live music and dance to ‘Who Knows’, a band all the way from Galway, Ireland and a live DJ in-between sets. Tuck into European food from everyone’s favorite local outlets: La Brioche, Pizza Di Rocco, Wafflemeister, Belgian Café, Iris and Springbok Butchery along with succulent French rotisserie chickens.

This St Patrick’s themed brunch is where you want to be if you prefer to raise your fork, rather than your glass, to St. Patrick. The buffet will feature many Irish classic dishes to give you a taste of the Emerald Isle. If you want to raise your glass too, traditional Irish beverage will be on tap, because the patron saint would probably want it that way.

Time: 3.00pm - onwards AED 100 including 2 beverage vouchers and 1 food voucher.

Everyone under 21 goes free.

Date: Friday 11 March

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

Toast Europe 2016 at Du Forum, 02 417 3595

Go Green at McGettigan’s McGettigan’s have flown over a host of Irish music acts to perform free gigs across the weekend in celebration of St Patrick’s Day! Crowd pleasing Irish band ‘Gate Crashers’ will be performing as well as ‘Hometown’ who have taken time out of their current UK and Ireland tour supporting The Vamps. There will also be performances from McGettigan’s resident band, The Distillers plus a live DJ to keep the party going until late. Partygoers can watch traditional Irish dancers perform whilst enjoying McGettigan’s award winning food, drink, fun giveaways and an electric party atmosphere. The festivities continue on 18 March as one of Ireland’s top bands ‘Hermitage Green’ will be performing live.

The Limerick band is renowned for their unique style of indie rock, easily identified by their incredible four-part harmonies.

Time: 12.00pm - 3.00am Free entry on the 17 March. AED 149 from 5.30pm – 8.30pm plus unlimited happy hour on the 18 March.

Date: 17-18 March McGettigan’s Irish Pub, 02 652 4333

Time: 12:30pm – 4.00pm AED 290* per person and 145* AED per child.

Date: Friday 18 March

Still’s Lucky Irish Weekend Let St. Patrick’s cheer go straight to your belly with a meal deal on Stills’ fabulous new outdoors terrace. Get an Irish stew or pie and hops for a bargain price. There will also be special deals on Irish cheer with Irish tunes mixed by the talented DJ Glenn.

Time: 3.00pm - late AED 89.

Date: 17 - 18 March Stills Brasserie and Pub, Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, 02 656 3000

The Sportsman’s Arms’ St Patrick’s Day Brunch Are you looking for that place to take the family to celebrate St Patrick’s Day? Then book your table at The Sportsman’s Arms, where chefs will be serving up special dishes to celebrate the family-friendly gastro pub’s Irish roots. Be sure to sample their Irish-inspired BBQ menu. Specialties include a succulent lamb burger cooked and the hops and oyster pie.

Time: 4.00pm – 2.00am Dishes start at AED 25.

Date: Thursday 17 March The Sportsman’s Arms, 02 403 4235

PJ’s Irish Brunch On Friday 18 March, St. Patrick prescribes an Irish brunch to aid your recovery. Indulge in PJ’s live BBQ stations offering grills as well as a buffet of Irish favorites, such as Irish stew, Dublin steak and kidney pie and bangers and champ.

The poolside area is the perfect venue for children to play and enjoy kids’ activities, while parents sit back and enjoy the fun, ambiance and the ‘craic’, if you will. The fun doesn’t end there though because you will also be treated to live Irish music and dance brought to you by the Paddyman and his Irish band, DJ Lola Nova, along with popular resident band Sweet Chilli Jam and Resident DJ Fast Hands Oaky.

Cooper’s St. Patrick's Day Blowout

Time: 1.00pm – 4.00pm AED 200* per person. Kids under 5 years go free.

Date: Friday 18 March

Park Rotana Abu Dhabi, 02 657 3333

Alternatively head down to P.J. O’Reilly’s 24-hour St. Patrick’s Day Party on 17 March starting at 7.00pm and continuing late into the night!

If you’re looking to make a weekend of it why not take advantage of Le Royal Méridien’s special overnight package.

Starting from AED 590, enjoy an overnight stay, an Irish breakfast, a bucket of hops and a burger plus an all-inclusive paddy picnic brunch.

Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, 800 101 101

Forget shamrocks and lucky clovers, this evening is all about beautiful people and hops. Visit Cooper’s for an unforgettable St. Paddy’s Day celebration. The evening will be filled with the spirit of the Irish and special prices on hops and selected beverages. Don’t forget to come dressed in green!

Time: 6.00pm - onwards Free entry.

Date: Thursday 17 March

The Original Paddy Brunch at Heroes Sports Bar Enjoy free flowing house beverages and unlimited traditional Irish food as we celebrate St Paddy’s Day! Live entertainment by Fiddle East, followed by The International Playboys and a DJ to spin tracks late into the night.

Time: 5.00pm – 9.00pm for food and entertainment continues till 3.30am AED 199 for brunch Date: Thursday 17 March The Crowne Plaza, Abu Dhabi, 02 616 6132 *Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fees

MARCH 2016 | 23

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‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ New Beach Festival launches this March ‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ Abu Dhabi’s first beach festival will take place in Al Muneera Beach Plaza, Abu Dhabi’s first waterfront retail development, from 23 - 27 March. Created to bring families and friends together ‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ is expecting crowds of up to 10,000 tourists and local residents over the five day extravaganza. Held at Al Muneera Beach Plaza, the inaugural ‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ will feature an array of street performers, food stands, fashion brands and live music. Aldar Properties is looking to make ‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ an annual lifestyle event.

Meaning both ‘hello’ and ‘goodbye’ in Hawaiian ‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ represents Al Muneera Beach Plaza’s welcoming warm spirit, as the Al Muneera community is a place where residents and guests can truly live, work, dine and relax, all in one amazing location.

Designed to offer a fun-filled day out with its mixture of music and magicians the whimsical ‘Aloha Abu Dhabi’ event is perfect for families wishing to spend quality time together. Whilst its trendy selection of fashion pop-ups and food trucks appeals to fashionistas and foodies alike.

As the only water front retail area in Abu Dhabi, Al Muneera Beach Plaza will offer a truly unique experience and the ideal place to host the family friendly festival.

Conveniently located between Abu Dhabi and Yas Island, Al Muneera is built over an island and mainland precinct, providing spectacular views over the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. Its selection of dining outlets include Jones the Grocer, Meylas Emirati and Vasa Vasa.

Dates and timings Wednesday March 23 2016 4.00pm – 11.00pm Thursday March 24 2016 4.00pm – 11.00pm Friday March 25 2016 4.00pm – 11.00pm Saturday March 26 2016 4.00pm – 11.00pm Sunday March 27 2016 4.00pm – 9.00pm Tickets Entry is free!

Parking Free parking will be outside of Al Muneera Island and a shuttle bus will be provided to the event location. For VIP parking please purchase a VIP badge by contacting us on 04 409 6968 or via email aloha@alohaabudhabi.ae For more information visit www.alohaabudhabi.ae MARCH 2016 | 25

EASTER Easter falls on Sunday 27 March this year and it’s a time for ushering-in the start of spring and celebrating new life. Who are we kidding? It’s all about food. Here are our picks for the best places to satisfy your yearning for chocolate eggs and a lamb roast.

26 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

Easter at Yas Viceroy Easter Picnic Brunch in Palm Garden Yas Viceroy will be hosting an Easter themed picnic brunch in the picturesque surroundings of Palm Gardens, allowing families to bask in the sun whilst tucking into a picnic basket brimming with a selection of savoury starters and gourmet nibbles. After guests have feasted on their favourite starters, they will be able to fill their boots with roast lamb and ribs from the barbeque before finishing off with a visit to the dessert station filled with delicious chocolate eggs to satisfy any sweet cravings. To add to the fun, Yas Viceroy will be hosting an Easter egg hunt with rewards of chocolate eggs and special prizes for a lucky few. There will also be a host of activities available, from bouncy castles, to a meet and greet with 'Chuckles' the Clown, who will be making a special Easter appearance. Following a day of food, families can pick, pay and take home a choice of fresh fruit and vegetables from Yas Market and even meet the local animals from Yas Farm.

Time: 12.30pm - 4.00pm Starting from AED 140* Date: Saturday 26 March

Easter Brunch at Origins or Amici Enjoy a host of spectacular brunch choices from Yas Viceroy.

Those who fancy classic Italian cuisine can discover a traditional Easter feast at Amici with their 'Buffet Di Pasqua' featuring an indulgent seafood bar and live cooking stations. Start with a selection of salads, cold cuts and cheeses before moving onto the main event where guests can enjoy Amici's amazing selection of a la carte Italian specialties including the indulgent artichoke ravioli with pecorino cheese fondue or infamous grilled Sicilian red prawns.

Time: 12.30pm - 4.00pm Brunch at Amici: AED 220* Date: Friday 25 March Meanwhile, those looking for choice can cruise through the amazing live cooking stations at Origins, which will reflect cuisines from famous race tracks around the world including Monaco and Shanghai. Accompanied by free-flowing drinks stations and live entertainment, guests can feast on favourites from a variety of themed stations including oysters, fresh seafood, barbeque, carvery and artisan cheeses.

Don't forget to keep some space for the speciality Easter desserts, an ice-cream and waffle station and of course the traditional decadent chocolate eggs.

Time: 12.30pm - 4.00pm Brunch at Origins: AED 225* with soft beverages AED 375* with bubbly AED 480* with French bubbles Date: Friday 25 March

Chocolate Egg Making Class at Amici Families and friends can try their hand at making their very own chocolate creation from scratch. With a helping hand from the skilled chefs at Amici, discover the art of making the perfect chocolate egg this Easter for an entertaining morning of fun with the whole family.

Time: 10.30am - 12.00noon AED 150* per adult AED 100* per child Date: 19 – 24 March Yas Viceroy, 02 656 0700

MARCH 2016 | 27

Easter Picnic at Emirates Palace Let the Palace’s culinary team spoil you with a sumptuous picnic on the lawn as you revel in the landscape from the comfort of your blanket. Discover the savory and sweet delicacies packed for you in your very own Easter basket brimming with a variety of meats and vegetables cooked for you on a charcoal grill. Afterwards, a dessert hut awaits you with chocolatey surprises, including waffles, crepes and an ice cream wagon. Come early so your little ones can enjoy an exciting Easter egg hunt before the picnic.

Time: 2.00pm - 5.00pm Easter egg hunt: 1.30pm - 2.00pm AED 370*per person. Children under 6 dine free, children between 6-12 years AED 185* Date: Saturday 26 March Emirates Palace, 02 690 7999 Easter Munch, a Family Brunch at The Café There’s nothing like an Easter egg hunt to keep your little ones entertained! Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi located on Saadiyat Island is the perfect venue for little ones to search for delicious eggs whilst parents feast on a grand fare at The Café brunch. With games and entertainment all day long, this is the perfect family Easter brunch.

Time: 12.30pm – 4.00pm AED 350* per person Date: Friday 25 March Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas, 02 407 1234 Beach Rotana’s Eggstravaganza Easter Brunch Celebrate Easter with an abundance of food and kids’ activities at the Beach Rotana, featuring the best of the Essence, Benihana, and Brauhaus menus. Children will delight with an Easter egg hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny, while you tuck into a fabulous Easter feast.

Time: 12.30pm – 3.30pm Starting from AED 280* per person, AED 140* for children 6-12 years Date: Sunday 27 March Beach Rotana, 02 697 9011

Easter Brunch at Chamas and The Yacht Club Bring your friends and family to celebrate Easter with a wide selection of Brazilian and Asian delicacies delivered to you by the staff of Chamas and The Yacht Club. There will be plenty of activities to keep the kids occupied while the parents dine on traditional Easter treats.

Time: 12:30pm - onwards Starting from 250* per person and AED 145* for kids under 12 Date: Sunday 27 March Intercontinental Abu Dhabi, 02 666 6888 Easter Friday Brunch at Fizz Factory Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi invites you to a wonderful dining daydream at Fizz Factory Brunch with an Easter twist. Experience a veritable feast of activities including bouncy castles, face painting, drawings and the not-to-be-missed egg hunt with prizes to ensure little ones are kept happily busy. The set-up also offers the option of a kids’ small buffet as well as a kid’s movie in the ballroom and a much-anticipated appearance by the Easter Bunny. The brunch buffet includes Easter specials like spring lamb, season’s vegetables and an array of international favorites. Savor an international feast over extensive live cooking stations and a full dessert station that includes classic Easter treats. All children dressed in fancy dress for our mad hatters’ tea party enjoy a complimentary brunch when accompanied by a paying adult.

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Time: 1.00pm – 4.00 pm Starting from AED 190* per person, AED 95* for kids from 6 to 12 years, kids under 6 are free Date: Friday 25 March Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, 800 101 101 Easter Brunch at Nurai Island Take your family out for an Island Easter celebration complete with egg hunting, face painting, arts and crafts and themed brunch full of Easter goodness. Grown-ups won’t be overlooked at this brunch. If you no longer believe in the Easter bunny, you will be rewarded with a scrumptious brunch overlooking the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf and white sand beach that allow for nothing other than a perfectly relaxing weekend celebration.

Time: 12.00noon – 4.00pm AED 550*, Kids ages 4 to 12 years old are 50% off and kids under 4 years are free Date: 25-26 March Zaya Nuria Island, 02 506 6274

*The price includes boat transfer, access to the pool and the beach and brunch at Frangipani restaurant.

Ritz-Carlton’s Giornotte Easter Friday Brunch Celebrate Easter at Giornotte with fine international cuisine including an elaborate scallop and foie gras station, stuffed lamb saddle, roasted goose, wagyu beef leg carving station and a selection of more than 55 desserts at Dolce café. Visit Dolce’s Easter market for homemade chocolate eggs and bunnies. Parents mingle while the kids enjoy an Easter egg hunt and other exciting activities at the Ritz Kids Club. Easter activities begin at 10am Time: 12.00noon – 4.00pm AED 450*, AED 65* kids below 12 years and AED 206* children aged 13 to 16 years, kids under four are free Date: Friday 25 March Ritz-Carlton Grand Canal Abu Dhabi, 02 818 8282 The Fairmont Bab Al Bahr’s Easter Sunday Brunch For the traditionalists who hold off on the festivities until Easter Sunday, the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr will be offering Brunch that spans across both CuiScene and Frankie’s with the addition of a BBQ station, a Marco Pierre White station which will host favorites such as Black Angus Prime Rib Eye, Rotisserie Whole Chicken and traditional Yorkshire Puddings. The live station from Frankie’s Italian Restaurant and Bar will offer varieties of homemade pasta. Families enjoying the Easter brunch are able to enjoy the Easter egg hunt and will receive complimentary access to Chameleon, the main arena for all of the Easter fun. Children of all ages will be able to partake in a wide range of arts and crafts including cookie decorating and various holiday inspired games.

Time: 12.00noon – 4.00pm Starting from AED 269*, AED 135*for children 6-12 years, children under 6 years go free Date: Sunday 27 March Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, 02 654 3238 Olea’s Easter Sunday Brunch Visit sunny Saadiyat Island for a spectacular Easter Sunday Brunch celebration at Olea. Indulge your young aficionados at the Easter Camp and enjoy an elevated brunch, offering delightful holiday treats complete with a seaside view and the sound of rolling waves in the distance.

Time: 1.00pm – 4.00pm Starting from 300* AED per person Date: Sunday 27 March St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, 02 498 8888

The Westin’s Easterlicious Brunch The most family-friendly Easter brunch in Abu Dhabi just got even better for the whole family! While families enjoy a traditional holiday roast the Easter Bunny himself will hand-deliver chocolate eggs throughout the brunch. And because the fun just carries on at the Westin, the Easter bunny will visit again on April 3 to deliver more eggs to lucky children after the Easter holiday.

Time: 12.30pm – 4.00pm AED 290* per person, AED 145* for children 6-12, Kids under 6 are free Date: Friday 25 March The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa, 02 616 9999 The Sportsman’s Arms’ Easter Saturday If you have to work on Easter Sunday, then visit The Sportsman’s Arms and fill your kids’ Easter baskets with treats and activities.

The family-friendly gastropub is hosting the ultimate family Easter celebration, complete with an ice-cream vendor, bikes and a popcorn machine on the terrace. There is also a soft play zone with a climbing frame and slide. For the big Easter meal, The Sportsman’s Arms serves up a traditional roast all day. Indulge in hearty portions of striploin of beef, leg of lamb, and turkey, and the all-important trimmings.

Acapulco Fridays Pascua Easter Brunch It’s another “Fiesta No Siesta” session at the special Easter edition of Acapulco Fridays Brunch in Amerigos Mexican Bar & Restaurant! Prepare to be welcomed with sunny smiles and colorful cabanas, as your tummies are filled with delicious Mexican delights. Succulent seafood dishes and a special mole station (a yummy Mexican chocolate savory dish) will be on site during this special Easter brunch. The kids will surely have a chuckle trying to break the giant “Egg Piñata” whilst the adults have a great time dancing to the latest club mixes by our resident DJ. Time: 12.00noon – 4.00pm Starting from AED 140*. Inclusive of swimming pool access Date: Friday 25 March Park Inn, Yas Island, 02 656 2000 Jumeriah at Etihad Towers Celebrate Easter with loved ones over a fabulous buffet lunch at the family friendly Rosewater restaurant. Savor Easter favorites including roasts and trimmings as well as delicious chocolate eggs amongst other tantalizing desserts. The themed decorations will lift your mood whilst your kids can meet the Easter bunny, enjoy face painting and be entertained by balloon twisting

Time: 12.00noon – 11.00pm AED 95 per person Date: Saturday 26 March

Time: 12.30pm – 3.30pm Starting AED 275* soft beverages and juices Date: 26 – 27 March

The Sportsman’s Arms, 02 403 4235

Jumeriah at Etihad Towers, 02 811 5666

Special Easter Lunch at Corniche Celebrate spring during Easter themed lunch at Corniche restaurant. This is a perfect occasion to gather with your family and loved ones family while sharing a delicious meal over a buffet spread. Enjoy cuisines from around the world as our chefs bring you a blend of Arabic, European and International flavors for a delicious culinary journey.

*Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee.

Time: 11.00am – 11.30pm AED 145* per person Date: Sunday 27 March Hotel Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche, 02 813 7777 Easter Sunday at the Jannah Burj Al Sarab The newest five-star hotel in Abu Dhabi adds to the fun this Easter. Jannah Burj Al Sarab will host an Easter Egg Hunt, where guests can participate in the search for Easter eggs hidden within the hotel. A dining voucher worth AED 200 will be given in return for each Easter egg found and presented to the staff. The voucher can be redeemed at The Dining Room, the hotel’s all-day restaurant, or at Malaga The Lounge, a rooftop café. And, that’s not all!

Guests under 12 years will be given baskets of chocolate Easter eggs.

Time: All day Free to attend Date: Sunday 27 March Jannah Burj Al Sarab, 02 6526 777

MARCH 2016 | 29

Blu Sky Lounge & Grill sports meets style

The blue-hued low lighting feels like you have stepped into a glitzy Las Vegas venue, where you are always in the hippest crowd (even if you are truthfully still in the heart of Abu Dhabi) but, the tone of Blu Sky Lounge & Grill is grounded and friendly. It is like you are at a big game, watching all the excitement from the best eatery in the stadium instead of a cold, hard seat in the crowd.

There are over 14 crystal clear 50 - 85 inch TV screens spaced evenly around the large room, showing every tiny detail of every player on the field. The room is airy and divided into two sections by a large bar.

The friendly staff are dressed in ties and tuxedo vests, the best dressed sports bar attendees that I have even seen. Blu Sky Lounge & Grill is spacious but cozy, with great viewing vantage from all areas and able to adapt all moods. On one side there are dining tables with very comfortable modern swivel chairs and a few high top counters, while on the other side there is the more loungy area with low tables and soft (also swivel) arm chairs.

One of the greatest features is that all of the TV channels and all the lighting can be customized instantly by the manager’s quick tap on his iPad. Want to switch from football to soccer and dim the lights in your area? Just ask!

Blu Sky Lounge & Grill sticks to their sports theme from the very detailed elements of the décor (even the condiment holders look like football goals) to throughout the Gastro pub inspired menu, (i.e appetizers are referred to as the “Warm up”).

Executive Chef Manish brings his own flair to the menu which blends your typical pub food with high-end dining. Some of the most popular dishes include the supreme poutine which is a large bowl of crispy fries covered in chili con carne, jalapenos, sour cream and manchego cheese, and the chip shop platter which is a fried seafood fan’s dream come true.

Both are best when shared with a crowd of friends (or even with the opposing team) as the plates are huge, meaning Blu Sky Lounge & Grill really prides itself on showing off some of the best value in the city.

Some other favorites are the hearty and filling British staples like steak and stilton pie, and Irish stew. Yet, what turned out to be one of Blu Sky’s most in-demand dishes is their chicken tikka masala. All you need to do is order it and you will see why.

The presentation itself is impressive, not to mention the taste, exceptional. Meanwhile, on the sweet side, a personal favorite is the crisp, caramelized apple tart with cinnamon ice cream, which is one of Chef’s specialties.

As of now, Blu Sky Lounge & Grill has a hold on being the most comfortable and classy sports themed bar in Abu Dhabi, without being pretentious and pricy. They often have fun promotions and even offer a VIP room with its own lounge and independent screens. The VIP room can hold 15 guests comfortably or as many as you want to squeeze in.

A great idea for the next office gathering!

Blu Sky Lounge & Grill Southern Sun Abu Dhabi, 02 818 4888

30 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

Eggs-plore fun moments at Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Take part in the Easter egg-stravaganza of Fairmont Bab al Bahr.

From hunting eggs to discovering gourmet treasures, enjoy two days of celebration, fun and flavour.

Easter Monumental Brunch | Friday 25 March 2016 Easter Sunday Brunch | Sunday 27 March 2016

For more information, please call +971 2 654 3238, email us at dining.bab@fairmont.com or visit fairmont.com/babalbahr

Acapulco Fridays Brunch

32 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

This month the Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi team headed to Yas Island for the Acapulco Fridays Brunch at Amerigos Mexican Bar and Restaurant.

Amerigos offers indoor dining and outdoor dining. With the weather being exceptionally good this time of year, we took the opportunity to enjoy our brunch poolside, overlooking the beautiful Yas Links and the Arabian Gulf.

As we arrive at Amerigos we feel that we have left Abu Dhabi and travelled to Acapulco itself. The brunch has been set up to give guests a feel of Mexico, with sombreros, maracas and cactus empathizing the theme.

Unable to contain ourselves we head over to the food stalls.

The first stop, the ceviche and guacamole station.

Guacamole is available in two options traditional or con cangrejo (with crab) whilst the ceviche boasts three tempting delights, shrimp, tuna or seabass. We opt for the traditional guacamole and the tuna ceviche, both are prepared fresh. The ceviche is amazing, so much so we go back for a second helping.

Also worth mentioning is the salad bar, yes seriously.

The salad bar offers a selection of great tasting fresh salads, you can’t leave this brunch without trying the nopal salad.

A salad made from cactus, it doesn’t get any more authentic.

Next stop the taco and quesadillas station.

We opt for the beef quesadillas, the folded flour tortilla is bursting with melted cheese and just gets better with every bite. The quesadillas comes with the option of three fillings beef, chicken or chilli poblano. The tacos are also available in three options, chicken, beef or gobernador.

The grill has been tempting us all afternoon with the scent of freshly grilled meat filling the air, so we ventured down Acapulco street and make our way to the grill station.

The grill station offers a selection of lamb chops, chicken, beef sirloin and large prawns.

To complement the grills, a selection of pinto beans, chili dusted potatoes, Mexican rice and corn on the cob.

We opt for the succulent prawns and top them with a hearty serving of garlic mojo de ajo ajillo oil. Delicious.

Each dish has been infused to create mouth-watering flavours that will take you on a culinary journey to the heart of Mexico.

For dessert you will find churros, a selection of ice cream, popsicles and fruit salad. The churros are a must, the crisp churros are served warm and drizzled in a sweet caramel sauce, a great way to end a fantastic brunch.

Featuring authentic Mexican dishes served in a flamboyant and energetic atmosphere the experience is only further complimented by Amerigos attentive team.

As part of the brunch package guests are also invited to make use of the pool. Although we did take our swimming gear we never made it to the pool. The scrumptious brunch left us feeling rather full, maybe next time.

Acapulco Fridays Brunch AED 140* inclusive of soft beverages AED 220* inclusive of house pouring beverages *Prices subject to 10% service charge and 6% tourism fee

Amerigos Mexican Bar and Restaurant Park Inn, Yas Island 02 656 2000

MARCH 2016 | 33

Dubai Food Festival Continues Its Citywide Culinary Extravaganza After a successful start, the Dubai Food Festival shows no signs of slowing down.

We round up the best activities happening this month for foodies, fashionistas, families and fitness fanatics!

Etisalat Beach Canteen, Kite Beach (25 February – 12 March) The Festival’s free to attend, go-to destination serves 15 delicious home-grown restaurant concepts and celebrity chef appearances, visitors can enjoy all-new features such as fitness classes, open-mic nights, storytelling by the sea, a farmer’s market and fashion market, as well as local bands, DJs, children’s activities, beach cinema and beach sports.

For information on the schedule and details on how to register for or buy tickets for events, visit www.dubaifoodfestival.com.

Dubai Restaurant Week (25 February – 5 March) The inaugural Dubai Restaurant Week will see 30 of the city’s best fine dining restaurants offer a three course set menu at the exceptional price of AED 189 per person.

To book visit www.roundmenu.com/DRW

Street Nights Dubai Food Festival Edition, Bay Avenue in Business Bay (4 March – 5 March) Avenue in Business Bay will be overrun with activities and features for the entire family including food trucks, live street art, live performances from home-grown musical talent and a Night Bazaar. For more information, visit www.streetnights.ae

Taste of Dubai, Media City Amphitheatre (10 March – 12 March) Taste of Dubai returns as one of the biggest events of Dubai Food Festival, with a mouthwatering line-up of celebrity chefs, fine-dining restaurants and brand new features for foodies, families and friends.

Tickets are available from www.tasteofdubaifestival.com.

Signature Tastes (25 February – 12 March) During Dubai Food Festival, participating restaurants throughout the city will offer a “taste of their best” with limited edition signature dishes or menus. Order a Signature Taste from a participating restaurant and enter the draw to win incredible pre-loaded ADIB cards with an overall value of AED 250,000.

Visit www.dubaifoodfestival.com for more information.

Hidden Gems; Citywide (8 March - 10 March) Experience the Top 20 favourite unsung heroes of the Dubai food scene as part of The Dubai ‘Hidden Gems’ campaign. Dubai Food Festival goers can experience a one of a kind Gulf Photo Plus and Frying Pan Adventures tour of the Hidden Gems on the 6, 8 and 10 of March. Bookings can be made on www.gulfphotoplus.com/dubaihiddengems

Global Village Street Food Celebration; Global Village (25 February – 12 March) One of Dubai’s most popular family attractions, the Global Village joins hands with Dubai Food Festival to offer authentic street food dishes throughout the festival at its restaurants, cafes and kiosks representing its multicultural aspect under the Signature Taste promotion. Visit www.globalvillage.ae For more information on the Festival’s schedule and to buy tickets or register for events visit www.dubaifoodfestival.com/booknow

34 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

Kid Ink KID INK to perform at MAD on Yas Island on Friday 25 March Kid Ink cruises past all boundaries. The Los Angeles rapper, producer and performer can seamlessly slip from an irresistible hook into an impeccable verse, effortlessly bobbing and weaving between the club and the streets. There’s absolutely nobody quite like the tattooed head-to-toe impresario, and that’s the first thing you’ll notice when you take his full-length debut, My Own Lane [Tha Alumni Music Group/88 Classic/RCA Records], for a spin.

Grinding as a producer since the age of 16, he uncovered this creative highway by perfecting a personal style behind the board first. His production collaborations include everybody from Sean “Diddy” Combs, Sean Kingston, Nipsey Hussle and more. That experience in the studio set the stage for him to become the versatile and vibrant force he is today.

“My background producing contributes so much to my own music,” he admits. “I feel like I have a different ear because of that. I’m always aiming for a bigger sound and a bigger look. Instead of focusing on just a verse or simply spitting, I’ll tackle the melody or harmony and build from there. Then, I make sure what I’m saying matches. There’s got to be continuity. At the same time, I like to twist everything up a little bit.”

He officially started twisting the game up when he dropped his 2012 independent album, Up & Away. He covered XXL Magazine as part of that year’s “Freshman Class”, while the album smashed an iTunes record by debuting in the Top 5 of the Hip-Hop Albums chart prior to release and minus any traditional promotion. Cumulative single sales from the effort exceed over 500K, while it landed at #20 on the Billboard Top 200, moving over 20K copes first-week. Piping hot from the indie success, he inked a deal with Tha Alumini Group/88 Classic/RCA Records in 2013, dropping the acclaimed Almost Home EP that same year. However, everything simply laid the foundation for My Own Lane.

“We’ve got a bigger machine to help out we were already doing from day one,” he says. “I feel so blessed to be in this position, but it all starts with the music one-hundred percent. That won’t change.”

Ultimately, that music is going to continue satisfying listeners worldwide too. “I want people to feel surprised,” he concludes.

“I want them to get something they don’t expect. I want them to look forward to more too.”

Get ready to ride down Kid Ink’s Lane at MAD on Yas Island for their URBAN Edition on Friday 25 March 2016.

MAD on Yas Island is a state of the art space brought to life by the ADD-MIND GROUP, the creative team behind successful WHITE DUBAI and IRIS brands. The opulent nightclub features 360 degree projection mapping, huge animated LED screens, an exceptional sound system, beautiful light shows and a luxurious VIP area which boasts private bathrooms.

Setting a new norm to Abu Dhabi’s hospitality standards, the biggest indoor nightlife venue in the UAE has hosted entertainment shows, fun themed parties and biggest international names in electronic dance and popular music including Jason Derulo, T-PAIN, Jeremih, Eve, DANNIC, J. Cole and more.

Open on Thursday, Friday and Sunday from 11.00pm until late.

For reservations, visit www.madyasisland.com or call 055 834 6262 Guests must be 21 years old or older.

36 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

FOODIE NEWS

Editors Pick!

Urban Kitchen’s Irresistible Friday Brunch Savings! 2 for the price of 1!

Feast on a lavish ‘Wok with Me’ Friday brunch at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi’s Urban Kitchen.

Enjoy live cooking stations, seafood delicacies, Asian noodle bar, sumptuous pastries and much more!

All for a special price of AED 250 net for 2 persons.

Dusit Thani, Abu Dhabi, 02 698 8137 “The Station” Unveiled In Abu Dhabi Under the patronage of HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Sultan Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, The Galleria announces the launch of a pop-up concept showcasing home-grown talent and the region’s finest fashion, art, culinary and entertainment innovators. The Station will launch on 2 March and run through 19 March, 2016. Al Maryah Island’s waterfront promenade will showcase designer booths, gourmet food trucks and art exhibits. Beauty stations will offer the latest tips from experts, and visitors can browse from selections of jewellery, perfume and accessory stands. Inspirational talks and workshops will be held during the week, while live entertainment takes place on the weekends with performers, actors, comedians and singers showcasing their talents.

The Station at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi will run from 2 – 19 March 2016 and will be open on weekdays, Sunday Saturday from 4.00pm – 10.00pm and on weekends, Thursdays – Fridays from 4.00pm – 12.00am.

Abu Dhabi to Get UAE’s First Kababji Express Kababji, the award-winning Lebanese food chain which is noted for its fresh, quality and authentic cuisine, is to open its first UAE Kababji Express, fast service concept in Abu Dhabi before the end of March. It’s the first Kababji Express outside of Lebanon.

The 60 square meter outlet will open in the food court at the upscale The Galleria on Al Maryah Island. Apart from serving mall customers it will also offer a free delivery service on the island and in the nearby Tourist Club Area.

The Galleria, Al Maryah Island, 02 6166 999 Prêt To Go Expands To Abu Dhabi Prêt To Go, the home-grown F&B concept founded by entrepreneur Kunal Lahori, is pleased to announce the brand’s foray into Abu Dhabi with its sixth outlet. The Abu Dhabi outlet of the brand is located at Terminal 1 and is now open for business. Spread across 80 square meters, the venue offers guests the full variety of Prêt To Go’s awesome menu including salads, sandwiches and breakfast items, giving travellers the opportunity to lead a guilt-free lifestyle.

MARCH 2016 | 37

Best Bites!

Tell us about yourself I moved to Abu Dhabi with my husband and two children almost six years ago. We all enjoy it here, my husband has a job he loves and for the kids Abu Dhabi is home.

I'm a 'community' person, I enjoy doing stuff that helps build communities. I'm involved in a few different community initiatives and that's how I got into administrating Facebook groups. That and the control freak within hah.

What made you decide to start Best Bites Abu Dhabi?

One day I had seen a new venue, it was all over Facebook but I was trying to find out if it was worth a visit. I had so many questions, what was it like? What did they serve?

Was it expensive? It occurred to me that people were asking these questions all the time, so why not ask them to a wider audience? I really want to encourage people in Abu Dhabi to eat out of their culinary comfort zones and share their experiences.

How many hours a week do you spend managing the group?

Best Bites is now a full time job for me. I still administer the group quite closely. I love the chat and banter as well as the informative reviews. However I am about to appoint more admins to help me manage the group as it continues to grow.

How has the group grown and developed?

Best Bites has taken off! I never honestly thought it would grow so quickly or become so influential. But actually, that was quite disingenuous of me because Abu Dhabi has a lot of restaurants and a myriad of fabulous places to eat that people don't know about and may be nervous to try.

Industry professionals in the group also enjoy reading the reviews and use them as a tool to improve people's experience. I have noticed that with a few places I have revisited the service has improved and I wonder how much the good people of Best Bites have influenced this.

What dining trends have you seen emerging?

More and more people are conscious of cost and are insisting on value for money. There is an increasing amount of healthy eating options in Abu Dhabi which is in huge demand.

Are members more interested in casual dining or fine dining?

Lots of people are interested in family dining options which offer good value and decent quality. And people want steak! We get loads of 'where can I go for good steak?' questions. There's stiff competition in this category!

Best family dining option in Abu Dhabi and why?

The Living Room Cafe is a no nonsense café with great homemade food. The staff are lovely and well-trained. My kids love the 'taste of home' lamingtons. Also Abdel Wahab in the Souq at Qaryat Al Beri because the food is glorious, the staff are nice and in winter the kids can play safely outside.

Describe to us your perfect dining experience?

I love a venue with a view and a busy restaurant is a must. The service needs to be sharp and the food tasty and well presented.

Entertainment is welcome but ideally, there wouldn't be too much ambient noise. Drums are a big no no.

Do you like to cook at home?

I could scarcely care less about cooking fabulous dinners but I love baking. I guard recipes jealously and often my recipes are from my mum and other bakers from New Zealand.

Describe Best Bites Abu Dhabi in three words.

Fun, informative and diet busting!!

To join Best Bites Abu Dhabi simply search the group on Facebook and get eating!

From next month the best reviews featured on Best Bites will also be published in our next edition of Dining and Nightlife Abu Dhabi, so be sure to write a detailed review, take some great pictures and be in with a chance of seeing your review in print!

38 | DINING AND NIGHTLIFE ABU DHABI

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