FACT Bahrain December 2016

DECEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 4 BD1

2 016 ALL THE WINNERS INSIDE!

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Contents 08 FACT FINDS

31 FeSTIve FuN

48 xmAS gIveAwAy

It’s a Rave of Thrones with the one and only Hordor from Game of Thrones, at Cafe Amsterdam’s big party!

Your ultimate go-to Christmas forecast for where to spend the holiday season with friends and family.

The annual festive competitions that FACT readers have been waiting for! A prize every day for Christmas.

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Nye hAppeNINgS

Parties, gala dinners, brunches, lunches and more awesome ways to ring in 2017, right here in Abu Dhabi.

120 gLobeTroTTer

FACT took a trip to the magical city of Prague to see what the Czech capital has to offer visitors. Check it out...

CITI FACT AwArDS

q&A: LIKwID

All the 2016 winners revealed!

The 7th annual Citi Fact Awards took place at ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands!

FACT meets the Bahraini band that’s causing a stir on an international music stage!

Meet the men behind Likwid...

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ISLAND rIDeS

Our resident motoring man took a trip to Germany to try the new Porsche 718 Cayman - this is what went down!

CheF’S TAbLe

This month’s tasty treat comes courtesy of The Ritz Gourmet Lounge and a fabulous menu with signature items.

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THE EDITOR

Can’t Stop The Feelin’ “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language and next year’s words await another voice.” - T.S. Eliot

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t’s December 2016 and all I keep asking myself is: how did this happen? Time is moving faster than I can ever remember. But, before you rush onto the next one, pause for a second and think about all the things you’ve been able to achieve and experience this year. If, like me, the year seems to be a blur, just scroll through the photo gallery on your phone (or instagram profile) and remind yourself of all the amazing memories you’ve made. At FACT, it’s been a rollercoaster; dining awards, local events, seasonal campaigns and now the festive period; we’ve seen and done it all!

This month is, hands down, the most lively and special in Bahrain. We’ll be getting into the celebratory mood with many of you on Bahrain National Day (p20); during the festive period (p31); and plenty of awesome New Year’s Eve happenings (p51).

If you’ve been following FACT for the past few years, you’ll know that December is also the time when we bring back our holiday favourite for our readers; FACT’S FESTIVE GIVEAWAY! A prize every day until December 25? Yes, please! Turn to p48 and find out what you can WIN every day, and don’t forget to ‘Like’ us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ FACTBahrain) and follow us on instagram (@factmagazine) to enter the daily competitions!

This month, we also rejoice at the success of the 7th annual Citi Fact Dining Awards. The entire food and beverage industry turned out for a huge celebration at ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands where 72 venues were awarded in 36 categories, in the presence of over 350 people. Let me take this opportunity to say thank you to all of our readers who voted in their thousands, our amazing sponsors and all the people who give us great food and drinks in Bahrain! Check out all the winners on p71.

As always, family, food and travel were at the forefront of my 2016, and they’re all things that will continue into the next!

Surely, the only way is up? Wishing you all a merry holiday season and a Happy New Year. ☺

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

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition December 2016 Volume 10, Issue 4

Director Omar Shaheen Chief Executive Officer Greg Hughes Editor-in-Chief Shabana Adam (shabana@fact-magazine.com) Creative Director Paula Leal Graphic Designers Jyoti Rawat Rashed Bin Daina Photography Rashed Bin Daina Shobin Joseph Production & Distribution Ajit Kumar Neil Mahmood Country Director Kirsty Edwards-Harris Regional Business Development Director Rami Khalil Sales Director Mayukh Majumdar Contributors Gareth Woods Georgie Bradley Georgina Jennsen Sofia Graniello Yvonne Cole Tony Sidgwick ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES Tel: +973 3632 0826 E-mail: kirsty@factlive.com PRINTED BY Dar Akhbar Al Khaleej

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

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

ERDEM Saks Fifth Avenue CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN +973 17172000

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SOCIAL MEDIA

twitter

instagram @factmagazine

FACT Bahrain

3,409 followers

@FACTBahrain

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

DECEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 4 BD1

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

2 016 ALL THE WINNERS INSIDE!

facebook

tweets Mahmood Zeyad @MahMooDZeyaD I love arrival terminals at airports. It’s like mini happy movies in every hug exchanged.

Malcolm Combe @MalColMCoMbe #WhyIthinkImstillsingle because I am waiting for the special someone who cringes at the omitted apostrophe in that hashtag as much as I do.

FACT Bahrain

11,787 likes Keep up with all things Bahrain as the FACT team posts the latest competitions, happenings and everything we’re getting up to for the monthly magazine. Send us a message – we love to hear from our readers!

Our Fave Feature NOVEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 3 BD1

Kayleigh x @MIssterraCe this ship cannot sink. Whoops. #DescribeaMoviesPlotIn5Words

basma Mahmood @basMahMooD today’s activities include: practicing the art of sleeping with eyes open whilst also looking busy and hard at work.

Mohammed al-binateej @ateeKster Me: It’s weekend. I better go out. have fun. Meet new people. Me to me: Why? being alone with a good book is way better. #introvert

BBQ 101

TIPS, TRICKS & RECIPES TO GRILL LIKE A CHAMP

DINING STREET

AL FRESCO FOOD FIX IN BAHRAIN

PERIODICAL REINCARNATION

THE ART OF COLOUR AND COLLAGE

issuu.com FACT Bahrain

53,428 reads of the November issue If you need your FACT fix pronto, flick through our monthly online edition on issuu.com for all the best features, including local culture, arts, fashion, food, motoring, tech, travel and entertainment, in Bahrain.

Follow us on twitter and maybe you’ll be here next month! @FACTBahrain 6

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Festive Happenings p31

re/IMAGINE YOUR re/IMAGINE YOUR SATURDAYS. SATURDAYS. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay invites you to discover the perfect Saturday brunch at re/Asian Cuisine by Four Seasons Hotel Bay invites you from to discover Wolfgang Puck.

SoakBahrain in the immersive views the 50th the perfect Saturday brunch at re/Asian Cuisine floor and feast on mouthwatering Asian selections by like WolfgangFried Puck. Soak in the immersive the Shrimp 50th Korean Chicken Bao Buns, views Wok from Fried floor and feast on mouthwatering Asian Dumplings and Brisket Wontons for BD 19++. selections like Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, Wok Fried Shrimp Every Saturday afternoon • 12:30PM - 3:30PM Dumplings and Brisket Wontons for BD 19++.

Reservations: +973 1711 5046

Every Saturday afternoon • 12:30PM - 3:30PM

fourseasons.com/bahrain Reservations: +973 1711 5046 fourseasons.com/bahrain

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CHECK IT OUT

FACT FinDS

Rave of Thrones UndoUBTedly THe mosT proFoUnd line To Come oFF Any TV sHow in 2016 wAs Hold-THe-door (yes, we sTill Feel THe pAin), BUT BeFore yoU rewind To reliVe THAT BrAVe (And HeArTBreAking) momenT, leT Us sHAre wiTH yoU THe mosT exCiTing news. THe one And only krisTiAn nAirn, wHo plAyed Hordor on gAme oF THrones, is on His wAy To BAHrAin!

Café Amsterdam is bringing one of television’s most beloved characters to Bahrain! Kristian Nairn, who played the fanfavourite character Hodor in HBO’s hugely successful series Game of Thrones, based on George R.R. Martin’s best-selling novels, will be at Café Amsterdam on December 17.

Nairn, who is also an internationally acclaimed DJ and producer, will be performing his full set of progressive music in the Rave of Thrones extravaganza! The Game of Thrones themed event will offer fans an exclusive opportunity to witness Nairn preform live, with the decorated interiors at Café Amsterdam giving them a real-life taste of the Seven Kingdoms! Game of Thrones fans are sure to have an unforgettable night at The Rave of Thrones, with those who come dressed in costumes inspired by the show, receiving a welcome beverage on the house!

As a musician, Nairn has tread the boards with likes of Scissor Sisters, Mylo, Calvin Harris and Alphabeat; as well as being part of bands such as AJ Suzuki and Dublin’s very own Daddy’s Little Princess. As a DJ and electronic music producer, he held down a residency for 11 years in Kremlin, one of Ireland’s most popular 8

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and enduring venues. His remixes have been played in sets by some of house music’s true legends, including the Freemasons and Grant Nelson. As a performance artist, Nairn uses his musicality to fuse together immense performances, often mixing and even playing the music himself.

Transitioning from the stage to the screen, Nairn was voted one of the most memorable guests of Channel 4’s The Salon and was consequently used in promoting the show’s following season.

During his free time, Nairn remains a loyal sci-fi and fantasy fan, in not only his on-screen role of Hodor, but also finding himself on the small screen via Blizzard’s award winning game, World of Warcraft.

Now, to choose which character to dress up as – THAT’s the big question. See you all there! ✤ GO: Rave of Thrones will take place on December 17, from 9pm to 2am, and is sponsored by Café Amsterdam, BMMI Shops and FACT. Tickets cost BD10 in advance and BD15 at the door. Call 1700 7404 for reservations and more information.

JAGUAR TRADE-IN / BUY-BACK PROGRAMME

BRING THEM HOME

JAGUAR WANTS TO BUY BACK YOUR VEHICLE. For all that Jaguar gives to the driving experience, bringing it home can be an even more rewarding.

Whichever model it is and whatever journey it’s taken, a unique trade-in / buy-back programme will ensure that your Jaguar not only lives on but that compensation for it – whether upgrade or cash option – will be one as valued as much as Jaguar ownership itself.

Euro Motors Tel: +973 17 460 460 approved.me.jaguar.com/euromotors

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LISTEN Up

Happy Birthday Buddha Bar! WHAT: Buddha Bar 20th anniversary nye CeleBration WHERE: Bushido, seef WHEN: deCemBer 31, 8.30pm ‘til late PRICE: Bd10 advanCe and on the door for ladies/ Bd15 advanCe and Bd25 on the door for gents.

2016 has been a year to remember for the world-famous Buddha Bar! In September, the venue celebrated its 20th anniversary in Paris and now, to celebrate two decades of success and unlimited developments, Bushido’s New Year’s Eve party will be centered in celebrating this emblematic venue by welcoming special Buddha Bar entertainment for NYE! As an innovative pioneer, Buddha Bar, a reference for many Parisian establishments, will not stop playing in the big leagues any time soon. This is the story of a myth. Beyond an address, the mere evocation of the neighborhood embodies festive Paris, its legendary parties and endless nights. Steadily established in the heart of the Faubourg St Honoré disctrict, Buddha Bar, led by a passionate team of experts, has made its way and has continued its storyline while constantly reinventing itself. A permanent emulation reigns supreme within the Buddha Bar world that is a place where routine does not exist. Quite the contrary: exhibitions, vernissage, live music performances, book signing during the start of the literary calendar all give rhythm to the seasons and the Buddha Bar life. Chefs from different outlets tour worldwide for temporary residences: Dubai meets Praha when Moscow decides to settle in Paris. And events can come in many unexpected forms: and so pop-up weeks honour destination gastronomy and culture (Korea, Japan, and India with the Bollywood theme for example). The party never stops.

You’ll get a chance to experience a slice of this nightlife paradise right here in Bahrain at Bushido’s 2016 NYE celebrations – be there or miss out!

GO: Call 1758 3555 for reservations and more information.

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JEEP WRANGLER 2016 /azayani.bahrain /ahmedzayani_bahrain www.ahmedzayani.com Showroom Timings: Sat - Thurs, 8am - 7pm

CALL NOW 17 238822 fact magazine

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LISTEN Up

Maki’s Holiday Treats

Let the festivities begin! That is the frame of mind at Maki restaurant where culinary innovation is the dayto-day order of business. In years past Maki has brought us many award-winning, mouthwatering dishes such as the Sushi Jewels, Oliver Maki, Oliver Temaki, Forest Haze Salad, and the Terrarium Matcha Tiramisu.

“We are constantly working hard to come up with the next palate-pleasing dish,” explains Amer Zeitoun, cofounder and nutrition expert.

Maki has recently introduced several new inventions including the zesty and citrusy Bloody Ceviche, which is Maki’s adaptation of a staple Peruvian dish, centered on seafood, corn, and a tantalising sauce that is sure to send your taste buds dancing. Another recent introduction was the Wagyu Steak which is a meat-lover’s dream.

Raw, perfectly marbled thin slices of juicy Wagyu, nicely presented on the side of a hot lava-stone, gives diners the opportunity to cook this very exclusive meat to their own liking. Sitting at Maki, you are bound to see one of these dishes make it to at least one or two tables. Try to resist the aroma of the beef cooking in its own juices on the barbeque stones, and it will prove to be a daunting task for your appetite.

So what should you expect for the holidays coming up?

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Maki is sticking to basics throughout the season, leading up to New Year’s Eve. On the night, you can expect a la carte fine dining, accompanied by delightful DJ tunes, party favours, and an exciting Maki-special countdown.

What better way to fill your tummy than with the best that contemporary Japanese cuisine has to offer, before heading out to the New Year’s party trail? ✤ GO: Visit Maki in Bahrain World Trade Centre, West Tower. Call 1752 2733 to book your New Year’s Eve dinner at the newly-remodelled venue.

Dare to explore

Starting from BD

7,699*

10 YEARS OR 1 MILLION KMS WARRANTY*

MG.Bahrain

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*Terms & Conditions apply

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LISTEN Up

Celebrate at Meisei One of our favourite spots in Bahrain for quality music events, amazing food, a great rooftop lounge and consistently good parties has to be the stylish Meisei in Adliya.

December is no exception as the venue brings you some more fabulous happenings…

WHAT: night of the dragon WHEN: deCemBer 15 Say hello to the weekend and let Meisei take care of your Thursday night! Celebrating the winter solstice, an auspicious Chinese festival, this is going to be one event to remember. On the longest night of the year, bask in the glow of Chinese lanterns and be entranced by the enthralling Dragon Dancers weaving their way around the first floor and rooftop. By popular demand, the electric Sally Potterton returns with her neon violin to accompany DJ Salime’s relaxed tunes under the stars. Dining as usual from 7pm, entertainment starts from 9pm.

WHAT: trix and sax for nye WHEN: deCemBer 31 Welcome 2017 in the most trendy way! Fancy something different this New Year’s Eve? Meisei will host an elegant evening featuring Trix & Sax, a sophisticated entertainment duo that brings together international Saxophonist Sarah Chandler (founder of the famous London Saxation girls) and one of the UK’s finest Sleight of Hand Magicians, Ashley Turner. The duo perform in tandem with Sarah’s improv-style Saxophone vibes, and Ashley performing his Sleight of Hand Miracles. Be amazed this New Year’s Eve at Meisei with great tunes and cool tricks!

GO: Call 1700 7770 for reservations and more information.

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The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain’s Cooking Competition Amateur cooks, get your apron on! The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain will host the DeLonghi Bahraini Chef Competition, a dedicated twoday cooking competition for Bahraini nationals, to take place on December 13 and 14.

As part of The Ritz-Carlton’s Community Footprints programme, the DeLonghi Bahraini Chef Competition will take place during the celebrations of the Kingdom’s National Day with the aim to empower the aspiring chefs of Bahrain and invest in nationals possessing outstanding culinary talent, allowing them to develop further in their field of choice.

Asif Jiffry General Manager Yaquby Stores, said: “We have so many excellent young cooks in this country who are eager to learn, grow, and advance their careers, as well as cook on a national stage.

This competition is a celebration of the younger generation of aspiring, talented chefs.”

Candidates who wish to apply are required to be a minimum of 18-years-old and are to post a video of themselves making a dish of their choice on Instagram tagging @Bahrainichefcompetition and using the hashtag #Bahrainichefcompetition. A panel of judges composed of five renowned chefs and food connoisseurs will review the videos and create a shortlist of candidates. The final line-up of 16 participants will battle it out over the two-day 16

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competition. At the event, participants will perform a two-hour cooking contest, with the judges selecting the final winner.

With its focus on developing local talent, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain and DeLonghi will award the winner an exclusive culinary experience and exposure with a Michelin star chef at one of The Ritz-Carlton properties in Europe. The winning dish will also be featured at one of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s restaurants.

Mr. Christian Zandonella, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, said: “We are thrilled to celebrate the Bahrain National Day with the creation of this event.The Kingdom holds a significant position in the Middle East’s culinary space with an outstanding range of local delicacies, and the Bahraini Chef Competition will be a platform to celebrate the younger generation’s passion for creativity and excellence in crafting 5-star culinary masterpieces with a touch of local techniques,” he continued.

“It helps a cross-section of young chefs, from self-taught amateurs to culinary school graduates and professional chefs, to showcase their talent. We look forward to witnessing exceptional individual performances at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain during the event.” ✤ GO: Call 1758 0000 for more information. Follow @Bahrainichef competition on Instagram to keep up with the latest.

2016 Bahrain's Leading Hotel

Feel the festive spirit at ART Rotana Get cheery at ART with two special Christmas day brunches in Choices and Rosso with live music and authentic holiday delights. Ring in the new year Lebanese style at Choices Terrace with ‘Layali Beirut’ featuring live vocalists and belly dancer or party away at ‘New Years in New York’ with DJ Boudi at Cellar 59. Festive party packages are available all month for that perfect office or social get together.

For more information and bookings related to our various festive offerings, kindly contact us via +973 16000111 or email fb.art@rotana.com P.O. Box: 50949, Amwaj Islands, Bahrain. T: +973 16000111, art.hotel@rotana.com fact magazine

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LISTEN Up

Mohammed Abdu in Concert

Winter Tales at City Centre Bahrain City Centre Bahrain, the largest shopping, leisure and entertainment destination in Bahrain, is bringing back its third Winter Tales immersive and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages, with the timeless story of Alice in Wonderland, from December 9 to January 10, 2017.

Following the success of The Nutcracker and Cinderella campaigns, City Centre Bahrain will host its third seasonal Winter Tale for 2016 with the enchanting and mesmerising fairytale favourite Alice in Wonderland, which promises a totally immersive and interactive experience. With events, activities and offers galore, little ones, families and friends will all have the chance to get up close and personal to the fascinating gateway of this classic, magical land. Alice in Wonderland fans and everyone looking to get a dose of real festive spirit, City Centre Bahrain will deliver with Winter Tales. ✤ GO: Visit www.citycentrebahrain.com for more information.

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A brilliant concert featuring the one and only Mohammed Abdu, a true living legend of Arabic music, will take place at Bahrain National Theatre. Gifted with a distinctly powerful yet sweet voice and incredible oud-playing ability, Abdu’s talents were clear from an early age. He was soon discovered as a teenager in the early 1960s after singing on the local radio. Five decades on, “The Artist of the Arabs’” as he is widely known as, is still going strong.

His collaborations include some of the biggest poets, composers, and musicians in the Arab world and a vast catalogue that includes hundreds of songs and albums that clearly show the strong influence of traditional Hijazi music and spiritual chants on his style. In fact, in making this genre more mainstream, Abdu is widely credited for helping to preserve this important heritage within the GCC and Arab musical landscape. The concert will feature some of the artist’s most beloved songs which he released over his illustrious career, from early classics to more modern hits spanning the golden era of Arabic music of the 20th century all the way through to today. ✤ GO: The Concert takes place on December 8, 8pm, at Bahrain National Theatre. Tickets are available at Virgin Megastore. Minimum age requirement to attend is 10-years-old. Visit www.culture.gov.bh for more information.

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BAHRAin nATiOnAl DAy Celebrations DeCeMber 16 Is the bIg Day When bahraIn CoMes alIve WIth CelebratIon anD tons oF thIngs to Do For the Whole FaMIly! FooD anD Fun Is CovereD by the KIngDoM’s hotels…

WHERE: Four seasons hotel bahraIn bay On December 16, enjoy a Bahrain National Day Brunch at Bahrain Bay Kitchen. An authentic Bahraini themed Buffet will have authentic Bahraini food items, local music entertainment and the staff will be dressed in traditional Bahraini clothing. Signature dishes will include: Bahraini ghouzi, prawn mawwash, Bahraini date cheese cake and more delicious treats. BD27++ from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

At The Spa, Bahrain national Day is all about relaxation.

Experience an array of pampering spa treatments to relax and rejuvenate on this special occasion. Book any of the following spa treatment and enjoy 20% savings: Ratnakara Sea of Qi Ritual, Ratnakara Gate of Vitality Ritual, Opulence Oud Ritual, Jet Lag Recovery Ritual, Ultimate Detoxifying Body Cocoon, or the Chakra Soul Essence Rituals. A special spa amenity gift will be given on this occasion. Offer is valid on December 16.

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

WHERE: the WestIn bahraIn CIty Centre Furn Bistro will host a beautiful National Day Dinner with the best of Bahrain’s most famous dishes taking centre stage at the table. The sharing menu is filled with the most mouthwatering eats! CPR holders enjoy a special 50% discount. On December 16 from 7pm to 11pm.

Call 1717 1441 for more info.

WHERE: le MerIDIen bahraIn CIty Centre Head to Baharat for a spectacular National Day Brunch. Think tasty local dishes alongside the best of international offerings, all in a charming atmosphere. CPR holders enjoy a special 50% discount. BD22 net with soft beverages, BD36 net with selected premium beverages. December 16 from 12.30pm to 4pm. ✤ Call 1717 1441 for more info.

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new year’s Day Brunchin’ let the 2017 resolutIons begIn WIth a FooDIe Cure For the nIght beFore…

WHERE: la MeD – the rItZ-Carlton, bahraIn WHAT: neW year’s Day brunCh TImE: 12.30PM to 4.30PM Celebrate the New Year in style and enjoy a festive buffet of international specialties in the beautiful ambiance of La Med. Dine with the sounds of La Med’s musical duo and celebrate the first day of 2017 with family and friends. BD35++ per person with soft drinks; BD45++ per person with premium drinks.

Call 1758 6499 for more info.

WHERE: MövenPICK hotel bahraIn WHAT: the Day aFter – sParKlIng lunCh buFFet TImE: 12.30PM to 4PM Make lunch a sparkling affair with a food-filled buffet to begin your New Year on a gastronomic high. The extensive choices include a variety of seafood and grill selections alongside sparkling vino.

Call 1746 0017 for more info.

WHERE: Furn bIstro – the WestIn bahraIn CIty Centre WHAT: neW year’s extenDeD breaKFast TImE: 6.30aM to 4PM For some, the party need not end, for others it can start again. Late risers are welcome to join in the extended breakfast at the Furn 22

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Bistro. A fresh and healthy way to start the new year awaits all the foodies who want to start their year off in the right way! BD11++.

Call 1717 1441 for more info.

WHERE: eleMents Pool & lounge – InterContInental regenCy bahraIn WHAT: neW year’s Day PoolsIDe brunCh Start 2017 in one of the best al fresco settings in Bahrain. Bask in the cool temperature and celebratory vibe whilst you tuck into delicious food and drinks. BD18++ with soft drinks; BD27++ with unlimited selected premium beverages.

Call 1722 7777 for more info.

WHERE: bahraIn bay KItChen – Four seasons hotel bahraIn bay WHAT: neW year’s Day brunCh TImE: 12.30aM to 3.30PM All the Friday Brunch favourites are revived and brought to you in the ultimate New Year’s Day brunch. This buffet spread includes the most exquisite world cuisines and desserts to keep you there for the entire three hours! BD27++ with soft drinks and BD37++ with premium drinks.

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

The flavours of a magical European Christmas right at your doorstep Elevated traditional & enticing modern cuisines come together at CafĂŠ Amsterdam to offer you a festive season like no other.

Indulge in our scrumptious Christmas menu & an atmosphere full of wonder, or order a deliciously prepared roasted turkey to serve in the comfort of your own home.

Rejoice in bringing the magic to life during our tree-lighting ceremony, learn to impress your guests in our special mixology master class & herald in the festivities with a jubilant Christmas Eve dinner!

Follow us on social media for more details.

CafeAmsterdamBH

cafeamsterdam

Opposite the Gulf Hotel, Adliya. Telephone: +973 1700 7404

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LISTEN Up

WHERE: Cut by WolFgang PuCK – Four seasons hotel bahraIn bay WHAT: neW year’s Day brunCh TImE: 12.30aM to 3.30PM If you want to kick start 2017 on a more intimate and sophisticated note, head to CUT and you’ll find the perfect setting for a more refined New Year’s Day brunch. BD29++ or an additional BD10++ or BD20++ for beverage pairing.

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

WHERE: the gulF hotel ConventIon & sPa WHAT: neW year’s Day lobby brunCh Recover your appetite, recover your senses and for some of you, recover your mobiles, keys or whatever you “conveniently misplaced” the previous night. The grand Lobby brunch is the perfect way to start the year with its amazing spread of tasty food and thirst-quenching drinks to accompany. BD25net with soft drinks and BD33net per person with premium drinks. Children aged six to 12-years-old get 50% off, and kids aged five and under dine for free.

Call 1774 6404 for more info.

WHERE: bushIDo restaurant & lounge WHAT: neW year’s IZaKaya sunDay TImE: 7PM to 11.30PM Celebrate New Year’s Day with Bushido’s Izakya Sunday, offering a special selection of premium dishes to mark this special occasion. Izakaya is a type of informal Japanese food gathering. Food items are served in small portions, similar to Spanish Tapas. Izakaya dining includes a wide variety of Bushido’s signature dishes. Food is normally ordered slowly over several courses rather than all at once. Guests can reorder dishes as much as they like. BD27net for unlimited food and drinks.

Call 1758 3555 for more info.

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WHERE: soFItel bahraIn Zallaq thalassa sea & sPa WHAT: neW year’s Day lunCh TImE: 12.30aM to 3.30PM Join in as Sofitel kicks off the New Year with an exquisite seafood lunch at Saraya Restaurant. Fondly reminisce over the year that passed with family and friends, as you enjoy the wide selection of seafood and finely prepared desserts on offer. BD24net, inclusive of soft beverages and BD28net, inclusive of selected beverages.

Call 1763 6363 for more info.

WHERE: Flavours on 2 – DoWntoWn rotana WHAT: neW year’s Day brunCh TImE: 12noon to 4PM If you’re all about the amazing food in a casual atmosphere – this is the place to be on New Year’s Day. Flavours on 2 will have a mouthwatering, sumptuous buffet for the whole family to savour. BD18net including soft drinks and juices and BD22net including selected beverages. Kids aged between six and 12-years-old get 50% off, children under sixyears-old dine for free.

Call 3360 5070 for more info.

WHERE: al saFIr restaurant – sheraton bahraIn hotel WHAT: neW year’s lunCh Roast chicken and turkey with lots of trimmings, your favorite grills, live cooking stations and a great selection of salads, a cheese corner and mouthwatering desserts just to name but a few of the culinary offerings as part of the mega New Year’s Day lunch. BD14.9++ for adults. Children from four to 12-years-old get 50% discount and those under fouryears-old dine for free. ✤ Call 1753 3533 for more info.

Check out www.fact-magazine.com for more happenings.

Downtown

A sparkling festive season at Downtown Rotana!

Christmas Tree Lighting - Thursday 8th December at 5.30 pm

Join us and start the Festive season with our Christmas Tree lighting ceremony and Santa.

Gingerbread House Decorations at City Lobby Lounge - 8th - 31st December Kids can enjoy the tastiest snacks while decorating Gingerbread Houses for BD 10*

Christmas Eve Dinner at Flavours on 2 starting from BD 24* Christmas Day Brunch at Flavours on 2 starting from BD 25* New Year’s Eve Dinner at Teatro Downtown starting from BD 35* New Year’s Day Brunch at Flavours on 2 starting from BD 18* For reservations and more information, please contact us on +973 3360 50 70 or visit rotanatimes.com/downtownrotana *Price is subject to 10% service charge and 10% government levy.

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PO Box 18345, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, T:+973 1311 9999, downtown.hotel@rotana.com

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HAppENINGS

Getting out & about ThiS MonTh in Bahrain Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. we’ve put together a calendar packed with great outings just for you!

05 070912 16

Monday

WEdnESday

Friday

Monday

Friday

The only thing better than sushi, is more sushi! Imari Restaurant is holding all you can eat Sushi Mondays, every week from 7pm until 10pm. Eat and drink until you have to roll home, for only BD14++ including soft drinks or BD17++ including beverages.

Treat yourself to a Balinese, Thai or Hawaiian massage at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. Each experience begins with The Tropical Vitamin C Body Scrub & Wrap, followed by the exotic massage of your choice.

Book before December 15 and Hot Stones will be included for free!

A happy hour with a touch of class? Yes please!

Make your way to the tasteful Bizarre Lounge for a sophisticated array of spirited libations. With loads of classy labels to choose from, the hour will pass in but a moment.

Take your friends or colleagues and make it an occasion to remember.

Enjoy an interactive two-hour session under the guidance of a professional instructor.

Lessons available every Monday evening from 6pm and every Saturday from 4pm.

BD 20 includes tuition, equipment hire, golf balls and refreshments.

Go on, tee off and enjoy!

Endless fun activities await such as cookie decoration, jumping castle, fashion show, piĂąata, Olympic games, face painting, henna tattoo, Bahrain flag making and arts & crafts to name a few. Free for in-house and brunch guests who are their to celebrate National Day.

UnLIMITeD SUSHI at Imari Restaurant, The Domain Hotel & Spa

Call 1600 0000 for more info.

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PARADISe SPA PACkAGe HAPPY HOUR wITH A TwIST GIve GOLF A GO! at The Ritz-Carlton Spa at Bizarre Lounge at The Royal Golf The Ritz Carlton, Bahrain Le Meridien, Bahrain Club Bahrain

Call 1758 6808 for more info.

Call 1717 1441 for more info.

Call 1775 0777 for more info.

kIDS FOR ALL SeASOnS at Alhosh Four Seasons, Bahrain Bay

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

Romance your Valentine Festive Dining in Links at Bahrain’s Most Unique Venue Christmas Day Lunch • New Year’s Eve Set Dinner Everybody welcome!

• For details, call Links on +973 17 751262.

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HAppENINGS

Getting Out & About This MonTh in Bahrain Say goodbye to boredom this month and mark your diaries with these all-important dates. We’ve put together a calendar packed with great events just for you!

19 21 2529 31

Monday

TIMe FOR TAPAS at Cellar 59, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands

WEdnESday

SUnday

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

Every Monday from 7pm – 11pm, a soulful Tapas infusion is dished out at Cellar 59. Covering the very best in Spanish delights, one can indulge in an interesting selection of tapas options paired with great beverages.

The tapas tasting platter is priced at BD8++ per person. Call 1600 0111 for more info.

The one time you’ll want to whip your card out! All Credimax card holders will benefit with a 20% discount on their food and beverage bill all thorough the festive season and a 25% discount on the bfit health club membership.

Offer is valid until the end of December. Call 1753 3992 for more info.

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ThUrSday

SaTUrday

& Lounge, Seef

LADIeS BeACH CLUB at ART Rotana, Amwaj Islands

Enjoy this informal Japanese style of eating, where scrumptious items are served in small portions over several courses. Think oriental Tapas. Included in this eat all you like offer are several of Bushido’s famous signature dishes.

From 7pm – 11:30pm at BD14.5++. Call 1758 3555 for more info.

Laze by the beach or pool, revitalise yourself with a spa treatment or work out and stay fit. Do just that and more as a member of the Beach Club. Join now and enjoy the advantages of being a single lady - Get a 50% discount on Annual membership and pay only BD550. Call 1600 0111 for more info.

Party like the swinging 60s at this Cuban themed celebration.

Enjoy the live entertainment and great range of delicious international dishes for BD65 per person.

BD55 if you book before December 15! Drinks are included. Doors open at 8pm. Call 1753 1666 for more info.

SPeCIAL CReDIMAx IzAkAYA SUnDAYS Discount at bFit Health Club, at Bushido Restaurant

new YeAR’S eve at Havana Club, The Grand Ambassador Ballroom

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SOCIETY

#Lexus #swimming #ChaLLenge #at #Ritz-CaRLton #BahRain

lexus bahrain exclusively sponsored the annual swim & run challenge which was organised by the ritz-Carlton, bahrain at its renowned royal sporting Club. the competition was very successful and saw a large number of participants come out to support the event, taking to the seas along the magnificent beach and marina of the beautiful resort. the challenge collected a considerable amount of funds that was given to charity.

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we’ve GOT T H AT Festive FeeLIn’ december has come around for another dose of celebrations! from afternoon teas, brunches, lunches, dinners and so much more, this holiday season is going to be one of Bahrain’s most exciting.

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

Downtown Rotana WHERE: Flavours on tWo DATE: DeCeMber 24 (DInner) & DeCeMber 25 (DInner) TImE: 6PM to 11PM (DInner) & 12PM – 4PM (brunCh) PRICE: bD25 InCluDIng soFt DrInKs anD juICes anD bD29 InCluDIng seleCteD beverages. (DInner); bD25 InCluDIng soFt DrInKs anD juICes anD bD29 InCluDIng seleCteD beverages. (brunCh); 50% For KIDs ageD betWeen sIx anD 12; ChIlDren unDer sIx eat For Free.

Celebrate a Christmas Eve Dinner and/or a Christmas Day Lunch with your loved ones! Indulge in a lavish buffet whilst soaking up the festive spirit and enjoying your time with live entertainment and raffle draw prizes.

WHERE: CIty lobby lounge DATE: DeC 8 to 31 PRICE: bD10 Per ChIlD Gingerbread house decorating and a festive tea party – yes please! This is the season to be jolly and to enjoy the tastiest treats, yummiest snacks, traditional favourites and a wide assortment of Christmas goodies your children will love. Join in the decorating of the magnificent gingerbread houses and celebrate the festive season with a hundred little smiles.

Call 3360 5070 for reservations and more information.

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WHERE: Bushido Restaurant DATE: December 27 TImE: 12pm to 3.30pm PRICE: BD18.5++ (Starting Price) Unlimited food and drink Make merry this festive season with a special Friday Brunch for all the family to enjoy. A sumptuous range of various live cooking stations and dishes are available.

The festive mood will be in full force with some special cuisine additions to celebrate the occasion.

Call 1758 3555 for reservations and more information.

BushiDo WHERE: Bushido Restaurant DATE: December 22 to 27 (Excluding December 25) PRICE: BD24.5++ Head down to this stylish and award winning venue where a seasonal festive

menu awaits for all to enjoy. Diners will be able to take pleasure in a selection of special starters and main courses. These include The Festive Roll, Teppanyaki Scallops with a creamy avocado mousse.

Yummy! tRaDeR vic’s WHERE: Trader Vic’s DATE: December 1 to 25 TImE: 12noon to 3pm & 7pm to 12midnight.

PRICE: Dish Specific There will be a new festive menu in paradise this Christmas Season. Diners will be allowed to enjoy a taste of the world in this newly renovated utopia. From Roasted Duck Breast, to Warm Apple Fritters, the offerings are sure to have you feeling warm and satisfied.

Call 1758 6555 for reservations and more information.

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

aRt Rotana amwaj islanDs WHERE: FlaMes, rosso & Wu restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 22 to 27 (exCluDIng DeCeMber 25) PRICE: 20% oFF total bIll. If you dine in a group of eight or more at any of the above restaurants this December, you will receive an automatic 20% off your total bill! This offer is perfect for those office Christmas parties and festive family feastings.

Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information WHERE: ChoICes restaurant & rosso DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM to 5PM PRICE: ChoICes bD25++/bD35++ & rosso bD15++/bD20++ Celebrate this joyous occasion with family and friends at a fantastic Christmas Day brunch. There will be all the bells and whistles of a traditional festive feast at both venues. Expect a wide range of festive flare, live music, games for the children and of course, a visit from Santa.

Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information. soFitel BahRain Zallaq thalassa sea & spa WHERE: saraya DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 7PM to 10.30PM PRICE: bD22 net (InCluDes soFt DrInKs) Celebrate Christmas Eve with an unforgettable Christmas dinner at Saraya Restaurant. Cherish this special occasion with family and friends over an extravagant buffet featuring a wide selection of cuisine, and completed with a traditional Christmas turkey.

WHERE: la Mer DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 7PM to 11PM PRICE: bD34 net (InCluDes bubbly) Join La Mer Restaurant in celebrating Christmas Eve over a lavish dinner.

Delight in a specially prepared Christmas turkey whilst taking in an awe-inspiring view of the Arabian Gulf. A perfect heart-warming occasion for you and your loved ones.

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“

onC e ag a In, We CoM e to t he holIDay seas o n , a De e Ply rel IgI o us t IMe t hat eaC h oF us obse rv e s, In hIs oWn Way, by g o In g to t he Mall oF hI s Cho IC e .”

WHERE: saraya, WoK & FIaMMa DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM to 4PM PRICE: bD42 net (InCluDes a Free FloW oF seleCteD beverages) Partake in a wide variety of cuisines from all over the world at Saraya, Wok, and Fiamma restaurants. Each outlet is offering its unique take on International, Vietnamese, and Italian cuisine. Your children will be entertained in the kids’ corner, whilst you enjoy the tunes of our resident Cuban band.

Call 1763 6363 for reservations and more information.

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

the GulF hotel BahRain WHERE: al Waha restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 24 PRICE: regular: bD16++; PrestIge Club/nsa/gulF aIr: 20% DIsCount; ChIlDren: ageD sIx to 12-years-olD: 50 % oFF; ageD FIve anD beloW: Free.

The season of joy, warmth and cheer is here! Celebrate Christmas Eve with your friends, family and colleagues by indulging in this lavish Christmas Eve dinner buffet. It will include the season’s special roasted turkey and a variety of other delectable dishes.

Call 1774 6425 for reservations and more information.

WHERE: la Pergola DATE: DeCeMber 24 PRICE: regular: bD20++ (InCluDes one glass oF sParKlIng vIno); PrestIge Club/nsa/gulF aIr: bD18++ (InCluDes one glass oF sParKlIng vIno) La Vigilia di Natale is an important Christmas tradition in Italy. What really stands out in this celebration is the feeling of family and union that you see in every home. La Pergola brings this to you through its homestyle dishes. At the end of the day, the essence of Christmas is simple – family, love and food.

Call 1774 6419/20 for reservations and more information.

WHERE: gulF ConventIon Center DATE: DeCeMber 25 PRICE: regular: bD28++ (InCluDes seleCteD PreMIuM beverages); bD21++ (InCluDes seleCteD soFt beverages); PrestIge Club/nsa/ gulF aIr: bD25++ (InCluDes seleCteD PreMIuM beverages); bD18++ (InCluDes seleCteD non- alCoholIC beverages); ChIlDren: ageD sIx to 12-years-olD: 50 % oFF; ageD FIve anD beloW: Free.

At Christmas, play and make good cheer, for Christmas comes once a year.

A Christmas brunch that has it all, a place filled with cheers, a jolly Santa Claus, loads of children’s activities, live music and much more.

Call 1771 3000 for reservations and more information (tickets required).

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WHERE: al Waha restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 25 PRICE: regular: bD16++; PrestIge Club/nsa/gulF aIr: 20% DIsCount; ChIlDren: ageD sIx to 12-years-olD: 50 % oFF; ageD FIve anD beloW: Free.

Indulge in this lavish Christmas Day Dinner buffet which will include the season’s special roasted turkey and a variety of other delectable festive dishes.

Set in one of the Island’s most wellknown venues, don’t miss out!

Call 1774 6425 for reservations and more information Royal GolF cluB WHERE: lInKs restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 25 PRICE: aDults: bD32net (InCluDes unlIMIteD beverages); ChIlDren bD16net (sIx to 12-year-olDs); Free (one to FIve-year-olDs).

Mark the festive season with family and friends by enjoying a fabulous meal at the award-winning Royal Golf Club.

Book now for a scrumptious traditional Christmas Day Brunch with all the trimmings.

Call 1775 0777 for reservations and more information.

“

My IDea oF ChrIstMas, Whether olDFashIoneD or MoDern, Is very sIMPle: lovIng others. CoMe to thInK oF It, Why Do We have to WaIt For ChrIstMas to Do that?”

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

sheRaton BahRain hotel WHERE: soIe DATE: DeCeMber 24 PRICE: bD14.9++ Per Person or bD19++ Per Person (InCluDes seleCteD beverages) Want your Christmas Eve celebrations to be quiet and romantic? At Soie, the ambiance provided allows for just such an environment. Complete with a mouthwatering set menu Christmas Dinner, you can’t find a better setup on offer.

WHERE: al saFIr restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 25 PRICE: aDults: bD19.9++; ageD Four to 12-years-olD get 50% oFF; KIDs ageD Four anD beloW eat For Free.

Delicious seasonal favourites have been put together to make your Christmas day a meal to remember. From roast turkey to tenderloin steak medallions, from Christmas cakes to tempting desserts, you will find special dishes to satisfy your taste buds. There’s a party planned for your children too!

Call 1753 3533 for reservations and more information FouR seasons hotel BahRain WHERE: Cut by WolFgang PuCK DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM to 3.30PM PRICE: bD29++; an aDDItIonal bD10++ or bD20++ For beverage PaIrIngs.

A sophisticated Christmas celebration awaits at CUT. This brunch is all about great food and a casual yet elegnat ambience to make the most of the festivities. On the menu is everything from filet mignon, seasonal inspired homemade pasta, yummy desserts and so much more!

WHERE: bahraIn bay KItChen DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 7PM to 12MIDnIght PRICE: bD 32++ (InCluDes soFt beverages); bD42++ (InCluDes Full beverage PaCKage).

Extra love and care has been put into the creation of this festive menu. Expect traditional flavours prepared in exciting ways. A live band will be on hand to keep you entertained.

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WHERE: al bahraIn ballrooM DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM to 3.30PM PRICE: bD32++ (soFt beverages); bD42++ (Full beverage PaCKage).

Experience the wide range of special festive dishes on offer from all over the globe. A truly stomach pleasing menu complete with festive season favourites and a few surprises. This complete dining experience is topped off with a live band.

WHERE: the lobby DATE: DeCeMber 5 to january 3, 2017 TImE: 11aM to 9PM Offering traditional festive items, such as homemade chocolate truffles, Christmas cookies, fruit cake, mince pie and many more festive delicacies straight from Four Seasons kitchen, the Festive Shop at The Lobby is well worth a visit this month.

Call 1711 5000 for reservations and more information.

M Ă– V

n

E N P

Sinatra /

I C K

Show

Come fly with us to the 60’s and dance the night away. A class act and dazzling Sinatra show awaits you at Movenpick Hotel Bahrain.

Christmas

brunch 25th of December 12.30 to 4pm

NEW YEARS

EVE 31st of December 8PM onwards

Enjoy traditional Christmas delicacies, such as roasted pig, eggnog, mulled wine, roast turkey & more.

ticket price BD45 net

NEW YEARS EVE Room packages 31st December 1 night for two pax

Gallery BD80 net

Silks BD 75 net

sinatra/60's show performance and

sinatra/60's show performance and

in-house DJ

in-house DJ

BD189 net per couple with seating in Flamingo or silks BD199 net per couple with seating in the Gallery

Buffet Breakfast included limited room packages available

Flamingo bar BD70 net in-house DJ

all guests are free to roam around between the three restaurants

Including buffet and free flowing alcohol. Prices are per person

For booking and inquiries please contact +97317460017 or email hotel.bahrain.fb@movenpick.com

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

cRowne plaZa BahRain WHERE: Waves seaFooD restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 7PM onWarDs PRICE: bD38net (InCluDes unlIMIteD seleCtIon oF beverage); ChIlDren ageD FIve to 10-years-olD Pay bD18net; unDer FIve-year-olDs eat For Free.

Why not sample a different sort of Christmas meal this year? Indulge your senses in Waves restaurant with your own selection from the specialty seafood market, as part of a unique dining experience.

WHERE: la MosaIque restaurant, harvesters Pub, CaPPuCCIno CaFé, the PatIo DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM onWarDs PRICE: bD35 net (InCluDes unlIMIteD beverages); ChIlDren ageD FIve to 10-years-olD Pay bD18net; unDer FIveyear-olDs eat For Free.

Whether you’ve been naughty or nice, make all your dreams come true this Christmas.

This festive brunch offers prizes for the best dressed and none other than Father Christmas himself will be attending to add his own jolly style to the occasion.

Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

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“

ChrIstMas Waves a MagIC WanD over thIs WorlD, anD beholD, everythIng Is soFter anD More beautIFul.”

the Domain hotel & spa WHERE: le sauvage DATE: DeCeMber 19 to 25 TImE: 7PM to 10PM PRICE: bD20++ Per Person (InCluDes CertaIn beverages) It’s the perfect time of year for a little decadence… or a lot. Challenge yourself to a 7 Course Meal at this refined venue.

Enjoy the skyscraper skylines as you do your best to finish what’s on all of your plates.

Call 1600 0000 for reservations and more information.

the Diplomat RaDisson Blu hotel, ResiDence & spa WHERE: MonDo restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 7.30PM onWarDs PRICE: bD29++ Per Person (InCluDes seleCteD DrInKs) A sumptuous set menu awaits you at this supreme dining location. With a variety of tastes and flavours, there is something for every palate. Complete with starter, soup, sorbet, main course and dessert, you won’t be going home hungry this Christmas Eve. WHERE: the granD aMbassaDor ballrooM DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12PM to 4.30PM PRICE: bD34net (InCluDes seleCteD DrInKs); ChIlDren ageD sIx to 12-yearsolD get 50% DIsCount; KIDs ageD sIx anD beloW eat For Free.

Soak up the festive atmosphere, savour a sensational Christmas Brunch buffet and dance along with the live band. There will be a special treat from Santa Claus for all the children.

Call 1753 1666 for reservations and more information.

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

the RitZ caRlton, BahRain WHERE: the rItZ gourMet lounge DATE: DeCeMber 1 to 25 TImE: 3PM to 6PM PRICE: bD24++ Per Person (InCluDes a glass oF bubbly); bD20++ Per Person (InCluDes soFt beverages).

Take pleasure in all the sweet treats of a traditional afternoon tea with an exclusive twist. A selection of freshly made scones and carefully baked little cakes will be served alongside your favourite cup of tea and a glass of bubbly.

WHERE: la MeD DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 7PM – 11PM PRICE: bD35++ Per aDult / bD18 Per ChIlD This classy location is offering a festive buffet of international specialties including Gluhwein made from red grapes and various mulled spices. This is a dining experience designed to warm the senses.

WHERE: granD Foyer DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM to 4.30PM PRICE: bD41++ Per aDult / bD21++ Per ChIlD Indulge in a festive celebration of culinary delights highlighted by a prize chefs’ splendid creations - from live cooking and carving stations, large seafood and prime rib corner to a delectable spread of heavenly desserts.

Along with live entertainment, fun activities and impeccable service.

Call 1758 0000 for reservations and more information. movenpick hotel BahRain WHERE: sIlKs anD the gallery restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 23 PRICE: bD36net Are you in the mood for a traditional spread this Christmas, one that leaves you wanting for nothing? If so, this is the venue for you. From the full roast turkey and all of its accessories to minced pies and Christmas pudding, you certainly won’t be missing out.

WHERE: sIlKs anD the gallery restaurant DATE: DeCeMber 25 PRICE: bD45 net The famous Movenpick Christmas brunch is coming your way! Enjoy traditional Christmas delicacies, such as roasted pig, eggnog, mulled wine, roast turkey with all the sides, chestnut stuffing and much more.

Call 1746 0017 for reservations and more information.

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

the westin BahRain city centRe WHERE: Furn baKery DATE: DeCeMber 1 to 25 TImE: 2PM to 6PM PRICE: bD20++ (For 2 guests) There’s no better way to enjoy the warmth of the festive season than catching up with good friends over a traditional Christmas afternoon tea, made all the sweeter by melt-in-your mouth pastries and scones.

Delicious!

WHERE: MeZZanIne lounge DATE: DeCeMber 1 to 25 TImE: 4PM to 1aM (sunDay to WeDnesDay) & 12noon to 1aM (thursDay to saturDay) PRICE: DIsh sPeCIFIC The Westin is pulling out all the stops at the Mezzanine Lounge this Christmas, to make this joyous season as special as can

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be. Make sure to take a turn for festive drinks with holiday season themed dishes.

Call 1717 1441 for reservations and more information. le meRiDien BahRain city centRe WHERE: baharat DATE: DeCeMber 24 TImE: 6.30PM to 11PM PRICE: bD16++ (InCluDes soFt DrInKs anD Water); bD26++ (InCluDes beverage PaCKage); ChIlDren ageD sIx to 12-yearsolD get 50% DIsCount; KIDs ageD sIx beloW sIx eat For Free.

There is a palpable excitement in the air as the festive season takes an even more celebratory turn. The much awaited Christmas Eve Dinner at Le Méridien sets the tone for the big night. So show up

with your family and friends and let the good times roll.

WHERE: baharat DATE: DeCeMber 25 TImE: 12.30PM to 4PM PRICE: bD22net (InCluDes Water anD soFt DrInKs); bD36net (InCluDes beverage PaCKage).

It’s the big day, the gifts have been opened, you’ve had late nights and now it’s time to take it easy and feast through a luxurious Christmas brunch. With international cuisines galore plus all your festive favourites, from meats to seafood, curries, appetisers, cheese, and to-die-for desserts, today’s the day to spoil yourself and those you love most.

Call 1717 1441 for reservations and more information.

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FESTIVE HAppENINGS

Festive Fun

WHERE: the lobby lounge - the rItZCarlton, bahraIn DATE: DeCeMber 17 to 23 TImE: 3PM to 6PM PRICE: bD18++ Per aDult / bD10++ Per ChIlD. The Santa Claus Afternoon Tea and Chocolate Buffet is an absolute must this festive season.Tea time at The RitzCarlton is always a grand occasion and Christmas makes it even more special as Santa Claus visits for an afternoon celebration. Enjoy traditional scones and pastries with your favorite tea variety complemented by a buffet of heavenly chocolate goodness. An excellent opportunity to spend picture perfect moments with family and friends.

Call 1758 0000 for more information.

WHERE: longItuDe 50 – le MerIDIen bahraIn CIty Centre DATE: DeCeMber 1 to 26 TImE: 10aM to 10PM Christmas Cookies to Go! Got an invite this season and not sure what to carry?

No worries. Just swing by for a quick coffee at Le Méridien Longitude 50 and pick up the lovely cookies gift hamper, exclusively crafted for gifting on-the-go.

Call 1717 1441 for more information.

WHERE: lobby - CroWne PlaZa bahraIn DATE: DeCeMber 19 to 22 TImE: 7.30PM Feel the holiday spirit with the Crowne Plaza Bahrain Choir for a good ol’ session of Christmas Caroling. Listen to famous carols while sipping on a warm Christmas beverage, cookies and pudding. Sing along with your family and have your photos taken at our specially made ginger bread house and the fabulous Christmas tree in the centre of the lobby.

Call 1753 1122 for more information.

WHERE: MaCaron – soFItel bahraIn Zallaq thalassa sea & sPa DATE: DeCeMber 1 to 31 TImE: large orDers requIre three Day aDvanCe booKIng. Celebrate the spirit of giving this

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“

the sPIrIt oF ChrIstMas Is the sPIrIt oF love anD oF generosIty anD oF gooDness. It IlluMInates the PICture WInDoW oF the soul, anD We looK out uPon the WorlD’s busy lIFe anD beCoMe More InteresteD In PeoPle than In thIngs.”

festive season with a sweet note! Visit the gingerbread house for a delicious variety of freshly baked Christmas cookies, cakes, and sweets. Enjoy from the comfort of your home and order an exquisite turkey alongside a variety of condiments, all from Macaron this December.

Call 1763 6363 for more information.

WHERE: Furn baKery – the WestIn bahraIn CIty Centre DATE: DeCeMber 1 to 24 (every saturDay) TImE: 4PM to 8PM PRICE: bD10++ Per taKe aWay KIt; bD14++ Per ChIlD For the Class InClusIve oF the house.

Make Your Own Gingerbread House!

Bring some Christmas magic to your home with a classic holiday tradition, the homemade gingerbread house! You have the option to buy the ‘build your own ginger bread house’ kit being sold at the Furn Bakery or sign your little one up for a class with German Santa Sven. ✤ Call 1717 1441 for more information.

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COMpETITIONS

Fact’s Festive Giveaway We’ve teaMeD uP WIth a bunCh oF our FrIenDs to oFFer you a really sPeCIal treat! untIl ChrIstMas Day, We’ll be gIvIng aWay a PrIZe every Day! all you have to Do, FroM the 1st to the 25th Is ‘lIKe’ our FaCebooK Page anD share the CoMPetItIon Posts; FolloW us on tWItter anD InstagraM anD gIve the PartICIPatIng branDs a FolloW too. the More you share, the More ChanCes you’ll have oF WInnIng. thIs one’s For all our aWesoMe reaDers!

01

08

vincci

BD25 Gift voucher

sheraton Bahrain hotel

Twitter: @Vincci_Malaysia

05

Christmas Day Brunch for two people Twitter: @SheratonBahrain

Crowne plaza Bahrain Christmas Day Brunch for two people

02

Twitter: @CrownePlazaBah1

09

royal golf Club Traditional Roast Lunch or Dinner for four people (excl. drinks) Twitter: @royalgolfclub

06

mövenpick hotel Bahrain 60-minute Couple’s Swedish Massage Twitter: @MovenpickBh

tati Goodie Bag worth BD25

Facebook: Tati-Bahrain-City-Center

03

10

rimmel

Goodie Bag with Rimmel products including the new Scandaleyes Reloaded mascara for unstoppable volume, worth BD45.

Crowne plaza Bahrain Unique Christmas eve Dinner for two people at waves Restaurant

Twitter: @rimellondonuk

Twitter: @CrownePlazaBah1

04 downtown rotana Day Pass for three people to Pool & Bodylines Fitness & wellness Club Twitter: @DowntownRotana

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07

Café amsterdam & la vinoteca Barcelona Saturday Brunch for two people Thursday Barra experience for two people www. cafeamst.com www.vinotecabcn.com

11

maki Bahrain BD40 Gift voucher

www.olivermaki.com

COMpETITIONS

12 parfois x1 Goodie Bag worth BD25 Twitter: @Parfois_

21 17 porsche Bahrain A Porsche car to drive for the weekend www.porsche.com/Bahrain

sofitel Bahrain Zallaq thalassa sea & spa x1 Tapas new Year’s eve Party for two people, worth BD60 x1 new Year’s Day Lunch for two people at Saraya, worth BD48 x1 Christmas eve Dinner for two people at La Mer Restaurant, worth BD68 Twitter: @SofitelBahrain

13 lanterns lounge & restaurant x1 Buffet Dinner for two people including wine x1 BD15 Dinner voucher Instagram: @lanternsbahrain

18 sheraton Bahrain hotel Christmas eve Dinner for two people at Al Safir Restaurant

14

Twitter: @SheratonBahrain

22 sheraton Bahrain hotel Christmas eve Dinner for two people at Soie Twitter: @SheratonBahrain

Crowne plaza Bahrain new Year’s eve Buffet Dinner for two people at La Mosaique Restaurant Twitter: @CrownePlazaBah1

15 sally hansen

19 saKs fifth avenue

23 trader vic’s BD40 Dinner voucher

Twitter: @TraderVics973

A BD150 Gift voucher to Spend at SAkS Twitter: @SaksMiddleEast

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Goodie Bag full of Sally Hansen products worth BD45 to get a perfect manicure at home!

Twitter: @SallyHansen

lancôme x2 Gift Hampers worth BD200

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Lancome

16 meisei BD50 Dinner voucher

Twitter: @meiseibahrain

20 Bushido restaurant & lounge Izakaya Sundays for four people including dinner and soft drinks Twitter: @Bushido973

25 interContinental doha the City Two-night stay for two people including breakfast (excl. flights) Twitter: @ICDohaTheCity

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SOCIETY

#sund own #session #at #nasmat #the #westin #BahR ain #City #CentRe

Media members and vIP guests were invited to the launch of the brand new Mingle, Chill, groove sundown session at nasmat Pool bar in the Westin bahrain City Centre. the new evening is the perfect way to end your weekend every saturdays; a chance for like-minded people to mingle in a relaxed and artistic setting. guests were seen enjoying their time with lounge beats and a great vibe.

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bAhrAIN IS SeT To weLCome ANoTher yeAr wITh A huge hoST oF pArTIeS, DINNerS, bruNCheS AND bALLS. here Are juST Some oF The pLACeS you CAN be joININg IN The

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NYE HAppENINGS

“

year’s enD Is neIther an enD nor a begInnIng but a goIng on, WIth all the WIsDoM that exPerIenCe Can InstIll In us.”

new Year’s eve: go harD or go hoMe… FouR seasons hotel BahRain Bay AzuRe: A gorgeous pool with cabanas, a spectacular fire show, drum show and an international DJ spinning the tunes on the decks – what more could you ask for?

BD50 for outside guests with two drinks included; BH25 for restaurant and hotel guests with two drinks of choice; BD400 per table (6 people) plus one bottle of premium drink; BD700 per private cabana with one premier bottle with mixers included.

BAHRAin BAy KiTCHen: Think extravagant, delicious food and you have the NYE dinner buffet at Bahrain Bay Kitchen. There’s a seafood bar on ice with freshly shucked rock oyster from the UK, Omani lobster, marinated calamari, mussels from New Zealand, roast beef Yorkshire pudding, Linzer 52

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torte, homemade macaroons, handmade chocolate truffles, live chocolate soufflé and so much more. A live band will be preforming to keep you entertained.

BD32++ with soft beverages; BD42++ with the full beverage package. From 8pm to 1am.

CuT By WOlFGAnG PuCK: A NYE fivecourse dinner awaits with warm Maine lobster bisque, chanterelle mushrooms, wild tarragon Australian wagyu (BMS 6+), Rib Eye 250g and many more mouthwatering delicacies. Live music in the dining room will keep you swaying!

BD110++ with beverage pairing, from 7pm to 10.30pm. Join CUT for New Year’s Eve Dinner and enjoy 20% off of your New Year’s Day Brunch at CUT. Re ASiAn CuiSine: Go for exquisite Asian food to ring in the New Year with a seven-course dinner that will leave you speechless! Tuck into Russian beluga caviar and roasted five-spiced French duck breast amongst other tasty dishes.

A live DJ will help you unwind and celebrate! BD110++ with beverage pairing and BD140++ for guaranteed window seat. From 7pm to 10.30pm.

VenTO’S: If you fancy going Italian for the New Year, this is a great place for it.

Indulge in a set menu for dinner with

Boston lobster salad with panzanella and basil pesto, tourbot cutlet with morel mushroom and many more beautiful menu items. Take a seat outside and bask in the glorious views of the Manama skyline. BD45++, from 7pm to 11pm.

Call 1711 5000 for reservations and more information.

C

tRaDe vic’s BahRain Dinner and Celebrations: Trader Vic’s Bahrain is kicking off 2017 in style with its New Year’s Eve Dinner menu. For an exotic New Year’s getaway, guests can escape to Trader Vic’s Bahrain and get a taste of paradise through exotic cuisines, out of this world cocktails and a memorable dining experience with a fivecourse set menu and a celebratory glass of bubbly at midnight. Courses include Lobster salad with Vanilla Tarragon Vinaigrette; and Black Angus beef Tenderloin with Purple Truffle Mashed Potatoes Shimeji and Enoki Mushrooms.

Guests with a sweet tooth can indulge in Chestnut Milles Feuille and Plum Compote. After dinner, guests can enjoy live entertainment and an open-bar from a selected menu throughout the night into the early hours of 2017. BD79++ for dinner and celebrations (includes dinner set menu and celebratory bubbly, and unlimited alcoholic beverages from selected menu). BD39++ for celebrations only (includes celebratory bubbly at midnight and unlimited alcoholic beverages from selected menu). Dinner is served from 8pm to 12midnight.

Call 1758 6555 for reservations and more information.

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Lavish! Opulent! Exuberant!

On the biggest night of the year, at Bahrain's most sophisticated venue, Meisei's Great Gatsby soirée is the extravaganza nobody wants to miss.

The Great

Gatsby New Year’s Ball With illusionist-saxophone duo 'Trix and Sax' joining the Cuban Sun Duo, frolicking flappers, dapper gents and the sumptuous full à

la carte menu available,

this new year's eve, Meisei is redefining decadence.

C'mon, Old Sports, there's revelry afoot!

First Floor: BD 50+ min. spend per person Rooftop Dining: BD 60+ min. spend per person Access to Rooftop (Non-diners): BD15 for gents Ladies Free Entry No service charge

Call us now on +973 1700 7770 to reserve your table fact magazine

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NYE HAppENINGS

soFitel BahRain Zallaq thalassa sea & spa CARiBBeAn TO MAnAMA: Experience the Caribbean right here in Bahrain!

From the islands of Calypso, Bachata, Merengue and Rumba dance, start 2017 with rhythms and lively vibes from a dazzling dance show! Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea and Spa presents you with a colorful dance performance by an enchanting and glamourous AfroCuban dance group who will light the flares for a night to remember. Enjoy a dinner experience with a stunning show and celebrate the passion and spirit of the Caribbean islands. BD75net, inclusive of a set menu dinner with selected beverages. From 8pm. Don’t want to drive home after the party? The early bird special room package of BD199net for two people includes a one-night stay in a luxury sea view room, tickets for the New Year’s Eve Caribbean Dance Show and breakfast for two on New Year’s Day. Package is subject to availability and for a limited number of rooms only.

PASHAWAT: Celebrate this New Year’s Eve by immersing yourself in the unique Middle Eastern ambience of the renowned restaurant Pashawat. Bring your loved ones to this joyous evening, and indulge in the finest Lebanese delicacies as the end the year is celebrated with a mesmerising belly dance performance, the beautiful vocal melodies of the resident Arabic singer, and a “one man show” musical performance. BD75net, inclusive of a set menu dinner with selected beverages, from 8pm to 2am.

TAPAS: End the year with a bang at Tapas’ New Year’s Eve party! Eat, drink, and dance while the resident DJ spins the latest tunes for you and your friends.

Enjoy the breathtaking view and settle into the ambience of a beautiful seaside restaurant as you look forward to another year of happiness and good fortune.

BD30net, inclusive of a set menu dinner with two selected beverages, from 8pm to 2am.

Call 1763 6363 for reservations and more information.

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“ al aReen palace & spa ARABiAn niGHTS AT THe GRAnD WADi TenT: For New Years Eve celebrations, Al Areen Palace & Spa will host a spectacular Arabian Nights theme at the Grand Wadi Tent in the main courtyard of the hotel, overlooking the beautiful fountains. The themed night will feature a live Arabic singer along with a sumptuous buffet spread including live stations and cuisines from across the globe. BD28++ per person for gala dinner buffet including unlimited service of soft beverages, tea, coffee and juices; early Bird Offer – Book before December 15 and get a special price of BD25++ per person; special price of BD25++ for groups of five and above after December 15. If you want something out of the city bustle, this is a great option!

Call 1784 5000 for reservations and more information.

t hIs y e ar, be unPre DICtable , sP ontane ous anD ge t out oF y our CoM Fort Z one . Do t he t hIngs y ou’v e alWay s Want e D t o anD lIv e , lov e anD la ugh More !”

aRt Rotana, amwaj islanDs CellAR 59: New York comes to Cellar 59 this year for a night of classy big apple entertainment. Featuring special musical performances accompanied by resident DJ Boudi. BD10 ladies / BD20 men. Free entry if you dine in one of the hotel’s restaurants after 7pm on same day. Doors open at 8pm and entertainment starts at 10pm.

Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information.

Date: 17th December Time: 9pm to 2am Venue: CafĂŠ Amsterdam Tickets: BD10 in advance, BD15 at door For VIP table reservations please call +973 3670 9007 Dress up in a Game of Thrones inspired costume and enjoy one free beverage on the house!

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NYE HAppENINGS

the GulF hotel BahRain c onvention & spa

NYE. Celebrate the essence of Mexico and have a blast! BD26++ for the set menu.

Al WAHA: A lavish spread of the finest selection for a special occasion. New Year’s Eve in Al Waha will feature an exquisite buffet with an all-inclusive beverage package. BD35net per person with selected beverages; 50% off for children aged six to 12-years-old; kids aged five and below eat for free.

SHeRlOCK HOlMeS AnD TyPHOOn BAR: Both venues are throwing a party to ring in the New Year and say goodbye to the last.

At Sherlock Holmes Bar & Restaurant, DJ Rob will keep you up on your feet with his awesome tunes, and at Typhoon Bar, more great music will have guests in a mood for revelry! BD5net per person.

Call 1771 3000 for reservations and more information. Tickets are required for all NYE happenings.

zAHle: If you prefer the Arabic tunes, Zahle is the right place for you. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with the Lebanese band and belly dancer while you enjoy and satisfy your taste buds with authentic mezze and traditional food selections. BD669++ with selected beverages.

FuSiOnS, lA PeRGOlA AnD RASOi By VineeT: Invite your special someone to a romantic candle-lit dinner and look forward to the stroke of midnight. Fusions, La Pergola and Rasoi by Vineet offer you the option of a set menu complimented with a glass of bubbly or the flexibility of a la carte to enjoy your favourites. BD26++ for the set menu.

MARGARiTA MexiCAnA: A Latin Band, sumptuous food and most importantly an evening packed of fun. This is what awaits guests who want a lively Mexican-themed

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Royal GolF cluB linKS ReSTAuRAnT: Join in the lavish four-course New Year’s Eve set dinner which features entertainment from a live DJ who will make sure the New Year is welcomed in with style. The food is incredible and the entertainment on point, so this is guaranteed to be a great night!

Call 1775 0777 for reservations and more information. le meRiDien BahRain city centRe

ROMAnTiC nye DinneR AT SOie: Take your loved ones or that special someone for a marvellous set menu of authentic Chinese cuisine. BD16.9++ per person or BD21.9++ per person including selected beverages.

BAHARAT: It’s time for a night at the Oscars! Get ready to welcome the New Year with some pizazz as Baharat rolls out the red carpet a la Oscar style and sets the stage for some giddy times that stir up the Studio 54 nostalgia. BD35++ inclusive of soft beverages; BD50++ inclusive of select beverages. From 7pm to 1am.

Al SAFiR ReSTAuRAnT: Savour favourite festive dishes, enjoy live entertainment and join in for a toast as you bid farewell to 2016 at Al Safir Restaurant. New Year’s Eve dinner is priced at BD22++ for adults; children aged four to 12-years-old get 50% discount and kids aged four and below eat for free.

Call 1753 3533 for reservations and more information.

BizARRe lOunGe: Bizarre Lounge is the place to be for all the chic partygoers in town. Dance away to some high energy beats with the DJ spinning out progressive and funky tunes. BD15++ with snack buffet and soft beverages; BD40++ with snack buffet and selected beverages. From 7pm to 2am.

Call 1717 1441 for reservations and more information.

sheRaton BahRain hotel

THE 7 DAYS OF CHEZ SUSHI WED

Spend a minimum of 15BD and get a mochi on the house (delivery or dine-in)

TUE

Ladies, buy 1 Let’s Roll and get 1 Free Custom Let’s Roll. 6-10pm (dine-in only)

THU

Get a super 15% OFF any of our delicious platters (delivery or dine-in)

FRI

MON

The Big Brunch.

13BD for adults and 8BD for kids. 12-4pm (dine-in only)

Order any main course and get an appetizer or salad on the house (delivery or dine-in)

SAT

SUN

Buy 1 Custom Roll and get the second on the house! (dine-in only)

Buy 1 Custom Roll and get the second on the house! (dine-in only)

BENTO BOX HAPPY HOURS Order any Bento Box set and get a great 1.5 BD OFF. Sun - Thu, 12-3pm (delivery or dine-in)

Near Nakheel Centre, Avenue 57, Maqabah

chez sushi Bahrain

chezsushibahrain

Dubai • Oman • Bahrain • KSA

chezsushibh fact magazine

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NYE HAppENINGS

movenpick hotel BahRain

the Domain hotel & spa

SinATRA neW yeAR’S eVe PARTy: Come Fly with the Movenpick to the 60s and enjoy a magnificent, fun-filled Sinatra Show on New Year’s Eve. Indulge in the openbar, extravagant dinner buffet spread across three outlets and dance the night away.

All guests are free to roam around, whilst the performance is going on at Silks and The Gallery restaurants, with an in-house DJ playing at intervals in all three outlets, including Flamingo. Prices include the open bar and buffet. BD80net at The Gallery; BD75net at Silks; BD70net at Flamingo.

Room packages are available for guests who wish to stay overnight and that includes a one-night stay on December 31 for BD189net per couple for seating in Silks or Flamingo and BD199 net per couple for seating in the main Gallery restaurant. This room package includes a delicious buffet breakfast on January 1, 2017.

Call 1746 0017 for reservations and more information.

le SAuVAGe AnD leVel [34]: Savour an elegant and indulgent NYE seven-course set menu by Chef Rukmal at these sky-high venues. Not only are the views breathtaking, the food is equally impressive and a great way to welcome 2017. BD29++ per person with soft beverages; add BD20++ per person for premium beverage pairing.

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iMARi: Select from an extravagant New Year’s Eve menu from 9pm onwards and celebrate the end of 2016 with true, mouthwatering Japanese fare. BD20++ per person including beverages from a selected list.

TxOKO: Head over to Txoko this New Year’s Eve for one of the biggest clubbing nights of the year. Party to the sounds of great music and countdown to 2017 with other revelers! BD10 at the door on NYE. Call 1600 0000 for reservations and more information.

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NYE HAppENINGS

cRowne plaZa BahRain ROARin’ 20’S BAll: Enjoy an elegant night of vintage glamour, set to bring in the New Year with a bang! The Roaring 20’s New Year’s Eve Ball will be filled with exciting entertainment and a great atmosphere. The evening will start with an exquisite gala dinner with free flowing selected beverages.

Spectacular entertainment will usher on the night, which will see performances from a Jazz band, Frankie’s friends with Christine Gordon, international dance troupes and a live DJ. This exclusive event will be held at the Crowne Plaza’s main ball room in the Diplomatic area. Musical ambiance will be provided, and the dress code is chic and couture ballroom. All guests can enjoy complimentary party favours, balloon drop, a champagne toast at midnight and many more surprises.

Early Bird tickets are BD63 (book before December 10) and General Admission tickets are BD70net per person. To top it off, there’s a special tailored room package, which includes two tickets to the event, breakfast for two and double accommodation, for a snazzy BD190net. You can both enjoy a night of fun, party and celebration, without having to worry about making the journey back home! lA MOSAiQue ReSTAuRAnT: Welcome the New Year with a luscious buffet with family and friends. BD30net inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. Children under five-yearsold eat free while those aged five to 10-years-old pay BD16net. From 7pm onwards.

SPiCeS inDiAn ReSTAuRAnT: Get ready for the Yaadon Ki Baarat special event. An evening down memory lane awaits. Dress as a gangster or a silent screen star or just come as you are.

It’s going to be a night filled with fun and memories. BD30net inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. Children under five-years-old eat free while those aged five to 10-years-old pay BD14net. From 7pm onwards.

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WAVeS SeAFOOD ReSTAuRAnT: Say hello to 2017 by indulging your senses with a unique dining experience. Choose your favourite seafood from the seafood specialty market and have it cooked to your preference.BD38net inclusive of unlimited selected beverages. Children under five-years-old eat free while those aged five to 10-years-old pay BD18net.

From 7pm onwards.

Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

Downtown Rotana TeATRO DOWnTOWn: Welcome the New Year in style at Downtown Rotana.

Tempt your senses while celebrating with a dinner featuring a five-cuisine gala dinner set menu at Teatro Downtown. BD35++ including soft drinks and juices; BD45++ including selected beverages.

Call 3360 5070 for reservations and more information.

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NYE HAppENINGS

RaDisson Blu hotel Doha HAVAnA CluB: Swinging 60’s Havana comes to Bahrain at The Grand Ambassador Ballroom. With live entertainment from the Cuban Yoel Soto Band, the evening is inclusive of selected drinks and a deliciously extensive selection of international dishes. Black tie, BD65 net per person, from 8pm onwards.

Book before December 15 and save with the Early Bird Gala Dinner deal for BD55net per person.

Call 1753 1666 for reservations and more information. the RitZ-caRlton, BahRain eleCTRiFyinG niGHT OF ReSOluTiOnS: Spend an exhilarating night with loved ones and count down together into a wonderful new year. Move to the beats of DJ Marcela and sway your hips on the l.e.d dance floor together with Tron dancers, combining the special effects of light and movements to bring the party to a new level. Enjoy the dinner show and indulge in a culinary journey highlighted by the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. BD99++ per person including selected premium drinks; BD65++ including soft beverages. From 8pm to 2am at Al Noor Ballroom.

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“

ta K e a l e a P o F Fa I t h anD begIn thIs WonDrous neW year by belIevIng. belIeve I n y o u r s e l F. a n D b e l I e v e t h at t h e r e Is a lovIng sourCe a soWer oF DreaMs - just WaItIng to be asKeD to helP you MaKe your DreaMs CoMe true.”

niRVAnA: If you want to add a bit of spice to the start of your New Year, here’s where to do it! Devour a lip-licking four-course family-style set menu for BD35++ per person, from 7pm to 12midnight.

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NYE HAppENINGS PluMS: Meat lovers unite and head to Plums for an unforgettable evening!

Savour a beautiful four-course set menu for BD65++ per person from 7pm to 12midnight.

Primavera: Italian food fans, this is your calling for NYE! Let your taste buds do the happy dance with a lavish sevencourse set menu for BD45++ per person, from 7pm to 12midnight.

Call 1758 0000 for reservations and more information. the westin BahRain city centRe FuRn BAKeRy: Tuck into a New Year’s Eve Afternoon Tea Extravaganza. The big New Year’s bash is on the mind for all, but before you head out to party it up, catch up with family and friends over a deliciously presented Tea Buffet at the Furn Rotunda. BD15++ per person (eat all you want). From 2pm to 6pm.

BOuDOiR: The Colombian Fiesta is your sassiest way to ring in the New Year with some Parisian panache. Feast over an a la carte menu accompanied by your loved ones,and live entertainment by the dazzling Colombian Duo. From 9pm to 2am. ✤ Call 1717 1441 for reservations and more information.

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NYE

Masquerade Party 2017

Embark with us this New Year’s Eve 2017 at Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant on December 31st Full Feast International Buffet with live cooking Station Pasta / Grill / Stir Fry and endless curry cravings.

Mascaraed Kit and a glass of sparkling wine 2 Live DJ’s of mash up International Hits (Dining Room and Outdoor Courtyard) Only @ BD 25/person Conditions Apply*

BOOK NOW to claim your table: 17246777 / 17250999

LANTERNSLOUNGE

LANTERNSBAHRAIN

www.lanternsrestaurant.com lanternsrestaurant.com lanternsrestaurant .com

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REVIEWS

Big Screen Collateral Beauty What’s it about? a man who has lost all hope after losing his daughter retreats from life, questioning the universe by writing to time, love and Death. he receives some unexpected answers to help him work through all the heartbreak and bitterness. but is this really the cosmos reaching out to him, or is there something more logical at work here?

Director: David Frankel cast: Will Smith, Kate Winslet, Naomie Harris

Highlights “This film takes on an almost other-worldly narrative of directing your feelings and frustrations at the universe...”

Office Christmas Party What’s it about: Clay’s uptight Ceo sister threatens to shut down his branch for underperforming, so he decides to throw an epic Christmas party in order to land a big client and save everyone’s jobs. It’s not long until the party gets out of control.

– Collateral Beauty

Why it’s Worth Watching?

After all the US election drama and (disappointing) result, this is perhaps the uplifting boost we all need this holiday season. The seemingly fantastical drama Collateral Beauty will speak volumes to many viewers, and it’s all thanks to the magical writing and Will Smith pouring his heart and soul into the dramatic role of New York Ad Exec Howard Inlet. How would you face losing a child? Would all your success in life matter without them? This film takes on an almost other-worldly narrative of directing your feelings and frustrations at the universe – and so, Howard writes letters to Time ( Jacob Latimore), Death (Helen Mirren) and Love (Keira Knightley) as a therapeutic ruse until, one day, they start to show up. At the same time, his concerned friends are desperate to reconnect with him, so you’re constantly wondering which, if any, of Howard’s encounters are real.

What you’re left with is an emotional holiday film that aims to decipher life’s constant interlocks and how even the deepest loss can reveal moments of meaning and beauty.

“Office Christmas party is just that, but far from the mundane festive banter and best-behaviour around colleagues, this party is on a whole ‘nother level…”

– Office Christmas Party

Director: Josh Gordon, Will Speck cast: Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Olivia Munn, T.J. Miller Why it’s Worth Watching?

You always need that ONE film at Christmas that just breaks all the rules of holiday season cinema; in 2016, this is it.

Office Christmas Party is just that, but far from the mundane festive banter and bestbehaviour around colleagues, this party is on a whole ‘nother level – think full-on open bar, bob sledging down the stairs, swinging off Christmas lights, an ice slide, things being thrown out of the window and Christmas trees on fire – and that’s just the tame side. If you want to know what NOT to do at the office Christmas party (or maybe how to spice things up!) this film is your one-stop idea shop! Plus, Jennifer Aniston is pretty bad a** in it too!

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Signature treatments that promise ultimate relaxation to clear your mind, refresh your body, and stimulate your senses.

For reservation, please call ...17781500

hydrospabh www.hydrospabh.com fact magazine

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REVIEWS

on the record

Fully Booked

ParoDy/sPooF

Five go gluten Free

By Bruno Vincent

r&b/soul

starboy

By The Weeknd

There’s hardly a day that goes by in the FACT office where someone doesn’t play his music, so we’re glad to see Abel Tesfaye a.k.a The Weeknd continue to grow and turn corners.

From vocals to production, he can literally do no wrong. Though Starboy – both the hit track and what we’ve heard of the album – sound light years away from when he first hit the music scene with his House of Balloons mixtape, The Weeknd’s latest offering is a little bit older and less inflated but with the same simple yet clever lyricism and stunning vocals that give us chills every time. In the first single of the same name as the 18-track record, not only is Daft Punk’s immaculate piano-framed production mind-blowing, The Weeknd’s voice is as frenetic and contagious as the beat, and it’s getting fans completely lit from the first chord.

It’s that creepily distinctive, vampiric falsetto that we want him to show off in Starboy. Let’s hope he continues to stay in his own unique musical realm instead of falling to the world of commercial R&B-pop.

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eleCtronIC/ alt-PoP

i see you

Oh how we remember our love for Enid Blyton’s Famous Five. Cleverly, Bruno Vincent has taken The Famous Five and turned this into a series of Enid Blyton books for grown-ups. We’re talking parenting, strategy days and even a visit to Brexit island (how much lol is that?) – and this particular story sees George, Dick, Anne, Julian and Timmy confront a new challenge: is it possible to get a good gluten-free cream tea? It’s the perfect story for any partners or friends who are reluctantly spiralising courgettes for dinner and thinking of as many new eggplant dishes as they can on a daily basis.

By The xx

Another of our music loves, the xx haven’t released an album since Coexist in 2012, and even though we’ve been getting regular bursts of the trio through Jamie xx’s In Colour, an album from the trio together has been long overdue and, from what we gather, a real labour of love! It was recorded in London, Reykjavik, new York, Los Angeles and Marfa, Texas and, going off the spotify snippets as well as the first single on hold, the xx has had a slight revamp of sound. on hold, which samples Hall & Oates’ I Can’t Go for That (no Can Do) doesn’t have that peak shivering, signature xx arrangement. Instead, it steps away from the dark atmospherics and into a more casually upbeat aesthetic. This is definitely a more open and expansive approach, and though the single is pleasant enough, we just hope that the xx haven’t change what they are known for, too much. Hopefully, there are still a few beautifully haunting tracks on there to give us our muchanticipated the xx fix.

CrIMe/Mystery

the chemist

By Stephanie Meyer The author who penned Twilight tries her hand (and imagination) at something new; The Chemist is the story of an ex-agent on the run from her former employers. She must take one more case to clear her name and save her life. An expert in her field, she was one of the darkest secrets of an agency so clandestine it doesn’t even have a name.

And when they decided she was a liability, they came for her without warning. It is once again Meyer’s ability to create a world where the reader loses themselves in fiction that makes you really believe in this fierce and fascinating new heroine. Winner!

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SOCIETY

#2nd #g CC #Fo od #Photo gRaPhy #awaRds

around 250 people, eminent members from the food, photography and media industry gathered to award the winners of this year’s competition. anita Das was crowned the grand winner of the 2nd gCC Food Photography awards. her submissions took the prize for the floor’s most outstanding images, as decided upon by the judges. guests enjoyed a fun evening of interacting with the winners of the contest as well as chief guests of the evening Chefs Kunal Kapur and yann bernad lejard. Winners were each awarded a nikon camera and a certificate.

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CONGRATULATIONS

WINNERS! THe 2016 CITI FACT DININg AWARDs AwArded THe BesT And FAVoUriTes oF BAHrAin’s CUlinAry sCene in A lAVisH Ceremony AT ART RoTANA, AmWAj IslANDs. AFTer Two monTHs oF ConTinUoUs VoTing From THoUsAnds oF yoU, we were leFT wiTH THe CriTiCs’ piCk And THe pUBliC’s CHoiCe As Two winners wAlked AwAy wiTH THe presTigioUs plAqUes in eACH CATegory! CongrATs To eVeryone wHo wAs nominATed And espeCiAlly To THe winners. Here we go…

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CITI FACT AWARDS

• InternatIonal •

Best

FaVe

Café Amsterdam

links, royal golf Club

where do we start with this beautiful venue? not only is it decorated with classy european touches, it boasts an incredible menu of delicious Anglo Dutch dishes prepared with the highest quality ingredients.

There’s everything from sumptuous breakfasts to healthy salads and classic appetisers, homely mains and comfort-food desserts. It also hosts some of the best entertainment evenings – a well-deserved win.

A place that has become synonymous with great international fare, Links continues to excite diners who flock there for a truly tasty meal. From breakfast to all-day dining, dinner and desserts, you can feast on everything from BBQ Beef Salad to Fish & Chips, Tempura Prawns and the mouthwatering crowd-pleaser, the Malva Pudding.

Stylish yet lively, there’s no wonder it won the people’s vote.

• ItalIan •

Best

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FaVe

primavera, The ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

rosso, ArT rotana, Amwaj islands

we’re constantly impressed by the authentic Italian cuisine served up at this elegant yet relaxed restaurant. The Trattoria Moderna has a menu created by the world-famous Chef Oliver Glowig who incorporates local products from Bahrain with the best of traditional Italy to give diners a unique twist with exciting modern-day touches.

The Ravioli Caprese and eggplant Parmigiana are two huge standouts!

Think fun and flavourful, the public has fallen in love with Rosso for its fuss-free Italian menu which has everything from yummy pizzas made in the wood-fired oven to filling pasta dishes, cured meats and cheese alongside seafood, signature desserts and more, there’s something tasty for everyone. The open piazza is reminiscent of Italian culture and there’s even an outdoor terrace to enjoy.

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CITI FACT AWARDS

• MeDIterranean •

Best

FaVe

la Vinoteca Barcelona

Florence la maison méditerranéenne

The menus here are designed to offer authentic Mediterranean cuisine that stimulates the senses. This is complemented with an excellent beverage menu, which includes 35 of the finest Torres wines from Spain, America and Chile. This place is the embodiment of the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones through passionate gastronomy. A unique, oenological culinary experience awaits all who enter here.

A newcomer to the food scene, Florence has fast-become a favourite with the foodie community for its vibrant and scrumptious dishes as well as a fabulous Mediterranean-themed venue. eat indoors or outdoors and enjoy the variety of this menu which includes some of the best pasta, seafood and delectable desserts in town. Ideal for ladies who lunch, groups of friends or casual yet intimate family meals.

• GUlF •

Best Furn Bistro & Bakery, The westin Bahrain City Centre High quality and creative khaleeji cuisine with a welcomed modern touch, this is what makes Furn Bistro & Bakery stand out. every dish is infused with the heart and soul of the region and prepared by passionate chefs. Mezza, machboos, mixed grill, seafood and Arabic desserts are created with innovative cooking methods and artistic presentation.

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FaVe saffron, Al Areen palace & spa A world away from the city bustle, Saffron continues to pull in the crowd for its guarantee of comfort and privacy teamed with a fantastic meal. with majestic shades of gold and purple, and a spectacular view of the resort’s grand pools, this signature dining venue introduces a menu inspired by modern Bahraini dishes, combining elements of enticing european and khaleeji fusion.

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• IranIan •

Best

FaVe

golestan, sheraton Bahrain Hotel Juicy meat and flavour-packed rice plus herbs and side dishes that will leave you salivating for days, Golestan has made its mark in Bahrain by serving up some of the best, traditional Iranian dishes in the kingdom. with authentic, living-room-style décor and chelo kebab that tastes so good every single time, there’s no surprise that this place walked away with the title of the best.

Takht Jamsheed, The gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa not only is this place constantly packed, it manages to combine delightful dishes created by an all-Iranian team of chefs, with exciting entertainment. It’s the lively vibe that draws crowds to Takht Jamsheed, where you’ll find inspiration from Persia’s royal palace in a chic restaurant that offers a fine dining experience fit for a king.

• leBaneSe •

Best

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Zahle, The gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa

pashawat, sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa

Taste-bud-tempting food and excellent live entertainment make zahle the place to be for a truly Lebanese dining experience. with exceptional gastronomy accompanied by renowned Lebanese singers alongside time-honoured belly dancing routines, it’s no wonder that zahle has become so popular for its distinctive gastronomy and guest satisfaction.

A subtle blend of traditional and modern décor is brought to life with top singers and belly dancers providing a festive atmosphere by entertaining guests throughout their dining. There is a much more laid-back vibe here with a dedicated lounge and bar to sample true Lebanese cuisine.

Bahrain’s diners have spoken, and Pashawat is at the top of the table!

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• SeaFooD •

Best

FaVe

le domain [34], The domain Hotel & spa

samak, Coral Bay

Seafood meets science and creativity beyond our imagination. Le Domain [34] boasts some of the best views in Bahrain, but also gives diners the chance to experience something completely different on the Bahrain food front. Dishes are given a molecular touch and the cuisine brings to your table the freshest ingredients, all cooked in the most delicious and distinctive ways to give you an extraordinary meal.

Samak’s outdoor terrace takes prime position with elevated views over the marina. This is where merry diners gather to tuck into fresh seafood delights and sip on something thirst-quenching whilst soaking up the spectacular surroundings. Samak offers a range of signature dishes but it’s the catch of the day, displayed on an ice bed, which gives Samak its culinary edge.

• tUrKISH •

Best

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Köşebaşi, City Centre Bahrain

mado & künefeci

Along wide the authentic Turkish cuisine that guests constantly rave about, kosebasi has the friendly, fast service that’s a consistent pull for many regular customers. A recent renovation and revival of the menu has catapulted kosebasi to the top of the Turkish food game. we love the new Signature Seafood Platter – an absolute must-try.

All the mouthwatering goodness of classic Turkish dishes is what Mado & künefeci offer hungry visitors. Dubbed The Pride of Turkey, a visit to Mado means glorious Turkish breakfast, kofta, baklava and so much more, whilst künefeci takes all your künefe dreams and creates a cheese pastry soaked in sweet sugar-based syrup fit for any empire.

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• CHIneSe •

Best

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China garden, The gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa This is mainland China brought straight to your palate. The restaurant, which is designed in a modern oriental style, offers a varied selection of food influenced by distinct Chinese regions creating Cantonese, Szechuan and Peking specialties. The dim sum is on point, as are the signature dishes. China Garden steals the show for having the total package.

soie, sheraton Bahrain Hotel Authentic Chinese cuisine is presented in the most unpretentious way – that is why people love Soie. From chicken to duck, beef and lamb, vegetables, noodles, seafood and everything in between, there’s not a single dish that Soie doesn’t deliver well. The dramatic entrance and elegant décor add to this great restaurant’s appeal which is inviting and welcoming from the moment you step in.

• SoUtH eaSt aSIan •

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re Asian Cuisine by wolfgang puck, Four seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

wU Asian restaurant & lounge, ArT rotana, Amwaj islands

How do we even begin to describe the love, passion and perfection that goes into every dish at re Asian Cuisine? From the 50th floor of the Hotel, this exclusive destination dazzles with innovative Asian cuisine, elegant art deco-inspired design, and stunning views of the city skyline. The menu features wolfgang’s signature, modern take on traditional Asian cuisine and provides a “re”-evolution of incredibly tantalising flavours - we love it!

Feast your senses on a vibrant blend of cultures as wU takes you on a culinary journey through the Far east. The carefully selected dishes are served in portions perfect for sharing and are delivered to the table progressively ensuring an exciting and evolving dining experience. wU’s lounge, outdoor terrace and modern décor make it a popular after-work haunt for drinks with colleagues.

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• J a Pa n e S e •

Best

FaVe

meisei

Bushido restaurant & lounge

Fresh and delicious contemporary Japanese Fusion cuisine has a home that Bahrain’s food fans have come to adore. with the perfect ambiance for a relaxed meal in five-star surroundings, Meisei is three floors and an excellent menu of traditionally-inspired yet creatively modern Japanese fare. It’s also where many awesome themed nights and events are held for Bahrain’s sophisticated dining crowd.

Bushido offers exceptional Japanese cuisine, from sashimi, sushi, robata, and a la carte, all done to perfection. The main restaurant offers dining indoors and on the beautiful outdoor terrace. The Samurai wall, enchanting staircase and large, comfy tables all add to the lovely setting which frequently plays host to world-class Japanese Chefs and innovative dining deals – that’s why people love it!

• InDIan •

Best rasoi By Vineet, The gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa Taking Indian cuisine to a whole new level is this fabulous Indian restaurant that has fast-become a trendsetter in the food market. Rasoi by vineet is the first fine-dining restaurant in Bahrain operated by a Michelin starred chef. Renowned chef-restaurateur vineet Bhatia takes you on a delectable Michelin-style journey into the world of contemporary Indian cuisine.

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FaVe lanterns lounge & restaurant An incredibly popular spot for food and drinks, Lanterns has become an institution in Bahrain amongst those who love the authentically-Indian vibe and excellent food. Featuring three distinct areas, the Truck Bar, the Courtyard Garden Lounge and the dining room, Lanterns has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere with a sense of social paired with delicious cuisine that customers come back for time and again.

NEW YEAR

EVE

Join us for the gala event of the year at Me & You on the 31st of December 2016 BD 38 net per person limited tickets available for more information or tickets please contact us on 1601 0160 or 3838 0357

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• nortH aMerICan •

Best

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Tony roma’s

Bennigan’s

Tony Roma’s is a full service, casual dining family restaurant where you can find premier ribs and steaks. The restaurant serves its signature ribs, onion loaf, and other steak, chicken and seafood entrees, cooked to preference and packed with unbeatable taste. Relish on a fulfilling meal with your family and friends at venues all over Bahrain and experience what true north American cuisine brings to the food scene.

Another place that has become an institution in its own right – Bennigan’s takes home the people’s choice award as it’s THe place where the public likes to go for hearty American-style food at great prices. The authentic diner setting which combines the café-cum-pub hybrid is the ideal place to catch a game whilst chilling out with friends and a cold drink in-hand.

• l atIn aMerICan •

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Cantina kahlo, The ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Casa mexicana

Authentic Mexican cuisine officially arrived in Bahrain a few months ago and it’s been a non-stop buzz ever since. The beautiful Cantina kahlo artfully blends 5-star service with Mexican flair for a dining experience like no other. The gastronomic journey begins with the bold art and colours of Mexico in the décor. Selections of artisanal tacos, ceviche, and guacamole as well as favourites like “sopes” and “flautas”, have fast-made this the best Mexican hangout in Bahrain.

This is the place to go for a one of a kind dining experience as you tuck into rich Mexican flavours. The menu is filled with classic Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes including tacos, fajitas, refried beans and guacamole. They also offer an extensive range of cocktails too, something that is a huge draw for loyal and new customers. The flavoured margaritas alongside an awesome ambience of chatter and fun means the public chose well.

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• SteaKHoUSe •

Best

FaVe

legendz steakhouse, interContinental regency Bahrain Legendz steakhouse offers diners prime meat cuts, fine vino and great service that complements the elegant setting. It’s one of the best venues to indulge in an impressive array of premium cuts, grills and signature dishes to please every palate. Family gatherings or romantic evenings with your loved ones where you can indulge in quality meat – that’s what makes for legendary steakhouse dining.

Torino restaurant & lounge It’s Bahrain’s hottest new Mediterranean steakhouse style restaurant and lounge, and it’s causing a massive food frenzy! High-quality meat and seafood is grilled to perfection with flavour-packed seasoning and sides to go with. It’s the edgy setting and lively ambience that draws in the crowds to experience all that Torino has to offer. The Seafood Quinoa Salad is an absolute must, and a great time to visit is the Chic Ladies night Out.

• BUrGer JoInt •

Best

FaVe

shake shack, City Centre Bahrain

Jasmi’s

The popular Manhattan concept, known for its fresh, simple, high-quality burgers, hot dogs, frozen custard and shakes, tops the burger game in Bahrain. The queue goes on forever on weekends with foodies lining up to get a taste of the famous Shake Shack concept. we love that the menu consists of premium sustainable ingredients with natural, hormone-free meats. Try the signature ShackBurger - yum!

when you need a fast, reliable service and a tasty burger, Jasmi’s is the place to go and it seems that the public agrees. The Fast Food Hamburger chain emphasises on the quality of products and their preparation. Due to the consistent efforts to meet standards, staff and customers remain loyal which enables a continued growth for Jasmi’s and burger fans alike.

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• In-Mall •

Best

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paul restaurant & Bakery

Abd el wahab, moda mall

Originally from France, Paul serves a range of rustic and specialty breads, cakes, pastries and desserts, as well as sandwiches and hot meals prepared on demand. It’s great that Paul continues to use authentic, time-honoured methods as a nod to its founder Charlemagne Mayot’s French family bakery and patisserie standards.

Lunch times and weekends is when the diners show love!

Designed to give you an authentic Lebanese dining experience, Abd el wahab has become quite a trademark restaurant. It features a rich oriental décor, with damascene walls, brass and glass-blown artifacts and a traditional menu with hot and cold starters, grills, mains and desserts. everything is familiar and the taste test is all about how well Lebanese food favourites are executed in flavour and presentation.

• FUSIon •

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my Café

Hévéa Café, Al Aali shopping Complex

This boutique restaurant serves gourmet-style food and has fastbecome a lunchtime hotspot and an al fresco favourite. It serves delicious food made from scratch using the freshest and top-of-theline ingredients. with inviting, modern and tasteful interiors spanning two floors and a secluded garden escape, My Café was created to bring like-minded people together, accentuated with yummy food and the best customer service.

It’s become the talk of the town and when you enter Hévéa Café, you’ll know why! You’re instantly at a cross between Parisian sophistication and Indo-chine authenticity. And this is also reflected in the menu items which boast a heavenly selection of everything from fresh shrimp rolls to creamy Burrata, classic lamb shank and the almighty Club Saigon sandwich. This is one culinary crossroads that Bahrain’s food enthusiasts approve of!

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• Fa M I l Y - F r I e n D l Y •

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lumee

dome Café

Lumee has become synonymous with the best street-food style dining in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Its newest location in Saar Mall is always packed with families and friends who have fallen in love with its extensive, creative menu of juicy meats, healthy salads and out-of-this-world desserts to name just a few of the feasting options.

Fresh, quality cuisine and laid back venues make this place more than perfect for every member of the family.

with its distinct casual charm and homely menu, this foodie haven has been welcoming families for many years now. Dome Café’s menu is choices galore. From an array of all-day breakfast items to fresh salads, filling soups, sandwiches, sharing platters, café classics, seafood, meaty mains, delectable desserts and an extensive drinks menu, this place has every palate of every family member for every meal of the day.

• tea rooM •

Best Bay View lounge, Four seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay views, glorious views, that what you’ll get from the floor-to-seiling windows at this magnificent lobby lounge which caters for anyone with a sweet tooth or in need of a quick snack and drink. Savour light international fare or afternoon tea at one of the large tables or on the beautiful outdoor terrace with private majlis-style seating providing the perfect setting against the Manama skyline.

FaVe The lobby lounge, The ritz-Carlton, Bahrain At any given time, this place is packed with groups of ladies having lunch, gents meeting for business, families treating themselves and couples pondering over sweet treats and delicious drinks. Oversized sofas and exquisite melodies from a classical trio provide the perfect environment in which to relax over a world-famous Ritz-Carlton afternoon tea. Relaxed surroundings and luxury delicacies for the win you’ve got to try it to believe it!

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• CaSUal DInInG •

Best

FaVe

saffron By Jena Bakery

Hakisushi Bahrain

This place is famous all over the island for serving up some of the best Bahraini breakfast items. A traditional Bahraini breakfast of foul, eggs with tomato, balaleet, beans, bread and more is what diners love and return for at Saffron. The food is only one of the great things about Saffron, it’s often packed with locals and expats alike, all enjoying the casual atmosphere and excellent company.

The go-to sushi place for consistently good Japanese fare, the menu features the freshest sushi, sashimi and cooked Japanese contemporary cuisine as well as traditional Japanese favourites, all served from the kaiten-sushi dining bar. Table seating is also available on the mezzanine, but mostly, diners enjoy the laid back ambience and the impressive dishes, all crafted in the state of the art kitchen by master sushi chefs.

• PUB •

Best JJ’s irish Bar & restaurant It’s Bahrain’s largest Irish pub serving quality food, ales and offering great live entertainment. As a traditional Irish Pub, JJ’s entertains in many different ways, be it watching your favourite sporting event, listening to live music from across the years with a resident band or DJ, and even a karaoke contest, the atmosphere at JJ’s is what keeps the crowds coming back.

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FaVe Harvesters pub & Terrace, Crowne plaza Bahrain A classic pub setting where you can watch live sports on the big screens or catch up with colleagues and friends over a drink at the high-table bar or the trendy terrace. There’s live entertainment from a band and the food varies from Arabic mezzeh to buffalo chicken wings and fish and chips to murgh tikka. Palate-pleasing food alongside a great vibe.

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• all-DaY DInInG •

Best

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Flavours on 2, downtown rotana Bright and airy, this venue is one of the most vibrant and sophisticated all-day dining restaurants in Bahrain. Flavours on 2 is the culinary heart of the hotel offering an exquisite international buffet and an à la carte menu. An open-style kitchen and live cooking stations bring a lively atmosphere into the restaurant.

silk’s restaurant, mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

If quality and variety is what you strive for from a meal, then Silk’s is the place to go. experience fine dining and sample creative menus prepared by the seasoned and culinary experts in the softly lit and intimate ambience of Silk’s Restaurant. whether it’s a relaxing lunch or a gourmet dinner – food is the main focus here!

• al FreSCo DInInG •

Best

FaVe

la plage, The ritz-Carlton, Bahrain

Café Amsterdam & la Vinoteca Barcelona

This is the place to indulge in a new and enticing menu of ArabianMediterranean Fusion Cuisine at a venue that’s just off the beach. If you’re seeking vibrant outdoor scenery just a few steps away from the sandy beach, La Plage is the ideal place to relax by the water and enjoy a variety of light lunch items and refreshing beverages.

These eateries not only serve up some of the best international, gourmet-style cuisine, from tapas at La vinoteca, to homely favourites like juicy burgers and pies at Café Amsterdam, but the two venues share an incredibly cool outdoor area which is frequented by diners who love to chill with great food and drinks whilst being entertained by live music.

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• CoFFeeHoUSe •

Best

FaVe

Costa Coffee

starbucks

with venues all over Bahrain that have been revamped into beautiful creative spaces, coffee-lovers flock to Costa for amazing hot and cold beverages alongside tasty sandwiches, paninis, croissants, rolls, cakes and other luscious treats. This is more than a place to grab a good cuppa – it’s a place for people to meet, discuss and share ideas.

Tea, coffee and beverages galore, Starbucks’ flavourful drinks, delicious salads, cookies and other food items have made the coffeehouse a firm favourite with visitors. The festive seasons is just one of the time’s of year when Starbucks fans head over to pick up a warm cup of exclusive tastes and flavours to share with family and friends.

• Bar •

Best

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Cellar 59 Bar. lounge. Tapas, ArT rotana, Amwaj islands

downtown Bar, interContinental regency Bahrain

As far as a labyrinth of bar-style fun goes, Cellar 59 is located on the mezzanine level and represents a modern cave that winds through various private areas. There’s an impressive beverage menu of more than 50 delicious drinks and tapas options to soothe any palate. Sit back and relax as the live DJ sets the mood with great lounge music.

Unwinding after a busy day is made all the better at Downtown, where you can treat yourself to homemade Tex-Mex cuisine prepared by talented chefs alongside equally talented live music and the best liquid concoctions. Informal business talks, special occasions with friends and so many more good times can be had at this bar favourite.

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• loUnGe •

Best

FaVe

Trader Vic’s need we say more? Bahrain’s best lounge is one that finds itself packed with new and returning punters every day! weekends are the most lively with the restaurant being the centre of celebration as diners tuck into Polynesian-inspired cuisine and famous drinks. The ambience is social, the menu fabulous and the service excellent. It’s no wonder that Trader vic’s takes the best award for 2017.

Txoko, The domain Hotel & spa

This sophisticated sky lounge crowns the top floor of The Domain hotel, presenting stunning views and an ideal place to quench your thirst with a wide selection of cocktails, ales, sangria, or some tasty scientific molecular concoctions. The ambience is beautiful and classy, and Txoko is just as much the chilled-out lounge as it is the ultimate party place.

• SHISHa loUnGe •

Best ritz gourmet lounge, The ritz-Carlton, Bahrain The shisha terrace lounge serves up exotic and newly composed shisha flavours in oversized contemporary Meduse pipes, made of Czech hand-blown Bohemian Glass. A dedicated shisha sommelier assists with choosing the perfect flavour and recommends a selection of drinks and refreshments to accompany this finest shisha experience.

FaVe sip & dip, elite seef residence Locals and visitors alike love to gather at Sip & Dip for great shisha, food and drinks right by the poolside. Aptly named for its convenience, the Sip & Dip is an African themed poolside bar offering an extensive choice of refreshing beverages, along with a wide selection of light snacks, juicy burgers and sandwiches. The perfect setting for a relaxed evening!

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• tHeMeD DInInG •

Best

FaVe

royal golf Club

mövenpick Hotel Bahrain

From the new weekend Traditional Roasts to the all-time favourite Surf ‘n’ Turf night and All You Can eat Ribs evening, the Royal Golf Club has well and truly mastered the art of putting on a good themed night. we particularly enjoy the live contemporary jazz and blues night on a Friday as well as the Links Business Lunch – there’s a dining deal to suite everyone!

Seafood night, Thursday night Out, Friday Brunch and so many more regular and annual themed festivals and foodie offers are hosted by the Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain. Themed happenings are not only food-packed but also bring authentic culture and fun activities to entertain guests with unique events – that’s why people love the Mövenpick.

• Pa t I S S e r I e •

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Furn Bakery, The westin Bahrain City Centre

Haute Cupcakes

The feature of the Furn Bakery is the stunning oven. The oven is used by the Master Baker to produce a wide range of freshly baked pastries and fattayer to complement the extensive range of hot and cold drinks.

Yummy sandwiches and desserts all wait to be savoured at this brand new sweet addition to Bahrain’s patisserie scene.

A bright and beautiful café concept with some of the most delicious cupcakes in Bahrain, Haute Cupcakes has become a pop culture trend in the culinary world. Offering a wide choice of cupcakes, cookies, sweets and candies, this place is perfect for a yummy treat and casual catch up, and that’s why diners gather here with loved ones.

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• CaFe •

Best

FaVe

Café lilou Café Lilou has become somewhat of a foodie staple in Bahrain when it comes to really good French-inspired café cuisine. Reminiscent of a 19th century Parisian brasserie, its venues represent classic French dining with a few twists and surprises. The décor oozes decadence and, of course, fresh food and drinks and famous desserts too. Just divine!

le Chocolat

A spot of light lunch, or a leisurely dinner, Le Chocolat has become something of a dining destination. The gourmet bakery offers up some of the best cakes and sweet treats in Bahrain, and the menu boasts breakfast items, salads, pizzas, pastas and plenty more fantastic dishes that keep the diners coming through the door. way to go!

• FrIDaY BrUnCH •

Best

FaVe

Baharat, le meridien Bahrain City Centre

Crowne plaza Bahrain

Friday Brunch is a casual yet classy affair. with an amazing variety of food, from sushi to Indian grills and curries, fresh salads, Arabic favourites, a cheese station, succulent meats and over 100 delectable desserts, brunch is a sweet occasion at Baharat. There’s fantastic live music by the Columbian Fire Soul Duo and the lively atmosphere plus excellent food is why this brunch is the best.

The Absolutely fabulous Friday brunch offers great starters, the freshest seafood and sushi counter, a Mongolian BBQ at La Mosaique restaurant, carving stations at Harvesters and a wide selection of desserts at Cappuccino’s. whilst mum, dad and the grown ups enjoy premium beverages and fantastic food, the little ones have entertaining activities to keep them busy.

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• Fa M I l Y - F r I e n D l Y F r I D a Y B r U n C H •

Best

FaVe

Choices, ArT rotana, Amwaj islands

sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa

This is where families go to start their weekend at one of Bahrain’s freshest brunches. Featuring a vast array of superb live cooking stations, the one of a kind winery section where you can sample premium wines, plus drinks stands and music entertainment. what’s more, the live cooking stations showcase Asian, western and Middle eastern fare, and there’s even an awesome kids club to keep the little ones entertained!

A truly lavish buffet that combines cuisines from all over the world, whilst offering you beautiful views of the pool, gardens and beyond.

This Friday Brunch is spread over three awesome restaurants – Saraya, Fiamma, and wok. Offering up international flavours, Italian favourites and South east Asian delights – there’s something for the whole family alongside fab activities for the kids too.

• InDePenDent WeeKenD BrUnCH •

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Café Amsterdam & la Vinoteca Barcelona

Bushido restaurant & lounge

Café Amsterdam and La vinoteca host a brunch that includes breakfast and lunch options; some dishes are served piping hot on your table, some are buffet style. with a huge fresh salad offering, live mixed seafood and chicken paella, live fired homemade sausages, and a magnificent desserts display, this is a yummy one that every brunchlover appreciates!

Bushido specialises in live-cooking stations and freshly cooked food, and Friday Brunch here is the perfect opportunity to join in the fun and savour some truly delightful oriental bites. we love the teppanyaki and the amazing desserts plus there’s live music and children’s activities available every week in the beautiful and unique Samurai-inspired surroundings.

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• neWCoMer •

Best

FaVe

Fatto A stunning new Italian venue opened up shop in Seef, and instantly impressed diners. Fatto is a Pizzeria and Trattoria revived in an old Italian flour factory through a story of love, food and the family table. exposed brick, cool wooden panelling and small quirky touches alongside incredible food has won the hearts (and tummies) of Bahrain’s hungry diners. well done, Fatto!

The Foundry

This place has been getting rave reviews and creating a foodie storm on the culinary scene! The industrial-style, edgy venue serves up great food with a superb variety of fun and tasty cocktails. The cuisine is a combination of American barbecue, French bistro and a gastropub and the friendly, knowledgeable staff make the fairly-priced menu a bigger joy. The people have spoken at The Foundry takes the award!

• oVer all •

Best CUT by wolfgang puck, Four seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay enter from a dramatic spiral staircase into a sleek, modern American steakhouse which delivers innovation at every level through its unique culinary offerings, friendly service and stylish design. The menu features one of the widest and best selections of beef available with innovative recipes combined with classic cooking. we love everything about this place – the ambience, the people, and the amazing food!

FaVe masso, palace Boutique Hotel whether it’s mezzeh, antipasti, socca or tapas, Masso has a passion for creating food that is unique, appetising and full of flavour. Masso has been inspired by the Mediterranean way of life; where friends and family share important moments together, enjoying delicious food prepared with love and care. Bahrain’s diners can’t get enough of the relaxed vibe, elegant setting and epic food at Masso, so it’s no surprise that it takes home the award for Bahrain’s favourite restaurant in 2016!

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#Citi #FaCt #dining #awaRds #2016

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BEHIND THE MUSIC

LIkWID

IF YOU’Re FAMILIAR wITH BAHRAIn’S LOCAL M U S I C S C e n e , T H e R e ’ S n O D O U B T T H AT Y O U ’ L L H A v e H e A R D O F T H e F O U R - P I e C e A LTP O P / R O C k B A n D l I K W I D . n O T O n LY D O T H e Y P e R F O R M AT S O M e O F T H e H O T T e S T v e n U e S I n T O w n, T H e Y ’ v e S O L D O U T R e G I O n A L S H O w S A n D w e R e R e C e n T LY P R A I S e D F O R T H e I R I M P R e S S I v e P e R F O R M A n C e AT T H e 8 T H C A I R O JAzz FeSTIvAL. FaCt CAUGHT UP wITH THe G U Y S T O T A L k H I S T O R Y, M U S I C , I n S P I R A T I O n S A n D T H e I R B R A n D n e w, S e L F - T I T L e D e P, wHICH LAUnCHeD LAST MOnTH…

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EXCLUSIVE Q&A

H

i guys! Let’s take it back… how did the band come together and what has kept it a tight unit over the years?

Khalid: The four band members first came together as a group when the Latin music band La Movida was formed back in 2004. We formed this band to play traditional styles of Latin music, which was never done before in Bahrain at that time. We had two additional members playing Latin percussion instruments, which were vital for playing this style of music. The concept was very successful in that we were able to hold a regular Monday night show for almost seven years nonstop. However, when the two percussion players had to leave the band for personal reasons, we decided that this was an opportunity to broaden our horizons by reforming and rebranding the band in order to be able to perform a wider range of musical genres and not be restricted to just Latin music.

Ahmed Alqasim: We’ve always had so many musical idols from many different genres and have continuously enjoyed playing these various styles of music. That led to the birth of Likwid and our new sound which people can hear today. The secret behind us still being together as a band and still being active is the simple fact that we are and have always been close friends before being band members. All of us consider this band as our second family. We’ve grown and become more mature together, musically and personally.

And we’ve certainly built very strong chemistry between us.

“

“ We w e r e quite happy when some of our friends said that one track soun ds like one of the older so ngs by S ti ng, tw o others said you can hear influences of Steely Da n an d Dire S traits, w hile ma n y said that you can hear that vintage Bob Marley and The Wailers sound on our reggae so ng.” Khalid Alshamlan decided to have the EP mastered by Steve Smart who is one of the senior mastering engineers at Studios 301, one of the top studios in Sydney.

Khalid: One thing that all the tracks have in common is that all instruments are played live, without the use of digital instrument samples or drum loops. Some people refer to us as “purists” because of that, and we honestly like that. We were aiming for somewhat of an old-school sound, which is mainly the kind of music that all four of us love listening to. We were quite happy when some of our friends said that one track sounds like one of the older songs by Sting, two others said you can hear influences of Steely Dan and Dire Straits, while many said that you can hear that vintage Bob Marley and The Wailers sound on our reggae song. We certainly take all those as compliments.

How would you describe your style of music for someone listening for the first time?

Ahmed Abdulaziz: That’s actually a tough question because even if you listen to our recently released debut EP, you will immediately hear that the five tracks are very different, making it quite difficult to categorise the band under one specific genre. The best we could reach after doing much research online is Alternative Rock or Likwid performed for the opening show at the 8th edition of the Alternative Pop-Rock. But that’s what we Cairo Jazz Festival in October - what was it think makes Likwid unique; we love playing like getting this international recognition? and writing music from many different genres Ahmed Abdulaziz: It was definitely a great BAND MEMBERS: like Classic Rock, Blues, Smooth Jazz, Reggae, feeling performing our original music to • Ahmed Alqasim • Funk, and Latin. In short, we love playing a completely new crowd. To be invited to Bass Guitars and Lead Vocals anything that we consider as “good” music and participate in a festival with music groups from • Khalid Alshamlan • has a high level of musicianship and creative 12 other different countries around the world Piano, Keyboards, Backing Vocals effort put into it. is an honor in itself. We got to be the opening • Ahmed Abdulaziz • show of the entire three-day festival, sharing Electric Guitars and Backing Vocals You’ve just released your new self-titled EP, tell the festival’s main stage with Bahraini singer• Abdulrahman Malallah • us more about the record… songwriter Ala Ghawas, and our special guest Drums and Percussions Ahmed Alqasim: It’s our debut EP with five on saxophone, Abdulla Haji. We were actually tracks that are all quite different in terms of the first group of musicians from Bahrain and sound and style of music. All tracks are the band’s original songs from the whole GCC to ever perform at the Cairo Jazz Festival. with all four members producing, writing, and arranging the The festival organisers also set up a second show for us two nights music. However, the lyrics for one song, Love For Rent, were later at the Cairo Jazz Club. It was a great trip since we got to written by our close friend and collaborator Ala Ghawas, and the perform for a large crowd at the festival, and then later in a much lyrics for the opening track I Want You There were written by our smaller and cosier atmosphere at the club. This participation friend Omar Halwachi. The EP was mainly mixed by our friend, definitely adds a lot to us as performing musicians in terms of local sound engineer and studio owner Abdulla Jamal, with two recognition, and we hope that it will get us more opportunities to songs mixed by Abdulrahman Malallah and Ahmed Alqasim. We perform regionally and worldwide.

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EXCLUSIVE Q&A

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EXCLUSIVE Q&A

You get to perform small gigs for an intimate crowd to international sets for a diverse audience – what goes through your mind whilst on stage and how do you prepare for each show?

Abdulrahman Malalla: The size of the gig or the crowd doesn’t matter because we always work hard to prepare for any show.

It’s our duty and responsibility as performing artists towards our audience to ensure that we give nothing less than 100% during our shows. Preparing for shows is always a monotonous job as you have to keep repeating the songs until everyone is comfortable and confident with his parts in order to be able to relax while putting on the show without being nervous or tense. However, when we’re on stage, we try to put on the best show we can perform while ensuring that we have a great time in the process. Having fun during a performance is crucial because it gets conveyed to the audience who in turn has fun watching us perform. It’s a very interactive process that is crucial to putting on a successful show.

Have you faced any challenges being artists in the GCC, and specifically Bahrain? How have you overcome these challenges?

Ahmed Alqasim: It’s always tough when you perform western music with English lyrics in an Arabic country, especially if it’s not mainstream like Pop, Rap, or Hip Hop. We can never get the support, recognition and exposure that other artists would get performing Arabic music in this part of the world. Yet we still fully believe in our music and think it has the potential to please the audience. In terms of Bahrain specifically, although there have been improvements in the past several years, Bahrain still falls behind compared to some of the other GCC countries when it comes to supporting their own local artists. It’s a shame that artists from Bahrain have to work even harder to get recognition from abroad in order to eventually get recognition in their own country. The UAE pushes much more aggressively to support local acts even if they’re foreigners based in the UAE and not Emirati citizens. Bahrain still needs to do more for its local talent, especially since most people in neighboring GCC countries state it as a fact; Bahrain has some of the most talented artists in the Gulf.

That being said, we are still hopeful and still believe that more support will come to local artists who truly work hard and show that they deserve the support and the opportunities. However, this support is not crucial to reach a world audience and be successful. The world is such a small place now and independent artists have so many channels to distribute their music worldwide.

Thankfully we have set up our own professional studio, Likwid Studios, which allows us to comfortably write and compose music and later record it without the pressure of paying an hourly or daily rate to any local studio. That also gives us the opportunity to record our own music the way we want to without having to resort to finding a production company which may pay for the recording expenses, but will certainly have a say in the production aspect of the music.

What’s been the biggest lesson you’ve all learned in the music industry?

Khalid: Perseverance. It’s a huge and fierce market out there. One’s got to keep working hard no matter the odds and regardless of all 110 fact magazine

the frustrations and difficulties you will face. In addition, while it’s fun playing covers and being active in the market with shows, we also learned that we have to concentrate our effort into writing and composing our own original music because that’s what gets you proper artistic recognition. Although we are not totally into this whole social media craze, we learned that it is a vital aspect of marketing yourself as a musician or a band.

Musically, who or what inspires you to keep going and performing?

Ahmed Abdulaziz: Simply put, the one thing that continues to inspire us and drive us to keep on writing, composing, and performing is our love for music. We love what we do. We also love and believe in the music that we play and present to people.

That’s truly what keeps us going regardless of whatever financial rewards are involved. We continuously strive to become better and produce better sounding music. As for our musical idols, there are simply too many between the four of us to list out, but they all certainly inspire and motivate us to continue what we’re doing.

Any advice for young budding musicians?

Ahmed Alqasim: Music is not a competition; it’s a beautiful art form that was meant for sharing. There’s nothing wrong with continuously aspiring to become a better musician, yet some youngsters get dragged into this mentality of being better than this guy or that guy. You’re missing the whole point if that’s the way you think. Concentrate on improving yourselves without looking at other people’s progress. Share the music that you listen to, the knowledge that you learn, and anything else that your fellow musician may find helpful. Collaborate with one another.

That’s a great way of learning from one another and also exposing yourselves to new listeners and sharing each others’ fans. And last but not least, just keep on rockin’ and don’t stop. ✤ GO: Keep up with the latest from Likwid on Facebook (www. facebook.com/Likwidbandbahrain).

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SOCIETY

#CheF # shigeki #iimuRa #Visits #Bushid o

In an exclusive media event, buddha bar japanese executive Chef shigeki Iimura visited bushido restaurant & lounge last month as part of the nikkei tour and hosted a cooking class and lunch. the FaCt team alongside media members and other special guests prepared a colourful spread of sashimi and then had a sit-down meal which saw even more unique creations grace the table.

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C A L L I G R A F U T U R I S M

PoKras laMPas Debuts hIs FIrst gallery shoW In the regIon as oPera gallery DubaI Presents one oF the Most DIstInguIsheD MoDern CallIgraFFItI artIsts In the WorlD In an exClusIve exhIbItIon. fact magazine

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REGIONAL ARTS

O

pera Gallery Dubai, part of the internationallyrenowned Opera Gallery network, presents the exclusive Calligrafuturism - Chapter 1.0 gallery show by Pokras Lampas.

The exhibition is set to impress in a unique celebration of Opera Gallery Dubai’s exclusive representation of this progressive artist within the region.

As one of the most distinguished modern calligraphy artists in the world, the inaugural collaboration between Pokras Lampas and Opera Gallery Dubai is set to be absolutely monumental, with the opening night epitomising his unique approach to calligraphy and the perfect execution of his work. Following the opening night, Pokras’ most creative, inventive and edgy masterpieces, created as part of the first solo show in the region; will be displayed in Opera Gallery Dubai up until December 20.

Pokras is a Russian born artist who began his career creating graffiti in 2008.

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REGIONAL ARTS

“As one of the Most distinguished Modern cAlligrAphy Artists in the world, the inAugurAl collAborAtion between poKrAs lAMpAs And operA gAllery dubAi is set to be Absolutely MonuMentAl...

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REGIONAL ARTS

Soon after being inspired by Niels “Shoe” Meulman’s movement Calligraffiti, he turned his focus onto street calligraphy. Later, Pokras was invited by Niels to become an official Calligraffiti Ambassador and has since been working on the self-developed style Calligrafuturism” which will be exclusively showcased in this exhibition.

His work and technique as an artist has rapidly progressed and evolved into what is considered to be the most sophisticated form of Calligraffiti and he has since been in high demand for artistic and corporate projects, as well as being commissioned by some of today’s biggest private art patrons in the world. Most notably, he has achieved exceptional feats such as setting the World Record for the biggest calligraphy work, proudly adorning a rooftop in Moscow which is visible on Google Earth.

Pokras is actively experimenting with different directions of modern calligraphy by applying and combining his knowledge of street culture, design and typography of different nations and ages. What is most striking about Pokras as an artist is his relentless ability to push the boundaries of calligraphy further than anybody ever has. Whether it be in a different alphabet,

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the use of colors, mediums, instruments or texture; Pokras displays incredible maturity and curiosity. All of his passion and technique have been translated onto twenty captivating canvases, unveiled on the occasion of this solo show aptly titled Calligrafuturism - Chapter 1.0. ✤ GO: Calligrafuturism - Chapter 1.0 is on display at Opera Gallery Dubai until December 20. Fly direct with Gulf Air to Dubai (www. gulfair.com). Follow @operagallery on twitter and instagram for more information.

“his worK And technique As An Artist hAs rApidly progressed And evolved into whAt is considered to be the Most sophisticAted forM of cAlligrAffiti...

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HEALTH ADVERTORIAL

efficiency, safety and precise treatment for different vision correction procedures, especially with the customized ablation profile.”

With Lasik, an ophthalmologist creates a thin flap in the cornea using either a blade or a laser. The surgeon folds back the flap and precisely removes a very specific amount of corneal tissue under the flap using an excimer laser. The flap is then laid back into its original position where it heals in place.

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l

asik, commonly referred to as laser eye surgery or laser vision correction, is a type of refractive surgery for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. A laser is used to reshape the cornea — the clear, round dome at the front of the eye — to improve the way the eye focuses light rays onto the retina at the back of the eye. For most patients, Lasik provides a permanent alternative to eyeglasses or contact lenses. The Lasik surgery is done as a day procedure and only requires eye drops as local anesthetic. It’s safe and effective, gives almost immediate results.

The procedure itself typically takes less than 10 minutes – combined with the rapid recovery, Lasik is an excellent option for people who are on-the-go and living active lifestyles.

Consultant Ophthalmologist, Dr. Bader Tarek Toffaha, says: “The latest Excimer laser machines and modern technology have been found to achieve high

PREPARATIoN: Before Lasikeye surgery, you will meet with the eye surgeon who will discuss what to expect during and after the procedure. Your medical history will be evaluated and your eyes will be fully examined. Likely initial tests include measuring corneal thickness, refraction, corneal mapping, intraocular pressure, and fundus exam. Once you have gone through the initial evaluation, you will be qualified for the Lasik surgery; Afterwards, you can schedule an appointment for the procedure.

WHAT To ExPECT AFTER THE suRgERy: • Around 96 per cent of patients will have their desired vision after LASIK. • LASIK is virtually painless or associated with very little pain due to the numbing drops that are used.

• Vision is corrected nearly immediately or by the day after LASIK. • No bandages or stitches are required after LASIK. • Adjustments can be made years after LASIK to further correct vision if vision changes while you age. ✤ GO: Call 1724 6800 or visit www. royalbahrainhospital.com for appointments and more information.

Lasik Surgery General Ophthalmology Diseases Keratoconus Management • Lens & Cataract Glaucoma Treatment • Retinal Diseases Diabetic Retinopathy Screening

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GLOBETROTTER

24 prague

Hours in

a medieval metropolis, the streets of prague are not only filled with the most hauntingly beautiful gothic architecture, but with arts, romance and heart-beating music. With every step, every building, and every small cobble stone, you’ll walk through its history, emptying your mind to take in all its beauty. shabana adam did just that and found some of the best things to do in the fairytale Czech capital if you’re visiting for a few days.

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GLOBETROTTER

7:30 Am

enjoy a delightfully diverse breakfast at CottoCrudo in the Four Seasons Hotel. Get a seat by the window with views of Prague Castle over the River vltava. Make sure you try the soft-as-cotton Czech donuts stuffed with either jam or chocolate, before setting off to explore the city.

moment to take in the sights and sounds of local culture. You can pick up everything from Bohemian crystal to homemade memorabilia along the charming walkway. Legend has it that touching the statue of St. John of nepomuk, a Czech martyr, is supposed to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague.

9.00 Am

2:00 pm

11:00 Am

3:30 pm

Hop on the 22 tram just around the corner from the Four Seasons Hotel, heading towards Prague Castle.

Tip: get off at the second stop kralovský - across the road is a small gate, through which you can enter the beautiful gardens surrounding Prague Castle. This entrance is a lot less busier than the main gate and also warrants a lovely stroll through the park with ample photo opps!

After exploring the many places within Prague Castle, including the stunning, Romanesque St. George’s Basilica and the famous Golden Lane, an ancient street of 11 historic houses now selling one-of-a-kind keepsakes, head down the hill via the cobbled steps at the exit and be sure to take a picture of the breathtaking terracotta rooftops and city views on the way!

12:00 pm

Stop for a local treat of Rotatoes (an ultimate frisbee-style stack of potates) or Trdelník (a sweet pastry of rolled dough wrapped around a stick, then grilled and topped with sugar and walnut mix). eat while you casually walk towards Lesser Town, a beautiful Baroque quarter clustered around the foot of the castle. Here, you’ll find great deals on jewellery made from the famous Czech Garnet. Pay cash and avoid the tax!

1:00 pm

From Lesser Town, start making your way across the famous stone-Gothic Charles Bridge towards Old Town.

Bustling with Czech artists, musicians, and souvenir vendors, stop for a

Burn off the fuel and stop for a traditional lunch at Staromestská restaurace, famous for its classic, home-style Czech cuisine with excellent options for meat eaters and vegetarians alike. Located just off Old Town Square (where stopping by the beautiful astronomical clock, on the hour, is a must), this place is pretty easy to find and offers a good taste of local fare at a decent price.

A five-minute walk down from Old Town Square, you’ll find wenceslas Square market - a long row of sideto-side and back-to-back stalls selling Czech trinkets, vintage gifts, local chocolate and little knick knacks. This place is considerably cheaper than the shops in Old Town, so wait to do your present-picking from here.

5.00 pm

If you want shopping, the Palladium mall is the best place in Prague to find all the top high-street brands.

A walk towards námestí Republiky will get you there. On the way, stop by some of the city’s most beautiful buildings like národní Muzeum and the Municipal House, a civic building that houses Smetana Hall, a celebrated concert venue.

8:00 pm

end the day with a front row seat at the neo-Renaissance Rudolfinum and watch the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra put on an impressive classical concert. The programme is made up of the best - Mozart, vivaldi, Bach and more - making for the perfect, magical finish to your day. ✤ fact magazine

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GLOBETROTTER

Getting Around On Foot All you need is a city map, with some basic Czech phrases, and a sense of adventure, to get exploring on foot.

Public Transport Prague has one of the most efficient and inexpensive metro and tram systems in the world. Tickets can be bought for anything from 30-minute to 3-day use.

Money euros are widely accepted. It’s best to exchange your money into local currency in Prague as most places take 0% commission.

How to get there?

Fly with british airways via london heathrow. go to www.britishairways.com to book your flight today.

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home CeNTre’S FeSTIve CoLLeCTIoN

There’s No Place Like

Home Centre is set to ring in the festive season with its new seasonal collection. The new range of designer accents are sure to enrich homes and add the right aesthetic element. Reflecting the essence of the season, this year’s festive ensemble includes trendy decorative items such as wall hangings, baubles and ornaments, musical dancing figurines, LeD lanterns, gingerbread mugs and snowman candles amongst other holiday memorabilia. Home Centre also has a range of decorated Christmas trees, available in various sizes and styles. This year’s collection has a traditional touch to it, bringing red and gold back in trend. each product reflects the quintessential festive glitter, made to dramatically accentuate our home décor and infuse it with festive warmth and cheer.

Visit www.homecentre.com for more information and shop the festive collection at Home Centre in City Centre Bahrain.

A TASTE OF DÔME

Whether it’s a Big Breakfast for dinner, or Pancake Stack for lunch, our all day menu means you can have what you want, when you want it – no eyebrows raised. Just to add to your delicious dilemmas, you can choose from our Main Menu as well as our daily specials. If you’re dining with littlies, we have a special Junior Menu just for them.

Providing high quality food and beverages at great value, you’ll find comfort in our menu. The attention to detail that we apply to everything we do, can be ‘tasted’ throughout our menu categories, with feature products reminding you of your childhood, when life used to be much simpler, products and service were more reliable, and the world was somewhat friendlier.

Dôme is an inclusive place for people and families of all ages and backgrounds to dwell and enjoy !!

Juffair - 17 810180 Riffa Views - 17 002221 The Lagoons Amwaj - 13 610000 Almoayyed Tower- Seef - 17 581824 Royal Bahrain Hospital -17 246865 fact magazine

DOMECAFEBAHRAIN

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HOTEL HOTSpOT

A sENsE oF loCAl:

Four seasons hotel Prague I T ’ S T R U e T H AT e ve RY FO U R Se A SOnS H OTe L G OeS OUT OF ITS wAY TO C A P T U R e T H e B eST O F I T S L O C AT I On; T H e M AJeSTIC FOUR Se ASOnS H OTeL P R A G U e I S nO e x C eP T I O n T O T H AT R ULe. FROM TH e BUILD In G ITSeLF TO TH e R O O M T Y P eS, T H e De C O R , T H e B R An D n ew SPA An D ev en TH e STAFF, Y OUR C z e C H e x P eR I e n C e D O e S n’ T G eT M ORe AUTH en TIC TH An TH IS.

W

hen you’re going to a place like Prague, where modern-day scenery with skyscrapers and glass buildings are a rare sight, you’re in for a refreshing break from the giltzy towers of the Gulf. The Czech capital is an incredible mix of eras, all of which have been well-preserved through its colourful, cobbled streets and buildings. One place that is a fine example of this is the Four seasons Hotel prague.

The 5-star property blends four architectural styles with three historic structures and a newer main building made with a delicatelyhued ochre sandstone from a Czech quarry 124 fact magazine

and pale plaster facades with dark roofing. This contemporary building stylishly complements the neo-renaissance, neo-Classical, and Baroque parts of the hotel. And so, the Four seasons Hotel prague stands as a beautifullyunified building, respecting the unique allure of each represented style.

When you first arrive at the hotel, you’ll understand just why its location is a perfect one. you’re on the banks of the river Vltava with stunning views of prague Castle and all the best parts of the city, like Charles Bridge, old Town square and the charming lesser Town just minutes away.

At check-in we’re greeted with warm smiles

and helpful staff who will, literally, want to open every door for you, take the burden of carrying even light luggage and ensure that your every step and second within the hotel is a comfortable one. in what turned out to be a first in hotel experiences for us, it’s like every single person from the doorman to the bellboy, the concierge, the restaurant waiters, housekeeping, spa therapists and other members of staff we met, were all on the same page; happy, inviting, attentive and incredibly knowledgeable on all things Prague and Four Seasons. Also, this amazing hospitality was something we continuously saw and heard other guests praising, so service gets a huge tick!

HOTEL HOTSpOT

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HOTEL HOTSpOT

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HOTEL HOTSpOT

A renAissAnCe revelAtiOn The 157 rooms and suites at this luxury hotel each offer an excellent amount of space, thanks to the unique layouts of the four buildings.

We were to call the huge renaissance room home for a few days, and there was nothing but excitement upon entering. Firstly, this accommodation is the hotel’s largest guest room, being beaten only by the sprawling suites. you can tell that the room has been newly refurbished, however, what we loved about it was the fact that it still managed to reflect the architectural style of the renaissance Building.

High ceilings, tall, grand windows overlooking either the Monastery of the Knights of the Cross or the historic city centre streets, and traditional touches like Czech-style panelling, hand-painted stencilling and a bohemian crystal chandelier, were all elements that kept us in good spirits every time we came back to the hotel after a day out discovering the city.

Space is not the only thing that this room has.

Luxury Asprey amenities are abundant in the large marble bathroom with a lovely, deep bath tub, spacious shower, excellent make-up mirror (ladies, you’ll be impressed), whilst the room has a refrigerated private bar, all your usual hot and cold refreshments and minibar goodies, a plasma screen with a good channel selection, and a fabulous seating and working area. Oh, and let’s talk about the bed - the down duvet and pillows were simply heaven to slip into after a day of walking - we slept like babies! We’d highly recommend this room for couples, friends and small families who want a taste of the traditional mixed with modern comforts.

fOr the lOve Of fOOd There’s an overwhelming amount of italian restaurants in Prague. Why? Well, we soon learn that it’s simply because the Czech people just happen to love italian food. At the Four seasons Hotel prague, it’s CottoCrudo, a modern italian restaurant, bar and lounge that flies the 5-star food flag. This is also the restaurant where you’re served breakfast. now, let us reveal something. We’re not always ones to wake up for breakfast when travelling - sometimes you just want a lie-in, right? But, here, we were so in awe of the food and service at breakfast that we made it down every morning. Firstly, breakfast is served until 11am from a lavish buffet of local and continental favourites alongside a delicious a la carte menu. Try the mind-blowing Belgian waffles or the mouthwatering egg white frittata.

in the evening, CottoCrudo is just as casually sophisticated. The menu is made up of italian and Mediterranean dishes including fresh seafood, homemade pasta, choice meat cuts and artisan products from the Piedmont and Tuscany regions of italy. let’s dive into some of our favourites; the creamy Burrata was a big win at the table as was the creative and tasty red prawns with cabbage salad, parmesan cheese and hazelnut. The absolute standout was the Saffron risotto with roasted seabass, buffalo mozzarella and green pea purée - packed with flavours, textures and colour, this dish really took our breath away. For dessert, test (and treat) your taste buds with the chilled strawberry and rhubarb soup with sorrel ice cream and chocolate ganache - it’s just as good as it sounds!

We have to give a huge mention to all the staff at CottoCrudo, who served us with the utmost professionalism, patience and the biggest smiles.

A special shout-out goes to Martin who really went that extra mile every time; for sharing his insider Prague stories and always being so friendly and observant to all our food requests and social conversations. He made the start to our day much more positive and inspired!

sPA Culture refined

Ava spa had just opened a little before our trip to Prague and we were intrigued to experience the spa culture that the Czech are so famous for. Based on water and mineral rich products, exclusive facial and body treatments with moor muds are enhanced with a state-of-the-art traditional Czech-inspired thermal baths menu.

We tried the 50-minute la Boheme massage, a relaxing head-to-toe treatment inspired by the Czech national tree. Sylva the therapist tells us that the treatment uses detoxifying and regenerating linden blossom oil as part of a soft massage, decreasing cold symptoms and encouraging healthy sleep. it was, honestly, one of the best massages we’ve had. unlike your standard aromatherapy massage, Sylva really listened to our areas of concern and worked out all the troublesome kinks to leave us feeling completely invigorated. The vitality pool with a wide variety of massage jets provided the ultimate hydrotherapy in a relaxing Central european spa ambience. ✤ GO: Call +420 221 427 000 Or visit www. fOurseasOns.COm/praGue fOr reservatiOns, Offers and mOre infOrmatiOn. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#Beat #diaB etes #waLkathon #2016

thousands of people attended the annual beat Diabetes Walkathon, held in Dohat arad Park. the beat Diabetes Walk which is one of the largest outdoor events taking place in bahrain attracts more than 4500 people every year. the landmark group initiative is a call to action to help spread awareness of diabetes in order to help people tackle the disease and get active.

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at iConiC heights asK anyone about abu DhabI’s Most FaMous buIlDIngs anD the CaPItal gate WIll MaKe the lIst; the guInness WorlD reCorDs-CertIFIeD struCture InClInes a reCorD-breaKIng 18 Degrees, a Feat that has earneD It the tItle oF the leanIng toWer oF abu DhabI. What Many PeoPle May not KnoW Is that the toP Floors oF thIs MagnIFICent buIlDIng Is hoMe to the hyatt Capital gate hotel. faCt Went to stay at the 5-star ProPerty anD here’s Why It’s the PerFeCt PlaCe For a WeeKenD getaWay In the uae CaPItal...

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WEEKEND SpOTLIGHT

hen you enter the Capital Gate building, it’s architecture, décor and all-round contemporary vibe will immediately have you at ease. The lobby café, Profiterole, located on the ground floor, is the epitome of comfort and sophistication with large plush chairs and sofas and a pastry counter showcasing some of the most delicious sweet and savoury treats. Much to our pleasant surprise, this is not where you actually check in to the Hyatt Capital Gate. For that, we’re personally escorted up to the 18th floor, stepping out into what is the hotel’s reception area, complete with another stylish lobby lounge. This is also where you’ll find the hotel’s signature restaurant, 18 Degrees (more about that later!). You’ll realise the magnitude of this modern edifice once you’re shown to a second set of lifts which lead to the spa and the 189 rooms and suites, occupying floors 19 to 33. After a smooth check-in, we whizz up to the 21st floor to the Capital Suite.

suite living Let’s just get straight to the point everything was bigger, brighter and SO much better than what we had expected.

Past experiences have taught us that just because a building has broken world records and looks glam and glossy on the outside, it’s not always as impressive on the 130 fact magazine

WEEKEND SpOTLIGHT

up some of the most breathtaking views of the city, and the sophisticated marble bathroom with a rain shower and a deepsoaking bathtub had us taking hundreds of pictures in the hopes to someday replicate the same set-up at home. An Illy espresso machine, MP3 docking station, state-ofthe-art stereo system and the comfiest robes we’ve ever slipped into, all added to the feeling of luxury in the sky. And though the suite had all the mod-cons you could wish for, there was a real sense of warm and welcoming hospitality; as a guest, we really appreciated the thoughtfulness behind every little design element and the service offered in this accommodation.

sKy-high dining

inside. In the case of Hyatt Capital Gate we couldn’t have been more wrong. The Capital Suite elevated our every sense from the second we entered the room; your eyes will want to admire the farreaching views; your ears will appreciate the complete silence and serenity; the scent in the room will guide you straight to the beautiful bathroom with its high-end amenities and to-die-for bath tub; and all you’ll want to do is walk around touching and exploring all the cool functions in the room as well as opening every drawer to find an abundant of space and different features like a stationery box, shoe shine kit and so much more. Even your sense

of taste is covered with a huge fruit bowl (packed with everything from fresh grapes to bananas, apple and oranges) and the generous mini bar alongside the complimentary tea and coffee making facilities (we were thrilled to see Jing tea bags in the mix – only the best!). This suite is ALL about comfort; it’s sleek, modern and super spacious. You’ve got a separate bedroom, bathroom, living room and work area – it’s basically like being in your dream apartment with room service on call. The King Grand Bed (yes, that’s a thing) had us rolling on it from one side to the other, simply to make the most of how big it was! Floor-to-ceiling windows offered

If you’re familiar with food hotspots in Abu Dhabi, you might have heard the buzz around the Mediterranean restaurant 18 Degrees. Not only is the venue impressive – it’s a chic dining room inside featuring traditional and high bar tables and booth seating, while the outside terrace is one of the best in the city for incredible views to accompany your lunch, dinner or shisha experience. The menu at 18 Degrees is far from intimidating. In fact, there are plenty of simple fresh flavours inspired by the gastronomic heritage of Mediterranean coastal cuisine from Italy, France and Spain. Three show kitchens with interactive counters add to the theatrical “Mise en Scene” of the restaurant and we love the dinner experience which involves serving the food in a sharing style – it’s a great homage to the Mediterranean culture where good food brings people together.

If you like your cold plates, the perfect thin slices of Beef Carpaccio will impress and if you want to start with a light and tasty salad, the creamy Burrata with tomato and basil is a great way to begin. From the hot plates, an absolute must is the Gambas al ajillo – prawns in garlic, chilli and parsley, alongside the Pan Fried Scallops and Beef Short Ribs. The Chocolate Fondant dessert had everyone licking their spoons, though we wish it had been presented straight onto the plate instead of being confined to a white, circular dish – we wanted to see all the gooey chocolate spilling out of the centre – because it sure tasted good! fact magazine

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The atmosphere at 18 Degrees is a relaxed one and the service is on par with some of the best 5-star dining venues we’ve been too – something that we credit not just to the delicious food but also to the efficient and knowledgeable staff.

serenity At peAK Rayana Spa is perched on the 19th floor overlooking the city with the hotel’s other wellness amenities which include a fitness centre, suspended outdoor pool and whirlpool all on the same floor. What we loved about the spa is that even though it’s located in this soaring, modern façade, it manages to implement and execute the sense of calm, relaxation and disconnect that you would want and expect from any good 5-star spa experience. We tried out the couple’s massage, a signature treatment that we’d highly recommend for busy-bodies. From the huge changing rooms to the big couple’s suite and the sprawling spa itself, our treatment is carried out with precision; it’s easy to sink into one of the comfy chairs in the relaxation lounge afterwards, where you’re served dried fruit, dates and your choice of hot tea. You’ll need a nap just to recover from all the pampering!

The Hyatt Capital Gate was a hotel experience full of surprises. Far from the rigid and cold hospitality that can often be found in skyscrapers, what we loved most here was the perfect balance of the modern with the homely. Not only does it boast the ideal location for anyone who is visiting on business (it’s adjoining Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre and a 10-minute drive will get you to the twofour54 Abu Dhabi Media Zone), but Hyatt Capital Gate offers a world of leisure that any solo traveller, couple, and family, looking for a quick weekend escape, will seriously appreciate and love. Will we come back? Try and stop us. ✤ GO: fly direCt tO abu dhabi with Qatar airways (www.Qatarairways.COm). Call +971 02 596 1234 fOr reservatiOns and mOre infOrmatiOn.

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#audi #sPoRt #showR o om #ConCePt #LaunCh #at #BiC

audi bahrain marked the launch of its audi sport showroom concept at a high-performance driving experience event at the bahrain International Circuit. During the three-day event, over 160 guests and members of the press experienced some of the brand’s most powerful models in an exhilarating programme of track-based activities. as well as driving the audi r8 v10 plus, audi rs 6 avant performance and rs 7 sportback performance, participants got behind the wheel of the first rs model in the q series – the audi rs q3 – which made its local debut at the event.

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The Porsche 718 cayman

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Recently we flew to the Black foRest in GeRmany to tRy out the new PoRsche 718 cayman, the latest GeneRation of the BRand’s scoRchinG little comPact sPoRts couPe.

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iven the popularity of recent generations of the Cayman, with its mesmerising balance, handling and bangfor-buck, the new Cayman has high expectations to live up to. Luckily, Porsche aren’t exactly known for failing in this regard…

As with the Porsche 718 Boxster we reviewed a few months ago, the Cayman is also now part of the 718 family, so you’ll now refer to a Porsche 718 like you’d refer to a 911, adding the Boxster and Cayman monikers to differentiate between the cabrio and coupe versions respectively.

The two cars are now far more closely related than the previous Boxster and Caymans were, with practically identical engine, chassis and interior setups and options, with the only major difference being the roof.

And though everyone loves a cabrio,

ISLAND RIDES

once again we’re leaning slightly towards the Cayman in a choice between the two, and this really comes down to the looks. We love the ‘fastback’ shape of the Cayman, with the roofline gently sloping down towards the rear of the car giving the whole package a much more dynamic and athletic vibe. This is helped in no small part to a slightly lower, wider stance and more muscular rear haunches on the new 718s compared to the outgoing models.

Perhaps the biggest news with the new 718 family was the demise of the much-loved naturally-aspirated flat-six in favour of turbocharged inline-fours.

However, we said it before with the Boxster and we’ll say it again with the Cayman, the new engine is superb, still delivering that distinctive racy Porsche growl (though without the richer timbre of the flat-six), and a furious power delivery that just keeps on giving.

As expected, the 718 Cayman also boasts superb levels of agility and balance, making it a car you can drive the absolute hell out of without getting too out of shape, or worse. You can pretty much choose what you want a corner to look like, turning in hard and lifting off to kick the back end out, or playing it more sensibly with a nice apex line carrying some speed and laying on the power on the exit like a boss.

Even amateurs like us felt like champions after a couple of hours in this car, as the level of confidence the Cayman inspires makes you feel safe in exploring the limits of your comfort zone, providing lots of excitement, but never any terror.

Our only complaint was the steering, which though nicely weighted, lacked in feeling and feedback from the front wheels, which is something you really want when you’re driving a car with pinpoint precision and agility like the Cayman.

“even amateuRs like us felt like chamPions afteR a couPle of houRs in this caR...”

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However, we’re nitpicking here, desperately looking for at least one fault to balance out what is overwhelmingly a positive review. If you’re looking for a track-day offering, complete with more urgent steering and spine-jarringly stiff suspension, wait for the 718 Cayman GT4 which should be coming along at some point in the near future.

But that’s not what the 718 Cayman and Cayman S are all about. They’re daily drivers and weekend road-trippers. They need to be fun, yes, but they also very much need to be comfortable.

And few cars offer such high levels of both for this kind of money as the 718 Cayman. Despite the compact dimensions of the Cayman, there’s still plenty of legroom and headspace, and even places to put drinks, junk and so on. The seats are figure-hugging, holding you in place under brisk cornering, and yet remain yielding enough to keep you comfortable.

After several hours of driving we had to return to the hotel, as Porsche wanted their car back at some point! We reluctantly handed back the keys feeling as fresh and energised as when we’d taken them.

How many cars can do that? ✤ GO: Call 1745 9911 or visit Porsche Centre Bahrain in Sitra for more information or to arrange a test drive.

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Also AvAilAble in ...

Abu DhAbi & QAtAr

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An Artistic Celebration of Arabic Culture

OctOber 2014. VOL 1 ISSUe 5. AeD 10 front_filmfestival.indd 1

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@FACTAbuDhabi | @FACTBahrain | @FACT_Qatar 2.

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MOTORING NEWS

the 2017 infiniti Q50 sPoRts sedan y.K. almoayyed& sons, the exclusive distributor of Infiniti in the Kingdom of bahrain held an exclusive press conference at Flavours on 2, Downtown rotana, to introduce the new 2017 Infiniti q50 sports sedan. leading the way is the new q50 red sport 400, the performanceorientated version of the refreshed sports sedan. Its 3.0-litre v6 twinturbo gasoline engine with direct injection delivers 400hp and is the focal point of the power plant. to demonstrate the power that the 400hp q50 red sport has on the mind of the driver, a unique test drive opportunity was given to the

the all-new meRcedes-Benz Glc couPe

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members of the media, where the driver’s mental excitement behind the wheel was recorded. using a device that records emotions, the driver’s brain data was collected thanks to software linked to the headband. this brain data collected from all across the region will be sent to a music composer to turn it into a soundtrack. the soundtrack is planned to be used at an event in Dubai. the Infiniti q50 red sport 3.0t 400 is available across the Middle east from bD21,000, while the entry level q50 2.0t is available from bD13,650.

Call 1721 1211 for more information.

the all-new Mercedes-benz glC Coupe has been launched at the german business network reception, under the patronage of h.e. alfred simms-Protz, ambassador of the Federal republic of germany. the event, held at la Plage, the ritz-Carlton, bahrain, is where the Mercedes-benz glC Coupe was officially launched.

In cooperation with oliver oehms, the Delegate of german Industry and Commerce for saudi arabia, bahrain, and yemen and with the german business roundtable bahrain, the event served as the launch of the latest Mercedes-benz model to join al haddad Motors’ expansive Mercedes-benz line-up and served as a networking platform for attendees from different ministries, embassies, and corporations from the region. the Mercedes-benz glC Coupe is equipped with two guiding principles, a coupe design and powerful suv presence, which will inspire the future of Mercedes-benz suvs. sleek design blends with a strong silhouette, coupled with expressive leD headlights, frameless side windows, and recessed door handles that give the glC Coupe its unique look which stands out on the road.

Call 1753 6092 for more information.

MOTORING NEWS

BiG wins foR JaGuaR land RoveR luxury automotive manufacturer jaguar land rover took home four top motoring awards at the second edition of the arabWheels 2016 awards during the ceremony held at the 5-star Meydan hotel, Dubai. nominated alongside its peers in the automotive industry, jaguar land rover’s flagship models were recognised at the arabWheels awards 2016. the new jaguar F-PaCe took the ‘best Compact Premium suv’ award while the 322kph, all-weather supercar, the jaguar F-tyPe svr was recognised as the region’s ‘best Premium Performance Coupe’. land rover got its own accolade for the world’s

most luxurious and capable vehicle, taking ‘best Full size Premium suv’ for the peerless range rover svautobiography. and the cars weren’t the only ones taking the spotlight, as bruce robertson, Managing Director jaguar land rover Mena, was awarded ‘Managing Director of the year’ for the second consecutive year, as an acknowledgement of his leadership in growing the business in a constantly changing landscape.

Call euro motors Jaguar land rover on 1746 0460 for more information.

zayani motoRs’ mG dooR-to-dooR seRvice Zayani Motors, the exclusive dealers for all Mg models in the Kingdom of bahrain, has launched a brand new and one-of-a-kind service for Mg owners. In an effort to further satisfy and enhance Mg after-sales and customer service, saIC Motors Middle east (sMMe) has recently introduced the Mg Door to Door service into the bahrain market.

With the inception of the door to door service, customers are no longer required to personally bring in their Mg car for service.

Instead, Zayani Motors will now provide a facility for the same and also take care of the entire process. upon booking for a car service with the service department, Zayani Motors will send the Mg courtesy vehicle to the customer’s doorstep. after which, the Zayani Motors team will bring the customer’s car into the workshop in order to carry out the required maintenance or repair work. once the procedures are completed, the vehicle is delivered back to the owner.

Mohammed Zaki, general Manager of Zayani Motors, said: “It brings us great joy to introduce this service for our Mg customers.

Zayani Motors constantly strives to provide only the best after-sales

facilities to customers. “through this initiative, we hope to sustain and further grow our relationships with our clients and customers,” he added.

Call 1770 3703 for more information. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#a meRiCan #FestiVaL #at moVenPiCk #hoteL #BahRain

the annual celebration of all things way across the pond saw a number of thrilling festivities on offer for guests to revel in at MÜvenpick hotel bahrain. the festivities kicked off with a jazz Weekend featuring Professor Cunningham & his old school band; followed by the Wild West Weekend with a cowboy twist unlike anything you’ve ever experienced in bahrain; and to finish off the rocky balboa Weekend took things up a notch with excellent food and fun themed around the iconic american film characters.

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pLUGGED-IN

CReATiVe COnTenT

NIKoN D5600

i

f your hobby is photography or if your everyday involves capturing and creating artistic content, nikon’s newest Dxformat Dslrd5600 will transform they way you express through images via automatic smart device connectivity. With convenient connectivity features, this latest entry-level Dxformat Dslr, is designed for sharing and storytelling.

For those whose lives are spread all over their social media platforms, whether that be your morning coffee, an exquisite dinner, a pretty outfit or even a hotel view, the nikon D5600 embodies the sentiment of sharing how you see the world W H e n i T C O M e S T O P H O T O G R A P H y, T H e C H O i C e O F C A M e R A A n D with its new snapbridge function, expanded Iso e Q u i P M e n T i S A B u n D A n T, S O W H A T W i l l i T T A K e T O M A K e T H e sensitivity, and in-camera n i K O n D 5 6 0 0 S T A n D O u T F R O M T H e C R O W D ? FA C T F i n D S O u T … time-lapse movie function, all fitted into a compact and lightweight Dslr body with a vari-angle touch screen lCD monitor.

It’ll fit nicely into a backpack and help you to live in the moment – from candid expressions or stunning horizons from your travels, gatherings and events – every image will be taken to reminisce, share and impress. the D5600 is equipped with a range of features that encourages users to capture and communicate their memories and favourite moments.

Featuring a vari-angle lCD monitor that flips out and rotates, greater creative freedom in photography expressions is made possible. the touch screen operation that is a perennial favourite with the D5000series has been further enhanced with the addition of a crop function for use during playback zoom, and a frame advance bar that lets users scroll through images in playback mode easily. time-lapse movie function from the more advanced nikon D7200 has also been incorporated into this Dslr, providing users an opportunity to experiment and expand their visual narrative with beautiful time-lapse videos.

In addition, a constant connection between the D5600 and a smart device is possible using the snapbridge app and bluetooth low energy (ble) technology. still images captured are automatically transferred to the paired smart device, and users can upload and share high quality images in a seamless, integrated process. snapbridge also enables the image transfer to continue even after the camera has been turned off, and uploading of images to nikon Image space for storage and share.

Doubling the convenience in a user’s photography experience is the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi for wireless video transfer and remote shooting, transforming the Dslr into an all-time companion for any occasion.

It’ll ignite creativity with vivid colours and inspire you with every click, not to mention the flexibility and functionality of the device – you don’t have to be a pro to use the D5600, you just need to be passionate about getting every special moment on camera! ✤ GO: Visit www.nikon-mea.com for more information.

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SOCIETY

#the #Ritz #CaRLton #BahRain #BeaCh #PaRty #FinaLe

the ritz-Carlton, bahrain closed the year with an incredible beach party. Featuring the music of international Dj lenny berlin, hundreds of partygoers danced to their heart’s content and enjoyed a fun night together with family and friends at this much-anticipated event. With the cooler weather setting in, the beach party made for a night to remember as revellers sang and danced until the early a.m. to mark the end of the 2016 party season.

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pLUGGED-IN

App-liCioUs l e t ’ s s e e W h at ’ s o n t h e s M a r t P h o n e agenDa For noveMber…

signAl

wHere is sAnTA liTe

never has a messaging app been so private. When you want to make sure that your chat stays completely confidential and secret – which app will let you do this? get signal – it’s an encrypted chat app used by politicians, businesspeople and whistleblowers worldwide – true say. signal offers complete end-to-end encryption, meaning that even the company behind the app can’t see what you’re sending and receiving.

It works with your existing contact book, so as long as both parties have signal installed, you can chat away unnoticed, unmonitored and without big brother watching.

Find out where santa is anywhere in the world and what he’s doing. It’s definitely one of the most efficient and accurate tracking santa radars. a dynamic report of santa’s current location and activity will be followed with every scan – cool, right? on top of that, it also finds out santa’s estimated arrival time to your place, with a countdown timer. this app works brilliantly and we’d advise you to get it for your children, especially if they are non-believers but, also, it’s a great tool to teach them about the different world continents!

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SOCIETY

#kaRL #LageRFeLd #stoR e #oPening #at #City #CentRe #BahRain

Karl lagerfeld opened its first store in the country’s premier shopping mall, City Centre bahrain. the first bahrain store offers Middle eastern consumers a wide-ranging selection of accessories in the brand’s signature accessible-luxe style, from iconic bags and footwear to small leather goods. spanning 70sqm, the boutique’s décor encapsulates the very essence of Karl lagerfeld. the brand’s enduring rock-chic vibe is reflected in the black-and-white interior, while the sleek modern furnishings are the perfect backdrop for the brand’s signature monochromatic offering.

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MASSIMO DUTTI AW’16 MassIMo DuttI’s neW CaMPaIgn Is MaDe onCe agaIn by the great vIeW oF MarIo testIno, Who gave a Marvellous InterPretatIon oF the branD aW16 ColleCtIon, In thIs stunnIng shoot FeaturIng the InternatIonal toP MoDels sean o’Pry, julIa haFstroM, Ine neeFs anD steve ChevrIn.

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FASHION FOCUS

FOR HER

This autumn the identity of the Massimo Dutti woman is more feminine and elegant than ever. As of the very beginning of the season, in which touches of colour from a subtle palette of pinks or fresh cornflower blue are still with us, we encounter garments with delicate shapes until we are immersed full on in the season, when the combination of classic pieces with basic sports garments come into play, along with a palette of autumn colours, in a variety of fabrics such as silk, leather and nylon.

Classic, elegant and very feminine pieces are rounded off in cashmere and light-weight wools. Massimo Dutti also includes a slight preppy nod this season, inspired by the marvellous French style. Garments of impeccable quality, such as the essential camel coat or the iconic navy blue wool peacoat are must-haves.

Tailored Corner renews classic tailoring and combines it with pieces made of high quality Italian fabric with other more casual work-wear pieces, such as waistcoats, pencil skirts, dresses or capes. Minimalist, clean-cut and refined lines that inspire comfortable garments are suffused in navy blues, greys and ecru palette.

FOR HIM

This season a certain eclectic style seems to arise, and this is because men’s fashion is complemented with a wink and a nod to other creative universes such as that of sports, industrial design, music or even feminine fashion.

This autumn we will find garments and accessories that adopt and adapt to all the fashion codes.

This season’s Massimo Dutti man is not a conventional man, he is in search for the counterpoint between professional and private life, intermixing the structure of the work days with moments of leisure, dressing in a more vanguard style. The palette of colours in blacks, greys, tobacco, navy blues and touches of white are the one that predominate this season. Autumn absolutely demands that nod to the preppy style, which in this case combines the most intense colours such as green and fuchsia with navy blue and light grey, including a range of oranges, earthy tones and royal blue mixed together with natural colours. Finally, jeans are taking over in all their cuts and textures, combined with leather jackets or printed shirts.

GO: The Massimo Dutti Aw16 collection is available in all Massimo Dutti stores across the GCC now.

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FASHION FOCUS

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FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HeRe IS OUR wISHLIST FROM MASSIMO DUTTI’S Aw’16 COLLeCTIOn FOR HeR

FOR HiM

“ before you judge a man, walk a mile in his shoes. after that, who cares? he’s a mile away and you’ve got his shoes.

thIs ColleCtIon Is avaIlable In the gCC at all MassIMo DuttI stores, noW.

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The Holiday Gift Guide

1. BADGLEY MISCHKA Kiara Pump. BD 112. 2. CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA Barbie leopard kids flats. BD 130.

3. GUCCI GUILTY Pour Homme. BD 41. 4. CHANEL Sublimage La crème. BD 166, L’extrait 255.800, Le teint BD 86.

5. CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA Barbie Pomeline heels. BD 425. 6. VALENTINO MEN’S Elastic band sneaker. BD 261.

7. TOM FORD Oud Wood Eau de Parfum BD 241.500. 8. BALENCIAGA MEN’S Square wallet grid. BD 85.

9. DAVID CHARLES Sparkle clutch. BD 58. 10. VIKTOR & ROLF Bonbon Eau de Parfum. BD 78.

11. SAINT LAURENT Small love heart crossbody bag. BD 308.

12. CZ KENNETH JAY LANE multi-coloured stone necklace BD 255 & bracelet BD 204.

13. CHLOÉ Eau de Parfum. BD 54. 14. TATEOSSIAN Cufflinks. BD 92.

15. SOPHIA WEBSTER Raye bow-embellished platform. BD 263.

Saks Fifth Avenue, +973 17172000, City Centre Bahrain

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SOCIETY

#FRiday #gRi LL #and #BBQ #with #Cut #By #woLFgang #PuCk

an exclusive and intimate bbq was hosted at the chic and breezy azure Pool & lounge at the Four seasons hotel bahrain bay. Members of the media, vIP invitees and other guests gathered to indulge in the delicious food prepared by the Cut by Wolfgang Puck restaurant team. visitors feasted on signature grills and refreshing drinks whilst listening to the chill out sounds of a live Dj and making the most of the lively outdoor american bbq atmosphere.

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STYLE

METAllIC MUSE ROCk THe MeTALLIC TRenD THIS SeASOn - eveRY GIRL neeDS A SHOw-STOPPInG PIeCe SO DOn A SHIMMeRInG DReSS FOR A SPeCIAL OCCASIOn - THInk SeQUInS, MeTALLIC THReADS AnD SPARkLInG TexTUReS FOR InSTAnT LUxe. keeP IT new SeASOn APPROPRIATe wITH DeCADenT 1920S-eSQUe eMBeLLISHeD TOUCHeS AnD ADD SUBTLe SHIne TO An OUTFIT wITH TOPS, SHORT SkIRTS, GLITTeR SHOeS, BOOTS AnD ACCeSSORIeS FOR A FAST-TRACk TO A HIGH SHIne enSeMBLe.

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01. ALDO 02. DeBenHAMS 03. DOROTHY PeRkInS 04. DUne 05. F&F 06. H&M 07. MISS SeLFRIDGe 08. new LOOk 09. nexT 10. PARFOIS 11. RIveR ISLAnD 12. TOPSHOP fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#Costa #CoFFee #FestiVe #Range #PReView

Costa Coffee celebrated the start of the festive seasons with a special sneak-peek event for media members and special invitees where guests had the chance to try some of the coffeehouse’s newest festive treats. handcrafted beverages such as the gingerbread and Cream latte, Caramel Fudge hot Chocolate and almond Caramel Fudge sundae Frostino were just some of the delights on offer. the festive menu is now available in Costa outlets.

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STYLE

BACk TO BlACk TRenDS wILL COMe AnD GO BUT BLACk wILL ALwAYS ReMAIn A CLASSIC AnD eFFORTLeSSLY CHIC COLOUR. keeP IT SLeek wITH SkInnY JeAnS AnD ROLL neCk COMBOS wHen THe TeMPeRATURe DROPS, AnD wRAP UP In A STRUCTUReD OveRCOAT FOR A TAILOReD TAke On DAYweAR. JUMPeRS, TeeS AnD SOPHISTICATeD BLAzeRS CAn ALL Be PAIRS wITH TROUSeRS OR GRUnGe SkInnIeS FOR A SMART CASUAL LOOk. THe HUMBLe BLACk BOMBeR JACkeT OR HOODIe wILL ADD A FReSH TwIST TO YOUR wInTeR ATTIRe.

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SOCIETY

#i taLian #w eek #LaunCh #at #Jawad #d ome

the launch of Italian Week at jawad supermarket was held last month in the presence of the Italian ambassador h.e. Domenico bellato and Mr. Faisal jawad, Chairman & Ceo of jawad business group and members of the media. It was a food-filled affair with lots of pasta, cheese, olives and a tremendous Italian flag cake.

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BRAND FOCUS

H USH PU PPI ES AW ’ 1 6 the new aW16 collection captures what is means to be casual – in true hush Puppies fashion. this season, hush Puppies is celebrating all things casual. and what could be more fitting from the brand who invented casual? hush Puppies aW16 Collection features fun, timeless styles that are comfortable and easy to wear, and invoke effortless looks that are ready for just about anything. Inspired by cool 70’s vibes and colorful suedes, the brand emphasised on personal style and the authentic qualities of hush Puppies. after all, loving a good relaxed look is their thing. ✤

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SOCIETY

#wine #& #d ine #at #aRt #Rotana #amwa J #isLands

on a beautifully autumnal night we ventured out to Flames steak and seafood restaurant in art rotana, amwaj Islands for a special Wine & Dine night. Featuring a sommelier from torres vineyards and a speciality menu showcasing their month-long the game promotion, invitees were seen having a delicious time whilst sipping on their grape drink of choice and savouring yummy food.

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BRAND FOCUS

Women

AlDO AW’16 as an international leader in fashion footwear and accessories, aldo takes a fresh approach to its visual identity through a unique creative direction for its autumn 2016 campaign. exploring the concept of movement, this innovative campaign contextualises footwear and accessories within fashion, building aspirational looks that allow consumers to get inspired and translate into their own personal style. Movement, as translated through collage, drives the concept for the #alDoMovesMe autumn 2016 campaign with bold, creative and refreshing pieces for both men and women. ✤

men

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SOCIETY

#tiLLy’s #ConCePt #x #BaRReL #& #dRum #at #seeF #maLL

the trendy tilyy’s Concept store at seef Mall bahrain launched the brand new berrel and Drum line, a cool and super stylish collection of shoes, accessories and more for bahrain’s trendsetters. Members of the media and influential bloggers enjoyed an intro to this funky line in an awesome event. tilly’s Concept is bahrain’s first multi-brand store of its kind with a unique, new and trendy concept.

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BEAUTY BOX

Nutcracker Sweet

MAC COSMETICS

GeT InTO THe FeSTIve MOOD wITH A BIT OF FUn COLOUR. MAC COSMeTICS IS BRInGInG THe HOLIDAY SPIRIT STRAIGHT TO YOUR MAkeUP BAG wITH An ALLnUTCRACkeR InSPIReD COLLeCTIOn. enJOY THe LUSCIOUS PInk LIPSTICkS, GOLDen eYeLIneRS, AnD LOnG-LASTInG eYe SHADOwS. THIS IS JUST wHAT YOU neeD FOR ALL THe PARTY InvITeS COMInG YOUR wAY!

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SOCIETY

#PLay #BahR ain #LaunChes #the #noRth #PoLe

For the first time in bahrain, Play launched the creation of the north Pole! the entire event space in seef Mall was converted into a magical, festive elves’ Workshop, where kids tinkered with toys, designed wrapping paper, wrote letters to santa, visited Mrs. Claus’ kitchen and took part in many more festivities! Play partnered with a box of goodness for the pre-opening event where 20 deserving children were invited to come and enjoy the elves Workshop and all of the magic and joy this season has to offer.

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GROOMING BOX

AESOP PURSUITS OF PASSIOn •

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esop’s Gift kits for 20162017, collectively titled ‘Pursuits of Passion’, celebrate six naturalists long revered for their writing and illustrations. The common threads between them are passion, a touch of eccentricity, and the gift of valuable new knowledge. In complement to the rest of the Aesop range, these handsomely presented offerings make for ideal giving

to free-spirited loved ones and colleagues throughout the festive season. Packaged in practical, reusable amenity cases, the kits are wrapped in sleeves featuring vibrant illustrations by norwegian artist Bendik kaltenborn. Among the series is a trio of nourishing Hair Care formulations, a sumptuous Hand and Body Care quartet, and a regimen from Aesop’s much-loved anti-oxidant Parsley Seed Skin Care range.

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SOCIETY

#JeweLLeRy #aRaBia #BahR ain #2016

jewellery arabia 2016, the Middle east’s premier jewellery and watch exhibition, was officially inaugurated under the patronage of his royal highness the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of bahrain Prince Khalifa bin salman al Khalifa at the bahrain International exhibition and Convention Centre. the 25th exhibition in this prestigious annual series brought together over 600 exhibitors from 30 countries for a dazzling 5-day gala of glitz and glamour. a huge range of finished jewellery, luxury timepieces, precious stones, clocks, fine writing instruments, accessories and more from around the globe was on sale.

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FESTIVE GIFTS

asPInal by lonDon

laura MerCIer

CIate Dolls house set naIl KIt

teD baKer

CalvIn KleIn

too FaCeD vIrgIn Megastore

FeSTIve GIFTS FOR HER

nIne West MaKe uP For ever

aPa beauty

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SOCIETY

#BakeR #stRe et #BRunCh #at #sheRLo C k #hoLmes

Featuring the all new baker st. band, sherlock holmes at the gulf hotel bahrain Convention & spa, invited special guests and media members for an exclusive taste of the brand new free flowing a la carte brunch. With a lively atmosphere and food served straight to the table, diners were seen having a merry time.

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FESTIVE GIFTS

eMPorIo arManI at ParIs gallery

haCKett

FeSTIve GIFTS FOR HIM

Mens at Dune

beats solo 2 WIreless heaDPhones

teD baKer

vIrgIn Megastore

DebenhaMs

CartIer les heures voyageuses MarKs & sPenCer

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SOCIETY

#BLaCk #anaaR #Po P #uP #LaunCh #at #woR ds # Bo okstoRe

black anaar launched in bahrain on november 17 from 7pm to 9pm at the Words bookstore Cafe, at their ‘More Words’ event space. the threeday pop up store brought in many new clients who enjoyed the varied selection of Designer Frances stafford’s unique pieces. the designer shares her time between bahrain and berlin. she designs in her studio in berlin and has her designs realized with local tailors in bahrain. as a novice designer, Fran continues to articulate and explore her creation of educational fashion, staying true to the origins of her designs and pieces, and reinventing vintage trends with an added modern twist.

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BEAUTY CHECKLIST

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SURVIVAl kIT Holiday season is here – party with your makeup game on fleek and keep these beauty products at hand to look effortless at any time of the day.

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ROUGE IN THE CITY COllECTION Bourjois Pop a daring colour on your lips with a velvetmatte finish and a longlasting effect. Red is the trend to follow this season, so you might want to invest in a couple of these tubes.

The collection comes with different red hues to suit your skin colour. Go bold and adventurous!

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SHEER EYE ZONE CORRECTOR Shiseido Holiday season is all about clean makeup and looking sharp, so this product is on the money. with so many parties on the horizon, opt for a sheer makeup look. Forgo heavy foundation and if possible, conceal areas of need only. Take it from us; this concealer is the way to go for a girl on-the-go.

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lIQUID ASSETS COllECTION, IllUMINATING lIQUID HIGHlIGHTER elizabeth Arden Illuminate like a goddess with this upbeat highlighter.

Dab on the highest points of your cheeks, bridge of the nose and cupids bow.

Blend away for a natural effect. Perfect for a day to night look to keep a healthy glow.

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I lOVE JUICY COUTURE, PERFUME Juicy Couture A combination of lush fruits and fresh floral, the fragrance is an infusion of seductive amber and musk. with bold notes, the bottle screams modernity and a woman who is fearless at all costs. This is the scent of the season and we love it!

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SCANDAlEYES RElOADED MASCARA Rimmel Spider lashes are big this season, so the more the merrier. Apply up to two coats of mascara for a full-house look on your eyelids. Go big, or go home with this long-lasting black mascara – it’s the ideal buy to keep in your purse and take your eyes from alert to wow!

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MAGIC HOUR, FACE MASk Starskin Give your skin a breath of fresh air with these purifying and cleansing sheet masks. Remove all toxins, let your pores breathe and renew, and enjoy rejuvenated skin with a glowy-complexion restored. Use twice a week, or when needed for better results.

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SOCIETY

#gmC #aCadia #2017 #LaunChed

the all-new gMC acadia arrived at national Motor Company. the all-new gMC comes packed with an expanded range of available active safety features and new 310 hP 3.6l v6 powertrain – offers bahrain buyers a truly compelling package. the strategic re-scoping of the 2017 acadia – which comes in distinct trim levels that include sle, slt, Denali, as well as a special sporty edition all terrain – offers customers a midsize crossover positioned between the compact terrain and full-size yukon.

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GROOMING CHECKLIST

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WI NTER WON DER Gents, it’s time to welcome stubble and let the beard grow out, but don’t forget to keep your skin, hair and scent game on point. Let us help you out with our top product picks...

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DAVIDOFF Amber Blend Amber Blend is the third opus to continue the Davidoff Blend Collection, an exclusive line of eaux de parfum designed for true connoisseurs. Created by master perfumer Olivier Pescheux, Davidoff Amber Blend is an oriental spicy, masculine fragrance with a radiant allure for winter.

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BEARDBRAND Spiced Citrus Beard Oil This product not only conditions the beard hairs, but also conditions the underlying skin, resulting in eliminating that itching skin. Jojoba oil, Grape seed oil, Castor oil, vanilla essential oil and Grapefruit essential oil, all give it a nice spicy scent, with the benefit of transforming prickly beard hairs into a soft, healthy shine.

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MOlTON BROWN Black Peppercorn Body wash every man we know swears by this great grooming must-have; warm, aromatic and spicy, this now legendary product from Molton Brown is everything you want from a shower gel: it foams up a treat, doesn’t leave skin feeling dry and tight, and smells fantastic too.

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DERMAlOGICA Total eye Care This SPF eye cream with skin-smoothing alpha-hydroxy acids retexturises to reduce the appearance of puffiness and fine lines. Optical light diffusers help diminish dark circles and a chemical-free sunscreen helps to shield against further damage. Plus, it’s got no artificial fragrances or colours – bonus.

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ClINIQUE Post Shave Soother It’s light, absorbs quickly, and contains skin-soothing sloe for that much-needed post-shave fix. The lotion instantly cools and calms any razor burns and redness after shaving. The lightweight lotion comforts the skin while encouraging the healing of minor cuts and nicks. Just what you need for those sleepy, winter days!

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BIllY JEAlOUSY Assassin Intensive Face Moisturiser Formulated with the latest in at-home skincare technology to provide speedy and effective results, the paraben-free moisturiser is rich in antioxidants, proteins and vitamins that renew the skin’s cells and reduce wrinkles, making your face visibly younger, smoother and more radiant. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#FeRia #esPanoLa #at #soFiteL #BahRain #zaLLaQ #thaLassa #sea #& #sPa

last month we experienced fantastic spanish gastronomy prepared by Chef jordi gimeno for the opening of Feria espanola where an international flamenco group, las Duquelas, performed riveting dance numbers. Members of the media and vIPs were in attendance.

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HOME STYLE

lakeland diY CHristmas

One of the best things about this time of the year is sitting around the kitchen table with the entire family and tucking into festivethemed baked goods and other culinary creations. lakeland has just the right tools to help out‌

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SOCIETY

#hoPs #Fest #at #RoyaL #goLF #CLuB

Foodies, families and anyone looking to have a great time in a lively atmosphere, all attended the fun hops Fest at the royal golf Club. With a Dj, live band, fun kids activities and food and drinks at hand, visitors were seen having a fantastic time on everything from a bouncy castle to the poolside.

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HOME STYLE

Laura Ashley

Marks & Spencer

Debenhams

go

FesTiVe! we DOn’T HAve TO ReMInD YOU THAT IT’S THe HOLIDAY SeASOn ALReADY – YOU’LL HAve Seen THe STORe DISPLAYS AnD FeLT A MeRRY SPIRIT In THe AIR! BRInG THIS SAMe JOYFUL FeeLInG InTO YOUR HOMe wITH OUR PICk OF THe BeST BUYS FOR YOUR FeSTIve FIx…

next

dotcomgiftshop

Paperchase

next

Marina Home

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176 fact magazine

eliteseefresidenceandhotel EliteSeef

EliteSeefResidence&hotel www.elitegrouphotels.com

CALL: 17 58 33 88

Christmas Brunch @ IL Giardino 25-Dec-16 | 12:30 pm onwards BD 12++ / person | BD 6 ++ / child Lavish buffet inclusive of soft beverages

BD 14 ++ / person | BD6 ++ / child Lavish buffet with juices & soft beverages

Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at Oasis 24-Dec-16 | 8:00 pm onwards BD 20 ++ / person Lavish buffet with house beverages, juices & soft beverages

Christmas Tree Lighting 8 Dec 16 | 6:00 pm

bACK To

bASICS our love For loCal FooD KnoWs no bounDs. FaCt DIsCovers the unIque FooDs @ hoMe ConCePt that Is set to bloW the rest out oF the Water.

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NEW IN TOWN

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ahraini food is now the it-thing on the culinary scene. In recent months there’s been a resurgence in Bahraini food, where it’s now expats who are also tucking into the famous Bahraini breakfast and getting more familiar with the diverse range of flavours the cuisine has to offer overall. So basically, it’s all become a bit mainstream – with franchise restaurants introducing Bahraini menu items – and as much as we love that, we don’t want to see it become a sell-out. That’s where the brand new Foods @ Home comes in.

Home-style cooking is hard to come by. Sure, many restaurants claim to have food that tastes just like a meal mama makes, but it always falls short of being personal. The story behind Foods @ Home is definitely homely and genuine. Safya Alqaseer – one of three partners in the business, started cooking for herself, family and friends over 20 years ago from her humble kitchen. This slowly snowballed into a neighbourhood highlight, where her wholesome good cooking was the talk of many a family and friends, where she received orders from people to make muchloved Bahraini dishes for small and big gatherings. Very recently, her brother, Ali Alqaseer and Hussain Jamsheer (who both have banking backgrounds) all partnered up to finally make something of this ‘by popular demand’ kitchen and turned it into a concept, just off Budaiya highway.

The small, cosy and unpretentious set up is super refreshing. You’ve got heart-warming photos of Bahrain circa 1970s and majlisstyle seating – the colour concept is all things happy and bright and you just feel so darn comfortable. You definitely don’t get the vibe that people come here to be seen but simply to eat well and feel good about it. Hallelujah to that.

Onto the food. “We wanted to provide food that is like what you get at home.

There is always a difference between home and restaurant cooked food but we wanted to make it as authentic as possible,” says Ali Alqaseer, whose passion for the food experience could bring you to tears, it’s so palpable. All three partners have such a pure love for food and hospitality, you’re sure to

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“ W e Wa n t e D t o P r o v I D e F o o D t h at I s l I K e W h at y o u g e t at h o M e . t h e r e I s a lWay s a D I F F e r e n C e betWeen hoMe anD r e s ta u r a n t C o o K e D F o o D b u t W e Wa n t e D t o MaKe It as authentIC as PossIble” be in good hands with them.

In true Bahrain style, we are brought a feast of food. We start off with sharingstyle dishes of Waraq Anab, Mast e Museer (the most moreish thing you’ll ever eat), Hummus, Kashk e Badenjan (an eggplant dish with a prickly, minty taste) and Mirza Qasimi. If some of these sound more adventurous than you’re used to, it’s because they also come from the Persian cuisine – a main selling point for Foods @ Home. Trust us, you won’t know when to stop eating these starters.

For mains, we have the softest, silkiest

NEW IN TOWN

and non-rubbery Lamb Kabab Kobeedah, which well and truly M-E-L-T-S in your mouth, along with a dish of Three Coloured Rice – unbelievably aromatic and varied – who knew rice could be so diverse? We also tried the tender Sultani (a variation of super meaty steak), Joja Kabab and Tikka Chicken With Yoghurt – which has an incredible lemony sprinkle on it and was an absolute winner. For a more wintery dish with soupy layers, the Chicken Curry Badenjan is food for the soul.

Bear with us, the desserts had us crying with joy. Let’s start off with the Ranginak.

Never heard of it before? Good. This gives Foods @ Home its unique touch. This date, walnut and filo pastry delight swims in a caramel sauce and is visually stunning – the ice cream gives it a decadent but oh-sosatisfying touch. The Bastani (stretchy ice cream) and Faloodah (icy, vermicelli noodles) come together side-by-side in one glass. What’s fun here is that you’re given three syrups for pouring purposes. Lemon, rose and sour cherry-like syrups take these already mouthwatering desserts to nextlevel deliciousness. Flavours, all the flavours!

It’s only been a few months since the dinein started and it’s already got people coming in their droves. If their Instagram following is anything to go by (hello, 35K followers) this is set to be one of the best Bahraini food concepts yet. ✤ GO: FOODS @ HOME IS BASED In A COMpOunD BETWEEn DOMInOS pIzzA AnD RuyAn pHARMACy On BuDAIyA HIGHWAy. CAll 1700 0888 FOR RESERVATIOnS AnD MORE InFORMATIOn. FOllOW @ FOODSATHOME On InSTAGRAM FOR All THE lATEST. fact magazine

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Elegant Eats “Every day feels like a new experience. i get to create special experiences for the guests and new dishes with my team, and that’s very satisfying.”

– Sous Chef ibrahim Ghrimil fact magazine

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CHEF’S TABLE

ThE riTz GoUrMET LoUnGE aT ThE riTz-CarLTon, Bahrain haS BECoME SoMEWhaT oF an inSTiTUTion aMonGST ThE SophiSTiCaTEd dininG CroWd Who GaThEr hErE For LonG BrEakFaSTS, LEiSUrELy LUnChES, a BEaUTiFUL aFTErnoon TEa and ThE popULar ShiSha oFFErinGS on ThE oUTdoor TErraCE. FaCT MEETS SoUS ChEF iBrahiM GhriMiL To Find oUT WhaT MakES ThiS pLaCE TiCk WhEn iT CoMES To ThE FaBULoUS Food.

Sous Chef Ibrahim Ghrimil’s approach to maintaining a palate-pleasing menu and exclusive food status for The Ritz Gourmet Lounge comes down to one thing; listening to what guests want.

“Every day we learn something new and that inspires us as a team and as chefs,” Chef Ibrahim says. “We grow closer to our guests, especially our members and regular diners, by getting feedback from them and trying new things to keep the food appealing and exciting.”

With over 15 years in the culinary industry, Chef Ibrahim has been putting his pro cooking and leadership skills to the test by looking over the entire food operation and kitchen team at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain for three almost years now. So, we believe him when he tells us that the food at this restaurant has been the product of change but also a labour of love.

He explains: “We change things up as per the guests’ requests. We feel proud to 182 fact magazine

receive the feedback that we do and because of this dialogue with diners, we have been able to use more local products, from the fruit to the vegetables, the shrimps and the sea bass – we use only the freshest and we try to always support the local market,” he adds.

After taking in our stunning Frenchinspired surroundings, we’re ready to get the food feast started. Say hello to a dish that will literally change your life: Eggs Benjamin. It looks similar to Eggs Benedict, but with the most exquisite smoked salmon and a green pea puree that you’ll take big scoops of in every forking (in fact, it’s better to use a spoon or the delicious bread rolls for this one). A fantastic breakfast choice, the dish is light yet filling, and pairs perfectly with the yummy Moussu Cardamom – a cup of foamy chocolate with cardamom flavoured milk.

Before we move onto two of the venue’s signature dishes, Chef Ibrahim gives us

MEnU Eggs Benjamin Lamb Rack Local Sea Bass Cheesecake Moussu Cardamom

an insight into his food philosophy. “The most important ingredients to me are olive oil, some spices like coriander powder, and lemon juice, which is very good for meats and fish,” he says. “It’s my philosophy to keep the taste light and here we use more herby flavours like rosemary, thyme, garlic, shallots – the basic ingredients to create a simple but tasty combination of flavours.”

We were about to get a first-hand try of these divine flavours. The Lamb Rack with a symphony of vegetable, puff pastry and thyme jus leaves us speechless. Not only is it a generous helping for a gourmet dining experience, the meat is juicy and super succulent, but it’s the bed of pastry that really had us digging for more. The crumbly and meaty texture together is a welcomed bite with every mouthful. We can see why this is on the Chef ’s Signature menu!

CHEF’S TABLE

The Local Sea Bass with sautéed seasonal vegetable and aubergine sauce is a definite conversation starter. Think fresh fish with simple seasoning, swimming (no pun intended) in a mouthwatering sauce and topped with eggplant. Once more, the portion size can easily feed two people happily – but after you’ve tasted it, we can’t guarantee that you’ll want to share this one – it’s just TOO GOOD. Dessert sees a fine dining-style mascarpone and ricotta cheesecake come to the table. It’s so pretty that we almost don’t want to ruin the presentation. Alas, our sweet tooth calls out and we get stuck in. Just AMAZING. It’s light, flavourful and a great end to the near-perfect meal.

You might think that these are dishes that you could find at other restaurants and you wouldn’t be wrong, but you won’t find little personal taste touches in them like Chef Ibrahim and his team provide. This is the distinctive Ritz twist that you’ll find only at The Ritz Gourmet Lounge.

For 2017, Chef Ibrahim’s goal is to keep on rising by listening to his guests and giving them what they want. A chef that puts his customers first – now, that’s something we can definitely get onboard with. ✤ go: vIsIt the rItZ gourMet lounge at the rItZ-Carlton, bahraIn. Call 1758 6499 For reservatIons anD More InForMatIon. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#PooLside #FRiday #BRunCh #at #inteRContinentaL #RegenCy #BahRain

guests gathered at elements Pool & lounge for a truly outstanding Friday brunch. From taking a dip in the pool to taking a seat outdoors to enjoy the splendid food, revellers were seen having a true brunch experience to kick start their weekend. variety including salads, appetisers, mains and bbq as well as delectable desserts were all on offer here.

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FeASTIN’ AT CITy CeNTre bAhrAIN our CulInary journey through bahraIn’s bIggest Mall ContInues WIth three exCePtIonal eaterIes thIs Month; the butCher shoP & grIll, WaFI gourMet anD PastarIto. here’s Why you shoulD be eatIng there…

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CULINARY SpOTLIGHT

pastarito PastaritO in City Centre Bahrain is an authentic Italian restaurant with a fusion of two cuisine styles for which Italy is synonymous, pasta and pizza – hence the name PastaritO. This combination of these traditional dishes reflects the joyous and carnival culture that epitomises group gatherings. We got a quick dose of their grub at lunch. PastaritO’s menu is categorised into seven segments consisting of appetisers, salads, pasta, risotto, pizza, steaks and desserts along with a kids’ menu. The uniqueness of this restaurant is its spacious, vibrant ambience, quality of food and the serving time.

The Zuppa di Fungi soup is beautifully creamy and a real winter warmer choice! A couple of the other highly recommended dishes are the Crispy Chicken Salad and the Dynamite Shrimps. Both are packed with flavours and textures that your taste buds will love.

A key feature of the menu is the ability to mix and match pasta and sauces. Any selection of the eight types of pasta — including tagliatelle, fusilli, penne, linguine and spaghetti — can be combined with any of the 20 sauces available. So when the pasta cravings kick in, go for the Pollo Brocolli Funghi. It’s tasty, traditional, and everything you want from a good Italian dish.

With good quality food, reasonable pricing and friendly staff, PastaritO is definitely one of the best places to hangout and grab some food with the whole family.

Wafi Gourmet A name that speaks for itself; the one and only destination for a gourmet meal from the widely desired Lebanese cuisine with its endless varieties for both vegan and meat lovers at the heart of the mall’s food-filled floor. Of course, we’re talking about none other than Wafi Gourmet. A spacious venue dedicated to gourmet dining and food enthusiasts who enjoy an effortless set up with immaculate service and amazing menu items. The atmosphere is Lebanese by decorative archways, photos of Lebanese historical attractions, and the voice of Lebanese legend Fairuz in the air.

On the weekend, you can enjoy a grand buffet with great choices from soup to salad, hot and cold mezze, and a selection of around five main course dishes, in addition to a satisfying array of Arabic desserts. The weekend buffet also includes water, tea and coffee, a couple of choices of traditional drinks, and as much as you want freshly baked pita bread.

During the week, a la carte varieties are equally delicious! You can choose something off the grill and pair it with the perfect fresh juice, maybe grab the shawarma sandwich of your choice, or simply indulge in a rainbow of fresh mezze – this place really is a standout when it comes to homely, Lebanese fare.

At the end of your meal, you can visit the goodies section and the Arabic sweets shop to take a slice of Lebanon home with you. Yum!

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The Butcher Shop & Grill When It CoMes to Meat, thIs PlaCe Doesn’t sKIMP on qualIty or quantIty For that Matter – It’s all about hIgh stanDarDs anD generous PortIons.

The Butcher Shop & Grill is a celebration of South African heritage, coming together to enjoy a superb meal. South Africans are devoted meat eaters, particularly when it comes to the tradition of braaivleis and biltong - al fresco barbequing and snacking on salted dried meat. With meat sourced exclusively from South Africa, you know you’re in good hands at The Butcher Shop & Grill – in fact, our waiter was more than knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the restaurant’s lineage.

We grappled a feast of chicken wings, scampi, seafood soup and then a 1kg hunk of Tomahawk steak which was wrestled by all of us – it was a battle of the forks and everyone made sure that they got a piece of the tender treat. Then came the Wagyu beef burger (made as medium-rare as they come) dripping with cheddar cheese, accompanied by a host of steamy French fries and crispy onion rings complemented by thick blue cheese sauce and all your usual condiments like ketchup and mayonnaise. This was the epitome of an excellent beef burger.

The Butcher Shop & Grill is an impressive choice for lunch or dinner and is suited to couples, groups of friends, families and even solo diners who just want to sit back and enjoy some of that hearty South African goodness. We couldn’t recommend it more for foodies, meat-lovers and anyone who’s craving delicious food to liven up their day. ✤

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FOODIE CORNER

revISITINg A CLASSIC Menu FAVOuRiTeS iS WHAT HAD uS POP BACK inTO dome CAFé FOR AnOTHeR ROunD OF COMFORT FOOD…

o

n our last visit to Dome Café in Juffair, we really went all out with a massive feast – this time, we wanted to hone in on some of the menu’s most popular dishes. The items that keep the crowd coming back and the chefs busy.

We walk in on a weekday afternoon and to our pleasant surprise, there are solo diners, couples, friends chatting over coffee and local families gathering for good reliable grub. Yes, Dome Café is a restaurant that truly brings all communities together and we love that!

Kicking off the taste test is the incredible Pancake Stack. Thick, fluffy and drizzled in maple syrup with berries and mascarpone cheese, THIS is what you call the perfect pancake fix. Though the portion is overlygenerous, the recipe is super light on the tummy, something we really appreciate because these pancakes will have you going in with the fork saying “one more bite please!” It’s also apt that they’re offered on the Nice ‘N’ Light part of the menu because, even though pancakes can traditionally be a heavy meal, the Dome Café offering is just a great plate of sweet everything to warm you up for the main show.

Eggs Hollandaise is the next to come out – it’s fresh spinach, grilled beef ham and two poached eggs with creamy hollandaise sauce on toasted ciabatta. As we break into the 188 fact magazine

oozing centre, not only does this dish appeal to the eye, its combination of ingredients is just divine. This is the breakfast choice if you want that balance of indulgence with keeping things healthy. It’s super tasty and we polish off the plate with gusto.

Our mains consist of the Flame Grilled Beef Rib Eye with Mushroom Sauce and the Pan-Seared Chicken in Mushroom Sauce.

The first is a cooked-to-preference rib eye steak, served with mushroom sauce, garden salad and wedges, and the latter is marinated chicken with creamy wild mushroom sauce, served with fresh salad and white rice. What

continues to surprise us is the freshness and quantity of each element on your plate; there’s no stingy business here, even your side salad is plentiful and brings a refreshing crunch to each dish. Depending on how hungry you are, both of these mains will fill you up nicely. Meat-eaters will enjoy the high-quality steak whilst those with a taste for chicken will enjoy the flavours of this poultry choice.

When the sandwich cravings kick in, go for the Charcoal Grilled Mediterranean Chicken on ciabatta, covered in cheddar cheese, iceberg lettuce, tomato and mayo,

FOODIE CORNER

served with side salad dressed in the most lip-licking balsamic dressing. It’s the smokiness of the flame-grill that has us loving every bite of this great sandwich – highly recommended for those who want something fast and satisfying. To warm up on these cool days, try the Hot Indulgence drinks to get you into the winter mood!

Dome Café’s charm lies in its honesty. You know exactly what you’re going to get here; quality, cheerful food with friendly service in a completely casual setting. The prices are unbelievably affordable for what you get and the menu is packed with nothing but selection. There’s just no doubt that this place will continue to boom – and rightly so. ✤ GO: Visit www.domecoffees.com or call 1781 0180 for more information.

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BAHRAIN BITES

STRuDeliCiOuS eVeninG

A WinninG COMBO

DOn’T STOP, GO…

Are you in the mood for something delicious? if you are, then passing by the stylish Furn Bakery at The westin Bahrain City Centre is a must. indulge in a range of authentic artisan strudels, fresh breads and the divine signature Mezza, all accompanied by unlimited grape. Offer available every Thursday from 6pm-8pm. Only BD15++ per person.

if you are a huge sports enthusiast or even a casual viewer, make your way down to the handsome le meridien Bahrain City Centre to catch the latest football, tennis, formula 1 and rugby being played worldwide. With the daily live streaming of sporting events at Bizarre lounge, you won’t miss a moment of the action. Thirsty? Get a free brew with every tasty burger ordered.

We all know about the amazing brunch at the Crowne plaza Bahrain on Fridays, but why stop there?

The festivities carry on at The Patio long after your brunch is but a fond memory. With a great outdoor DJ, you will be dancing well into the night with many other party people. From 4pm until late, every Friday evening.

GO: Call 1717 1441for reservations and more information.

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GO: Call 1717 1441 for reservations and more information

GO: Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

BAHRAIN BITES

eAT SMART AT lunCH

leGenDARy lADieS niGHT

DeSi DiSH niGHT

in the rat race, time is always against us. The food masters at Bushido have come up with a menu that is both friendly on the stomach and the watch. introducing the smart menu, three delicious courses in 30 minutes, leaving you satisfied and with time to get back to the office or to pick up the children. Dishes are changed on a regular basis. All for only BD10. enjoy Saturdays to Thursdays.

Trader Vic’s’ ever popular ladies night makes a return with a bang! Join the island style party every Wahine Tuesday for Puka Puka night. All are welcome, ladies get in free and receive complimentary drinks, including the popular Tiki Puka Puka. So come on down every Tuesday evening from 6pm – 9pm to take part in the fun

The diversity of Desi food is one to be celebrated. Treat yourself at Choices Restaurant in the ArT rotana, Amwaj islands, to a huge selection of curries, grills and traditional beverages. They will be showcasing the very best of cuisines from india, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri lanka and more! All for only BD 15 net with soft drinks or BD25 net with selected house beverages. Offer available every Monday, 7pm to 10.30pm.

GO: Call 1758 3555 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1758 6555 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1600 0111 for reservations and more information.

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pEp TALK

Party Season is Back

Festive Fun: Let’s Celebrate

yVonne Cole, PeRSOnAl TRAineR, BelieVeS THAT WHen yOu eAT CleAn, TRAin HARD AnD TRuST THe PROCeSS, yOuR COnSiSTenCy AnD PATienCe PAyS OFF…

CHrisTAl dennis, PeRSOnAl PeRFORMAnCe COACH AnD HyPnOTHeRAPiST, iS DeDiCATeD TO HelPinG PeOPle OVeRCOMe liFe’S HuRDleS AnD TAPPinG inTO THeiR DeePeST POTenTiAl...

PARTY SEASON IS ONCE AGAIN in full swing which means, for some, a little more alcohol and a lot more food.

Your fitness routine may get kicked to the kerb - but it doesn’t have to be.

Put a little more thought into what you’re going to eat; stick to white meat like turkey and chicken and don’t forget seafood. There are always healthy versions of your favourite dishes and if you’re eating out, more and more restaurants are offering vegetarian and vegan options.

If you still feel the need to over indulge then get as much exercise in as you possibly can in the lead up to Christmas - the more intense the better. Now that we have fabulous weather, take advantage of it and take your exercise routine outside; go for long walks with the family or go for a run and throw some HITT workouts in there.

While watching those holiday movies make sure your snacks are healthy like nuts, raisins, carrot sticks and cucumber sticks with healthy dips like hummus or guacamole.

To try and avoid that hangover if you went a little overboard with the alcohol try and drink water in between your drinks.

Get party shoes on, open those presents, hit the dance floor and enjoy into the New Year with a fit, healthy mindset and body! ✤

I’M SO ExCITED. And I just can’t hide it. This year’s Christmas is going to be a white one!

I’ll be spending the first part of the fabulous festive season in the tiny town of something-or-other-berg, an hour or two out of Frankfurt. My older sister is joining me, as is my niece, and I’m planning on dividing my time between ... a) shopping up a storm at the local Christmas markets with a warm mulled brew in one hand and a big bunch of euro notes in the other b) sledding through the snow on the nearby slopes and c) curled up like a kitty in front of the roaring open fire.

Once the presents have all been opened and the turkey gobbled up, the three of us will head to Paris to continue the festivities. And one thing I’m REALLY looking forward to doing there is a walking food tour. These tours are usually run by locals and are truly the best way to get to know the gastronomic heart of any city. It should also provide me with some stunning photo ops. We’ll don our heels and pop bottles while in Paris as well, and dance our way into the New Year.

May your Christmas be merry and your New Years be happy, and look forward to seeing you on the other side! xx ✤

GO: Email ymcfitness@gmail.com or call 3935 9105 for more information.

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

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SOCIETY

#PeRiodiCaL #ReinCaRnation #at #intouCh #gaLLeRy

#haLLoween #zomBie #waLk #adLiya

artsist andrea Ignacio welcomed art fans and creative connoisseurs to the opening night of her inaugural art exhibition – Periodical reincarnation at Intouch gallery. this unique solo exhibit featured single medium, primarily mono-chromatic or single-theme collage on canvas.

halloween-makers took to the streets of adliya for the first of its kind Zombie Walk. the walk comprised of three locations: Camelot, lanterns lounge and restaurant and CafĂŠ amsterdam. It was essentially a joint collaboration between the three venues providing a halloween style pub crawl.

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Hassan Chouman Torino Restaurant & lounge

tell us three things that make torino unique From its competitors...

1. Torino’s cuisine is created with fresh, quality ingredients fused with the secret combination of our unique homemade dressing and sauces.

2. The venue has very unique interiors, a fusion of chic luxe and underground with eccentric brit pop accents.

3. We can called it as the largest lounge in Bahrain, as it can accommodate 300 people.

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What DriVes you?

Making people happy gives me pleasure.

I really love watching people have a great experience in Torino, appreciating the dĂŠcor, the vibe and enjoying an excellent meal with friends and family.

For 2017, What goals are you hoping to achieVe With torino in the FooD market?

To continue to create and evolve, providing a unique and pleasurable experience for our guests, as well as expand out across the GCC.

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