FACT Bahrain November 2016

NOVEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 3 BD1

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

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Contents 10

31

55

FACt FInDs

DInInG stReet

LIFe’s A BeACH

Pro ballet comes to Bahrain to cast a spell!

the best al fresco venues to eat out at.

We pick the best pool days to enjoy the cool breeze!

65

81

BBQ 101

85

BBQ ReCIPes

Get ready for a Periodical Reincarntion in Bahrain.

everything you need to know for the perfect bbq.

Bahrain’s top chefs share some of their best recipes.

107

127

CHeF’s tABLe

neW In toWn

the Kenzo X H&M Collection is here...

FACt tries molecular cuisine and loves it!

Moroccan flavours have arrived in Bahrain.

ARts InteRVIeW

FAsHIon FoCUs

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THE EDITOR

Log off, Shut Down, Go Outside.

“Think outside, no box required.” - Anon

N

ovember is always a bit of a crazy month in the Gulf. There are concerts and music festivals, racing events, arts fairs and lots and lots of invitations to weekend barbeques. This is the month that winter weather officially kicks in and when you start to feel the buzz (and stress) of the festive season. But, you won’t hear any complaints from me. This is my absolute favourite time of the year in Bahrain; going out for long walks, sitting on a restaurant’s terrace for dinner, and dusting off the boots to up your winter wardrobe game - how can you not love the cool season?

Now that the sun has settled to pave way for more pleasant temperatures, we thought it only right to get you excited about the next few months ahead. From al fresco dining to pool and beach days, Bahrain is packed with SO MUCH to see and do when the weather permits. Turn to p31 and start planning your time outside – bye bye a/c, hello breezy days!

With your garden gathering in mind, we’ve got an awesome guide to throwing the best barbeque (bbq - however you prefer to write it - the same grilling rules apply!). Turn to p81 for BBQ 101, followed

by Bahrain’s top chefs sharing their best BBQ Recipes for everyone to try out at home (p85). There’s no reason why you shouldn’t be having a steak off with friends this season!

One of the standout features, for me, this month is Periodical Reincarnation. I caught up with Bahrain-based artist Andrea Ignacio (who also takes the well-deserved cover story spot) to talk all about her unusual and pleasantly obscure artwork. Read all about her magazine-inspired pieces on p65.

Whatever you do, make sure it’s not all just binge-watching Netflix (Marvel’s Luke Cage and Stranger Things are my new addictions!) and getting Talabat orders in - get out there and enjoy whatever chill comes our way - before it’s gone in a hot flash!☺

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

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FACT Magazine Bahrain Edition November 2016 Volume 10, Issue 3 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 Cara Mason Christal Dennis Gareth Woods Georgie Bradley Georgina Jennsen Sofia Graniello Yvonne Cole Cover Image Andrea Ignacio 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

re/IMAGINE YOUR SATURDAYS. Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay invites you to discover the perfect Saturday brunch at re/Asian Cuisine by Wolfgang Puck. Soak in the immersive views from the 50th floor and feast on mouthwatering Asian selections like Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, Wok Fried Shrimp Dumplings and Brisket Wontons for BD 19++.

Every Saturday afternoon • 12:30PM - 3:30PM Reservations: +973 1711 5046 fourseasons.com/bahrain

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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.

NOVEMBER 2016 VOL 10. ISSUE 3 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!

BBQ 101

TIPS, TRICKS & RECIPES TO GRILL LIKE A CHAMP

DINING STREET

PERIODICAL REINCARNATION

AL FRESCO FOOD FIX IN BAHRAIN

THE ART OF COLOUR AND COLLAGE

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Imran Al Aradi @IMRAN_AL_ARADI We all have that one friend who makes a post on social media then send it out as a broadcast on WhatsApp. Muneera Khalifa @MUNEERAKHALIFA Major announcement to all my friends, mention #PokemonGo to me--- and our friendship is over.

Do yourself a favor and read a book instead.

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CITI FACT DINING AWARDS 2016 WE CAME, WE ATE, WE NOMINATED: MORE THAN 200 VENUES IN 35 CATEGORIES!

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64,913 reads of the October 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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Periodical Reincarnation p63

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CHECK IT OUT

FACt FInDs

Ballet Magic CURtsyInG tHeIR WAy onto tHe stAGe In BAHR AIn, tWo FABULoUs BALLet sHoWs ARe GoInG to Be entHR ALLInG DAnCe FAns tHIs MontH.

What: STARS OF BOLSHOI THEATRE - MOSCOW Where: BAHRAIN NATIONAL THEATRE When: NOVEMBER 12 & 13, 8PM tickets: AVAILABLE TO BUY AT VIRGIN MEGASTORE MiniMuM age: 8-YEARS-OLD

What: THE NUTCRACKER – SUZHOU BALLET THEATRE Where: BAHRAIN NATIONAL THEATRE When: NOVEMBER 19, 8PM tickets: AVAILABLE TO BUY AT VIRGIN MEGASTORE MiniMuM age: 8-YEARS-OLD

Enjoy a ballet performance of the highest order with the worldfamous principal dancers and corps de ballet of the Bolshoi Theatre, one of the greatest dance and music stages in the world.

Founded in 1776, it remains one of the most recognised symbols of Russian Culture, globally, to this day. With more than 250 dancers, the theatre’s equally famous Bolshoi Ballet Company is also one of the world’s largest. Long known for panache and showmanship, soaring leaps and virtuoso technique, it manages to keep the revered tradition of classical ballet through generations of brilliant dancers and outstanding choreographers. The principal dancers of the company are among the top ballet performers today, including; Ekaterina Krysanova, Anna Nikulina, Olga Smirnova, Kristina Kretova, Anna Tikhomirova, Ivan Vasiliev, Artem Ovcharenko, Denis Rodkin, Semyon Chudin, and Igor Tsvirko.

China’s Suzhou Ballet Theatre brings to life the all-time classic play The Nutcracker with an enchanting interpretation that carries a distinctly Far Eastern flavour. Established by Suzhou Culture and Arts Centre in 2007, the Suzhou Ballet Theatre is well-known around the world for its innovative style which it seamlessly incorporates into original award-winning works and beloved classics. Led by the creative vision of artistic directors, Beijing Dance Academy alumni, and veteran dancers Ying Li and Jiabin Pan, the theatre’s productions have received critical worldwide acclaim and established its legacy as a pioneer in Chinese ballet history. The lead roles of this beloved holiday classic are played by a number of elite company dancers, including Yulin Su (Mary), Li Xue (The Nutcracker), Wei Xing (Lollipop Prince), Saiwa Cui (Lollipop Faery), and Ning Liao (Drosselmeyer). ✤

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LISTEN UP

- NEED TO KNOW -

the Art of nikkei Cuisine Food lovers are in for a real treat this month as Bushido restaurant will welcome one of the world’s most renowned Japanese chefs to prepare an epicurean feast that you won’t forget.

Get ready for fresh, fiery and fingerlicking flavours as a delicious blend of Japanese and Peruvian food makes its way to Bahrain. Buddha-Bar Worldwide Corporate Japanese Chef, Shigeki Iimura, will be coming to Bushido from November 3 to 9 as part of the Nikkei World Tour.

Chef Shigeki is one of the most notable culinary masters when it comes to Nikkei cuisine and will be working with the Bushido team to develop exciting new creations. Nikkei, is a fusion of Japanese food made with Peruvian ingredients and cooking techniques, this particular type of cuisine is especially popular in South America and it’s been quietly expanding.

Considered by experts as a gastronomical art form, this unique fusion of flavours has 10

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CHEF SHIGEKI IIMURA

become one of the trendiest cuisines around the world. So, you can imagine the excitement knowing that Chef Shigeki is one of the most notable culinary masters when it comes to Nikkei cuisine and has been traveling to different Buddha Bar locations across the globe to share his expertise – and now it’s Bahrain’s turn (we can’t wait to try it!).

In addition to training the Bushido team with his cooking skills and knowledge, Chef Shigeki created a special menu to introduce the art of Nikkei Cuisine and will also be delivering freshly prepared dishes for guests to enjoy at Bushido’s Friday Brunch.

A special menu will be available throughout the month of November that is specially created by Chef Shigeki for Bushido’s guests. Dishes on the menu will include the scrumptious Tuna Tiradito, the melt-in-yourmouth blow torched salmon and the decadent Spicy Truffle Miso Salmon, amongst many more mouthwatering choices. ✤

Born in 1964, Chef Shigeki grew up in Tokyo where his family owned a popular central restaurant. As a child, his parents taught him to select only the highest quality seafood and freshest ingredients at Tokyo’s Tsukiji Market. Passionate about the fine art of Japanese cuisine, he started learning Ikebana at five years old to master the decorations of food.

After honing different styles of Authentic Japanese cuisine from Kyoto-style, Kagastyle and Robata for almost 35 years, and after a career in a top restaurant in Tokyo, Chef Shigeki achieved a reputation in the culinary world in Japan and decided to work abroad to share his skills and gain eminence. After travelling the world, he has developed a passion for Western cuisine and its flavours – beyond a passion for Continental cuisine; he’s an artist whose talent is to give people emotions with his fusion cooking style.

Chef Shigeki spends most of his time developing exciting and unexpected Contemporary recipes to set himself as a Japanese food trend setter. His success lies in his boundless inspiration and edgy style with creations that keep enthralling the taste buds and make him the perfect Executive Chef for Buddha-Bar. GO: Call 1758 3555 for reservations and more information.

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the Ultimate of UsA We love a good dose of American culture and there’s no better place to get your fix than the Movenpick Hotel Bahrain. The annual celebration of all things way across the pond will see a number of thrilling festivities on offer for guests to revel in…

JAZZ WEEKEND Spend a Jazz Weekend full of soulful tunes, free flowing straight from the heart! Professor Cunningham & His Old School band are back by popular demand, flying in all the way from New York to perform live during the Jazz Weekend. Feel the raw emotions during the opening Night Catch & Jazz by the poolside on November 2 from 7pm to 11pm for BD18 net.

While the band continues to play during the Thursday Night Out foodie evening on November 3, you can tuck into some of the tastiest food in Bahrain and sip on some truly delicious liquid concoctions, for BD32 net. The party continues onto the famous Friday Brunch where food, drinks, fun activities and exceptional entertainment from this cool band take centre stage. All for BD36 net including the sumptuous buffets and bubbly. That’s not all! Make sure to enter the draw for a chance to win a flight ticket sponsored

by Qatar Airways to the USA.

WILD WEST WEEKEND Time to dust off your cowboy boots and perfect your Will Smith moves for the Wild Wild West Weekend! Enjoy your favourite Thursday Night Out and Friday Brunch with a cowboy twist unlike anything you’ve ever experienced in Bahrain. The Wild Wild West Thursday 12

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Night Out will be held outdoors in the hotel’s garden with a huge buffet and stations of delectable cuisines and live music to accompany (November 10 from 7pm to 11pm, all for BD32 net.

The popular Friday Brunch will feature genuine cowboy spirit spread across three outlets on November 11. Friday Brunch is on from 12.30pm to 4pm and is priced at BD36 net.

ROCKY BALBOA WEEKEND He’s one of the most iconic American film characters and his Eye of the Tiger soundtrack still runs deep with many old school and new music and movie fans too. Join in to celebrate this beloved character and everything he stood for, with Movenpick’s special Rocky Balboa Weekend. On November 17 is the Thursday Night Out dinner from 7pm to 11pm for BD32 net – expect delicious American-style treats. At Friday Brunch the next day (November 18) you can spend all the hours between 12.30pm and 4pm enjoying the sounds and throwbacks to Rocky Balboa’s time, as well as amazing food and drinks, all for BD36 net. A lucky winner of the Qatar Airways ticket to the USA, will be announced during the Friday Brunch. ✤ GO: Call 1746 0017 for reservations and more information about the American Festival.

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LISTEN UP

straight outta Mexico Authentic Mexican cuisine has officially arrived in Bahrain, and it goes by the name of Cantina Kahlo. Located within The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, 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 location. Positioned adjacent to the legendary Trader Vic’s, Cantina Kahlo welcomes diners with an equally glamourous atmosphere inspired by the bold art and colours of Mexico. The restaurant then opens onto an al fresco terrace nestled in a lush garden.

From here, guests can gaze over the turquoise waters of the private beach of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Such a setting demands an extraordinary menu, which is precisely what Chef Cesar Daniel de Leon Torres delivers. Working with a fully dedicated team of chefs from Mexico, Chef Torres has composed a menu of dishes and flavours native to Mexico. Selections include artisanal tacos, ceviche, and guacamole as well as favourites like “sopes” and mouthwatering “flautas”, besides other delicacies ranging from pulled chicken and roasted pineapple sour cream to field mushrooms and beef tongue.

In a nod to authenticity, Chef Torres, who joins the team in Bahrain after honing his skills in the most renowned Mexican restaurants in Miami, works primarily with ingredients imported directly from Mexico. Additionally, guests can pair their meal with one of Cantina Kahlo’s meticulously curated Mexican ales or cocktails, and the famous Mexican Cola, “Jarritos”.

There’s also the Kahlo Club, an outdoor lounge adjacent to Cantina Kahlo, which serves a light menu to act as an extension of this new and exciting dining concept. ✤ GO: Call 1758 0000 for reservations and more information.

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A Marriage of Chinese and Cuban Cuisines The world-famous Asia de Cuba is soon to open its very first venue in Bahrain! Asia de Cuba is the brainchild of restaurateur Jeffrey Chodorow, who grew up in Miami, frequently eating Cuban food with his family. The original location of Asia de Cuba opened in October 1997 at 237 Madison Avenue in NYC (in Ian Schrager’s Morgans Hotel), and received a Bib Gourmand designation from the Michelin Guide in 2011. The restaurant is inspired

by Havana’s Chinatown, one of the oldest and largest in Latin America. In the late 19th century, 175,000 Chinese immigrants came to Cuba to work the sugar and coffee plantations, many from the Canton region in the south of China. As Chinese immigrants continued to settle in Cuba, they brought with them techniques and recipes, like fried rice, that were further improved by the island’s abundant shellfish.

Some of the Chinese culinary traditions, ingredients and techniques found their way into the canon of Cuban cooking, and vice versa, marking the beginning of a natural influence of the cuisines in each other. ✤

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LISTEN UP

Maki’s new Look, new Dishes!

Anyone say Bloody Ceviche?! The name sounds all too familiar, yet this is not your everyday Bloody Mary, and it’s definitely not your typical ceviche. Maki’s exclusive take on the marriage of a staple drink and a hallmark of Peruvian cuisine is personified in this utterly delightful, and refreshing innovation by Maki’s Chefs.

Take salmon, tuna, white fish, and shrimp, chop them to little bites, add red onions, cherry tomatoes, greens, celery, and a special house-made ceviche sauce, and voila! Behold Maki’s newest invention, ready to serve, and share in small shot-glasses. No alcohol is involved in this recipe.

The chefs at Maki have also been busy concocting two new soft shell taco varieties filled with seafood goodness and drizzled with a host of tasty, housemade sauces, spices, and other wonderful ingredients.

But this is not all! The folks at Maki have been hard at work putting together a new look for the restaurant that is fitting of the award-winning venue’s reputation of having one of the most cosy, romantic atmospheres in town.

At the entrance, you’ll be met with 3D tree structures that exude style, and give entering guests a sense of intrigue as these trees separate the entrance from the dining area.

The reception desk has been replaced with a more ergonomic counterpart which is easily accessible by guests and staff. As for the furniture, the old white sofas have been replaced with dark grey linen fabric designed with diamond buttons in the backrest, and fitted with super comfortable material for guests to enjoy.

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New tables and chairs, of dark and light brown respectively, have been added to the set-up to bestow a warm, welcoming mood for diners.

Some of the walls have been draped with 2D back-lit trees which give the space a laid back and inviting atmosphere.

All columns have been stylishly covered with aged steel mirrors which render the dining area ultra-trendy, adding to the already hospitable character of the remodelled space.

A clean, glossy finish to the concrete floor completes the overall picture.

With the combination of the new dish additions, and the beautiful revamp, Maki is well-recommended for a visit.

What better way to enjoy the chefs’ novel creations than basking in the new furniture? Welcome to the new Maki Bahrain! ✤

Maki Bahrain is located at Bahrain World Trade CentrE, West Tower, adjacent to Moda Mall King Faisal Highway.

Open daily from 12pm till 11.30pm and till 12midnight on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Public Holidays.

Lounge will open till 2am on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Public Holidays, and till 1am on other days.

Call 1752 2733 or 3699 9102 for reservations and more information.

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LISTEN UP Ristorante Da Gianni in Mannheim and Adelfingers Waldschoess’l in Lampertheim where I have been shaped to create exquisite, creative and perfection to detail guest experiences.

I have been in various hotel culinary leadership roles at the Parkhotel Herrenhaus Bensheim and Karlheinz Hauser’s Suelberg in Hamburg, Germany. I also had the privilege to work on the one and only luxury floating resort, called The World, managed by Residensea sailing under the Bahamian flag. During my tenure on this private residential ship, I had visited over 60 countries. For past 10 years, I have been working in Saudi Arabia for the InterContinental Al Khobar and the Saad group.

What attracted you to come to Bahrain?

You may call it another calling. Well, of course, I am very excited to rejoin the InterContinental Hotels and Resorts. Bahrain isn’t new to me. I was close to it all this time but never thought of actually working and living here. Having said this, I have experienced Bahrainis as warm hearted and kind, open-minded and multi-cultural, just like I am.

How has your experience as a chef helped you in your current position?

Having travelled and worked with so many nations of different cultures and backgrounds, it does help with the acceptance and integration in a new team. The team members are also eager and happy to learn something new which will add to their profile of expertise.

GAstRonoMy Insider FACT MEETS THE BRAND NEW MAN BEHIND THE FOOD AT THE INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN, RAF GRIEP, THE HOTEL’S NEW CULINARY DIRECTOR. Take us back to the beginning, when did you first get into cooking and what is your background and experience in the professional culinary industry?

During my childhood and as a teenager, I loved to cook for family and friends. It did not immediately click into my mind to potentially become a cook. I like to think of it as I did not choose this job, but the job chose me, in other words; it may have been a calling. I studied Culinary Arts at the Peter-Behrens school in Darmstadt, Germany and graduated with a Bachelor Degree of Professional Aptitude in Culinary Arts from the Hotel Master School in Heidelberg, Germany.

With more than 27 years of international experience in the culinary field, I worked with various top Michelin Star Chefs.

Therefore, my main background experience is from Michelin Star establishments such as The French Laundry in California, 18

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What do you think of the food and beverage scene in Bahrain?

In general, I noticed that there is a bounty of fantastic places to dine in Bahrain, which is proof that most Bahrainis truly celebrate a succulent lifestyle.

What does a successful food and beverage sector add to a hotel?

Being a luxurious hotel brand, at InterContinental Hotels and Resorts, it is our mission to provide authentic and memorable experiences. Our task is to fulfill our promise to the guest that dines in our hotel, which is our key to success and creating guest’s loyalty. This is the very reason we are here.

In your opinion what has InterContinental added to tourism in Bahrain?

The InterContinental Regency Bahrain is an institution and has recently celebrated its 35th anniversary. It is part of Bahrain in the heart of Manama. The InterContinental Regency, is one of the pioneers in bringing the international 5-star service evolution to Bahrain. ✤

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LISTEN UP

Get Ready for tonight!

Bahraini DJ and producer, DJ Jackson has teamed up with Rmanian pop duo Akcent and Dollarman on his new hit single “Tonight” and this month sees the global release of the track in an exclusive, glamourous event at Bushido Lounge.

We caught up with the man himself to learn more...

What: WORLDWIDE RELEASE OF ‘TONIGHT’ Where: BUSHIDO LOUNGE, SEEF When: NOVEMBER 25 tiMe: 9PM UNTIL LATE eentry: FREE FOR ALL info & reservations: 1758 3555 Bahrain’s very own DJ Jackson is set to release his major hit single Tonight, to the entire world, in a glitzy launch at Bushido Lounge.

This music hit will be aired on 270 music TV channels and 440 radio stations worldwide, and will be released on prestigious music apps such as iTunes and Beatport.

The EDM party anthem Tonight sees DJ Jackson teaming up with Romanian pop duo Akcent and Dollarman, who are already established in the music world with over 40 million views on YouTube!

Having had an ear for music since an early age, the DJ/producer took his relentless passion for music to the next level in 1998, when he first started spinning the decks at parties in Bahrain. He observed inspirational DJs on the scene and learnt every detail of the industry, from mixing vinyls to production, honing his skill till he became an expert.

How did the collaboration for “Tonight” with Akcent & Dollarman come about?

The collab started between me and Akcent after the experience that we got working 20

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together for three shows, which were massively successful. They liked the work and they offered to collaborate. I took a trip to Romania to do a show, and at the same time I visited Mango Records studio, and that’s where it happened. It is a new style for Akcent, and they wanted an artist to fill the gap, so we got Dollarman.

What are you most excited about with the release of the track?

I can’t wait to hear the feedback of the people because I’m working on another track and I need to know if or what needs to be done to fine-tune the next track, so that I can deliver top quality music that everybody can sway to.

How long has this track been in the making, and why did you choose Bahrain to do the worldwide launch?

It was around six months hardcore work but I produced the melody of the track in 2012. It’s launching in Bahrain because it’s

my hometown and I live here, plus I want to offer something new for the nightlife market in Bahrain. This is the base for my first worldwide project.

Have you faced any challenges within the music industry?

When I first started in 1998, I worked hard just to be in the top of the Bahrain market, then when I reach there my next target was the Dubai market as it’s the hub of the Middle East, followed by the worldwide market. All these will have challenges in the form of competition, the promoters I deal with, and the music the people expect to hear.

From my experience, in the worldwide music industry, playing in most of the top clubs in the world, reaching the world’s biggest night club (Privilege Ibiza) will give you an experience and a bit of exposure but it will still not make you famous. The only way to reach for the worldwide level is to release a music track and work on it to make it a hit. ✤

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LISTEN UP The work songs of the pearl divers and the wedding songs performed by the women’s groups, this unique secular folk music, specific to and evocative of my Bahraini home, resonates very deeply with me. I’m proud of my mixed heritage and want to express that, as well as to create something new and exciting for listeners to experience, by fusing this music with elements of jazz harmony and improvisation.

How did you find performing in Bahrain – was it what you expected?

I was very excited and thrilled to have this opportunity. It was also quite daunting because I didn’t want to let anybody down, I wanted to do the country proud. On a personal level this was also a major event for me because it was the first time my father and my Bahraini relatives had ever had the chance to see me performing live.

I’m happy to say that everybody really seemed to enjoy the concert and it felt really special to bring this music, inspired by Bahrain, back to my home land.

Jazz Vibes With yazz Ahmed Over 400 people attended Alhaan Al Siduri, an open Jazz Concert by BahrainiBritish trumpet player Yazz Ahmed, a collaborative event between the British Council and the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities.

FACT caught up with the rising artist to find our what inspires her musical talent…

Hi Yazz! Take us back to where it all started… do you remember the first time you picked up a trumpet?

It wasn’t until I moved to England that I was given the opportunity to learn a musical instrument. I was nine-years-old and starting at a new school in London.

My mother asked me which instrument I’d like to learn and I quickly responded, “the trumpet!” I clearly remember my first trumpet, which was given to me by the Merton Music Foundation. I couldn’t wait to get it home and show my family. It was so 22

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shiny! I also remember the vivid fluffy blue lining in the case!

My grandfather gave me my very first lesson, after which I felt a great sense of achievement. I could play the C major scale straight away - this was going to be fun!

Who or what inspired you to pursue music?

My maternal grandfather, Terry Brown, was a successful jazz trumpeter in the 1950s. He played with John Dankworth, Tubby Hayes, and Ronnie Scott, amongst many others, and later became a record producer for Pye and then Phillips Records. I looked up to Terry, he was my hero, and so the trumpet was the instrument I was drawn to.

In what ways has Bahraini culture influenced your music?

Having studied western classical music and jazz at university, it took me quite a while to find my true voice. Although it is still evolving, this process started when I began rediscovering my Bahraini roots.

Reconnecting with the half remembered music of my childhood has been a major inspiration both in my life and in the way I write music.

Do you still get nervous before a performance?

Yes, I do sometimes get anxious before a performance, especially if it is an important occasion. I actually welcome any nerves because that helps to focus me and makes me realise that I want to do my best.

What calms me down is the quality of the musicians that play in my bands. They are all superb and experienced artists in their own right and the fact that they are always happy and relaxed when we play together is infectious.

What’s he biggest lesson you’ve learned from this industry?

I’m never going to be rich!

Any advice for budding jazz musicians?

The advice I would give is, don’t give up! If you truly want something and it means a lot to you, go for it, but be prepared to get knocked down from time to time. I’ve had many moments when I’ve wanted to give up, but my passion for music has always triumphed. My setbacks have made me a stronger and wiser person. I can’t imagine doing anything else besides music. I’ve chosen to follow my heart rather than my head and my hope is to be able to continue doing what I love for as long as I live. ✤

La Vinoteca Barcelona’s new menu takes our signature tapas, starters, main courses & desserts to another level, with indulgent options to entice & delight every palate. Our team has been working non-stop to make our unique offering even better – and wait until you try what they’ve come up with.

19 Yousif Ahmed Al-Shirawi Avenue, Block 338, Adliya, Bahrain Tel: +973 1700 7808, Fax: +973 1700 7909 ccerro@vinotecabcn.com | www.vinotecabcn.com

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LISTEN UP

the Poppy Ball is Back!

nye Roaring 20’s Ball It’s often said that the way you spend your New Year’s Eve is an indication of how you’ll spend the next year. So in order to ensure that 2016 is an extremely memorable and fun year, you’ve got to ring in the New Year in the most wonderful way. At Crowne Plaza Bahrain, an elegant night of vintage glamour is 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. 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 BD190 net. You can both enjoy a night of fun, party and celebration, without having to worry about making the journey back home! ✤ GO: Early Bird tickets for The Roaring 20’s New Year’s Eve Ball are BD63 (book before December 10) and General Admission tickets are BD70. Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

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The Bahrain British Business Forum (BBBF) will hold its annual Poppy Ball at the Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel on November 18. One of the highlights on Bahrain’s yearly social calendar, this popular event will be held in collaboration with the British Business Association from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. As every year, one of the attractions at the Poppy Ball is the attendance of The Chelsea Pensioners as VIP Guests of Honour. This year, the BBBF is pleased to welcome to the ball Lord Digby Jones (former Minister of State for Trade and Investment) as the VIP Guest Speaker.

The BBBF will host three Chelsea pensioners this year: Sergeant Derek Layton, 73, Guardsman David Macintyre, 82; and Private John Honey, aged 76.

Mr. Khalid Al Zayani OBE, Chairman of the BBBF, pointed out that this is made possible with the support of local businesses.

He said: “The Pensioners immensely enjoy coming to Bahrain and always comment on the warm welcome they receive here. I would like to thank those who supported them this year; including main sponsors British Airways, Euro Motors, Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel and Gulf Brands International.” ✤ GO: The Poppy Ball will start at 7pm with a welcome reception and a buffet dinner, followed by a DJ from 9.30pm till late. Dress code is evening or cocktail dresses for ladies and dinner suits with black ties or national dress for gents. Call 1781 3488 for reservations and more information.

Festive Parties

at Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Most Unique Venue Treat your work colleagues, or your friends and family, to an unforgettable end of year party at the Royal Golf Club. Choose from a wide range of special venues, meet with our award-winning Executive Chef to tailor-make the perfect menu, then sit back, relax and allow our team to deliver unrivalled memories for you and your guests.

For more information, call +973 17 750777.

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LISTEN UP

sign Up For the 8th Beat Diabetes Walk Bahrain

Max’s Fashion For Real People Campaign Max, one of the largest value fashion brands in the region, announced the second chapter of its award-winning Fashion for Real People brand campaign. Echoing the importance of individuality, the campaign champions the need for every individual to discover, embrace and express their own unique style statement.

The next phase of Max Fashion for Real People campaign celebrates the innate sense of style that all real people possess and aims to inspire millions more to accept their distinctive personality.

In the first phase of the Fashion for Real People campaign, launched in November 2015, Max joined forces with Arab youth icon, Mohammed Assaf. The second phase of the campaign portrays different facets of Mohammed Assaf’s daily life.

Photographed in a natural setting, the images capture him in a library, at a studio and in the gym. The idea is to present a fun and colourful collage of cherished moments from Assaf’s daily life, featuring him in the Max collections that fans can relate to. The campaign will come to life on broadcast, digital and print media. ✤ GO: Visit www.maxstores.com for more information.

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Al Rashid Group, one of the region’s leading retail and hospitality conglomerates, will host the 8th edition of the Beat Diabetes Walk at Dohat Arad Park, Muharraq, on November 12, set to begin at 4pm.

The Beat Diabetes Walk will span approximately three kilometres. Including the walk, the venue will also offer a host of complimentary fun-filled activities, including special fitness activities like children’s entertainment with face painting and balloon bending, an on-site DJ and live acts. Stands serving healthy snacks will also be set up at the venue. To raise awareness about diabetes in the region, the annual Beat Diabetes Walk will also offer free blood glucose testing to all participants.

Registrations for the annual Beat Diabetes Walk can be completed online at www. beatdiabetes.me until November 11, and on the day of the walk at the venue. All registered participants will receive a walkathon kit comprising a Beat Diabetes T-shirt and cap which can be collected at the Dohat Arad Park starting 2pm onwards.

Announcing the walk, Vikas Attri, Chief Operating Officer Al Rashid Group Bahrain, said: “The walk is a very important annual event for us, it brings the community together and raises awareness about a condition that is steadily growing in prevalence in the region.

Like every year we hope to see the community join us and make this event a success.” ✤ GO: Follow @beatdiabetes on Twitter.

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VIVA: EMPOWERING THE BRAIN

L E A R N I N G A N E W L A N G U A G E C A N S O M E T I M E S F E E L L I K E A FA R - F E T C H E D I D E A I N O U R I N C R E A S I N G LY B U S Y L I V E S . W H E T H E R Y O U F E E L L I K E Y O U C A N ’ T F I T S U C H L E I S U R E I N T O Y O U R B U S Y S C H E D U L E O R D O U B T Y O U R A B I L I T Y T O TA K E O N T H E C H A L L E N G E T O B E G I N W I T H , V I V A B A H R A I N H A S J U S T M A D E I T E A S I E R T O TA K E T H E P L U N G E A N D A C Q U I R E T H AT F O R E I G N L A N G U A G E Y O U ’ V E A LW AY S L O V E D .

T

he process simply starts at your fingertips. Step one, pick up your smartphone or tablet – Android or Apple – and download the “busuu” application. You can choose to learn English, French, Spanish, Turkish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Arabic, Japanese and Mandarin – the choice is abundant!

Step two is even easier with VIVA payment option. Unlock the premium package and enjoy access to all the languages’ contents on busuu. Premium access grants you all the learning tools necessary to push you closer to being the fluent polyglot you dream of. Choose “Pay with Your Mobile” option and use your VIVA line to pay. It’s really that simple!

VIVA’s support doesn’t stop there. Ensuring that its customers only get

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their hands on the best deals, VIVA Bahrain is offering busuu’s upgrade for discounted rates. You can get busuu subscriptions, which vary from onemonth to six-month or one-year plans. These can now be purchased for prices which were previously unavailable.

Now you have virtually landed on your feet and are set for the final step: discover busuu – the certified premium language learning community created by the linguists themselves. Selected by Apple as one of the best apps in 2014 and by Google as one of the best apps in 2015, you’re ready to learn anytime, anywhere. Even offline. ✤ GO: Visit www.viva.com.bh for more information.

M Ă&#x2013; V

E N P

Sinatra /

I C K

Show

Come fly with us to the 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and dance the night away. A class act and dazzling Sinatra show awaits you at Movenpick Hotel Bahrain.

Gallery BD 80 net

Silks BD 75 net

Dance show performance and

Dance show performance and in-house DJ

in-house DJ

Flamingo bar BD 70 net in-house DJ fact magazine

NYE room packages available, call us for more details +973 17460017

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SOCIETY

#CANTINA #KAHLO #OPENS #AT #THE #RITZ #CARLTON #BAHRAIN

Authentic Mexican cuisine has officially arrived in Bahrain, and it goes by the name of Cantina Kahlo. Situated within The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, Cantina Kahlo artfully blends 5-star service with Mexican culinary authenticity for a dining experience like nothing else in Bahrain. VIP guests and members of the media were invited to the launch night and enjoyed a gastronomic journey which begins with the location. Positioned adjacent to the legendary Trader Vicâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Cantina Kahlo welcomed guests with an equally glamorous atmosphere inspired by the bold art and colours of Mexico.

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dining street AL FResCo eAtInG Is ALL yoU’LL Be tHInKInG ABoUt FoR tHe neXt FeW MontHs As WInteR WeAtHeR MAKes It PLeAsAnt to enJoy yoUR FooD AnD DRInKs on BAHRAIn’s Best teRRACes, PAtIos AnD PooLsIDe VenUes. HeRe, FACT HIGHLIGHts soMe oF oUR toP eAteRIes to Get yoUR oUtDooR FooDIe FIX...

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OUTDOOR DINING

RoMAIne CALM…

WHERE: BAY VIEW LOUNGE, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY GOOD FOR: SKYLINE VIEWS

WHERE: BUSHIDO, SEEF GOOD FOR: TRANQUIL SURROUNDINGS Chanting birds, swaying palm trees, and soothing fountains make Bushido’s terrace one of the most relaxing spots in Bahrain to enjoy quality Japanese food with family and friends. When the weather’s right and the stars and the moon oblige, this place is the ideal enchanting retreat where you can while away the hours listening to mellow lounge tracks that travel through the French windows. The atmosphere is a chill one; great for after-work catch-ups or weekend dining with loved ones.

Call 1758 3555 for more info.

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Try IZAKAYA SUNDAYS Izakaya is a type of informal Japanese food gathering. Food items are served in small portions, similar to Spanish Tapas and food is normally ordered slowly over several courses rather than all at once. At Bushido, Izakaya includes the restaurant’s signature dishes. Guests can re-order dishes as much as they like. From the famous volcano roll, the scrumptious rock shrimp tempura and the mouthwatering beef tenderloin with teriyaki sauce, the limitless signature menu items are available every Sunday from 7pm to 11.30pm for BD14.5++ per person.

If you’re wanting to impress with your choice of dining destination, Bay View Lounge is no doubt the right place to make your fellow diners say “wow”. Savour light international fare or afternoon tea on the beautiful outdoor terrace with private majlis-style seating providing the perfect setting for a business meeting or pre-dinner cocktails. The Manama skyline, Bahrain Bay and the waters that surround it make up your views; we’re sure you’ll be snapping away for instagram, it’s just too pretty to not share!

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

WHERE: LINKS, ROYAL GOLF CLUB GOOD FOR: CASUAL DINING If you want a laid back setting, Links is where you’l find it. With a large outdoor area that is often frequented by groups of friends, families and those who just love good food and drinks, Links is a great option for a real evening-out vibe. Happy Hour runs on Saturday to Thursday from 5pm to 8pm where you can enjoy 30 per cent off a wide range of selected beverages. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, get the out-of-this-world malva pudding – as far as dessert goes, it’s going to change your life (no exaggeration!).

Call 1775 0777 for more info.

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OUTDOOR DINING

GoUDA LUCK…

WHERE: PRIMAVERA, THE RITZCARLTON, BAHRAIN GOOD FOR: INTIMATE SETTING Primavera, also known as the Trattoria Moderna, offers a very exciting and traditional menu. The style reflects authentic Italian food characterised by the two Michelin starred chef, Oliver Glowig.

The elevated outdoor seating offers an exclusive yet warm and inviting feel. You’ll get a fabulous view of the palm-tree-lined grounds of the hotel and a space to really savour fresh local and seasonal ingredients through a gastronomic line-up that includes staples such as homemade pasta as well as specialty dishes that spotlight an innovative fusion of Italian and local flavours.

Call 1758 6499 for more info.

WHERE: WOK VIETNAMESE, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA GOOD FOR: ROMANTIC DINING

WHERE: HARVESTERS PUB & TERRACE, CROWNE PLAZA BAHRAIN GOOD FOR: LIVELY VIBE

A combination of excellent food and authentic décor makes Wok a good choice for outdoor eating when you want to get away from the city bustle and experience a truly special culinary evening. Enjoy the spectacle of lights and flavours on the terrace with views of the gardens and beyond. This is where the meaning of dining under the stars is embodied with a charming blend of quality Oriental and French service alongside delicious Vietnamese-inspired cuisine. If it’s a quiet catch up or a date night - Wok will do the trick.

Call 1763 6363 for more info.

What many people might not know is that Harvesters has a cool outdoor terrace which overlooks the pool and garden area of the hotel; ideal for any diners who want the best of both a relaxed al fresco option teamed with the vivacious atmosphere of a traditional pub. Harvesters serves up good comfort food and a variety of drinks, whilst also being a popular spot for live music and a place to watch international sporting events. This one’s for the party people who like a more pub-grub atmosphere.

Call 1753 1122 for more info.

Try BRUNCH ALL’ITALIANA Primavera is opening its doors for a Trattoria Moderna style brunch. Enjoy an unlimited selection of delightful dishes prepared by Italian Chef, Alfonso Ferraioli and served by Italian ladies and gentlemen. Eat to your hearts content with a free-flowing menu selection every Friday from 1pm to 4pm.

BD24++ with soft beverages and BD34++ inclusive of premium beverages.

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OUTDOOR DINING

LettUCe CeLeBRAte… WHERE: RUKA, RAMEE GRAND HOTEL & SPA

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: ROOFTOP REVELRY

So, it’s not a traditional rooftop, but it is the highest outdoor area at the hotel and it boasts some of the most amazing views of Bahrain. The food and drinks menu is awesome; sushi, cocktails and even delectable desserts, the Japaneseinfluenced fare and innovative drinks continue to draw in an elegant, lively crowd. Take a seat on one of the comfy sofa-style chairs and enjoy the cool lounge music over good conversation.

Call 1711 1999 for more info.

WHERE: MEISEI, ADLIYA Not only does this location offer stunning panoramic views, it’s also the spot where many awesome themed nights and events are held for Bahrain’s sophisticated party crowd. It’s truly where dining and entertainment meet, with chilled-out, lounge-style seating and an impressive bar area too. An unrivalled atmosphere is heightened with a resident DJ and glowing décor which boasts a split-level space housing a VIP lounge, bar seating and table dining. Here, regular events feature international live artists who put on incredible shows for returning guests.

Call 1700 7770 for more info.

WHERE: THE MEAT CO. ROOFTOP, ADLIYA The rooftop at The Meat Co. is the stuff of winter dreaming – it was renovated earlier this year and turned into a space that perfectly mixes the social with the intimate. Guests can take a seat on the large tables and enjoy delicious new dishes and classic drinks in a fun ambience, filled with just the right amount of relaxation and lively vibes.

Ideal for a casual get-together Call 1774 2080 for more info.

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WHERE: NICOLE’S MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT & LOUNGE, ADLIYA When colour and character is what you want from your al fresco experience, Nicole’s is where you’ll find both. The restaurant fuses the vibrant cultures found in the Mediterranean, encompassing the love of fantastic homemade food, calm, beautiful surroundings and family life. Indulge in original dishes curated from Spain, France, Italy, Greece, and Lebanon in the romantically eclectic and windswept rooftop terrace – it’s bliss!

Call 1728 0700 for more info.

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OUTDOOR DINING

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: CAFÉ CULTURE WHERE: LE CHOCOLAT, SEEF

one In A MeLon…

The ever graceful and ladies-wholunch favourite, Le Chocolat continues to enjoy great success with the most well-heeled members of society visiting the restaurant for its famous breakfast options, elegant cakes and desserts as well as gourmet mains too. Now that the weather has cooled down, Le Chocolat’s outdoor terrace-cum-garden area is a genuinely lovely choice to get your quality café food fix. Ideal for all-day meetings, family outings, casual catchups and everything in between, if you can grab a seat on a table outside, make sure you race to it!

Call 1711 1144 for more info.

WHERE: CAFÉ LILOU With two very popular locations – one at Al Aali Shopping Complex and the other in Adliya, at the locally-known Block 338, Café Lilou has become somewhat of a foodie staple in Bahrain when it comes to really good Frenchinspired café cuisine. Reminiscent of a 19th century Parisian brasserie, both venues represent classic French dining with a few twists and surprises. Though we absolutely adore the bohemian flair inside the venues, there’s just nothing better than tucking into a creamy burrata quinoa salad on the venue’s second floor terrace or outside-front seating!

Call 1771 4440 for more info.

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New iN TowN: WHERE: LUMEE SAAR KITCHEN If you haven’t heard of, or seen the big posters and billborad advertising for Lumee Saar Kitchen, these past couple of months, you’ve seriously been living in a bubble. Well, let us do the kind favour of bursting it! This is one place that has pulled in excited diners craving for something new, creative and delicious, right from the opening night. It’s outdoor dining area is small and cosy, so getting a table there will be down to luck, however, if you do manage to get a seat outside (or inside for that matter), be prepared for an explosion of tastes, textures and yummy culinary treats. A generous à la carte menu includes breakfast, lunch and dinner options, and diners can also choose anything from the open deli displaying fresh daily specials such as salads, juices, pastries and baked goodies infused with multicultural influences.

Call 1769 4848 for more info.

AÑOLA FERIA ESP VE M BE R 20 16 16 TH – 26 TH NO

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OUTDOOR DINING

MIso HUnGRy…

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: PATIO-INSPIRED DINING WHERE: DOME CAFÉ Whether you’re visiting the popular branch in Juffair or the much newer venue at The Lagoon, Amwaj, Dôme has built a loyal customer base for always excelling in offering diners an old-world, European brasserie, café ambience. Great tasting coffee and a diverse food menu with service to the table, this place is perfect to grab a quick snack, a full-on meal, or a refreshing drink. With a small but snug outdoor patio area, the winter climes will make it ideal for families and friends to dwell here for hearty food.

Call 1781 0180 for more info.

WHERE: COCO’S, ADLIYA A small villa-style restaurant, Coco’s flaunts understated Parisian charm; this restaurant has a beautiful seating area outside that combines elements of a garden patio and a busy terrace. The place is always heaving with would-be diners queuing up to eat the amazing and affordable food that the venue has become so known for. If you bag yourself a table in the garden, just sit back and chill out to the gentle sounds from the speakers, whilst sipping on your favourite drinks. Delightfully green and reminiscent of the stylish French Riviera or a chic Italian courtyard, Coco’s was literally made for the cooler climate!

Call 1771 6512 for more info.

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New iN TowN: WHERE: HEVEA CAFÉ, AL AALI SHOPPING COMPLEX Hevea Café is fast becoming a firm favourite among food fans in Bahrain. Indo-Chinese cuisine is where the ingredients and techniques of France and its South-East Asian colonies of Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam meet. This fusion venue has a small outdoor seating area that we’ve just been dying to try out since it opened. Now that the season change will let us do just that, we’re going to be regulars for the healthy and indulgent menu items. The Shrimp Rolls, the Club Saigon Sandwich, and the mistika ice cream are just a few of the dishes that have us in awe every time! We’re very pumped at the idea of taking our lunches and dinners outside and Hévéa Café is the ideal venue for a spot of al fresco dining.

Call 1700 4588 for more info.

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OUTDOOR DINING

BLURReD LIMes...

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: GARDEN GET-UPS WHERE: THE ORANGERY, PALACE BOUTIQUE HOTEL Taking its name from the conservatories built in fashionable European residences, from the 17th to 19th centuries, this beautiful tea room and patisserie is tucked away on the grounds of the Palace Boutique Hotel. You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a pretty English park on a summer’s day, as a landscaped garden, complete with gazebo and terrace, a courtyard, water features, stone statues, and outdoor dining tables greet you on arrival. And the food is just as impressive; the Syrian frittata, trio of hummus, and traditional afternoon tea are big standouts.

Call 1772 5000 for more info.

WHERE: MY CAFÉ, ADLIYA If you’re the type of person who, simply, loves great food and hanging out with family and friends in a warm, sociable environment, My Café should be right up your foodie street. This boutique restaurant serves gourmet-style food and has fast-become a lunchtime hotspot and an al fresco favourite since opening last year. Out through some conservatorystyle doors, you’ll find a secluded garden area, decked out in quality outdoor seating furniture like cosy cushions and large tables and chairs – it’s a world away from the Bahrain bustle. The Prawn Salad and Chocolate Peanut Butter dessert are two of our fave dishes!

Call 7734 4444 for more info.

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New iN TowN: WHERE: FLORENCE LA MAISON MÉDITERRANÉENNE, ADLIYA Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne, the new culinary gem nestled in the heart of Adliya is reminiscent of a traditional Mediterranean family home, and welcomes guests to a cosy, relaxed ambience, embraced by warm pastel colour motifs and floral patterns. These are perfectly balanced with wood and steel accents against the backdrop of a beautifully-landscaped garden. The restaurant brings a new twist to Mediterranean fusion; a creative concoction of authentic dishes from Italy, France, Greece, Spain, Lebanon and Morocco, all enrich the menu and create a melting pot of homely tastes. We just LOVE the rustic water fountain and spacious outdoor garden, which is the most perfect place for a daily dining escape!

Call 1733 6373 for more info.

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OUTDOOR DINING

RAIsIn’ tHe RooF...

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: GARDEN GET-UPS WHERE: MONSOON, ADLIYA What has probably become one of the most revered restaurants to make up the famous Block 338 dining destination, Monsoon is inspired by a Balinese Palace with a lovely Thai influence that blends together breathtaking interior with a stunning al fresco space. A deck-style area with tall pagoda-style seating and soothing water features make up the relaxing garden area of the restaurant.

Far Eastern Cuisine is the focus here; Thai, Japanese and Vietnamese dishes are prepared using the freshest ingredients and guests frequently have an unforgettable experience.

Call 1774 9222 for more info.

WHERE: CAFÉ AMSTERDAM AND LA VINOTECA BARCELONA When the winter breeze arrives, there’s no better place to feel it blow through your hair than the garden-cum-patio-cum-terrace area of the ever-popular BMMI restaurants; Café Amsterdam and La Vinoteca Barcelona. Located in Adliya, 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, drinks and company. The jazz night, held every other Saturday is one of our favourite times to visit!

Call 1700 7404 for more info.

WHERE: LANTERNS LOUNGE & RESTAURANT, ADLIYA Another 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’ outdoor chilled water air conditioning system - that drops the temperatures by 15 degrees – has become one of the coolest spots in town. Diners can already enjoy the outdoor ambience even when it’s sweltering hot outside, so you can only imagine how nice it’s going 44

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to be in the cooler season. It’s social, it’s festive and this where you’ll find a real atmosphere whilst tucking into delicious Indian cuisine.

Call 1724 6777 for more info.

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OUTDOOR DINING

tACo ‘BoUt It...

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: POOLSIDE OR WATER VIEWS WHERE: NASMAT POOL BAR, THE WESTIN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE Discover the distinctive ambience of al fresco dining at the laid-back Nasmat Poolbar. The stimulating poolside setting is an idyllic venue to enjoy refreshing beverages and a variety of light snacks, with traditional shisha service available to relax and unwind. This irresistible Mediterranean lounge is a most impressive spot for enjoying the best of Bahrain’s winter weather, right in the heart of the bustling Seef district. You’re literally around the corner from City Centre Bahrain mall, so when you’ve shopped ‘til you dropped, there’s no better place than Nasmat to kick back, relax and sip on your beverage of choice.

Call 1717 1000 for more info.

WHERE: ELEMENTS POOL & LOUNGE, INTERCONTINENTAL REGENCY BAHRAIN Even though you’re in the heart of Manama, you’ll feel nothing but zen at this poolside lounge. Not only is it a 46

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WHERE: GAZEBOS AT KEIZO, AL AREEN PALACE & SPA gorgeous outdoor venue with cabanas and touches of green, it serves up some of the best liquid concoctions and bitesized food. This is the place to escape from the stress of city life and enjoy a moment of peace with light treats and molecular drinks, while the resident DJ enlivens your senses. It’s one of our favourite winter spots, and we’re sure it’ll fast-become yours too!

Call 1722 7777 for more info.

Keizo features an eclectic yet vibrant taste of Japanese, Thai and Chinese cuisines. This stunning lagoon styled restaurant offers a relaxed and stylish atmosphere, perfect not only for intimate dining, but also for social gatherings and entertainment.

Keizo brings guests a truly unique and memorable dining experience.

Situated at the lakeside of the main restaurant on man-made islands, the Gazebos offer a stunning and intimate set-up ideal to celebrate a special, romantic dinner. The island offers privacy, ambience, and comfort, making it the ideal venue for couples who seek an exclusive romantic dining experience. The Gazebos offer tailormade settings that enable couples to create the perfect mood and atmosphere for a more meaningful occasion. Your table can be decorated for a special occasion and you’ll get butler service to make it extra fly.

Being surrounded by gentle water ways is also another bonus!

Call 1784 5000 for more info.

Relax & Renew Rejuvinate and relax yourself in the Coral Spa. Escape to another world through the variety of treatments and rituals designed to elevate your sense of well-being.

cdf CoralBayBH | (+973) 1731 2700 | www.coral-bay.net fact magazine

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OUTDOOR DINING

Get AVoContRoL...

WHERE: WAIKIKI KITCHEN POLYNESIAN RESTAURANT AND LOTUS ALL DAY DINING, ELITE CRYSTAL HOTEL

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: POOLSIDE DINING WHERE: CORAL BAY As far as experiencing a full leisure package goes, Coral Bay has got it just right. It’s located on Al Fateh Corniche, right by the water, and every one of its dining outlets benefits from this outstanding setting. If Lebanese food cravings strike, head over to Rayes, which lays claim to the ultimate location, situated right on the waterfront overlooking the marina, with the Muharraq skyline rising off in the distance. Dine al fresco while listening to the sound of the waves.

Whether you want to relax by the sea and catch up with friends or entertain business clients over lunch or dinner, Rayés is the ideal rendezvous for almost any occasion. Upstairs, Samak’s outdoor terrace takes prime position with elevated views over the marina and glittering waters. Tuck into fresh seafood delights and sip on something delicious whilst soaking up the spectacular surroundings.

Call 1731 2700 for more info.

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Firstly, let us say that there’s no way you’d think that these two venues would have such a lovely al fresco-style setting atop a Juffair hotel – we were pleasantly surprised. Waikiki Kitchen is a concept restaurant that gets it just right on the inside with memorabilia straight from Hawaii and in keeping with the paradise, laid back nature of Polynesian culture. You can sip on awesome drinks and tuck into yummy food right by the beautiful pool. At Lotus, the outside is simply relaxing with a soothing water wall which is illuminated with different coloured lights when the sun goes dark in order to maintain a chic and chilled out ambience. Whether it’s poolside bites or delightful cocktails – this is an ideal spot away from the busy city streets to unwind for the evening.

Call 1736 0360 for more info.

WHERE: FLAMES STEAK & SEAFOOD, ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS ART Rotana Amwaj Islands boasts one of the most fabulous waterfront locations in Bahrain, so it’s only fitting that two of its most popular restaurants also offer guests unbeatable al fresco dining options. Flames has a tempting menu featuring grain-fed aged beef seared to perfection on the grill in addition to a plethora of seafood specialties. The best thing is that guests can enjoy drinks at the bar or outside on the terrace overlooking the dancing fountain at night. A great date night choice.

Call 1758 0000 for more info.

Try CUT & WEIGHT @ FLAMES Enrich your dining experience at Flames restaurant with the highly anticipated Cut & Weight concept where you can select your preferred size of Angus tenderloin. If you guess the weight of your prime cut correctly to within 5 grams either way, it’s on the house!

Available Tuesday to Thursday, from 7pm to 11pm.

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It’s MInt to Be...

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: SHISHA INDULGENCE WHERE: VENTO, FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY This poolside restaurant will take you on a journey to the seaside of Italy with true authentic Italian flavours. An open kitchen and a wood-burning pizza oven add to the vibrant atmosphere. Flock to the pool deck table, where you can enjoy the best beverages prepared by expert mixologists while enjoying the light sounds of lounge music. The best bit? Experience the Arabic aromas and tastes of signature shishas under the stars – it’s THE place to be for laid back luxurious evenings.

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

WHERE: REEM AL BAWADI, RAMADA MANAMA CITY CENTRE This family-themed Lebanese eatery is renowned for authentic Middle Eastern fare, humble hospitality and a shisha experience like no other. Fresh out of the UAE, Reem Al Bawadi is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste genuine flavours of food, drinks and the popular pastime of doing shisha. More than anything, the emphasis here is on the activity and occasion of gathering; whether it’s with family, friends, colleagues, a partner or just some chilled me-time, the terrace at this venue will give you views, tasty cuisine and a really special experience.

Call 1710 4000 for more info.

WHERE: SIP & DIP, ELITE SEEF RESIDENCE On any given winter’s evening, you’ll find this place filled with a casual crowd of locals, expats, couples, friends, and anyone 50

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looking to take respite from the hustle of daily life in a beautifully-ambient outdoor area. Aptly named for its convenience, the Sip & Dip is an African-themed poolside bar offering an extensive choice of flavourful shisha as well as refreshing beverages and a wide selection of light snacks, juicy burgers and sandwiches. This is a cosy setting for a relaxed evening by the mood-lit pool.

Call 1758 3388 for more info.

Premium Quality Home Made Bakery Items in Bahrain

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â&#x20AC;ŤďťŁďť¨ďş&#x2DC;ďş ďş&#x17D;ďş&#x2022; ﺨďş&#x17D;ďş&#x2018;ďş° ďť&#x2039;ďş&#x17D;ďť&#x;ďť´ďş&#x201D; ďş?ďť&#x;ďş ďťŽďşŠďş&#x201C;â&#x20AC;Ź â&#x20AC;ŤďťŁďşźďť¨ďť&#x152;ďş&#x201D; ďťŁďş¤ďť Ů&#x2039;ďť´ďş&#x17D; ďť&#x201C; ďş?ďť&#x;ďş&#x2019;ﺤﺎâ&#x20AC;Ź

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JUst Beet It...

shisha offerings as well as scrumptious tapas and cocktails.

Call 1763 6363 for more info.

WHERE: TYPHOON BAR, THE GULF HOTEL BAHRAIN CONVENTION & SPA

THESE PLACES ARE ALL GOOD FOR: SHISHA & DRINKS GALORE WHERE: FLAMINGO BAR & LOUNGE, MOVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN Pool views and terrace seating doesn’t get more picturesque than this; Flamingo Bar & Lounge has become well-known for its outdoor offerings when the cool weather picks up. Grab a drink with friends and enjoy your fresh flavoured shisha while watching your favourite sport’s match on the giant 4x4 metre screen. This is the place you go for a sophisticated outdoor atmosphere, where the only priority is to wind down and have a good time.

Call 1746 0000 for more info.

WHERE: TAPAS RESTAURANT & BAR, SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA When you just want to get away from it all and escape the feeling of being in Bahrain, yet need a reminder of just how beautiful our little piece of paradise is, Tapas will help you with all of that. Outside on the terrace, you’re so close to the sea that you can practically feel the waves as they motion to the shoreline. Uniterrupted sea views are teamed with excellent 52

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This place really comes into its own when the winter comes around.

The terrace has everything from a running fish stream with colourful koi to comfortable seating and large tables – ideal for pre-dinner drinks or after-work sundowners with friends.

The huge garden landscape surrounds the outdoor area, giving a feel of being somewhere tropical. The food is fresh, yummy and generous in portion size, while shisha is served to accompany premium-quality drinks. Typhoon really takes the meaning of “pond life” to a whle new level and we love it for having a setting like no other in Bahrain.

Call 1771 3000 for more info.

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SOCIETY

#THE #GULF #HOTEL #BAHRAIN #CONVENTION #& #SPA #OPENS #NEW #GULF #SPA

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa celebrated the grand opening of the new Gulf Spa. The opening ceremony was inaugurated by the chief executive officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa, along with the Gulf Hotels Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top management. The 3,100sqm spa facility features two separate welcoming reception for men and ladies, individual treatment rooms, hammams, hydro and relaxation pools, experience showers, ice fountains and relaxation rooms.

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LIFe’s A Beach SummeRS hoT And humid dAyS ARe on TheiR wAy ouT And winTeR’S Cool And CAlm weATheR iS ReAdy To SeT in FoR The nexT Few monThS. FoR ThoSe oF you who Avoided The BliSTeRing Sun And ARe ReAdy To Feel The BReeze onCe AgAin, fact BRingS you The BeST PoolS, BeACheS And wATeRSPoRTS oPTionS in Bahrain, ideAl FoR PeRFeCTing youR ReSTing BeACh FACe!

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seA LIFe’s BeAUty WHERE: THE RITZ-CARLTON BAHRAIN WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: The Royal

Beach Club at this 5-star property gives you the chance to enjoy the cooler months with a stroll through lush gardens and onto a beautiful sandy beach with stunning views across the water. There are a number of pools to dip your toes in, including two Jacuzzi tubs and a private beach sweeping around a lagoon with its own island and private marina. The sea is yours for the taking and the range of adventurous as well as more relaxed water activities make this an ideal spot for families and friends to hang out. If you really want to get your pulse racing, make sure to visit the tennis courts for a fun workout! Annual and temporary memberships are available alongside day passes too.

Call 1758 0000 for more info.

WHERE: ELITE RESORT & SPA WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Make sure to

set aside some time to pamper yourself if you’re staying at this great destination.

With the luxurious steam room and jacuzzi to start you off, don’t forget to hop into the outdoor whirlpool and enjoy the views of the city too. To finish off, take a dip in one of the two pools before heading to a sun lounger to get lost in a good book. On Fridays, the poolside brunch provides an awesome atmosphere for families, especially for kids to enjoy a variety of activities like henna, fortune telling and more.

Call 1755 8200 for more info.

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WHERE: ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: This hotel is one

for the whole family! Adults can enjoy the Beach Club which allows you to explore 150 meters of a pristine private beach, three temperature controlled swimming pools; an outdoor sunset bar and hot tub, and a number of water sports activities. Kickback and relax with a drink in hand as the kids can make a day of it at the Flipper’s Kids Club. The club gives them access to the spacious play area as well as an activity room for movie time and craft making, and the specialised water park which will keep them entertained for hours!

Call 1600 0111 for more info.

In case you haven't heard, Lanterns Group oďŹ&#x20AC;ers catering for some of the great menu items our customers have come to love and enjoy

This Festive Season let us do all the work!

Special catering Arrangements such as full set ups, live manpower, bartenders, live cooking and additional arrangements

For more information +973 36767886 www.lanternsrestaurant.com LANTERNSLOUNGE

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OUTDOOR FUN

with the option of a super-cabana, packed with amenities such as a private bar, TV, air-con and a bathroom! This is for those wo want to combine luxury with casual comfort!

Call 1711 5000 for more info.

WHERE: THE DIPLOMAT RADISSON BLU HOTEL WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Fully equipped

Don’t Get tIDe DoWn

WHERE: FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: For water

lovers, this destination comes up top.

There’s water sports galore, including paddle-boarding, kayaking and peddle boating, but it’s the pools that will really grab your attention. The infinity pool is the perfect way to enjoy the sunset, but it’s the Azure pool that will blow you away; it’s secluded, serene and comes

for those who like to keep active, The Diplomat has a range of ways for you to stay entertained. There’s tennis and squash courts available, as well as racquetball and table tennis. If you’re looking to wind down after an intense day, then make sure to head to the spa for some state of the art relaxation treatments, or check out one of the numerous pools, including a secluded ladies only pool for privacy and tranquility.

Call 1752 5251 for more info.

WHERE: LAGOONA BEACH RESORT WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: When it comes

to outdoor activities, Lagoona has a great selection. There’s something for all tastes, whether it be fishing in the Gulf waters, scuba diving through the sea life, or being thrown into the waves on a banana boat. If you’re looking for something truly unique, book a session in the Seabreacher and experience the waters in the way only a dolphin can; believe us, it’s definitely worth it!

Call 1663 0000 for more info.

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down to the beach for some volleyball.

There’s also a ton of water sports, from kayaking to snorkelling, or grab a bunch of friends and throw a private party on the beach!

Call 1770 1201 for more info.

WHERE: THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: The Domain

It’s A sHoRe tHInG WHERE: SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Sofitel is one

of the best places on the island to take some time out and indulge yourself in luxury and relaxation. The spacious pool never feels overcrowded and the private beach is perfect to enjoy with a good book. If you want to be a little more active, there are tennis and squash courts as well as select water sports on offer.

Make sure to head to the resorts private island to catch the sunset!

Call 1763 6363 for more info.

WHERE: AL BANDER HOTEL & RESORT WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: This sprawling

resort will see you spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying the cooler weather.

Relax in the pool by swimming up to the pool bar for a beverage, get your heart racing on the tennis courts, or take a trip 60

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“tHe VoICe oF tHe seA sPeAKs to tHe soUL. tHe toUCH oF tHe seA Is sensUoUs, enFoLDInG tHe BoDy In Its soFt, CLose eMBRACe.” - KAte CHoPIn

is one of the best places to get some amazing views of the city, and it’s all down to the incredible pool. The rooftop infinity pool gives a stunning panoramic view of Bahrain, whilst allowing you to bask in some quality me-time. If you want to work up a sweat, then make sure to visit the state of the art spa which includes a sauna, steam room and tropical rain shower!

Call 1600 0000 for more info.

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sHeLL yeAH! WHERE: MOVENPICK HOTEL BAHRAIN WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: When the

winter approaches, the best thing to do is hit the pool with friends and make the most of the day. Movenpick has a huge pool area, perfect for basking in the sun as well as playing around in the water. There’s always someone on hand to cater to your every need and the poolside food is seriously good. Make sure to swim from one end to the other and take a pit stop at the edge of the pool to admire your surroundings.

Call 1746 0000 for more info.

WHERE: AL AREEN PALACE & SPA WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: Al Areen

has one of the best pool experiences in Bahrain. A combination of jets, whirlpools and built-in jacuzzis make 62

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this an unbeatable way to spend the afternoon. The best bit? There’s a swim-up bar for when you want to chill out and take advantage of the weather with a drink in hand. If you’re itching to make the most of the cooler climate, make sure to have a walk around the stunning exterior of the hotel.

Call 1784 5000 for more info.

WHERE: THE WESTIN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE WHY YOU’LL LOVE IT: When the

weather cools down, the spa experience becomes more appealing, and with

“tHe oCeAn stIRs tHe HeARt, InsPIRes tHe IMAGInAtIon AnD BRInGs eteRnAL Joy to tHe soUL.” - WyLAnD

The Westin having the largest Turkish Hammam on the island, now would be the perfect time to check it out. As well as the Hammam, there’s sauna’s, steam rooms, jacuzzi’s and a spacious outdoor pool to cool off in at the end.

Worried about the kids? Don’t be, there’s a kid’s club that will see them entertained for a fun time!

Call 1717 1000 for more info.

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SOCIETY

#GULF #HOTELS #GROUP#OPENS #GULF #RESIDENCE #AMWAJ

Gulf Residence Amwaj, Gulf Hotels Groupâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest four-star property in the Bahrain, was officially inaugurated by the Chief Executive of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa. The hotel features 173 luxury hotel apartments spread across two buildings, including studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom suites along with penthouses. All the apartments have been designed in a modern and contemporary style with a focus on quality and functionality.

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PERIODICAL ReiNcaRNaTioN AndReA ignACio’s ARtWoRK HAs A BIG InFLUenCe FRoM MAGAzInes AnD tHe IDeA oF PeRsonAL eVoLUtIon. InteResteD AnD IntRIGUeD to LeARn MoRe, FACT’s ShABAnA AdAm CAUGHt UP WItH tHe BAHRAIn-BAseD ARtIst to FInD oUt WHAt sPARKs HeR CReAtIVIty AnD ARtIstIC styLe.

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ARTS INTERVIEW

“

As much As I wAnt people to lIke whAt I’ve creAted, And It would be A bonus If the pIeces sell, I’ll AdmIt thAt I creAte thIs work entIrely for myself – becAuse I fInd It beAutIful, becAuse It gIves me A sense of prIde, And becAuse It’s entIrely Autonomous And unhAmpered by outsIde Influence or oblIgAtIon. As long As thAt remAIns true, I hope to keep mAkIng Art.

w

hen we found out that Bahrain’s newest arts exhibition is somewhat inspired by the life of a magazine, we just had to meet the lady behind the striking work. Andrea Ignacio is just like you and me; when she’s finished reading and holding onto a copy of a magazine for so long, she’s overcome with a little guilt every time she has to throw one away. That’s all of us, right? This is what led to Andrea’s current exhibition, Periodical Reincarnation, on display at InTouch Gallery in Bahrain.

“The idea of Periodical Reincarnation, literally reflected in the title, stems from the odd sense of guilt I feel every time I throw away a magazine,” Andrea says. “It seems like their value, and the lifetime of the images within, is so short lived and I wanted to find a way to give longer life to what I loved most in magazines rather than simply moving on to the next one,” she continues. “I’m also constantly in the process of personal evolution, as many people are, so the title reflects where I am now too.”

Visitors will be met initially, from a distance, by abstract swathes of colours.

Up close they’ll find a tsunami of individual images culled from dozens of magazines, including a jello hand grenade, an antique electric chair, dozens of animals and hundreds of patterns.

“My hope is that there is at least one piece for every viewer that brings up a feeling, memory or emotion, without them necessarily being able to say why,” Andrea explains.

Surprisingly, Andrea has never strived to be an artist. Instead, she loves looking at, learning about and collecting art. She believes that everybody learns things differently, and that the arts is a fundamental part of rounding out how we teach and how we learn.

“I had just accepted decades ago that I wasn’t actively artistic and that my talents were more cerebral or written, than visual,” she tells us. “This entire thing is as surprising to me as can be. That said, I believe the arts in general are as fundamental to wellbeing as science and math are judged to be, in fact, more so.

“Languages and math are easier if you have studied music. Choir and playing an instrument, something I did throughout childhood, and other performing arts teach discipline, cooperation and confidence,” she adds. “Art inspires expression, consciously and unconsciously, when we’re simply letting it come out, and being able to have that outlet is healthier for our wellbeing than simply pouring over reading, writing, andarithmetic textbooks and rigidly being required to memorise facts.”

Andrea’s work, particularly in this exhibition, is definitely not your typical piece of art. Far from a beautiful canvas painting, this exhibition takes on a rather edgy and unusual use of materials to achieve an interesting finish that will intrigue viewers to think, feel and react. fact magazine

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“The work is mostly monochromatic, single-medium collage,” Andrea says. “I use only canvas, decoupage/collage glue and images from magazines. I come from a very artistic and creative family and my mother taught art before she was married, but out of six kids I’ve always been the one who cannot draw, didn’t create anything as a child and does not have any artistic practice,” she admits.

“I’ve always had the imagination, but only in recent years have I started experimenting with manifesting my own ideas. Doing decoupage is something I learned about from my late sister and a few years ago I made jewellery boxes, frames and other small items as gifts. Collage is just an extension of this,” Andrea says.

Andrea’s artistic style is one that is hugely inspired by colours, with her original intention for Periodical Reincarnation to simply showcase a gorgeous flow of light to dark, and patterns. But the pieces turned into something entirely different after they were assembled. She also limits herself intentionally and doesn’t customcut or manipulate any of the pieces unless absolutely necessary. “I want the art to become what it is supposed to be, rather than trying to make the images conform to my ideas,” she explains. “The only exception is The Green Man, where each image I used was cut in half.”

As a bit of an underdog artist turned firsttime exhibitor, Andrea’s advise for other budding creatives is, simply, “just start”.

She says: “Sit down, grab the macaroni or water paint or clay and start playing around with what you see in your head. Most of the obstacle to creating is that first step and once that is over the possibilities grow drastically,” Andrea adds. “There’s no need to spend a lot of money, take a class, or even be perfect. All you need to do is start creating, and your path will reveal itself.”

We can definitely get onboard the freespirited, spontaneous art train; you should get a ticket too and find your way to new, imaginative places! ✤ GO: Curated by Stafford & Sharabi Art Consultants, Periodical Reincarnation is on display at InTouch Gallery, InTouch Integrated Chiropractic Spine Centre, Bahrain, until the end of December.

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“

prImArIly I fInd It very soothIng, Almost medItAtIve And It mAkes me feel A kInd of prIde And fulfIllment I hAven’t experIenced In decAdes.

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SOCIETY

#DIA # DE # MUERTOS #HALLOWEEN #PARTY #AT #BUSHID O

Bahrain’s party crowd turned out in their best scary outfits for Bushido’s big Halloween bash, Dia de Muertos aka the Day of the Dead! The year’s most chilling time was spent in a night filled with a little Mexican influence as this haunted night saw the entire venue transformed into a spooktacular celebration with dancers, DJ Ravin and the entire team dressed in Dia de Muertos costumes – zombies and all! FACT was the official media sponsor of this cool scarefest and witnessed hundreds of revelers having the time of their lives, getting down to good music and great entertainment.

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wheRe Shall we SiT? OPENING THE 38TH CULTURAL SEASON FOR THE SHAIKH EBRAHIM BIN MOHAMMED AL KHALIFA CENTRE FOR CULTURE AND RESEARCH IS THE CREATIVE WORK BY EGYPTIAN ARTIST MOHAMED SHARKAWY. FACT LEARNS MORE ABOUT HIS NEW EXHIBITION, WHERE SHALL WE SIT? fact magazine

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here Shall We Sit is a celebration of the artistic spirit through the joyful works of Mohamed Sharkawy. With works on canvas, murals, video and installation, the artist examines the need for respite and belonging in these times of uncertainty.

Mohamed uses simplified forms, flat colours and clearly defined shapes to render images that have a universal appeal. Each form and figure are purposely deduced to the essentials; what is left is an image that is reminiscent of Egyptian wall painting of a time of language through symbolism, where the focus was the message, rather than unnecessary details. Unadorned and unaffected, his work is a vision of childlike simplicity. Yet, what we witness is not naivety but rather an astute ability to communicate the fundamentals of life, rid of pretense and negativity - in a language for all to appreciate.

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The title of the exhibition references the innate need of human beings to for social but also emotional belonging, especially in times of uncertainty and flux. Referencing his native village in Egypt, Mohamed recalls a simple and joyful childhood – a childhood spent close to nature and with simple comforts, where gatherings of friends and village members were held in the cool shade of palm trees. This sense of comfort and security is what the artist remembered very vividly when he spent the summer of 74

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2016 at home to Egypt with his family.

In his newest work in this exhibtion, Mohamed reduces his usually exuberant color palette to just simple black, and white, with blue and red accents. The result is a somewhat more sombre mood, reflecting the artist’s current state of mind.

If you’re the kind of person who likes art to tell you a simple story, or you like to question what you’re seeing and learn a new perspective - this exhibition was made for your inquisitive mind. ✤

Mohamed Sharkawy (born in 1982, in Egypt) began painting in 2000. His exposure to a variety of artists’ styles and approaches led to the development of his own visual vocabulary. He has participated in solo and group exhibitions in venues including the Townhouse Gallery (Cairo, Egypt) and Al Riwaq Art Space (Manama, Bahrain).

Mohamed lives and works in Bahrain.

GO: The exhibition Where Shall We Sit will be held at the Bin Matar House in Muharraq.

The exhibition runs until 26 November. The opening hours of the Bin Matar House are Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 1pm and 4 to 7pm. Visit www.shaikhebrahimcenter.org for more information.

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REVIEWS

Big Screen Arrival What’s it about: When large alien vessels arrive on Earth, a US military Colonel (Forest Whitaker) calls on a world renowned linguist (Amy Adams) and a brilliant mathematician (Jeremy Renner). They’re tasked with forming communications with the species and understanding their intentions before the world erupts into chaos.

DIRECTOR: Denis Villeneuve CAST: Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Forest Whitaker, Michael Stuhlbarg

Highlights “A powerful and seasoned cast come together to tell the story of mankind’s first global and undeniable contact with an alien species.”

Lion What’s it about: In this Australian-American drama, a five-year-old Indian boy gets on the wrong train and is taken thousands of miles away from his country, home and family. Fast-forward 25 years later and he is still struggling with the memories of his past and begins to search for his origins through the use of Google Earth.

– Arrival

WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING? Mankind has always wondered if it’s alone in the cosmos.

Director Denis Villeneuve delivers a thought-provoking and creative movie which addresses this very possibility.

It goes one step further in exploring what the result of such contact could mean for us as a race. In the end, will we prove to be a far worse enemy to ourselves than any other potential threat? A powerful and seasoned cast come together to tell the story of mankind’s first global and undeniable contact with an alien species. The visual effects are impressive and the acting performances, especially from Adams, are enjoyable. You’re left not only excited by the sheer scale of the story, but also moved by the plight of one person attempting to overcome her fears, to do what she must, to rescue humankind from destruction. Critics are generally praising the film and it’s already begun to receive awards and nominations on the film festival circuit. Another sci-fi must-see!

Win 2 Free Cinema Tickets Redeemable for any film at any Cineco cinema Answer the following question:

Which fairytale-inspired film saw Amy Adams singing and dancing all over new york City?

Send your answers to shabana@fact-magazine.com

DIRECTOR: Garth Davis CAST: Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman, Rooney Mara, David Wenham WHY IT’S WORTH WATCHING? Oscar winner Nicole Kidman heads a talented cast in the delivering of this biopic, based on Saroo Brierley’s (Dev Patel) memoir A Long Way Home.

Patel offers a touching performance filled with torment and determination.

Kidman skillfully plays the part of his adopted mother, who suffers along with her son on his quest. As the story progresses, it’s plain to see how hugely Brierley’s experience as well as his loss have affected him and just how desperate he becomes to find not only his mother and brother, but himself.

Don’t forget your tissues for this one!

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on the record

Fully Booked

AUTOBIOGRAPHY/JOURNAL

The Shepherd’s Life

By James Rebanks

INDIE/ROCK

Walls

by Kings of Leon

Fans of the rock ‘n roll super group Kings of Leon have had to wait three years for the release of their 7th studio album. The Grammy award-winning rockers’ Walls (We Are Like Love Songs) has failed to impress critics in the manner that previous albums have; the band’s march towards total commercialism is all but complete.

However, they haven’t been able to create a powerful album filled with amazing songs such as we saw in their 2008 offering, Only by the Night. Although their two following albums did not live up to previous highs, they still had more to offer than Walls. Very few of the ten tracks are chart toppers or even set to become driving anthems as time goes by. A high bar has been set by the Kings for themselves and their masses of fans expect great things from them. In our opinion, this album has not been able to deliver what everyone knows they are capable of. Perhaps their break with their long-time producer is partially to blame.

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ELECTRO-POP/ DANCE

Author James Rebanks gives an observant and detailed account of his years as a sheep farmer in the north-eastern fells of the Lake District, England. His diary offers a clear insight into what it’s like to care for these animals from birth until death and the journey in between. He manages to draw insightful comparisons between these experiences and what we as people have to deal with in everyday life. His wit and imagination along with his wellgrounded assertion of value add layers to this original work. An intimate look into a life lived in a truly magical place.

Joanne

by Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga is set to release her 5th studio album after two years of patient waiting from her fans. Named after her father’s late sister, Joanne is set to please all the Little Monsters, with yet more interesting collaborations with famous artists and soul-baring lyrics from the world famous singer.

Gaga described Joanne as “an Italian American girl, a city girl, venturing out into new territory.” She goes on to reveal that there will be a total of 11 songs on the main album and 14 songs on the deluxe edition. So far, only three of the included tracks have been premiered to the delight of fans present in Nashville. The album is set for full release on October 21st and we can’t wait to see the bizarre antics she is so famous for, captured in her upcoming music videos.

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

The Last Mile

By David Baldacci

The extraordinary detective with a photographic memory, Amos Decker, is back. In his latest role as a newly hired FBI special task force member, he investigates a 20-year-old case with striking similarities to his own past. With only hours left before convicted murderer Melvin Mars’ execution, someone has come forward to admit to his crimes, leading to a reprieve for the convict.

When one of Decker’s team members goes missing, it is clear that something bigger and far more ominous is afoot.

#IG N # C ONVENTION #BAHRAIN #2016

There’s No Place Like

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 !!

The region’s biggest film, video games, technology, and comic’s convention took place last month with a number of spectacular activities for enthusiasts as international celebrities including Breaking Bad’s Giancarlo Esposito, six time WWE champion Kurt Angle, and Cosplay superstar Alodia Gosiengfiao. Pop culture fans flocked in their hundreds to enjoy the two-day event at Bahrain International Circuit.

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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DOME_CAFE

SOCIETY

#R OLLS #ROYCE #BLACK #BAD GE #DRIVING #EXPERIENCE #AT #BIC

Members of the media and selected VIP guests were invited to a day of superior on-track action with the Rolls Royce Black Badge Driving Experience at the Bahrain International Circuit. Black Badgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s confident presence is undeniable. Chrome is darkened, paint deepened to the blackest of blacks, and unique carbon fibre composite wheels sculpted to stand out. Performance is enhanced for a more dynamic drive, thrilling the senses and commanding attention on the road.

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THE GRILL

GAMES

BBQ 101 CHECK OUT OUR TOP TIPS AND TRICKS FOR KEEPING YOUR BBQ GATHERINGS ON POINT. IMPRESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS AND BE THE BBQ MASTER OF THE GRILL BY COOKING LIKE A CHAMP!

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BBQ 101

u

se Quality ingredients: Nobody’s saying that you shouldn’t get your meat from a local supermarket, but no amount of marinade will magically turn cheap produce into a culinary delight. To avoid any disappointment, choose good quality meat from naturally raised animals and don’t just limit your choices to bangers and burgers; there’s nothing better than splashing out to indulge the ultimate meat cravings with a big slice of dry-aged beef rump and watching it sizzle away on the grill. Seafood is also a big winner!

Marinate your Meat: Probably the most important rule for bbq meat and chicken, using the right marinade is a must. It’s even better (and tastier) if you leave your soon-to-be lunch or dinner steaks, sausages, burgers, ribs and other meat to marinate for a few hours or possibly overnight to ensure that your food is going to be packed with flavours.

This will complement the smoke from the BBQ and you can even make extra marinade to brush the meat every 10 minutes or so whilst it’s on the grill.

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choose the right charcoal: Be sure to use good quality lumpwood charcoal as the charcoal you choose can dramatically affect the way the food tastes. The burning qualities of lump charcoal are fantastic in that they don’t need synthetic firelighters to get going, and are ready to use quicker than the standard briquettes.

The burn journey from coppicing leaves a little of the wood character intact which gives your grilled meats a fantastic subtle smokey/wood flavour. Another good tip here is to add wood chips with your charcoal; apple wood or cherry can add a sweetness to the majority of meats.

Simply soak the wood chips in water and add them to the BBQ once it’s lit.

Beginners, get a Meat therMoMeter: It could make the difference between an ok steak and an excellent steak – a meat thermometer is a great tool. Always insert the thermometer into the centre of the thickest part of the meat, not touching any fat, bone, or the grill. Also keep in mind that the meat’s internal temperature will continue to rise after it’s taken off the grill, so you may

want to pull the meat off when it’s about 10 degrees below the target temperature. let the Meat rest: Be sure to rest your meat after cooking by covering it in tin foil or moving it to the cold part of the grill, leaving for the same amount of time as it has spent on the grill. When meat cooks, the moisture on the outside evaporates, and the heat forces the meat’s remaining juices to the centre. Allowing the meat to rest before serving will help to redistribute the juices throughout the cut, resulting in moisture-packed, tender and tasty meat.

Bring your side-dish gaMe: Though meat is principally the biggest element of a bbq, don’t sidestep the side dishes as they can make a significant difference to even good tasting meat. Use the opportunity to take advantage of seasonal fruits and vegetables teamed with a welldressed salad, a variety of dips and maybe some bread too.

Get ready for the best bbq of your life! ✤

BBQ 101

Be Patient and attentive: Impatience can be a cook’s worst enemy – don’t worry about guests, they will better appreciate quality, well-cooked food even if it takes a little longer to get ready. Being patient and attentive whilst cooking on a BBQ will work wonders for your meat, make sure that you wait for the flames to die down, the coals should be a settled light grey which creates very even and hot heat. Trim back excess fat from the edges of cuts such as lamb chops.

When the fat reaches a certain temperature it’ll render down and drip onto the hot coals, causing flare-ups which can potentially spoil the meat. Remember to control the heat from your BBQ, the best way to do this is by piling the coals to one side; creating an extremely hot area and an area with no direct heat.

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SOCIETY

#SPA NISH #GASTRONOMIC #FESTIVAL #AT #LA #VINOTECA #BARCELONA

Spanish Gastronomic Week at La Vinoteca Barcelona, Adliya, featured Koldo Royo, a Michelin Star Chef from Spain. Over a whole week, meet and greets, unique and exclusive cooking classes, special tasting menus, chefâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s table experiences, a vibrant a la carte sinner with a flameno show, and a fabulous Spanish gastronomic brunch was offered to food enthusiasts, diners and guests who enjoy delicious Spanish cuisine.

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BBQ

BoSS RECIPES TO TRY

WITH SO MANY OF YOU TAKING TO THE GRILL FOR THE SEASON AHEAD, WE GOT SOME OF THE BEST CHEFS IN TOWN TO SHARE THEIR DELICIOUS RECIPES FOR YOU! HAPPY EATINGâ&#x20AC;¦

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BBQ RECIPES

FOUR SEASONS HOTEL BAHRAIN BAY Ben Small, Executive Chef at CUT and CUT Lounge by Wolfgang Puck

mini Prime Burgers with Remoulade and Aged Cheddar Cheese

For the Burgers INGREDIENTS: High quality ground beef (hamburger meat) - 350g Pinch of Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper Extra-virgin olive oil - 4tbsps Aged cheddar cheese, sliced - 170g Sliced Brioche bread, punched out with a 2-inch ring cutter - Six Arugula leaves Cherry tomatoes, sliced - Six Cornichons, sliced - Three Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)

For the Remoulade Heavy cream - 475ml Garlic cloves, minced - Three Fresh rosemary - 2 sprigs Sweet paprika - 1tbsp Peanut oil - 2tbsp Red onion, brunoised - ½ Red and yellow bell peppers, brunoised - ½ of each

METHOD: t 1SFIFBU B HSJMM PS HSJMM QBO t 1VU UIF HSPVOE CFFG JO B CPXM BOE season with the salt and pepper. Mix together with your hands to combine.

Take 2 tablespoons of the beef and shape it like a meatball. Flatten slightly and drizzle the burgers with oil. Season both sides with salt and pepper.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;a recipe has no soul. You as the cook must bring soul to the recipe.â&#x20AC;? t 1MBDF UIF CVSHFST PO UIF IPU HSJMM Cook for 3 minutes, then turn them over with tongs. Put about 1/2 oz. of aged cheddar cheese on top of the burgers, allowing it to melt. While thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooking, put the brioche circles on the grill. Toast them slightly on both sides, about 2 minutes total. t *O B TBVDFQBO DPNCJOF UIF IFBWZ cream, garlic, rosemary and paprika.

Reduce by half. Allow to cool to room temperature.

PRESENTATION: t 1VU UIF UPBTUFE CSJPDIF DJSDMFT PO a platter. t 5PQ FBDI XJUI B TNBMM TQPPOGVM PG Remoulade. t 1VU UIF CVSHFS PO UPQ DIFFTF TJEF up), followed by an arugula leaf, a slice of tomato and a slice of cornichon.

Call 1711 5044 for reservations and more information.

BBQ RECIPES

SOFITEL BAHRAIN ZALLAQ THALASSA SEA & SPA Suseno Hadisutarno, Chef De Cuisine

For the Polenta

For the Tzatziki

INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS:

Polenta flour - 150g Milk - 300ml Salt - 5g Butter - 25g

Hang yoghurt (or Labneh) - 100g Garlic - 15g Olive oil - 10ml Lemon juice - 10ml Salt - 3g Pepper - 2g Cucumber - 100g

METHOD: t #PJM QPMFOUB nPVS JO NJML BEE TBMU butter and water. t $PPL VOUJM JU HFUT IBSE t 4FU JU BOE DVU JOUP SPVOEFMT

â&#x20AC;&#x153;a crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety.â&#x20AC;?

BBQ Chermoula Monkfish, Polenta, Tzatziki For the Fish

Lemon juice - 37g lemon pickle - 62g Olive black - 62g Honey - 50g Saffron - 2g Lemon - One Salt & Pepper to taste

METHOD: t (SBUF DVDVNCFS XJUIPVU TLJO Squeeze all the water out. t .JY XJUI IVOH ZPHIVSU PS MBCOFI and the garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

MICRO HERB TO GARNISH: Carrot Puree Beetroot Puree Coriander Puree

PRESENT AS SHOWN IN THE PHOTO. GO: Call 1763 6363 for reservations an more information.

METHOD:

INGREDIENTS: Monkfish - 250g Onion white peeled sliced - 125g Garlic peeled chopped - 25g Red pepper chopped - 125g Green pepper chopped - 125g Yellow pepper chopped - 125g Coriander - 12g Chilli paste - 50g Cumin seed - 12g Olive oil - 25g

t .JY BMM UIF DIPQQFE JOHSFEJFOUT together with salt and pepper. Add the olive oil and lemon juice. t .BSJOBUF UIF .POLmTI XJUI mixture and place it on a tray with marinade. Cook in a moderately heated oven for 15 minutes. t 3FNPWF UIF NPOLmTI BOE TFSWF garnished with a mixture of lemon pickle, honey, saffron and black olives. fact magazine

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BBQ RECIPES

THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA Dushan Rukmal, Senior Executive Sous Chef

Char grilled Beef Brochette, dried Safari Rub - mango Salsa, Spicy home Aged Beef Chorizo INGREDIENTS: Beef Rib Eye, cubes - 600g Aged beef chorizo (homemade if possible) - 200g Mushroom, button - 100g Cherry tomato - 100g Shallot (Perl) - 100g Orange - 60g

For the Safari Rub Slow roasted star anise - 5g Dried black mustard powder - 5g Hot paprika powder - 3g Onion powder - 5g Garlic powder - 5g Celery powder - 5g Cacao - 3g Black Pepper Crushed - 3g Honey - 5ml Dark Chocolate (63%) - 5g Salt - 10g

“Most of us have fond memories of food from our childhood... food has a way of transporting us back to the past.”

METHOD:

t .JY BMM UIF ESZ TQJDFT UPHFUIFS BOE rub over the skewer. t (SJMM UIF NFBU TLFXFS PWFS B charcoal bbq (bichotan charcoal is preferred) and glaze with the dark chocolate and honey. t .BSJOBUF UIF WFHFUBCMFT XJUI UIF same rub and roast in the oven for 15 minutes at 170 degrees. t .JY BMM UIF NBOHP TBMTB JOHSFEJFOUT together and serve the salsa on the side.

t "SSBOHF UIF CFFG DVCFT BOE UIF chorizo in a steel barbecue skewer.

GO: Call 1600 0000 for reservations and more information.

For the mango Salsa Mango cubes - 100g Coriander leaves - 10g Crushed cumin - 3g Salt/Pepper/ Lemon Juice - To taste

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BBQ RECIPES

MEISEI Michael Sang-Kyu Lee, Executive Chef

Tofu yakitori

Corn Fed Chicken yakitori

INGREDIENTS: Black bean sauce - 2tbsp Minced garlic - 1tsp Minced ginger - 1tsp Cubed firm tofu - As required Bamboo Skewers - As required

METHOD: t 4PBL CBNCPP TLFXFS JO XBUFS overnight, and leave to set in the fridge (bamboo will soak up the water in order to control the heat when grilling). t $VU POF JODI DVCFE mSN UPGV t $PNCJOF UIF CMBDL CFBO TBVDF minced garlic and minced ginger together and whisk to form a marinade. t 6TF UIF NJYUVSF UP NBSJOBUF UIF tofu cubes. t 1VU UPGV DVCFT JO UIF GSJEHF GPS POF hour. t 1JFSDF JO UIF NJEEMF PG UIF DVCFE marinated tofu. t -JHIUMZ CSVTI ZPVS HSJMM XJUI PMJWF PJM place your skewered tofu and rotate every few minutes to sear all sides.

INGREDIENTS: Chicken Breast - 500g Salt - 1tsp Egg - One Black or white pepper - 1tsp Garlic - 1tbsp Sesame Oil - 1tbsp Bamboo Skewers - As required

METHOD: t 4PBL CBNCPP TLFXFS JO XBUFS overnight, and leave to set in the fridge (bamboo will soak up the water in order to control the heat when grilling). t .JODF H DIJDLFO CSFBTU t $PNCJOF BMM PUIFS JOHSFEJFOUT together in a bowl and mix to form a marinade. Add the marinade to the chicken. t 3PVHIMZ NFBTVSF H PG UIF combined ingredients and mold around a bamboo skewer to grill or pan sear the chicken yakitori.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;eating is so intimate. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very sensual. when you invite someone to sit at your table and you want to cook for them, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re inviting a person into your life.â&#x20AC;?

t 'PS HSJMMJOH MJHIUMZ CSVTI ZPVS HSJMM with olive oil, place your skewered chicken and rotate every few minutes to sear all sides.

GO: Try these dishes at Meisei with the brand new Robata Counter on the ground floor. Robata Tuesdays can be enjoyed for BD30 including selected dishes and four house beverages, for two people. Call 1700 7770 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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BBQ RECIPES

SHERATON BAHRAIN HOTEL Magnus Falk, Executive Chef

lamb Sosaties INGREDIENTS:

For the lamb Sosaties Leg of lamb - 1-2kg Dried apricots, good quality - 12-16 Small onions, cut in to wedges - Six Wooden skewers - 12-16 Medium onions - Two

For the marinade Oil - Ÿ cup Coriander seeds, crushed - 2tbsps Bay leaves - Five Ground cinnamon - 1tsp Ground ginger - 1tsp Ground allspice - 1tsp Curry powder, mild - 1tbsp Brown sugar - 6tbsps Corn flour - 1tbsp Salt - 2tsps White vinegar - ž cup Apricot jam, fine - 1tbsp Garlic cloves, crushed and chopped - Four Milk - ½ cup Water - ½ cup

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METHOD: t .BLF UIF NBSJOBEF mSTU BT JU IBT to cool down completely. Use a large pot. t 'SZ UIF POJPO SJOHT JO PJM VOUJM MJHIU brown. Stir now and then. t 8IJMF POJPO GSJFT NJY BMM UIF ESZ ingredients in a bowl: the crushed coriander, all the spices, the brown sugar, the corn flour and the salt. t "EE UIF HBSMJD UP UIF MJRVJET t 8IFO UIF POJPOT BSF MJHIU CSPXO stir in the mixed dry ingredients, and fry for a minute or so to release the flavours. t 5VSO IFBU MPXFS BOE BEE UIF liquids: vinegar, apricot jam, grated ginger and garlic to taste. Also add the bay leaves.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Food, in the end, in our own tradition, is something holy. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not about nutrients and calories. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about sharing. itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about honesty.â&#x20AC;?

t 4UJS XFMM BOE TJNNFS TMPXMZ VOUJM thickened. t $PPM UIF TBVDF BOE TUJS JO UIF milk and a little water. It must be of a coating consistency. If you think it is too thick, add a little more water and stir well. t $VU UIF NFBU PGG UIF MFH PG MBNC and cut into bite-sized chunks, not too small. t 1VU UIF MBNC DVCFT PO UIF skewers, alternating the different ingredients, with about two apricot halves and two onion wedges per skewer. The lamb chunks should

predominate. t "EE JOUP B QMBTUJD CBH XJUI UIF marinade and put in the fridge for about four hours. t (SJMM BOE TFSWF XJUI SJDF PS QPUBUP salad.

GO: Enjoy Thursday BBQ Night by the Pool (buy one get one free) from 7.30pm to 12midnight. BD30 net inclusive of food and selected beverages and BD25 net inclusive of food and soft drinks. Call 1753 3533 for reservations and more information.

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HEALTH ADVERTORIAL

P

rostate cancer has emerged as the fourth most common cancer in both the genders and the second most common cancer in men, and this continues to rise. Therefore, it is pertinent to understand the conditions, tests and overall treatment of prostate cancer.

Dr. Shabbir J. K., Specialist - Urology at Royal Bahrain Hospital, says: “Essentially, the prostate secrete fluids and is a walnut size gland located near the urinary bladder. Due to ageing, the prostate gets enlarged especially after the age of 50. In overall cases of prostate cancer, 95 per cent are benign whilst only 5 per cent are malignant.”

There are various conditions of prostate such as prostatitis, enlarged prostate and prostate cancer. Tests such as digital rectal examination, prostate specific antigen, prostrate ultrasound, prostrate biopsy and MRI Prostate.

In terms of treatment, there are different options available depending on the severity and types of condition.

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eXPeRt tReAtMent FoR PRostAte CAnCeR

Common treatments include – radical prostatectomy, radiation therapy, radioactive seeds, cryotherapy, hormone therapy, and others.

In conditions involving older people, the doctor may just decide to wait and watch. “Since prostate cancer is often slow growing, some hold the treatment and wait to see if the cancer appears to be growing,” Dr. Shabbir J. K. explains.

“As far as acute and chronic prostatitis conditions are concerned, treatment includes antibiotics, medications or surgery,” he adds.

The Department of Urology at Royal Bahrain Hospital offers treatments and management of male infertility and erectile dysfunction, surgical treatment of prostate tumors, endoscopic and surgical treatment of kidney stones and female urology (Overactive Bladder and Interstitial Cystitis). ✤ GO: Call 1724 6800 or email mail@royalbahrainhospital.com for consultations, appointments or more information.

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SOCIETY

#MOTORCITY #UNVEILS #NEW #MAXUS #MODELS

Motorcity, the exclusive distributor of SAIC vehicles in Bahrain, launched the all-new Maxus multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) models, aimed at meeting the rigorous demands of business. The launch was held at the Motorcity showroom in Nuwaidrat. Guests included Ebrahim K Kanoo CEO Michael Brightmore; Motorcity senior general manager Bijan Majidi; and Motorcity commercial division assistant general manager Arun Kumar. The new Maxus G10 and Maxus V80 were the vehicles to be revealed.

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BORN TO CHALLENGE

THE INFINITI Q30 fact magazine

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ISLAND RIDES

TT

THE MUCHANTICIPATED ALL-NEW INFINITI Q30 WAS UNVEILED IN BAHRAIN LAST MONTH AND BEING THE MOTORING ENTHUSIASTS THAT WE ARE, FACT TOOK THE HOT-OFF-THEBELT CAR FOR A RIDE. IT’S SAFE TO SAY, WE WERE NOT DISAPPOINTED!

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he Inf initi Q30 active compact is a new type of premium vehicle for a new type of consumer.

Representing Infiniti’s first entry into the fast-growing premium compact segment, the Q30 will play an important role in continuing to drive the growth of the brand here in the region.

Firstly, let’s talk about the way this car looks. The Q30 takes Infiniti’s signature design cues and evolves them into new dynamic shapes. Eye-catching design is one of the Q30’s cornerstones, including the expressive ‘Human-Eye’ headlights and double-arch grille with 3D mesh treatment up front, where the dramatic curves and turbulent lines flow up the bonnet, over the fenders and across the bodyline into the strong shoulder of the car. The signature swept C-pillar arcs at the rear, forward in a dynamic crescent shape that emphasises motion, even when stationary. The contrast of the long,

low-slung roofline, conjuring an image of a rakish shooting brake in silhouette, and elevated stance add to the visual impact. This also adds to a sleek look that gives the impression of the car being in motion even when standing still. The balance of sculptural shapes moving past one another creates a harmonious design that can be appreciated at a glance.

How’s that for head-turning? And when we were done admiring the outside of the car, we got in the driver’s seat and took a moment to appreciate the interior of the Q30. Inside, the car is certainly striking. Even the entry-level Q30 GT features deep padded dash sections, contrast stitching, and gloss black accent trims. Then there’s the manual climate controls and the 7.0-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation, cruise control with speed limiter, auto lights and wipers, and a Nappa leather wrapped steering wheel, which offers a good grip for drivers.

ISLAND RIDES

An important, differentiating characteristic of the Q30’s design is its combination of elevated stance with an overall height that is comparable with models in the traditional compact segment. The Q30’s height (1,495mm) allows for a higher hip point (531mm), which aids ingress and egress. The A-pillar design is intentionally slim, contributing to a more enhanced visibility for a confident driving experience. In other words, more front seat space and a raised driving position will make for the utmost comfort when you’re behind the wheel (we can vouch for that!).

Under the bonnet of the Q30 range is a line-up of three engines: Q30 GT is powered by a 115kW/250 turbocharged 1.6 litre petrol four-cylinder, while Q30 Sport and Sport Premium offer a choice of either a 155kW/350Nm 2.0 litre turbo petrol, or 125kW/350Nm 2.2 litre turbo diesel.

The Q30 Sport stands a little lower (1,475mm), accentuating the already distinctive, coupe-like silhouette, which is emphasised by a shallow side glass area, while also providing for agile ride and handling. Driving performance will also be differentiated, thanks to individual suspensions settings and distinctive ride and handling characteristics – offering premium compact buyers a choice that is specific to their personal needs and preferences.

The Q30 Premium includes LED front fog lamps, body-coloured and heated door mirrors, as well as chrome dual

rectangular exhaust finishers. Its striking appearance is enhanced with 18-inch alloy wheels – you’ve got to see them to appreciate just how good they look!

On the technology front, the Q30 delivers in spades as the best equipped with the highest level of assistive technology in the segment. This includes: Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection, Intelligent Parking Assist, Forward Collision Warning with Forward Emergency Braking and Blind Sport Warning.

A first for Infiniti and this category, the Intelligent Parking Assist is designed to work in the three most common parking situations, tight parallel parking, 90-degree backing-in and heading – in parking. Using 12 sensors in the front and rear, the system automatically steers the vehicle into place with the additional help or audio and visual warnings whilst the driver controls the brake and accelerator.

Is the Inf initi Q30 good? Absolutely.

In fact the Q30 might be one of the best and most appealing vehicles in the current Infiniti range. With bold styling, plenty of premium equipment, guaranteed reliability, and pricing that represents great value, the Q30 will definitely lift the Infiniti brand into the eye-line of buyers looking for something fresh to take on the roads. ✤ GO: Call 1773 2732 or visit the Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons Inf initi showroom in Sitra for more information or to arrange a test drive. fact magazine

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MOTORING NEWS

E.K. KANOO’S ISO ACHIEVEMENT Ebrahim K. Kanoo, the exclusive distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles in the Kingdom of Bahrain, was awarded the ISO-OHSAS 18001-2007 certification, marking its compliance with international standards in the field of Occupational Health and Safety. The awards ceremony, held at the corporate office was attended

by Corporate Services Director Talal Fuad Kanoo and CEO Michael Brightmore.

“Ebrahim K. Kanoo has always emphasised Occupational Safety across all its operations, placing the highest degree of care on the Health and Safety of both our employees and our customers,” Mr Brightmore said. “We are proud that we have been able to meet these stringent standards and promise to continue to go to great lengths to ensure that international best practice is followed throughout our organisation.”

EURO MOTORS’ IRRESISTIBLE NEW OFFER ON THE JAGUAR F-PACE Euro Motors, the exclusive dealer and distributor for luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover in Bahrain, has introduced an enormous offer on the Jaguar F-Pace that will facilitate the buying process for the prestigious marque’s revolutionary SUV by making it all the more budget-friendly.

In line with its constant innovative practises for the utmost benefit of its customers, Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover now presents buyers with the opportunity to avail the Jaguar F-Pace directly from the dealership itself in monthly instalments at an incredibly reasonable rate of BD249 for 36 months. The features of the offer also extends to guaranteed buyback options and for customers who wish to trade-in their existing vehicle, they can do so and select a new vehicle, opting for the best suitable finance deal at a later stage.

Mr. Paul Yates, the General Manager of Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover, said: “The Jaguar F-Pace is an incredible fusion of the elements of acute functionality, comforting luxury and unmatched performance in perfect harmony, making it a dream vehicle for every motoring enthusiast. Therefore, it is our absolute pleasure to be announcing the launch of this generous offer that will lead to the manifestation of that desire for all Jaguar aficionados in the Kingdom of Bahrain.”

GO: Call Euro Motors Jaguar Land Rover showroom on 1746 0460 for more information.

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UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF

HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PRINCE KHALIFA BIN SALMAN AL KHALIFA PRIME MINISTER OF THE KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

The 25th Middle East International Jewellery & Watch Exhibition register online at www.jewelleryarabia.com

Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre

th

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22 - 26 November 2016

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EDUCATION & LABORATORY PROVIDER fact magazine 99

MOTORING NEWS

ALL-NEW LAND ROVER DISCOVERY DEBUT Land Rover has revealed the All-New Discovery seven-seat SUV by breaking a Guinness World Record for the largest LEGO structure ever built.

Long-term Land Rover Discovery owners Bear Grylls, Sir Ben Ainslie and Zara Phillips took part in the dynamic live reveal of Land Rover’s most versatile model around a 13-metre high LEGO version of London’s Tower Bridge.

The All-New Discovery embodies Land Rover’s drive to go Above and Beyond, combining British desirability with an unstoppable spirit of adventure. It is highly attractive with unrivalled capability and technology. The fifth-generation model benefits from Land Rover’s strong, safe and light full-size SUV architecture, delivering comfort and adaptability like no other.

The reveal set was made from 5,805,846 individual LEGO bricks, breaking the previous Guinness World Record by 470,646 pieces.

Bear Grylls said: “I have developed a powerful bond with Land Rover vehicles over the years and to me they embody that spirit of adventure coupled with a rugged reliability that also serves the needs of a young family. The Land Rover Discovery is invaluable on expeditions, whether filming in deserts, jungles or mountains, yet it’s still the perfect vehicle for the family’s everyday use. It’s a proud moment to be here with Land Rover revealing the All-New Discovery to the world.”

THE NEW BMW 5 SERIES SEDAN The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series Sedan will cut a sporty, elegant and stylish figure when it hits the roads in markets around the world in February 2017. Further enhanced dynamics, an unbeatable line-up of assistance systems, an unmatched degree of connectivity and a new and innovative operating system are the most important new features. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan has all the tools to continue the success of its predecessors; more than 7.6 million BMW 5 Series cars were sold across its first six generations.

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Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG, said: The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series points the way into the future, as we have defined it with our NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy.

“We see technological leadership, emotionally rich products and digitalisation as essential factors in achieving success. I’m in no doubt that the new BMW 5 Series will set new benchmarks technologically, but also have huge emotional appeal. It remains the epitome of the business sedan.” he adds.

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PLUGGED-IN

eAsy LIstenInG: PXc 550 WIRLess HeADPHones FA C T G o t I t s H A n D s on tHe neW PxC 550 WIReLess HeADPHones AnD so We PUt oUR FAV o U R I t e M U s I C on PL Ay to test tHeM oUt!

WHAT IS IT? Firstly, the PXC 550’s are not just run of the mill headphones. They have been created and developed by none other than Sennheiser, trendsetters and frontrunners in the field for over 70 years. The full, deep, clear sound that’s produced is of such high quality, you may be able to make out sounds on your favourite record that you’ve never noticed before.

HOW DOES IT WORK? The PXC 550 possess the fantastic capability of being able to fully shut out any noise around you. This is due to the amazing Sennheiser’s Noisegard feature. The process is pretty easy to understand. It creates hybrid adaptive noise cancelling within your immediate environment.

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for listeners, allowing them to be transported to a world of music without any rude interruptions form their surroundings. The earcups house touch sensitive trackpads that give the user complete control. Volume levels to track selection, all can be easily selected with just one swipe of the finger.

freedom of movement. It boasts some of the greatest and best-sounding solutions in hightech transmission, great for easy connection with your respective mobile device. There’s, however, a cable which can be used if desired.

WHY YOU SHOULD GET IT? It is extremely light and portable. It certainly does not feel as if you are carrying any weight on your head. Its design is based on in-depth research including the measurement of hundreds of ears to ensure maximum comfortability. It boasts a 30-hour battery life, which is great for those long plane rides or road trips. It has a fold-flat collapsible frame allowing for it to be folded away into its compact travel case. Perhaps the best feature of all – it is wireless! This allows for

THE VERDICT To us, using the PXC 550 wireless headphone set was a real treat. For anyone who enjoys listening to music, the PXC 550 can take your pleasure to the next level. The crispness of the sound and the simply beautiful design of the oh-so-comfy headset is a pleasure to use.

After returning the headset and going back to listening to music on our regular headphones, we realised that we had officially been spoilt for a short time! ✤

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PLUGGED-IN

APP -li CiouS 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…

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ePiCuRiouS

BonjouRnAl

Are you a budding chef or just someone who’s trying to learn their way around the kitchen? We at FACT consider ourselves to be quite the foodies and this little gem of an app gives us so much life! To start off, 30,000 recipes from popular chefs and cookbooks as well as over 100,000 recipes submitted by users. This nest-generation kitchen companion is easy to search and to modify which allows you to avoid certain ingredients such as nuts or meat, if you want to! Other features include interactive shopping lists, step-by-step stove-side instructions and save and share favourites. Articles on shopping, food, entertaining, health, and more, are added daily, keeping the content fresh. A free user-friendly app, packed with useful info and tips. We highly recommended it. Bon appetite!

About to embark on an amazing adventure or holiday?

Bonjournal works as a mini travel journal that allows you to write notes and diary entries. From there, pictures can be added to illustrate your experiences. Once you’ve organised your pictures and entries, they can easily be converted to PDFs. You can also simply share them via email or social media. The interface is very clean and the entering of information is an easy process. Entries can be created at any time and simply added once you have Wi-Fi access. The only drawback, in our opinion, is the fact that only three pictures can be added per entry.

Multiple entries is the answer. All in all, this useful little app is not only user friendly and fun to use, it is also free.

Bon voyage!

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SOCIETY

#MANISH #ARORA #FASHION #SHOW #AT #SAKS #FIFTH #AVENUE

Indian designer Manish Arora hosted a beautiful and exciting fashion show of his stunning SS17 collection for fashion-savvy ladies and gents at SAKS Fifth Avenue Bahrain. Starting off with a cocktail reception, the renowned designer had earlier on in the day sat down for an intimate lunch gathering with local media at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Colour, print and playful yet sophisticated lengths dominated the vibrant collection as Bahrainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elite crowd turned out for an evening of inspiring fashion. The hashtag #WorldofManish was used to celebrate the event.

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KENZO X H&M fact magazine

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COLLECTION FOCUS

“ It’s tIMe FoR tHe H&M AnnUAL DesIGneR CoLLABoRAtIon AnD tHIs yeAR It’s Kenzo tHAt tAKes tHe LeAD to CReAte A CoLoUR AnD PRInt-FILLeD LIne FoR H&M stoRes ALL ARoUnD tHe WoRLD.

WOMENWEAR – A CELEBRATION OF PRINT, FEMININITY AND PLAYFULNESS KENZO’s womenswear collection for H&M is a unique celebration of the brand’s vibrant heritage, full of vivid prints, feminine details and playful silhouettes. Creative directors Carol Lim and Humberto Leon have filtered the archives of founder Kenzo Takada through their own eyes, giving 21st century attitude to pieces with a 70s and 80s sensibility. Colours and prints are contrasted and clashed; kimonos inform the cut; ribbons and frills give folkloric charm, while sporty shapes add urban energy. It’s a collection of designs that are totally unique to H&M, both wearable and inclusive while also shining fresh light on one of fashion’s most thrilling histories.

Archive twists, vivid prints and feminine details are all present in the womenswear collection.

MENSWEAR – ALL ABOUT THE BOLD PRINTS, VIVID COLOUR AND SELF-EXPRESSION The menswear collection by KENZO x H&M is bold and powerful, a celebration of print, colour and self-expression. Creative directors Carol Lim and Humberto Leon have selected archival prints by founder Kenzo Takada and reinvigorated them on new menswear classics such as sweatshirts, hoodies, bombers and parkas. The result is a collection of pieces that are totally unique to H&M, playfully mixing colour, print and texture to express true freedom in fashion. Vivid prints, logo mania, reinvented classics and special details are a huge part of the menswear collection. ✤ GO: KENZO x H&M will be available in H&M stores from November 3.

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FASHION FOCUS

SHOP THE BRAND HERE IS OUR WISHLIST FROM THE KENZO X H&M COLLECTION FoR HIM

FoR HeR

THIS COLLECTION IS AVAILABLE IN THE GCC AT ALL H&M STORES, NOW.

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WINTER

SILK SCARF

MISSONI

FLORALS

KENNETH JAY LANE FLORAL NECKLACE

BIYAN

SHOW-STOPPING HEEL

SOPHIA WEBSTER

EMBELLISHED COAT

ZAC ZAC POSEN CROSS-BODY BAG

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Saks Fifth Avenue, +973 17172000, City Centre Bahrain

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FASHION INTERVIEW

BEHIND THE SEAMS T H E R E ’ S N O T H I N G Q U I T E L I K E A S H O E T H AT F I T S P E R F E C T LY A N D P E D R O G A R C Í A K N O W S J U S T W H AT W E M E A N ; T H E A R T O F S H O E M A K I N G R U N S D E E P I N H I S F A M I LY A N D T H E I R S P A N I S H R O O T S. F A C T C A U G H T U P W I T H T H E B R A N D ’ S C O - C R E AT I V E D I R E C T O R T O TA L K S I G N AT U R E S T Y L E , F A S H I O N L E G A C Y A N D E X A C T LY W H AT WOMEN SHOULD BE LOOKING FOR WHEN BUYING SHOES…

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i Pedro! Let’s get to it… what makes a Pedro García shoe special?

The strength of our styles is in their design. Good design is our “driving force” and something we are fully committed to. At Pedro García, we design in a practical way. Our design philosophy is based on a handson approach. It’s a practical philosophy that begins with experience and evolves through experimentation, based on what we have already created, juxtaposing materials, contrasting textures, combining styles — and it always arrives at unexpected solutions. That’s why it’s so important for us to have our own factory. There we can try things out, investigate, run tests and achieve striking new results.

Describe the lady that chooses to wear a Pedro Garcia shoe…

Just looking at the number of countries in which our shoes are sold, and the wide age range of the customers who buy them, it’s hard to believe that there’s only one type of woman who identifies with Pedro García shoes. There isn’t a single Pedro García woman. They’re all different from one another, and no doubt they all like to feel different too. So she’s unique, a woman who wants to stand out from the crowd, and who expresses this through a design that stands out too. She’s open-minded, versatile and receptive to new possibilities. And she’s decisive: she knows what she wants, what she likes, and what she’s looking for. She likes design and fashion, she’s interested in functionality, and she’s looking for comfort.

How does the label continue to keep its iconic shoe designs exciting and original?

We draw inspiration from everything, and from nothing. Due to the way we work, our designs are not based on a single, specific inspiration, but at the same time, everything that interests and attracts us is an influence. Architecture, food, culture, film, our travels. When we think about the designs for a new season we are never looking at a totally blank page. We have the whole of our own materials as a starting point, whether they come from the most recent collection, or is something from the past that still attracts us. Our collections aren’t closed chapters, but rather a continuum that evolves organically from one season to the next. There are certain materials and types of shoes that we have been working with intensely for decades, for which we are recognised around the world, and which identify us as a brand. Based on their

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properties and on our own aesthetic criteria, we allow the design to flow… Let the material do the talking. Flat sandals with Swarovski crystals is one of them. Castoro suede on high heel styles with anatomical bottoms, sandals in vegetable-tanned Vacchetta, and the use of frayed satin complete what we consider to be our signature materials and styles. We continue to experiment with them in every collection, making them evolve to achieve new results.

The Pedro Garcia brand has been running since your grandfather founded it in 1925, what are some of the greatest challenges or pressures to continue his legacy through the shoes you make?

When my father entrusted the direction of the company to us, the third generation of the family, in 1991, we had to give the brand an identity, design a style, create an image and position it at an international level. Pedro García has existed since 1925, but it was us, who gave it the strong personality as a brand that characterises it today. It’s a unique identity, highly authentic, which we have achieved through innovation in design, a constant search for creative solutions, and the use of experimentation as a means to evolve, always maintaining the highest quality standards.

Over the years, my partner, North American designer Dale Dubovich, and I have created a unique and distinctive image for the brand.

This has meant working on many different areas of the business, from corporate identity to the concept for our flagship store in Madrid.

Of course, there was inevitably a need to adapt to the present, to online business and new forms of communication.

What’s the toughest element of being a worldclass shoemaker and how do you choose where to stock your brand?

After we succeeded in turning Pedro García into an international brand with a place in the world of fashion we had to make sure that the brand we had created worked perfectly. The company had to cover all fronts: superlative design, flawless production, a successful sales force, an effective distribution network, strong communications, and so forth. Total quality. That includes, of course, selecting the world’s best stores. It’s not enough to have one strength, if you want an international brand to succeed; it’s our responsibility to be ready to provide the company with everything it needs to maintain its current position. fact magazine

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FASHION INTERVIEW

What made you choose SAKS Fifth Avenue to carry Pedro Garcia products in Bahrain?

Saks Fifth Avenue is one of those company names my sister and I have heard since we were kids. Our father started selling Pedro García in Saks in New York around 1965 and now we are delighted to maintain a close business relationship with such a renowned luxury department store both in the US and Bahrain.

“Made in Spain” is the proud phrase associated with all Pedro García products. In what ways does Spanish Culture influence your designs?

For some years now since Spanish culture has found its place on the international stage. Not only actors, actresses, film directors, painters, writers, musicians or photographers, but also chefs, athletes and models. The Made in Spain concept is a success, and this is something we feel very proud of. Pedro García’s is definitely associated with the “Made in Spain” concept, but this does not mean that the brand’s designs are particularly “Spanish” or influenced by Spanish culture. The brand’s look has been international from the start. If there is a cultural influence, it could come from the warm climate and the easy-going Mediterranean spirit of the area where the company is based: Alicante, in southeastern Spain. Perhaps this is why sandals appear in every collection. But the real connection with the “Made in Spain” concept comes from the fact that Pedro García’s shoes have always been made at our own factory, in Elda, the shoe-making town in the province of Alicante where we are from. This guarantees their quality. We believe in the Made in Spain philosophy, and are committed to ensuring that the social impact of our activity as a business has a 100% positive effect on our local environment.

What should a woman look for when buying the perfect shoes?

I don’t think there is only one perfect shoe. When you buy a shoe you make very personal decision, which is influenced by, or takes into account, all kinds of different factors. The important thing is not so much what shoes you choose as how you wear them: that you feel at ease with them and transmit that.

In Pedro García, we know that comfort is key in the design and manufacture of shoes and that is why we care so much about it. Our shoes bring cutting-edge style to day-to-day wear for women all over the world. They are unmistakably contemporary, but they also provide new and often surprising solutions to the need for comfort in daily life, without diluting their modern look.

We have fused elements from different worlds, taking them out of their usual context and making them meet up on our workbench.

Combining three elements – anatomical footbeds, raw edges and Velcro fasteners – we were able to make towering heels that were really edgy, and at the same time so comfortable that, for many women, they have become go-to shoes for everyday wear. This is something we feel particularly satisfied about. They are one of Pedro García’s most celebrated signature styles. Contemporary comfort. ✤ GO: Shop Pedro García shoes at SAKS Fifth Avenue in City Centre Bahrain.

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STYLE

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URBAN UTILITY LADIES ARE MARCHING INTO THE NEW SEASON WITH HARDWEARING PRECISION; UTILITY ELEMENTS ARE MAKING A SARTORIAL SALUTE ON THE STREETS FOR THE SEASON AHEAD. TO NAIL THE TREND, GO FOR MILITARY-STYLE KHAKI PIECES, EXPERIMENT WITH RIBBED, SATEEN AND QUILTED TEXTURES AS WELL AS HIGH NECKS AND CHOKER DETAILS TO FEMINISE THE LOOK.

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01. Call it Spring 02. Debenhams 03. New Look 04. Dune 05. H&M 06. M&Co 07. Marks & Spencer 08. Matalan 09. New Look 10. Next 11. River Island 12. Topshop

STYLE

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THIS IS MODERN SUITING 2.0 FOR ALL YOU FASHION-SAVVY MEN OUT THERE. WHEN IT COMES TO THE CLASSIC SUIT, ITS MULTIPLE COMPONENTS MAKE IT IDEAL TO MAKE WHOLE NEW OUTFITS FOR ENDLESS STYLING OPTIONS. SWAP OUT SMART SHOES FOR TRAINERS, PAIR HIGH ROLL NECKS WITH CRISP SHIRTS AND REPLACE WAISTCOATS WITH HOODIES FOR A REBELLIOUS EDGE.

01. Aldo 02. F&F 03. Debenhams 04. Marks & Spencer 05. M&CO 06. Call it Spring 07. New Look 08. Topman 09. Next 10. Mens at Dune 11. Topman 12. New Look

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BRAND FOCUS

QU I Z AW â&#x20AC;&#x2122; 1 6 C O L L E C T I O N Specialists in fast fashion for the discerning women. Quiz is an international dynamic fastfashion retail group for females, delivering catwalk styles and the latest trends from the fashion capitals of the world. The Quiz collection offers glamorous fashion for every occasion from glitzy evening gowns, cute prom dresses and heels to sparkling accessories. Check out a great new AW16 floral and red collection. â&#x153;¤

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CELIO AW ’ 1 6 COLLECTION This autumn, Celio takes the all American oversized style and launches a capsule collection that is all about the mineral colours. Whether it’s washed out or prints, this collection embodies great volumes and used finishing, bringing a monochrome look to your everyday casual style! ✤

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BEAUTY CHECKLIST

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BEAUTY CH ECKLIST Beauty products that got our pulses racing; FACT brings you our lowdown of what to buy for the ultimate autumn beauty box.

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JOLI ROUGE IN SPICY CINNAMON Clarins Get luminous lips with Clarins’ latest addition, Joli Rouge. A moisturising and long-wearing lipstick providing 6-hour moisture and no-smudge wear. A treat for the lips, it perfectly glides on for a smooth and rich colour in one coat. For the season ahead, go for autumnal berries, plums and daring reds.

DIVINE HARMONY SERUM L’Occitane With each pump of the dispenser, the earth and sea collide: the microdrops burst delicately, without leaving the slightest trace; this lightweight serum contains powerful active ingredients. As the fingertips trace the contours of the face, the skin regains its youthful plumpness, smoothness and definition.

BROW QUICKIE Too Faced In seconds plump and groom your brows for a super natural look. Plus, its brush-on, fiber-gel technology mimics real hair to shape your brow with just one sweep. It’s buildable formula also helps to fill-in those missing gaps while adhering to the skin making your brows full, thick and natural.

AIR BRUSH SOFT GLOW DUO Marc Jacobs Beauty This weightless blush has come to revolutionise your makeup bag. With a natural luminous finish that lasts up to 24 hours, this nearly undetectable-to-the-touch products, melds naturally with the skin. The colourful collection comes in five different shades - our favourite is Lines & Last Night (pictured).

ALL FIRED UP NailsInc Nailing it in the nails department, a new gel effect line is firing up. The brand has added this powerful ingredient to four of their Gel Effect range to help protect the nails against toxins and pollutants in the environment. From deep reds to plums and golds, all colours contain an outstanding and long-last shine that you’ll love.

CPOP FACE PALETTE BeccaXJaclyn Hill This YouTube sensation’s partnership with Becca has produced a mindblowing product that is now up for grabs at Sephora. Featuring glowing illuminators that will enhance your features and make those cheeks pop, Becca knows how to deliver with beauty that transcends.

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GROOMING CHECKLIST

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Grooming products that are going to help you step up that daily regime. Here are just some of our favourites out there for autumn.

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L’UOMO Gianfranco Ferre Perfumer Nicholas Beaulieu created an unusual blend of vibrant, peppery head notes (bergamot, ginger, cardamom, and black pepper) and light green heart notes (violet, artemisia, green apple and sage). The refined accord of different accents makes this Eau de Toilette iconic and unforgettable: a new classic in men’s perfume.

PURSUITS OF PASSION Aesop These Aesop’s Gift Kits celebrate six naturalists long revered for their writing and illustrations.

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.

AMOUAGE Bracken Man Unveiling an aromatic freshness, the fragrance begins with vibrant top notes of Lavandin, Nutmeg, and Clove. With a spectrum of light caressing the woods, both Lemon and Bergamot open this fragrance by blanketing a sensation of brightness over wet earth. This scent evokes a subtle and enigmatic masculinity.

CEDRAT HAND CREAM L’Occitane This hand cream helps to nourish the skin and protect against daily wear and tear.

Ideal for dry hands as well as for sweaty hands, it sinks in rapidly without leaving an oily residue. The formula is enriched with shea butter, is rich in vitamins and an organic Corsican cedrat extract with energising properties.

ANTI-IRRITATION SHAVING GEL Nuxe Suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin, this product is a must-have in your grooming box for the cooler days ahead. A thick and creamy gel shaving foam with Sandalwood extract for an easy, accurate and irritation-free shave, Nuxe’s genius formula also contains a masculine, woody and spicy fragrance.

B FOR MEN MATTE SEPARATION WORKABLE WAX Tigi A pliable wax with matte definition giving good hold, style and natural finish. A blend of polymers provide separation and humidity resistance. No boy-band hair here - just decent hold and invisible finish for guys who don’t want to look like they’re trying too hard. fact magazine

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tHe GLAM CeReMony tHAt Is tHe CItI FACt DInInG AWARDs 2016 WILL tAKe PLACe LAteR tHIs MontH. We’LL Be ReVeALInG tHe ResULts FRoM tHe InDUstRy PAneL JUDGInG AnD tHe ALL-IMPoRtAnt PUBLIC Vote. HeRe’s A QUICK ReMInDeR oF ALL tHe noMInees AnD IF yoU HAVen’t VoteD yet, Go to WWW.FACt-MAGAzIne.CoM to HeLP yoUR FAVoURIte VenUes Be In WItH A CHAnCe oF WInnInG BIG!

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NOMINEES

inTeRnATionAl

iRAniAn

ChineSe

• Café Amsterdam, Adliya • Trader Vic’s, Seef • Links, Royal Golf Club • Zoe, Adliya • Jones The Grocer, Amwaj Islands • Camelot Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya • Signature Grill, Capital Club Bahrain • Me & You, Amwaj Islands

• Takht Jamsheed, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • Isfahani • Golestan, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Persian Garden, Seef

• China Garden, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • P.F. Chang’s, City Centre Bahrain • David’s Stir Fry Crazy • Soie, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Hong Kong, Um Al Hassam

iTAliAn • Cucina Italiana, Juffair • Primavera, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • La Pergola, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • Fiamma, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa • Rosso, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Prego, Royal Golf Club • Medzo, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Vento, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Oliveto, Adliya • La Taverna Sul Mare, Coral Bay • Fatto, Seef

TuRKiSh • Kosebasi, City Centre Bahrain • Turkish Mashawi, Ramli Mall • Bolulu Hasan Usta Bahrain, Manama • Mama Istanbul, Amwaj Islands • Mado, Seef Mall Muharraq • Guzel, Adliya

SeAFood • La Mer, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Samak, Coral Bay • La Perle Fishmarket, Novotel Al Dana Resort • The Fish Market, Al Bander Hotel & Resort • Waves, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Le Domain 34, The Domain Hotel & Spa

mediTeRRAneAn

jAPAneSe

• La Vinoteca Barcelona, Adliya • Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya • Masso, Palace Boutique Hotel • Florence, Adliya

• Meisei, Block 338 • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Maki, Moda Mall • Ruka, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • Sato, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • Imari, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Mirai, Adliya • Ora, Hotel Diva

gulF • Saffron, Al Areen Palace & Spa • Furn Bistro & Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Kenza, The K Hotel Bahrain • Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre

leBAneSe • Pashawat, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa • Zahle, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa • Rayes, Coral Bay • Reem Al Bawadi, Ramada Manama City Centre • Abd El Wahab, Moda Mall

SouTh eAST ASiAn • WU Asian Restaurant & Lounge, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Monsoon, Adliya • Keizo, Al Areen Palace & Spa • Repartee, Royal Golf Club • Kontiki, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & spa • Re Asian Cusine by Wolfgang Puck, Four seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Teatro, Downtown Rotana • Royal Thai, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa

indiAn • Roti Boti, Al Areen Palace & Spa • Lanterns • Nirvana, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Spices, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Rasoi by Vineet, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • It’s Mirchi, Ramee International Hotel • Flavours of Asia, Riffa • Moti Mahal, Juffair

noRTh AmeRiCAn • Bennigan’s, Al Safir Hotel • Chili’s • Tony Roma’s • Ric’s Kountry Kitchen, Juffair • IHOP, City Centre Bahrain

lATin AmeRiCAn • Cantina Kahlo, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Margarita Mexicana, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • Senor Paco’s, Adliya • Casa Mexicana, Adliya • Brazil Rodizio Grill & Lounge, Adliya

STeAKhouSe • CUT By Wolfgang Puck, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Flames Steak & Seafood, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Legendz Steakhouse, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Plums, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Le Sauvage, The Domain Hotel & Spa • The Meat Co., Block 338 • Torino Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya

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NOMINEES

FuSion

lounge

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• Blue Moon Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Trader Vic’s, Seef • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Elements Pool & Lounge, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Txoko, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Torino Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya • Ora Restaurant, Hotel Diva • K Lounge, The K Hotel • Typhoon Lounge, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • Burlington Club, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex Fusions, The Gulf Hotel Ora Restaurant, Hotel Diva Rauchi Restaurant, Ramee Rose Hotel

All-dAy dining • Selections, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana • Al Safir Restaurant, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Silk’s, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Choices, ART Rotana Amwaj Islands • Dome Café • Citrus, Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands • Rimal, Al Areen Palace & Spa • La Mosaique, Crown Plaza Bahrain

Al FReSCo dining • Meisei Rooftop, Block 338 • Café Amsterdam & La Vinoteca Barcelona, Adliya • La Plage, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Trader Vic’s, Seef • Tapas, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa • Vento, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Prego, Royal Golf Club

BAR • Boudoir, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Downtown, InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Cut Bar & Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • Cellar 59 Bar, Lounge, Tapas, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Bizarre Lounge, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • Time Café, Ramee Rose Hotel

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ShiShA lounge • Aroma Café, Seef • Sip & Dip, Elite Seef Residence • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Al Bindaira Café, Seef • Veranda Café, Adliya • Kasbah Restaurant & Lounge, Seef • Ammar Times Café, Adliya • Flamingo Bar & Lounge, Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Gourmet Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

PuB • Fiddlers Green, The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & spa • Harvesters, Crowne Plaza Bahrain • JJ’s Irish Restaurant, Adliya • Red Lions, Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa • Sherlock Holmes, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa

BuRgeR joinT • Smash Burger, Seef • Jasmi’s • Shake Shack, City Centre Bahrain • Grub Shack, Hamala • Dairy Queen • Mooyah, Riffa

in-mAll • Aroma Express, The Mall Juffair • Butcher Shop & Grill, City Centre Bahrain • Vapiano, City Centre Bahrain • Paul Restaurant & Bakery, Seef Mall • Oishi Sushi, Juffair Mall • Djajio Chicken • Asha’s, City Centre Bahrain • Abd El Wahab, Moda Mall

CASuAl dining • Romano’s Macaroni Grill • Hakishushi, Juffair

NOMINEES

TeA Room • Bay View Lounge, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay • The Lobby Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • The Tea Room, Trousseau • Espressamente Illy Café, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Furn Rotunda, The Westin Bahrain City Centre

PATiSSeRie

CAFÉ • Troufa, Al Raya Mall • Le Chocolat, • Delilah’s, Saar • Café Lilou • Tilly’s, Jawad Dome • Eat Café, Hamala

FRidAy BRunCh • Crowne Plaza Bahrain • Baharat, Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre • Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Le Domain [34] & Le Sauvage, The Domain Hotel & spa • La Med, The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain

• Cake Boutique, Seef • Delice, The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain • Haute Cupcakes, Seef • Patisserie ART, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Macaron, Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa sea & spa • Jena Bakery, Muharraq • Figs & Olives, The Domain Hotel & Spa • Furn Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Lilou Artisan Patisserie

FAmily-FRiendly BRunCh

CoFFeehouSe

indePendenT weeKend BRunCh

• Costa Coffee, Various Locations • Starbucks, Various Locations • Esquires, Various Locations • Gloria Jean’s Coffee, Various Locations • Caribou Coffee, Various Locations • Columbus Café & Co, Various Locations • Jasmi’s Coffee, Various Locations

• Saffron by Jena, Muharraq • Subway • Mashawi Al Abraaj • Zayt Zaytoon • El Gringo, Hamala • Al Bindaira Café

• InterContinental Regency Bahrain • Lanterns Restaurant & Lounge

FAmily-FRiendly • Marash • Dome Café • Chez Sushi, Saar • Lumee • Al Abraaj • Nu Asia • Nino

Themed dining • Movenpick Hotel Bahrain • Royal Golf Club • Bushido Restaurant & Lounge • ART Rotana Amwaj Islands

• Al Waha, The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & spa • Choices, ART Rotana Amwaj Island • Flavours on 2, Downtown Rotana • Chocoholic Friday Brunch, Sheraton Bahrain Hotel • Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa • Bahrain Bay Kitchen, Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

• Bushido Restaurant & Lounge • Café Amsterdam & La Vinoteca Barcelona • Nicole’s Meditteranean Restaurant & Lounge

newComeR • Furn Bistro & Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre • Hevea Café, Al Aali Shopping Complex • Torino Restaurant & Lounge, Adliya • Teatro, Downtown Rotana • Reem Al Bawadi, Ramada Manama City Centre • Roti Boti, Al Areen Palace & Spa • The Foundry, Adliya • Lumee Saar Kitchen, Saar Mall • Rauchi Restaurant, Ramee Rose Hotel • Fatto, Seef • Flavours of Morocco, Ramada Hotel & suites, Amwaj Islands • Cantina Kahlo, the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain fact magazine

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Food Meets Chemistry “I just want to do what I feel is the best I can do, and I want my guests to experience and feel my passion for cooking in every dish.” – Dushan Rukmal, Senior Executive Sous Chef.

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CHEF’S TABLE

MEAT, SEAFOOD, FIRE, SCIENCE AND EVERYTHING CREATIVE YOU CAN IMAGINE, THIS IS THE MOLECULAR INNOVATIVE TOUCH OF SENIOR EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF CHEF DUSHAN RUKMAL AT LE DOMAIN [34] AND LE SAUVAGE RESTAURANTS AT THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA. FACT WAS ZIPPED UP 34 FLOORS TO CHECK OUT THE FIVE-STAR DINING AT THIS INTIMATE FOOD HOTSPOT. The lyrics “started from the bottom now we’re here” has never applied more than it does to the man behind the quality food at The Domain Hotel & Spa’s Le Domain [34] and Le Sauvage restaurants. Meet Chef Dushan, hailing from Sri Lanka; he was not always on the straight and narrow, that is, until he found a passion for food and cooking.

“I come from quite a dark past,” he recalls. “My father was a professor and my mother was a principal. I was a pure addict who got kicked out of school.” Chef Dushan makes it a point to share his story in order to help us understand the professional culinary road that he has walked. Chef Dushan was 16 when he first venture into the food industry. It was after some harsh reality checks that he acted on his mother’s encouragement to take up a career as a chef.

From his humble beginnings where he attended the rigorous Ceylon Inn Hotel School in Sri Lanka, to his adventures working in Italy alongside Gordon Ramsay and his fine-dining experience at Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Madinat Jumeirah, plus many more worldwide jaunts and competition wins, Chef Dushan has tread an incredibly inspiring path to where he is today.

On the night of our visit to Le Sauvage, we were there to experience the Thursday night special dinner menu. “I’m really selfish you know,” Chef Dushan jokes. “I want to show you everything that I’m doing here and so the set menus showcase what both restaurants have to offer, all in one dinner,” he says. There are around 45 dishes in both restaurants and Chef Dushan has picked the complete best bits to assemble three set menu choices that will give you a taste of the quality food at both Le Domain [34] and Le Sauvage. It’s really a simple, clever and very sophisticated concept and there are many dishes on the menu that will surprise you.

First, let’s talk about the pre-appetiser Beef Prosciutto served with a Marinated Melon skewer. All the meat served at the restaurants is aged in-house by Chef Dushan for at least 20 days. The prosciutto is very, 128 fact magazine

CHEF’S TABLE very special; it’s been aged for a minimum of one year and it tastes damn delicious!

There’s an element of nitrogen smoke in this signature dish which highlights Chef Dushan’s molecular gastronomy training in Spain, alongside the 3-Michelin Star Chef Adrià Ferran. This “formula-cooking” continues with great, inventive presentation throughout the evening. For example, your Freshly Shucked Oysters will come with a lemon dressing in a syringe, which you release at will. There’s something pleasantly interactive and inclusive in this chemistryinspired cooking. You’ll also be served drink concoctions in test tubes and organic caviar in some more intricate dishes.

When it came to taste, every plate of food was a knockout. The Pan-Seared Foie Grass, Confit Duck Pastille is popping with flavours of wild berries and dark chocolate; while the Stockyard 150 days Wagyu Beef is a green ravioli dish infused with red onion marmalade and Jamaican pepper sauce;

MENU Beef Prosciutto Aged Steak Tartare Oakwood Smoked Norwegian Salmon Lavender Salt Crusted Sea Bass Seared Diver Scallop Wagyu Beef Cheek Bourguignon Braised Beef Shoulder Banana Flambe

then you have the thick and juicy Seared Diver Scallop that will take your breath away with its generous Summer Truffles shavings.

The La Spezia Farmers Seafood Stew is the absolutely perfect hearty winter dish, and the Wagyu Beef Cheek Bourguignon is one of the most tender meat dishes to have ever passed our lips – just beautiful and delicious.

Most things come with a side sauce or some form of seasoning (like the excellent four salt tray) in a funky jar or cool contraption.

Dessert is a whole different ball game too.

The Selection of Home Made Sorbet are all palate-pleasers, but it’s the Banana Flambe with Dark Rum, Star Anise, Cinnamon that has the whole table in awe. Not only is the fiery preparation a “wow” sight, every bite gets better than the last – we finished this off in a matter of minutes.

Chef Dushan’s food philosophy is simple: “To be a good chef you should be a good man,” he says. “To make good dishes, I think you should carry three elements: sour, sweet and salt.”

The attention to the process of serving diners with ingredients that are at their peak, is what Chef Dushan is all about. He treats the food to create favourable textures and taste, all the while still respecting the true essence of every dish.

After what turned out to be, quite possibly, the best fine-dining experience we’ve had in Bahrain this entire year, we can vouch that the only way for Chef Dushan and his team is up. “My personal goal is to promote these restaurants and find our own audience,” he says. “Then I’ll start my own food theatre.”

And what an epicurean spectacle that would be! ✤ GO: VISIT LE SAUVAGE AND LE DOMAIN [34] AT THE DOMAIN HOTEL & SPA. OPEN FOR DINNER FROM 7PM TO MIDNIGHT. CALL 1600 0000 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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2016 GCC

F D PHOTOGRAPHER SUPPORTED BY

2 nd GCC Food Photography Awards 26th November 2016 6pm, At Malja Bahrain RSVP : photoaward@gmail.com Log on to

www.photoawardme.com and learn all about it.

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VENUE PARTNER

MEDIA PARTNER

AN EVENT BY

Classic Fresh Flavours â&#x20AC;&#x153;I love to go to the market, purchase the freshest ingredients in season and just cook a storm with it. Simple dishes, properly prepared, little seasoning and as little oil or butter as possible.â&#x20AC;?

- Chef Theodor Rudiferia

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CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

THE ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS HAS BECOME ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR DINING DESTINATIONS IN BAHRAIN. FACT WENT TO MEET EXECUTIVE CHEF THEODOR RUDIFERIA AT FLAMES STEAK & SEAFOOD RESTAURANT FOR A TASTING OF ALL THINGS CLASSIC, FRESH AND FLAVOURFUL...

CHEF THEODOR BELIEIVES in simplicity and proper cooking techniques, an approach he applies to the ingredients used to cook food at the ART Rotana Amwaj Islands’ eight foodie offerings.

His mantra is “shy with the seasoning, yet elegant with presentation” – and that is something we definitely saw in the food we tried at this chef ’s table experience.

Enter Flames and you’ll be met with a wonderfully relaxed ambiance and a tempting menu featuring grain-fed aged beef seared to perfection on the grill in addition to abundant seafood specialties.

With an open kitchen, the restaurant features a classy interior and intimate booth seating areas, making it the ideal place for a romantic dinner or family affair. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar or outside on the terrace overlooking the dancing fountain at night.

Now that the scene is set, let’s get to the food! First up on the table is Burrata Cheese Heirloom Tomatoes and Olives. This classic dish is popping with colour as red, yellow and green tomatoes adorn the plate. You 132 fact magazine

can taste the high quality oilve oil, and the balsamic reduction gives a tang of sweetness, alongside the green olives from Italy. But the star of the dish is the meltin-the-mouth burrata. The mozzarella shell with its creamy interior of the burrata is a perfect match to the tomatoes, fresh basil and olive oil. It epitomises the simplicity of Italian cuisine and we loved every mouthful!

As our next dish is prepared, Chef Theodor tells us about how his interest in cooking was sparked. “It started in my early teens, cooking in the kitchen with my mother, who in my eyes is still the best cook,” he says. “My family wanted me to study economics, however I was able to convince them to allow me to pursue my dream and become a chef. After my apprenticeship at a hotel in my hometown I joined the Hotel School in Merano.”

Out comes one of the venue’s signature dishes, the Seafood Chowder. It has a creamy base and a rustic presentation (served in a bread shell). The flavour reveals a hint of tarragon and we’re told that the recipe takes its roots from the traditional New England

CULINARY SPOTLIGHT

chowder. This was definitely Chef Theodor’s own twist with whole black mussels, prawns, squid rings, fresh white fish, and garnished lightly with chives, so the flavour of the all the different ingredients comes through.

Aaah, classic comfort food!

From managing large teams of kitchen staff to attending work meetings, implementing new food initiatives and conducting menu tastings, Chef Theodor’s day is pretty packed, but he woudn’t have it any other way. “The biggest compliment a chef can get is when customers are amazed and compliment the food,” Chef Theodor says.

“That makes all the hard work and the long hours worth it. And for that you need passion in what you are doing. Once it just becomes ‘a job’, it’s a hard road ahead.”

What we’ve been eagerly waiting for, finally arrives at the table; the Australian Stockyard Wagyu Steak. This is the mighty Stockyard Silver Wagyu Beef Tenderloin with a marble score of six to seven and grain-fed for at least 400 days (yes, we were in awe too!). It’s slightly seasoned with salt and black pepper, then grilled to your preference (ours is medium), and it tastes like tender meat heaven. A huge YES for steak lovers!

This was followed by two Catch of the Day dishes; one was lemon and garlic marinated sherry with remelat, and the other was chilli and lemon marinated sherry with ponzo sauce – both were hits at the table for their lingering flavours. “We get a fresh fish delivery on a daily basis,” Chef Theodor tells us. “This fish is seasoned Mediterranean style with salt, garlic and lemon, brushed with olive oil and grilled.

Simple and healthy.”

Dessert was a fusion of beautiful tastes and textures. A delicious mini crème brulee with a crunchy top and smooth base, garnished with raspberry; a divine chocolate tart with an almost-liquid centre and a crispy base; and a carrot cake with cinnamon ice cream.

The perfect sweet end to a fabulous meal!

“We are planning great food festivals, menu changes and weekly events at ART Rotana,” Chef Theodor says. Believe us, if this food is anything to go by, we’ll be the first ones there to try it all! ✤ GO: VISIT FLAMES STEAK AND SEAFOOD AT ART ROTANA AMWAJ ISLANDS. CALL 1600 0111 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#OKTOB E R FE ST #AT #THE #GULF #HOTEL #BAHRAIN # CONVENTION #& #SPA

Guests celebrated the joy of the most famous annual Bavarian tradition with great German food at The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention and Spaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Oktoberfest 2016. Lasterbacher Musikanten Band, one of the most popular show bands from Germany was back in town for another set of amazing live music. Guests dressed up for the occasion and were seen having a merry time!

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The Barra Experience â&#x20AC;&#x153;The main thing here is that we are trying to create the same spirit we have in Spain, where people enjoy super quality food in a casual manner at the bar counter.â&#x20AC;?

- Chef Joan Gomez fact magazine

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ON THE MENU

DINNER AND DRINKS TAILORED TO YOUR PERSONAL TASTE? YES PLEASE! LA VINOTECA BARCELONA’S NEWEST FOOD OFFERING, THE BARRA EXPERIENCE, IS ONE FOR THOSE DINERS WHO APPRECIATE THE PAIRING OF DELICIOUS CUISINE WITH THE PERFECT LIQUID CONCOCTION. FACT WENT TO TRY IT OUT AND HERE’S THE VERDICT…

IF YOU’VE EATEN OUT at La Vinoteca Barcelona before, you’ll know that their passion for cooking authentic Spanish fare is deeply-rooted in the food philosophy and experience of Executive Chef and Restaurant Manager Joan Gomez.

“Cooking has been my passion since I was 13, when I began assisting my father in our hometown of Castelldefels in Barcelona,” Chef Joan says. “Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to call some of the world’s top chefs my colleagues and feel honoured to be able to bring my love of good food to Bahrain.”

Now, Chef Joan wants to bring another part of Spanish food culture to Bahrain, and we love the idea! “The main thing here is that we are trying to create the same spirit we have in Spain, where people enjoy super quality food in a casual manner at the bar counter.”

The Barra Experience is a simple yet special dining deal. “The barra experience is a personal dinner with the chef, where you’re not ordering nothing and it’s the chef ’s own creations, based on your personal taste,” Chef Joan tells us. “A full menu will be composed and paired with different kinds of sangria or infused wines or cocktails.”

When we went to have a little taster of what’s on offer, the food and drinks blew us away! First up was the Aperitve Sangria (let’s get started) which consisted of Spiced Banana Chips (crisps for any Brits! Not too oily and packed with a salt, pepper and paprika flavour); tangy Lemon Marinated Olives and White Asparagus Gems with three contrasts. It was light and refreshing with a hint of sweetness and vermouth. Each soft white asparagus had a little gelee on top with a different flavour and a little cream on top of each gelee. For example, one was like a spicy bloody mary contrast - so the cream was spicy and the jelly was tomato. There was 136 fact magazine

also a lemony one and one was a guacamole style and you get the flavour as a burst of aftertaste.

Then came the White Wine Dry Sangria (here we go) which is Homemade AirDried Tuna “mojama” with Spiced Tomato Sorbet, Manchego cheese and fresh rocket; Marinated White Anchovies on a rye bread with charcoal roasted vegetables and olive oil caviar; Ripe Avocado “empanadillas” with pistachio sand; and Black Ink Deep Fried Calamari, lemon gelee and onion suavisse.

When we say A-MAZING, we mean WOW on so many levels.

This course of food is much drier and more lemony. Our two favourite standouts were the tuna and the white anchovies. The tuna is a small tapas with the sorbet served separately . It oozes amazing flavor with a nice contrast between the salty tuna with mouthfuls of the tomato sorbet – it’s like little bites of heaven.

The anchovies are fresh and have a light fish flavour, unlike the dried black ones that you might find on pizza. The anchovies are in a lemon herb marinade for 24 hours and the rye bread is made fresh in-house, while the veg is cooked in the charcoal oven so you get a nice hint of smokiness on your palate.

The next course is Red Wine Infused with Berries (take me there) which is made up of Seared Atlantic Salmon with lemon and mustard; and Scallop, parmesan and mushroom fideua (a pasta recreation of a paella with a saltier flavour and some of the most succulent scallops you’ll taste!). his is a heavier and fruitier sangria and probably the combination of food and drink that is our favourite so far.

Stunning contemporary presentation was complemented by mouthwatering textures and tastes with little bites of perfectly-grilled salmon (still pink in the middle) with lemon

ON THE MENU

foam streaks and a little pot of mustard foam in the middle. Plus the little contrasting lemon gelee with black lemon pepper cream on top – outstanding!

The Infused Thyme Ginonic (ouhh yeah!) was next with Homemade Lemon Pie which has a yummy oreo base, as well as vanilla tuille, crispy meringue and cardamom ice cream.

This is a contemporary take on the classic gin and tonic - they make a variety of infused versions including fruit and herbs. Another taste bud-pleasing dish and drink.

Sweet Wine Florallis (I’m done!) is the last course of The Barra Experience. It ‘s a homemade assortment of chocolates “frivolities” with tiny choco bites, each different from the other, so it’s perfect for sharing; there’s a range of dark and white chocolate along with some liquor-infused treats, too. How’s that for a sweet ending?

La Vinoteca Barcelona’s food is designed to offer authentic Mediterranean cuisine that stimulates the senses. This is complemented with the beverage menu, which includes 35 of the finest Torres wines from Spain, America and Chile, also available by the glass. The Barra Experience is the absolute best way to experience all of this tasty goodness in one meal.

But where this new dining offer is really breaking boundaries is the concept of having your dinner at the bar counter. But, hey, this is Bahrain, and there’s nothing we’d welcome more than a great food concept with delectable cuisine and fine drinks. ✤ GO: THE BARRA EXPERIENCE IS PRICED AT BD20++, AVAILABLE AT THE BAR COUNTER IN LA VINOTECA BARCELONA ON THURSDAY FROM 8PM TO 11PM. CALL 3200 0171 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

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SOCIETY

#AZADEA #GROUP #HOSTS #MEDIA #TASTING #FOR #NEW #MENU #ITEMS #AT #KOSEBASI

The Azadea Group hostes selected members of the media for an exclusive dinner at Kosebasi restaurant in City Centre Bahrain. The Turkish eatery has launched some delicious new additions to its already popular menu, including a mammoth mixed grill platter with all your favourite meats and poultry, served on a table-long wood board, perfect for sharing between a big group of diners. Guests were seen tucking into the variety of popular dishes with gusto and praising the taste and flavours of the delectable food.

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ItalIan Indulgence Most of us haven’t yet been blessed with visiting Italy, but you can only imagine what the gastronomic side of it would be like. One of the closest places to a traditional Italian taverna that we’ve found in Bahrain is the rustic and warm cucina Italiana, located in Juffair – the town of tall buildings and dining enthusiasts. Our latest visit was another reminder as to why we love this venue so much.

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VENUE REVIEW

l

ocated at the entrance of al Safir Hotel, at cucina Italian the decoration is simple but unique; created with empty wine bottles, some vintage-style models of cars, and some books on an inviting shelf. But, it’s the famous mural of the godfather that gives the family corner a majestic feel. Wooden features like the parquet floors along with authentic brickwork and a wall made completely out of tree logs adjacent to the wood-fired open pizza oven, are all thoughtful elements that transport your experience to an old yet elegant Italian countryside cottage. the casual layout creates an ideal retreat for solo dining as well as family and friends’ having meals together.

Staying true to the Italian route, guests will no doubt enjoy a traditional Italian lunch or dinner. We were treated with two appetisers, four main courses, and one dessert, in addition to a couple of signature cocktails.

Starting with a tartare de Salmon - the dish was well balanced in flavour, and the generous drizzle of balsamic vinegar reduction gave it a wonderful depth. the second plate was Melenzane con gamberi, a daring twist on bruschetta with fried breaded eggplant slices topped with tomato and shrimp – can you say delish? the innovative touch blew us away. Both are such great entrées for seafood lovers! the journey through main courses took off with Branzino alla grigila, an incredibly simple yet fantastic dish of perfectly-grilled sea bass - still moist and very light when it was brought to the table. the spinach came alive with a squeeze of charcoaled lemon, every bite tasted like an Italian summer. tip: you may also want to ask the chef for a little bit more of the artichoke and sundried tomato sauce that’s used to decorate the plate because it’s seriously delicious.

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VENUE REVIEW

“THE KEY AT CUCINA ITALIANA IS TO NOT LIMIT YOURSELF TO JUST PASTA AND PIZZA...

BUT INSTEAD, ADVENTURE THROUGH THE ITALIAN REGIONS AND LET YOUR PALATE AND THE MENU GUIDE THE WAY.”

Manzo Involtini was up next and it was something that reminded us of lebanon a dish made of rolled tenderloin beef fillet, and much like the lebanese, the Italians also like to pack their food with love and a homely touch. this is the one dish that made us understand what it means to try mama’s homemade cooking. arostito de anatra a arancio, a carefully crafted dish of roasted duck made its way to the table. You might just decide not to eat it and instead stare at it or take a hundred pictures for your instagram and snapchat, because it’s just tHat beautifully presented! and, finally, we indulged in a plate of ghnocchi al Pesto di Pomodoro Sechhi di Mandora – an extraordinary comfort dish with basil potato pasta and a magnificent almond and sundried tomato pesto sauce; this should be up there on your winter warmer list!

For drinks we could have simply paired our food with a suitable glass of vino from the bar but we are advised to experience cucina’s signature cocktails and so, the Sicilian Sangria comes out. It turns out to be a superb spicy creation of red Shiraz with a touch of triple sec, fruit juices and spiced rum – all the ingredients work like the perfect storm with a hint of chilli, bell peppers and sliced fruits; exclusive to cucina Italiana. Bella Vista, on the other hand, combines the unique tastes of cherry liquor, cranberry juice and a hit of the favourite distilled beverage with a “v” that eveyone usually pairs with coke.

It’s the pleasantly surprising flavour of rosemary that had us lip-licking. the key at cucina Italiana is to not limit yourself to just pasta and pizza (though both have equally great and tasty options) but instead, adventure through the Italian regions and let your palate and the menu guide the way. But, then again, why listen to us, go on and experience it for yourself! ✤

GO: Visit Cucina Italian in Juffair. Call 1700 1317 for reservations and more information. fact magazine

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SOCIETY

#FREE COOKING #CLASS #WITH #FOUR #SEASONS #CHEF #AT #JAWAD #SUPERMARKET

Jawad Supermarketâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free weekly cooking class with Alexandra welcomed a guest chef from the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Pastry Chef, Ismail was the guest of honour at this special class where eager foodies and amateur cooks attended with pen and notepad in hand to jot down recipes, culinary tips, interesting techniques and great food facts. Guests were incredibly interactive throughout the preparing of delicious nougat.

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wheRe MoRoccaN FlavouRS coMe alive

ETHNIC CUISINE IS AT THE HEART OF CULINARY EXPERIENCES IN BAHRAIN – BUT THERE’S A NEW KID ON THE BLOCK THAT IS SET TO SHAKE UP THE SCENE. ENTER FLAVOURS OF MOROCCO… fact magazine

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NEW IN TOWN

i

t doesn’t seem possible that Bahrain could ever be without a couple of Moroccan hotspots to go to. Since when is ethnic cuisine of that level of richness not embraced? Well, anyway, it’s here now, at the brand new Ramada Hotel & Suites Amwaj Islands under the very-tothe-point name: Flavours of Morocco – in case you were baffled by the tastes and textures once you got there!

In true Moroccan form, the restaurant’s décor is a blast of colour. The venue is located on the rooftop level with stained glass windows and ornaments dotted around the sizeable space, adding floods of light to the largely dark venue – this is what gives it a mysterious touch, something that is always synonymous with Moroccan culture.

Since it was a first-for-all (despite roughly knowing what tagine is and how in Morocco your food experiences vary from palatial feasts to street-food), we let Executive Chef Ramzi Ahmad and Senior Sous Chef Youness Alaoui (from Morocco) do all the menu walking and talking.

We start with a colourful plate of mixed starters which included: Zaalouk Salad (eggplant based), Cucumber Salad (infused with orange flower water), Taktouka Salad (charred mix peppers) and then, for the brave among us, Lamb Brain Chermoula, created together in a saffron, lemon, parsley and tomato sauce. It’s white in appearance and tastes liver-y – you definitely know you’re eating an organ, but that’s part of the adventurous appeal of Moroccan cuisine. In all, a promising start.

So now, here’s the thing: we are real sticklers for good soup (maybe it’s the novelty of being in a hot country).

Whether it’s got chunky bits in it or is just creamy thick, it’s always got our vote.

So when the Harira Soup Meat came out, things got serious. This traditional soup is made up of lamb, tomatoes and chickpeas and is scented with oriental spices and 144 fact magazine

coriander, served with - best part, drum roll please - dates and lemon. Give your soup a good soaking of lemon, dunk your freshly baked Moroccan bread, that’s thick with sesame, into the soup and then finish it off with a saccharine date.

HELLO, THANK YOU, GOODBYE – just delicious!

Mains kept the ball rolling, strong. It began with Chicken Tagine followed by Tagine Royal. Tagine is a historically north African Berber dish that is named after the earthenware pot in which it is cooked. The chicken variety came swimming in preserved lemon and red marinated olives. You’ll never find a spicy dish in the Moroccan cuisine – flavours are elevated with powders such as cumin – and this tagine was super fragrant.

But let’s talk Tagine Royal. Never mind the succulent, slow-cooked (we’re told it takes four hours) braised lamb, the surrounding dry fruits shot this dish up to 10 out of 10. The combination of the savoury lamb mashed together with the sweet and tangy prunes, figs and apricots

NEW IN TOWN

make this show-stealing, insta-ready dish to-die-for. We also had a hearty serving of vegetable crowned couscous - always a favourite.

For the finale dish, we had Bastilla Bil Halib. This is puff pastry and mixed nuts flavoured with orange flower water topped with icing sugar and cinnamon powder. The mint leaf on top gave it a solid herby kick, too. So much dessert goodness!

Flavours of Morocco truly lives up to its name – you get a complete sensory experience. Being the only Moroccan fine dining destination in Bahrain allows this restaurant to shine in its own light, and boy does it deserve to. Before this little gem is discovered by the masses, make sure it’s your go-to place for authentic Moroccan fare. ✤ GO: VISIT FLAVOURS OF MOROCCO AT RAMADA HOTEL & SUITES AMWAJ ISLANDS. CALL 1600 0099 FOR RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION.

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SOCIETY

# FRENCH #THEME #NIGHT #LAUNCH #AT #CROWNE #PLAZA #BAHRAIN

Crowne Plaza Bahrain hosted a fabulously French themed evening at its La Mosaique restaurant to officially launch the French Theme night. The evening was inaugurated by HE Mr. Regnauld Fabre, Ambassador of France in Bahrain. He was accompanied by Mr. Gilles Nicolas, the General Manager of Crowne Plaza and the Executive Chef, David Miras, a few French dignitaries and prominent media people. Guests were treated to French delights that included Oysters with condiments, Foie gras on toasted brioche and crepes suzette flambees. The French theme night will be hosted every Monday, at La Mosaique.

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iT’S DeFiNiTelY

MiRchi

A MEAL AT LONG-STANDING RESTAURANT, IT’S MIRCHI, LOCATED INSIDE THE RAMEE INTERNATIONAL HOTEL IS PRACTICALLY AN EDUCATION ON HOW TO EAT PROPER INDIAN FOOD. FACT SAMPLES QUALITY DISHES THAT HAVE US DOING THE HAPPY DANCE. fact magazine

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FOODIE CORNER

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ou’re never at a shortage or hard-pressed to find good Indian food. It would basically be like saying it’s hard to find sand in Bahrain. We had heard through the foodie grapevine that It’s Mirchi (meaning it’s spicy, literally) was the best Indian food on the island. Before we go into depth about the awesomeness of the food, we’re just going to say it right off the bat: this is the real deal.

When you walk into It’s Mirchi, which is located in Juffair’s Ramee International Hotel, you’re not overwhelmed by the décor – it’s very simple and down-toearth, which kind of makes you think that the food is the main star in this restaurant experience. There’s no pretense or feeling of false intention, just honest good food.

Although we come in the mid afternoon, the restaurant is open at night with live music – we’re told this is one of the main selling points.

Let’s begin with how insanely tasty the starters are. A foursome of powerful Tandoori Tiger Prawns, Cabur Kalmi Tangri (chicken drumsticks smothered in green spinach, coriander and mint), Barra Chaamp Tandoori (succulent double rack lamb chops cooked in a clay oven) and Ajwaini Hammour (chunks of fish with onions, tomatoes and capsicum, aromatised with carom seeds). What’s great here is the vibrancy of each dish: whether green or yellow, the food is very visual, where you take a few moments to examine it first with your eyes and then devour it. The chicken drumsticks and lamb chops come with tin foil wrapped around the handles, so there’s an element of genuineness about the way you eat it. You’re made to get on with it and approach the eating process in an almost primal way.

The mains silence us. The Paneer Pasanda (a cottage cheese sandwich topped with cashew nut gavy) is something we could talk endlessly about. It comes in a cereal bowl where the sauce is thick and all-consuming, drowning the paneer, so you can’t see it at first. This is not a bad thing – the search is half the fun! With slices of cherry 148 fact magazine

smattered across the top, you get your sweet and savoury kick in the smoothest way. We scoop up the paneer with buttery Naan bread and indulge – although we have a deep dish of Biryani Gul-E Gulzaar on the table, paneer has a better relationship with bread than rice. Alongside the epic pasanda, we have a mutton dish (again, totally lost in the sauce, but uncompromisingly tasty) and Gulfnar Jalpari (Gulf prawns) – they’re like gifts that just keep giving, thank you kitchen team. There’s nothing we can fault here – only that we didn’t have the room or time to sample more.

FOODIE CORNER Dessert sees homemade milk ice cream called Kulfi Rabri which is topped with sweetened cardamom flavoured milk. It comes straight from the freezer and has an iciness to it, but the flavours are still in tact and not frozen over. The Shahi Tukra is just WOW. The combination of bread, saffron flavour milk with dry fruits is a screamer of a dessert and deserves all the praise it can get. The crispy bread adds a lot of dimension to a soft and creamy dessert.

This place should not go unnoticed in your foodie experiences of Bahrain. The story of Indian food on the island is always continuing, but at the heart of the narrative is It’s Mirchi. We’lll be back very soon! ✤

“WHAT’S GREAT HERE IS THE VIBRANCY OF EACH

GO: Visit It’s Mirchi at Ramee International Hotel, Juffair. Call 1772 7230 for reservations and more information.

DISH: WHETHER GREEN OR YELLOW, THE FOOD IS VERY VISUAL...”

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SOCIETY

#A L #HAWAJ # G ROUP #LAUNCHES #DISCOVER #AMERICA #WEEK #ACTIVITIES

Al Hawaj joined the festive celebration of “Discover America Week 2016” which was held from October 18 to 26, highlighting Americanthemed displays and special promotions for American products at its major outlets. Discover America Week is a celebration of America’s broad commercial relationship with Bahrain, which ranges across food, leisure, manufacturing, shopping, sports, and tourism. The event had a special cake cutting and players dressed in traditional American sports uniforms to entertain guests.

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ePic eaTS aT ciTY ceNTRe BahRaiN WHEN HUNGER STRIKES, THERE’S NO BETTER PLACE TO FIND A FOOD JOINT TO CURB THOSE CRAVINGS QUITE LIKE CITY CENTRE BAHRAIN. THE COUNTRY’S BIGGEST MALL IS PACKED WITH SOME OF THE BEST RESTAURANTS FEATURING A WIDE RANGE OF CUISINES. FACT BRINGS YOU SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE PLACES TO GET YOUR GRUB ON… fact magazine

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EPIC EATS

MoRelli’S GelaTo caFe This funky bright cafe is a must-visit for a family treat of the sweeter kind.

Serving up the finest Italian version of ice cream – Gelato, which has a delicious softer, smoother texture and cleaner taste than regular commercial ice cream. Select from a sumptuous range of Choc-oh-lah flavours, Tutti Frutti, Decadence, Crepes and Chocolate Fondue as well as a wide selection of hot drinks. Bella Nutella from the Choc -oh-lah flavour is a heavenly feast for the senses, oozing naughtiness... Imagine soft vanilla, Nutella, chocolate and banana gelato served with fresh banana and Piedmont hazelnuts, all topped with Nutella sauce in a chocolate cup and fresh whipped cream.

For a lighter taste, sample the delicious Yoghurt Sundae, which is low fat and low sugar yoghurt gelato served with a trio of fresh raspberries, blackberries and blueberries and sprinkled with ground Sicilian Pistachio nuts. Simply divine!

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P.F. chaNG’S A trendy and casual-dining restaurant where you can explore a vast range of tastes from Chinese and Asian cuisine; P.F. Chang’s is a food magnet! Choose to sit in the bustling mall-side decking, or for a quieter, more intimate feel, at the back in a booth. One of their most popular dishes and a signature of P.F. Chang’s is the battered shrimp with explosive spicy sauce dubbed Dynamite Shrimp. Little bites of crunchiness with a kick served in a cocktail glass – just amazing!

Offering a variety of fish and meat dishes, a must-try is the Hot Fish - crispy slices of fresh daily catch in a Sichuan sauce with stir-fried vegetables. The Great Wall of Chocolate is a crazily generous portion of six-layered moist chocolate cake and decadent chocolate frosting encrusted with chocolate chips – how good does that sound? It tastes even better!

EPIC EATS

vaPiaNo When it comes to on-the-go Italian fare, Vapiano comes close to perfect. It’s all about taking a little bit of this and a little bit of that to give you a varied experience. All you do is order some pasta, pizza or salad and then get given a buzzer, which will go off when your food is ready. Normally high quality food means pretentious settings but here you get the amazing food but a casual, no-pressure atmosphere.

Each bar height table comes with a few plants where you can just cut off leaves (mainly aromatic basil) to further season your meal. Overall, it’s very convivial. Bread and pasta – what’s not to love? If it’s olive oil drenched (which it will be) that’s all you need for a lip-smacking meal. We had Alfredo pizza (lots of variety in the cheese department) while the Risotto Scampi e Spinaci was creamy with terrifically crunchy prawns. The Carpaccio is well-worth it too. An awesome lunch spot!

aSha’S Indian food in a mall has never been more exquisite and refined than it is at Asha’s. From traditional lassi to refreshing cocktails, flavourful appetisers, fresh salads and mouthwatering mains – Asha’s is there to entice and tempt you with an authentic Indian menu. The venue is decorated with Indian flair and elegance and the food will have you talking about it for days. The Emperor’s Kebab Platter is what we’re all about; Murg Malai, Barrah, Tandoori Machli and Kerala Chilli Garlic Prawns with Cheese Garlic Naan – not only is it perfect for sharing, it’s a taste to satisfy all meat cravings and brings together tastes from different regions. The Murg Makhani (butter chicken) is beautifully fragrant and creamy while the Aloo Matar Gobi is a straight home run for Indian food! With so much good food waiting to be discovered, Asha’s should definitely make your next dinner-stop list.

waGaMaMa After much anticipation, this British import is THE fast Asian food hangout. Wagamama has always been known as one of the best places for meet-ups whether for social or business reasons and is super family-friendly too. With a mix of sushi, ramen and teriyaki options, you get the complete Asian experience in a fun and casual way. With bench-style seating and wooden interiors, you get a real modern and rustic feel at the same time. The exposed kitchen allows you to see the chefs in all their masterful glory, whipping up your food in double quick time. We had a host of Seafood Ramen (brilliant broth), Short Rib Ramen (falls of the bone so perfectly) and a stunning platter of sushi which included the famous and delectable Cherry Blossom. The Cha Han Donburi bowl of steamed rice with everything you can imagine in it, is never-ending goodness.

GO: Visit www.citycentrebahrain.com for more information. fact magazine

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VENUE FOCUS

ComFoRT, QuAliTy And ConvenienCe done RighT TAKE YOUR NEXT CONFERENCE, BUSINESS MEETING OR SPECIAL FUNCTION TO A NEW LEVEL OF CUSTOMISATION AT ELITE CRYSTAL HOTEL’S BRAND NEW MULTIPURPOSE HALL, AL OMARAA.

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W

hen you want to host a corporate meeting, product launch, smallscale exhibition, a conference, and everything in between, there are plenty of places in Bahrain to choose from. However, many can be dark, lifeless rooms with zero character and lack of equipment and facilities to meet individual clients needs. Well, that’s about to change! enter al Omaraa at the elite crystal Hotel, Juffair and you’ll be transported to a comfortable surrounding where everything from a board meeting to a training session, an awards ceremony and even a birthday party will be far from boring. From the luxurious carpet to the perfectly-placed lighting, the huge projector screens, great WiFi connectivity and multimedia facilities, this is a space that has been designed to cater to personal requirements. al Omaraa is one of the most elegant venues of its type in Bahrain. It’s cosy enough for more private, small happenings,

and big enough for larger, more formal gettogethers too. during our visit, the hotel was hosting four teams for the asian Football confederation (aFc) cup; australia, china, tajikistan and uzbekistan, all of whom had at one point or another made use of the facilities that al Omaraa provides. the set up was beautiful gold and white round tables with enough space for each person to comfortably sit, take notes and even enjoy snacks or a meal. al Omaraa consists of two function halls; the larger of the two can seat 60 people for

VENUE FOCUS

“AL OMARAA IS ONE OF THE MOST ELEGANT VENUES OF ITS TYPE IN BAHRAIN.”

dining whilst the smaller option is good for a group of 30. the venue is bright considering that natural light from the outside is scarce. We especially liked the funky interchanging light colours that came up on the ceiling – there’s no way you’ll be falling asleep in here – so get ready to look sharp and listen hard at your next seminar or workshop!

If you’re using al Omaraa’s services, elite crystal Hotel can also arrange for you to enjoy a buffet lunch at their all-day dining restaurant lotus. a fantastic spread of delicious food is served up everyday; you’ll find crunchy salads and tasty starters, hearty mains and yummy desserts. Plus the ambience is a relaxed one so you’ll really feel like you’re getting a good break from the ‘work’ setting in al Omaraa.

It’s not just formal events that al Omaraa is good for. We’d recommend it for small parties, special occasions and even poolside barbecue gatherings. For these and any other use of the hall, you can customise a food menu made up of international and oriental dishes to please guests. If you're there on business, a package that includes unlimited tea breaks with short bites, midday light snacks and a buffet lunch or dinner, can be included based on your specific wants and needs. the choice is abundant and the space is open to cater for every occasion.

With that in mind, make sure that the glamorous and state-of-the-art al Omaraa is on your list of venues when you’re planning your next event – you won’t regret it! ✤ GO: Al Omaraa is located at Elite Crystal Hotel, Juffair. Call 1736 0360 for more information.

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SOCIETY

# IND ONESIAN #FO OD #FESTIVAL #AT #AL #AREEN # PA LACE #& #SPA

Al Areen Palace & Spa hosted a week-long Indonesian Food Festival which was inaugurated by The Indonesian Ambassador – H.E Chilman Arisman.

Working in collaboration with the Indonesian Embassy, Al Areen Palace & Spa aimed to showcase the culinary expertise and unique touch of Indonesia’s most reputed Chef, Haryo Pramoe, during this food festival. The event was also attended by various dignitaries such as the Ambassadors of China – H.E Qi Zhenhong, Japan – H.E Kiyoshi Asako, Malaysia – H.E Ahmad Shahizan Abd Samad, and Philippines – H.E Alfonso A Ver. 156 fact magazine

BAHRAIN BITES

CHoCoLAte RenDezVoUs

Re/IMAGIne yoUR sAtURDAys

tRADItIonAL RoAst WeeKenDs

Paul Bakery & Restaurant, one of the region’s favourite French eateries has launched its new Chocolate Rendezvous Menu! In store now, the Chocolate Rendezvous menu is specially designed to tantalise the taste buds of all choco fans and provide a decadent treat for diners. Indulge in a selection of appetising sweetness, scientifically proven to improve your mood! From chocolate tarts and fondue, to chocolate mousse topped with fruit, the selection has been inspired by the French love affair with chocolate.

Visit Paul Bakery & Restaurant at City Centre Bahrain.

Four Seasons hotel Bahrain Bay invites you to discover the perfect saturday Brunch at re/Asian Cuisine by wolfgang Puck. soak in the immersive views from the 50th floor and feast on mouthwatering Asian selections like Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns, Wok Fried shrimp Dumplings and Brisket Wontons for BD19++. Served from 12.30pm to 3.30pm. 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.

Begin your weekend poolside and break from tradition and have a change from the usual weekend brunch. Experience instead a weekend of dining delight at the award-winning links Restaurant at the Royal golf Club. Choose from three fabulous traditional roast dinners with all the trimmings, available from noon every Friday and saturday. Alternatively, dine a la carte from the numerous menu options. to really make your meal go with a swing, indulge in the special new beverage package – just BD15 net per person for unlimited selected beverages for three hours. (only available when you order a main course).

Call 1717 2321 for reservations and more information.

Call 1711 5046 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1775 1262 for reservations and more information.

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SOCIETY

#FESTIVE #CAKE #MIXING #AT #ELITE #RESORT #& #SPA

With just over a month left for Christmas, The Elite Hospitality Group began its festive celebrations with the traditional cake mixing ceremony. Guests, media invitees, hotel management and staff took part in the fun-filled ceremony at the Elite Resort & Spa hotel in Muharraq. With the help of an enthusiastic team of Eliteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chefs, more than 230kg of assorted dry fruits and nuts were mixed with cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg at a jolly gathering.

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BAHRAIN BITES

soFIteL sURPRIses

BReW & BBQ nIGHt

tHAnKsGIVInG DInneR

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa has some delicious dining deals to tempt you this month. Go all out with the la mer Seafood Brunch every saturdays. enjoy the serene views of the Arabian Gulf and tuck into fresh fish and a variety of seafood delicacies. BD18 net including soft beverages. Known for the endless variety of continental dishes and unlimited beverages, the Friday Brunch at Saraya is the place to be with family and friends for a memorable weekend. BD36 net inclusive of unlimited beverages. At Amber Bar, happy hour is an elegant affair. Enjoy a drink and get one free, from 5pm to 7pm every day.

steak out, and enjoy the unlimited fresh salads and selection of succulent meats at the Crowne Plaza Bahrain’s newest foodie launch. Chill by the poolside or have a splash in the temperature controlled water while you enjoy the music, live cooking and ambience of dining al fresco. takes place every Wednesday from 5pm to 9pm on the Pool Side Patio. Adult: priced at BD10 net plus one free drink and use of the pool, and BD6 net for kids. start your weekend a day early with the outdoor revelry that’s perfect for the cooler season.

Who doesn’t like a full roast with all the trimmings to celebrate one of the most popular family holidays of the year? Get together with your nearest and dearest to celebrate everything that you’ve got to be thankful for at the Ritz-Carlton Bahrain. Thanksgiving is done in style as la med’s culinary team mesmerise your palate with a lavish spread of traditional turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, rolls, gravy, and pumpkin pies. Make this occasion something to be grateful for. Priced at BD24++ per person and served on november 24 from 7pm to 11pm.

GO: Call 1763 6363 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1753 1122 for reservations and more information.

GO: Call 1758 6499 for reservations and more information.

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PEP TALK

Fad Diets Don’t Work

Dining Al Fresco

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...

RECENTLY, I WROTE A MEAL plan for a new client and she was shocked at the recipes I’d given to her and commented So it’s not a diet but a lifestyle change? Correct.

Any decent fitness professional out there will tell you that fad diets don’t work, along with any diet that has a dramatic calorie deficit which will cause you to lose weight in a very short space of time as once you stop you will gain this weight back, but you’re also setting your body up for the “Famine Reaction” or “The Starvation Response” - what are they I hear you ask.

When talking to my clients I call it “Starvation Mode” and this all stems back to a time when our ancestors were hunters.

When there was plenty of food things were fine but when there was a shortage the Starvation Response was developed by nature so when food was in short supply their metabolism slowed and there fat stores kicked in. This is so they could survive until food was once again available, and any excess food was saved for the next time they were starving, but, unfortunately, as time went by and food became so widely available, this process in the human body didn’t change.

So, to avoid gaining more weight and hitting starvation mode, reduce your food intake sensibly and increase your activity levels. Remember diets don’t work, clean eating does. Otherwise the first diet you went on would be the only one you would ever need. ✤

TAKE 30 MINUTES OUT OF your busy day to wander around the cobbled streets of Block 338 in Adliya, and prepare to be amazed by all of the construction going on. And every single one of those buildings is destined to be an eatery of some kind. Oh it’s great for us fickle diners – we can savour steak on Sundays, Mediterranean on Mondays, and Turkish on Tuesdays. But it does concern me more than just a little. I mean, seriously, are there enough diners out there to ensure that all of these restaurants will survive?

In order to get ahead in Bahrain’s burgeoning food service industry, there are 3 things in my book, which separate the great restaurant from the good – comfort, quality, and seamless service.

The first two qualities go without saying, and may be applied to all eateries, from fine dining to fast food. But the last one is a biggie. It should be applied to EVERY service outlet, but usually isn’t. I don’t want to see the behind-the-scenes drama, or have to repeat my request/ question/complaint to all and sundry. Guests need to feel like they’ve entered a wonderful new world when they step into a restaurant, of happiness, joy and naturally, fabulous food. Get these three things right, and you’ve got a recipe for restaurant success. ✤

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

#MEDIA #DINNER #AT #FLORENCE # RESTAURANT

#C APITAL #CLUB #INDIAN #FO OD #FESTIVAL

Florence La Maison Méditerranéenne hosted members of the media for an exclusive dinner in its newly opened restaurant. Local media and esteemed bloggers were welcomed by the restaurant’s owners and were treated to an array of signature dishes and creative mocktails. Unique in theme, design, and food creations, Florence offers a meticulously crafted menu that appeals to the lovers of simplicity and purity in taste.

The Capital Club Bahrain presented a Tastes of India lunch for selected members of the media, treating the taste buds of guests to a selection of the finest contemporary Indian cuisine. This event was a sneak peek into the Tastes of India dining promotion which was being offered to diners for lunch and dinner. Mouthwatering starters and mains had everyone in good spirits. fact magazine

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Anna-Marie Dowling Complex General Manager at The Westin Bahrain City Centre & Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre.

WHAT KEEPS YOU EXCITED ABOUT WORKING AT THE THE WESTIN AND LE MERIDIEN BAHRAIN CITY CENTRE HOTELS...

The consistent challenge of working in a changing environment at the complex and the recent Starwood/Marriott integration, which will make us part of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest hotel company, has made it even more interesting and exciting, with a lot to look forward to in the near future.

Learning about new cultures and working in the Middle East for the first time along with waking up every day and seeing the sun shining keeps me happy and energised.

Challenging myself and the complex team to maximise every sales opportunity especially as this is such a tough and competitive market place.

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island insider

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL HOTSPOTS ON THE ISLAND AND WHY?

When I get the chance, I love Reef Island as I live there and I enjoy the views during my morning run, being surrounded by stunning turquoise water.

I recently discovered the historical site of Bahrain Fort. I am a curious by nature and fascinated about history, and I have managed to visit most of the museums. I have yet to make it to the tree of life but it is on my list of things to do.

WHAT MAKES THE TWO HOTELS STAND OUT FROM THEIR COMPETITORS? Each hotel is distinguished by its brand; The Westin is all about wellbeing and this

promise is being experienced through our wellbeing pillars that contain programmes to deliver the promise of Feel Well, Play Well, Sleep Well, Work Well, Eat Well and Move Well. Coming from the Parisian heritage, Le MĂŠridien is all about unlocking the destination through its filters of culture, cuisine and coordinates. The hotel is the hub for fascinating master art pieces inspired by the local culture that attracts the creative and curious minded travellers. My goals are around evolving and developing some more exciting new food and beverage concepts for both hotels over the next two to three years and another big project will be undertaking some rooms renovations for The Westin and, of course, doing my very best to ensure our hotels are great places to stay and work at!

Spice up your Monday nights Enjoy the finest curries and grills from across the Desi region, including all your favourites and perhaps some exotic dishes yet to be discovered. Desi Night packages are priced BD 15 Net including soft drinks and juices or BD 25 Net inclusive of selected house beverages.

Timings are 7PM until 10:30PM every Monday.

For bookings and information please call +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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