Bahrain101 - Ramadan June 2015 Issue

Insider guide to dining, nightlife, & events www. Bahrain101.com

2015

Ramadan Foodie Guide

The Best of Bahrain - Revealed

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Spa , Bahrain

Issue 02 - Ramadan 2015

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IN SI D E Ramadan 2015, Issue 02

Ramadan Foodies Guide

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Hotels

10

Manama Map

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Dining

14

Who Was Where

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Cover Image : The Ritz-Carlton Hotel & Spa , Bahrain

Welcome to our Second issue of Bahrain 101 – and our First Ramadan issue. For this issue we have cut out our listing of Friday Brunches, Business Lunches, and Ladies nights – as well as the Nightlife section, but they will be back next issue with a vengeance (… more listings, more useful info).

Bahrain 101 focuses on just 3 things – Dining, Nightlife, and Events! And, we do not try to include every single outlet – there are hundreds out there, rather we just list the best according to ourselves and our readers.

Publisher & Editor in Chief - Nicholas Cooksey Layout Designs - Dhanraj S Business Development - Redia Castillo Admin & Finance - Nikesh Pola Photography - Harold Tejada - Bench Medina

So send us your comments. We want to hear from you. If there are any places we haven’t included that you think we should, or places we have included you think we shouldn’t – tell us.

Ramadan Kareem

Distribution Executives - Mohammed Yousif - Muhammed Shareef P - Rafnaj K P

Published by:

Media P.O. Box 60357, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: +973 1700 4575 Fax: +973 1772 1722 Printed at Awal Press, Kingdom of Bahrain.

Bahrain101 is a Free supplement of Gulf Insider, Registered as Gulf Financial Insider with Ministry of Information approval no. TFI-431©. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

www.Bahrain101.com Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

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Special Feature

2015

Ramadan Foodie Guide

Confused where to feast for your Iftars and Ghabgas?

We have you covered. Here are 14 of the classiest places to enjoy Ramadan on the island.

Al Areen Palace & Spa +973 1784 5000

What: Iftar and Ghabga Buffets Where: Wadi Tent

BD 16++ (weekdays), BD 18++ (weekends); children four-12 years half price, under four free

Where: ‘Wadi Tent’

What: Khaleeji Fusion Cuisine

About: Hotel’s restaurants and unique Ballroom will make a perfect venue for Iftar or Ghabga for group and corporate gathering. Inclusive of lavish buffet, Arabic sweets and Ramadan juices; ouzi available on request.

When: Iftar – from sundown to 10 pm; Ghabga – from 10:30 pm to 1 am

Where: Saffron Al Areen

About: Lavish buffet, Arabic sweets, and Ramadan juices

About: À la carte dinner

Price: Iftar – BD 14++ (weekdays), BD 16++ (weekends); Ghabga –

What: Iftar or Ghabga Group and Corporate Events

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Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

When: From sundown onwards

When: Iftar buffet – from sundown to 10 pm; Ghabga buffet – from 10:30 pm to 1 am

Price: Iftar buffet – weekdays BD 13++ per person, weekends

Special Feature (Thursday and Friday) BD 15++ per person; Ghabga buffet – weekdays BD 15++ per person, weekends (Thursday and Friday) BD 17++ per person

offers a set menu.

Price: BD 16 net What: Ghabga Buffet

Contact: Elaine +973 3605 6153

Where: Kontiki

What: Eid Buffet

About: The diverse menu offers variety of options.

Where: Wadi Tent When: July 17 to 19, 12:30 pm to 4 pm

When: From 21 pm to 1:30 am

Price: Starts from BD 12 net

theme. The buffet features a wide selection of traditional Bahraini fare as well as Lebanese, Egyptian, Indian, Asian, and global cuisine with a number of live cooking stations.

During the holy month, a professional live band will be playing mellow traditional tunes in the shisha lounge.

Price: Iftar (Al Bahrain Ballroom) BD 25++, Ghabga (Al Bahrain Ballroom) BD 26++, Iftar or Ghabga (Bahrain Bay Kitchen) BD 18++

Price: BD 18++, children – under four years free of charge, four-12 years 50 per cent off

ART Rotana +973 1600 0111 What: Iftar and Ghabga Buffets Where: Choices When: Iftar – from sunset to 8 pm, Ghabga – from 9 pm to 1 am About: Serving traditional Arabic cuisine Price: BD 15++ (weekdays), BD 17++ (weekends)

Crowne Plaza 17++ (weekends) +973 1753 1122 What: Iftar Buffet Where: La Mosaique When: From 8.30 onwards

The Domain Hotel

The Domain Hotel +973 1600 0000

About: A buffet with different offering each day, serving traditional Arabic cuisine

What: Iftar Buffet

Price: BD 12.5++ (inclusive of soft drinks) What: Eid Lunch Buffet Where: La Mosaique

The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel Residence & Spa Price: BD 13++ +973 1753 1666

What: Eid Buffet Where: Bahrain Bay Kitchen When: From 12:30 to 4 pm

Where: Le Domain

About: A wide international buffet with live entertainment in

When: From sunset to sunrise

Price: BD 35++ including beverages.

About: Break your fast with family and friends and celebrate the holy month of Ramadan with The Domain, 34 floors above Bahrain’s skyline.

What: Arabic Favorites Brunch

Price: BD 12++ (special discount available for groups of ten and above)

Where: Ramadan tent About: Bahraini dishes in addition to Persian and Indian specialties.

When: From 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm Price: BD 25++

Four Seasons +973 0171 15000

Golden Tulip Hotel Bahrain +973 1753 5000

What: Iftar Buffet

What: Iftar and Ghabga Buffets

Where: Al Fanar

Where: Al Bahrain Ballroom and Bahrain Bay Kitchen

What: Iftar Buffet and Ghabga

When: Iftar – from sunset till 8 pm, Ghabga – from 9 pm till 2 am

When: Iftar – from sunset onwards; Ghabga: from 2 am onwards

About: The venue includes the main dining area and shisha lounge overlooking the Manama skyline, all dressed up in a modern Arabesque

About: Iftar buffet offers traditional regional delicacies, while Ghabga is to be ordered à la carte. Private mini tents will be set up on the outdoor terrace.

When: Iftar – from sunset to 8:30 pm; Ghabga – from 9 pm to 1:30 pm About: The unique Al Fanar hall is located on 14th floor. Iftar buffet features a variety of traditional Bahraini dishes (for private events, à la carte menu is available), while Ghabga

Where: Al Wasmeyyah

Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

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Special Feature elaborate buffet. The menu consists of four types of starters, including soups and grills, which are served on the table in a small barbecue apparatus.

Other features include live cooking station for stir-fry dishes and seafood corner where you can handpick your fish and have it prepared the way you like it; 12 different kinds of salads; ten main course options; and an array of sweet treats.

Price: Iftar buffet at the Budaiya branch is priced at BD 5.9 and at Adliya and Riffa branches BD 6.9.

Golden Tulip Hotel Bahrain Price: Iftar – BD 9.9++; children – under six years free of charge, six-12 years 50 per cent off; Ghabga – charged à la carte What: Iftar and Ghabga Buffets Where: Ramadan tent When: From sunset onwards About: Traditional Arabic and international cuisine Price: Starting from BD 10.05++

Gulf Hotel +973 1771 3000

Where: Al Thurayya tent About: Feel the spirit of Ramadan and go back in time to culture and tradition with a special Arabic Iftar and Ghabga buffet that has all your Ramadan favorites, shisha, and live entertainment from Trio Dori Abboud.

Price: Iftar starts from BD 13++, Ghabga starts from BD 15++

Lanterns +973 1759 0591 (Budaiya), +973 1725 0999 (Adliya), and +973 7736 6333 (Riffa)

What: Iftar Buffet

What: Sundown Celebrations

Where: Al Waha and Takht Jamsheed

Where: Located across five locations – Budaiya, Adliya, Durrat Al Bahrain, Juffair, and Riffa

When: From sunset to 8:30 pm About: Traditional Arabic dishes and sweets Price: BD 17++; children – under six years free of charge, six-12 years 50 per cent off

About: A lavish ‘maharaja style’ Iftar where you can sample a wide range of sub continental delicacies in an

What: Ramadan Tent Where: Khaimat Al Khaleej Ramadan tent When: From 9 pm onwards About: Traditional Arabic dishes and sweets Price: BD 16++ (Sat-Wed), BD 18++ (Thu-Fri)

InterContinental Regency Bahrain +973 1722 7777 What: Arabic Iftar and Ghabga Buffets 6

Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

Lanterns

Le Méridien Bahrain City Centre +973 1717 1441 What: Baharat (Ramadan Tent) When: Iftar – from sunset to 8 pm; Ghabga/Sohour – from 9 pm to 2 am; shisha tent open till 2 am About: Seating capacity: 148 indoor + 28 outdoor; restaurant style: family/ casual dining; dress code: smart casual; smoking permitted outdoor (shisha); entertainment: live oud player; Arabic Chef Raafat.

Price: Iftar Buffet BD 16++; Ghabga/ Sohour – à la carte menu Exclusive offer: In partnership with UBER, the premium private transportation company, an exclusive offer includes a ride with value of BD 4 for non SPG members and BD 8 for SPG members with Iftar or Ghabga/ Sohour.

Special Feature

The Westin Bahrain City Centre What: Ramadan Laban Smoothies Special Menu Where: T-spoon When: From sunset to 1 am About: Special laban smoothie menu available What: Break Your Fast Buffet Where: T-spoon When: From sunset to 8 pm About: Arabic coffee setup, juices, laban, dried fruits, nuts, dates, oriental sweets

Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain +973 1746 0017 What: Ramadan Iftar Buffets Where: Gallery and Silk’s About: Break your fast with a delicious Iftar buffet, featuring numerous live cooking stations and many flavour-rich dishes to choose from.

Price: BD 18.1 net, with options to book a majlis (Arabic couch) for minimum of seven and maximum of ten guests (bookings of 25 and above get a special price of BD 15.7 net)

What: Iftar and Ghabga Buffets Where: Acacia Ballroom

What: The Glow – Ramadan Lounge

by Jaguar, Land Rover

When: Iftar starts from sunset until 9 pm; Ghabga starts at 9 pm until 2 am

When: Iftar – from sunset to 8 pm, Ghabga – from 9 pm to 2 am

About: Exciting Arabic flavours will be served at an extensive nightly buffet, including a wide range of authentic Middle Eastern specialities and a selection of beverages, with live music, henna arts, and fun games.

About: Premiering in the Middle East, The Glow – Ramadan Lounge

by Jaguar, Land Rover at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain heralds a new era for your Ramadan celebrations – featuring thirteen metre high, domeshaped pavilion, complimented by large see-through verandas towards the night’s sky, and an avantgarde car display, rotating on a daily basis. The luminous décor, fusion cuisine, and state-of-the-art architecture of The Glow is designed to make you indulge in a Ramadan experience re-imagined

by The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain.

Price: BD 14++.

What: Etihad Airways Raffle About: All guests who dine at Iftar or Ghabga will be automatically entered into a raffle draw to win Etihad Airways tickets across Europe and the Far East Asia destination. The more you dine the more chances of winning!

Price: BD 32++ per person, including Iftar or Ghabgha buffet; shisha BD 7++ (classic), BD 8++ (special)

What: Special Eid Brunch Where: Lemon Tree

What: Iftar Buffet

When: Second day of Eid, from 12 pm to 4 pm

Where: Al Khayma

About: Families and friends are invited to enjoy a delectable buffet spreads overflowing with Middle Eastern favourites, fresh juices, and classic dishes from around the world, with live cooking stations and live entertainment.

About: Enter the realm of Ramadan as you step into a maze of lights, scents, and colours inside the Al Khayma. The hotel’s Ramadan tent and its Moroccan-inspired décor will take you to an awakening sensory experience where the pleasure of breaking the fast marries the joy of sharing lasting memories with family and dear ones.

Price: BD 18++ (half price for children)

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa

+973 1711 1999

+973 1758 6499

When: From sunset to 8 pm

Price: BD 24++ What: Ghabgha Buffet Where: Al Khayma When: From 9 pm to 2 am About: Rejoice in lavish buffet presentations and the many live cooking stations of our Arabic chefs.

Extensive selection of dates, breads, succulent mixed grills, roasted whole lamb, and a colorful dessert bar will revitalise your senses as you savor each night of the holy month, complimented by four-piece entertainment band.

Price: BHD 26++ What: Private Pergolas Where: Al Khayma

Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa

When: Daily during the Holy Month of Ramadan; choice of Iftar or Ghabgha

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Special Feature What: VIVA Raffle About: In partnership with VIVA, guests will get a chance to win latest devices and many more exciting prizes. The more you dine the more chances of winning!

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Hotel +973 1763 6363 What: Magnifique Ramadan Where: Ramadan tent When: From 10 pm – 1:30 am The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa

Sheraton Bahrain Hotel

About: A series of Iftar and Ghabga buffets. Planned as one of the largest in Bahrain, the hotel’s Ramadan tent will feature a night sky themed decorated ceiling, with games such as playing cards, dominoes, chess, and backgammon available, and Bassem Osman band performing traditional Arabic music.

About: You will treat your family and friends to a memorable Ramadan celebration as you enjoy the comforts and dedicated service of your own private pergola for Iftar and Ghabga, including silver service of selected hot buffet items and three complimentary shishas.

What: Iftar Buffet About: Traditional and international dishes, including live cooking station.

Price: BD 19++

Price: BD 250++ per pergola for up to six guests; shisha BD 7++ (classic), BD 8++ (special)

Price: BD 15.9++ (weekdays), BD 16.9 (weekends); children – under four years free of charge, four-12 years BD 8.5

All information is subject to change as per the decision from respective restaurants.

+973 1753 3533 ext. 259

Where: Awali Ballroom

Introduction to Ramadan What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the Islamic month of fasting, but it’s about much more than refraining from eating and drinking from dawn till dusk - giving to charity is also a very important aspect of the holy month. During Ramadan, working hours at government institutions and for all Muslims are reduced from eight to six hours. Many businesses will operate different hours. Shops and malls will typically close for much of the day and be open until late at night instead.

Fasting And Etiquette It is expected that all Muslims fast during the holy month. Exceptions are made for pregnant women and those suffering from a medical condition that could be aggravated by fasting. While non-Muslims are not expected to fast, they are not

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Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

supposed to eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public. Also, avoid listening to loud music and dress modestly. To engage in any of these activities in public during daylight hours is not only considered offensive, but it is illegal.

Suhoor

Iftar

Eid Al-Fitr marks the end of the month of Ramadan, when the entire community comes together for special prayers and celebrations.

There is also the second Eid - Eid Al-Adha - which commemorates the completion of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Iftar is the Arabic word for the meal served at sunset when the Muslims break their fast.

Ghabga After Iftar, Ramadan can be celebrated by engaging in the local custom of ghabga, which translates as “meal at late night”. These are sociable occasions where family and friends gather in often large groups to feast and enjoy the company of each other.

An Islamic term referring to the meal consumed just before sunrise

by Muslims – the last meal before starting their day’s fast.

Eid

Dates Ramadan in 2015 will be from around 17th or 18th June until the 16th or 17th July Eid al-Fitr will be from around 17th July Eid al-adha will be from around 22nd September

Listings

5 Star & Premium 4 Star Hotels – with fine dining outlets (details in dining section)

During Ramadan restaurants will not serve alcohol and will be closed during the day – opening only after sunset, though most hotels will have a restaurant open serving breakfast and lunch though it will be done discreetly so as not to offend those fasting. Some restaurants will be closed for the duration of Ramadan so if in doubt you should check to confirm.

5 STAR HOTELS

Imari (Japanese) Txoko (Lounge)

Al Areen Palace & Spa Luxury private villas and seclusion far from Manama. Large, well equipped Spa. No alcohol served. Located Al Areen close to F1 circuit, Tel: 1784 5000 alareenpalace.com

Four Seasons A soaring architectural statement on its own exclusive island. Manama, Tel: 1711 5000 fourseasons.com/bahrain

Saffron Al Areen (Middle Eastern) Keizo (Asian) Art Rotana Located in Amwaj islands, a short distance from Bahrain International Airport, Tel: 1600 0111 rotana.com/artrotana Flames (Steak & Seafood) Rosso (Italian) WU Asian Restaurant (Asian) Crowne Plaza Large business and conference venues and an array of restaurants, bars, and cafes, plus health club. Diplomatic area, Tel: 1753 1122 cp-bahrain.com Spices (Indian) Waves (Seafood) Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Mediterranean bistro, Irish pub, large lagoon pool, and a Thai-inspired spa. Diplomatic area, Tel: 1753 1666 radissonblu.com Kontiki (Asian) Mondo (Italian) The Domain Bahrain Hotel Boutique Hotel with several trendy restaurants, lounges, and bars.

Diplomatic area, Tel: 1600 0000 thedomainhotels.com Le Sauvage (Steakhouse) 10

Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

CUT by Wolfgang Puck (Steakhouse) re Asian Cuisine - Wolfgang Puck (Asian) Vento (Italian) The Golden Tulip Located in the Diplomatic Area, facing the World Trade Centre, Tel: 1753 5000 goldentulipbahrain.com Mawal (Lebanese) Gulf Hotel Adliya, Tel: 1771 3000 gulfhotelbahrain.com China Garden (Chinese) Fusions (International Fusion) La Pergola (Italian) Margarita Mexicana (Mexican) Royal Thai (Thai) Sato (Japanese) Takht Jamsheed (Iranian) Zahle (Lebanese) Rasoi by Vineet (Indian) InterContinental Regency Bahrain Recently renovated business hotel in central Manama.

Diplomatic area, Tel: 1722 7777 icbahrain.com Legendz (Steakhouse) Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre Directly connected to City Centre Mall, the hotel has meeting and dining venues. Seef, Tel: 1717 1111 lemeridienbahraincitycentre.com

Baharat Restaurant (Middle Eastern) Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain Next to the airport, boutique style hotel overlooks a lagoon, Tel: 1746 0000 moevenpick-hotels.com/bahrain Silk’s (Thematic) Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa Close to major shopping centers.

Outlets include Japanese restaurant on 27th floor. Seef, Tel: 1711 1999 rameegrandbahrain.com Ruka (Japanese) Rialto (Italian) Rasoi (Indian) The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain Hotel & Spa Direct access to a private beach and lagoon, and adjacent to the popular Trader Vic’s restaurant.

Seef, Tel: 1758 0000 ritzcarlton.com La Med (Mediterranean) Plums (Steakhouse) Primavera (Italian) Nirvana (Indian) Sheraton Bahrain Hotel Next to Bahrain World Trade Centre.

Diplomatic area, Tel: 1753 3533 sheraton.com Golestan (Iranian) Soie (Chinese) AlSafir (International) Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa Private beach. Located out of town, close to F1 circuit. Zallaq, Tel: 1763 6363 sofitel.com La Mer (Thematic) WOK (Asian) Pashawat (Regional)

Listings Saraya (International) The Westin Bahrain City Centre Directly connected to the mall and featuring dining venues, meeting rooms and spa. Seef, Tel: 1717 1000 westinbahraincitycentre.com Saveur Restaurant (International) Nasmat Lounge (Mediterranean)

5 STAR APARTMENT HOTELS Fraser Suites Within walking distance of Bahrain’s main shopping. Seef, Tel: 1756 9333 frasershospitality.com Marriott Exec. Aprts. Close for both central Manama and the restaurants and nightlife of Juffair and Adliya, Tel: 1736 3999 marriott.com

PREMIUM 4 STAR HOTELS Al Bander Hotel & Resort – Private chalets on the sea front Ideal for watersports. There’s a big outdoor pool and a bowling alley.

Sitra, Tel: 1770 1201 albander.com Al Safir Hotel Leasure and business hotel. Juffair, Tel: 1782 7999

alsafirhotel.com The Dragon Hotel on the sea looking across Amwaj Bay. Amwaj Tel: 16 033 833

Leisure facilities & Business district convenience. Muharraq, Tel: 1729 8008 novotel.com La Perle (Thematic) Zytoun (Mediterranean)

Elite Crystal Hotel Leasure and business hotel with the popular K360 nightclub downstairs. Juffair, Tel: 1722 4000

The Palace Boutique Hotel Chic boutique hotel. Adliya, Tel: 1772 5000 thepalace.com.bh

Awtar (Lebanese)

Masso (Mediterranean)

Elite Resort & Spa On the sea looking across at Manama’s business district, and home to one of the island’s biggest spas. Muharraq, Tel: 1731 3333 elitegroup4u.com

Ramada Hotel Located in Adliya just a short drive from the center of the city, Tel: 1774 2000 ramada.com

The Juffair Grand Boutique and Business hotel previously known as Best Western. Popular for its nightclub - Wranglers, Tel: 1782 7600 thejuffairgrand.com Mercure Grand Walking distance from Seef and Al A’ali Malls Tel: 1758 4400 mercurebahrain.com Monroe Located in the busy Exhibition road Tel: 1729 6699 Novotel Al Dana Resort A beachside property combining

Ramada Palace Located in Gudaibiya Avenue, Tel: 1729 6660 ramadapalacehotel.com

4 STAR APARTMENT HOTELS Al Manzil Close to - Adliya/Juffair’s restaurants and nightlife, Tel: 1781 3366 almanzilhotelbh.com Elite Group - a choice of properties in Bahrain for long term guests, Tel: 1722 4000 elitegroup4u.com Tulip Inn Bahrain close to Dana Mall in Manama, Tel: 1755 5060 tulipinnsuitesbahrain.com

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The Ritz-Carlton

Seef Ramee Grand Le Meridien The Westin Al Aali Mall Fraser Suites Seef Mall

City Centre Shopping Mall

Mercure Grand

Al Areen Palace & Spa Sofitel Zallaq Thalassa

Central Business District

Bahain International Circuit Royal Golf Club

Dana Mall

Budaiya Bahrain Mall Saar Saudi Causeway

Tubli

Map of Manama area * Not to scale

Isa Town Riffa

5 Star Hotels 4 Star Hotels Malls

Mรถvenpick Art Rotana Bahrain International Airport Dragon Hotel

Four Seasons

Elite Resort Novotel

Crowne Plaza Diplomat Radisson Blu

Muharraq

Moda Mall

Golden Tulip The Domain Sheraton

Diplomatic Area

InterContinental Regency

Manama Ramada Palace

Monroe

Adliya

Marriott Ramada

Al Safir Gulf Hotel

The Palace

Sitra

Al Bander Hotel & Resort

Juffair

The Juffair Grand

Elite Crystal

Dining

Dining Outlets listed based on our own knowledge and feedback we receive from Bahrain 101 users. Share your own experiences and comments on outlets via Facebook. We do not edit nor censor genuine comments, but expect people to be polite.

During Ramadan restaurants will not serve alcohol and will be closed during the day – opening only after sunset. Some outlets are closed for the entire month of Ramadan. If in doubt you should phone to confirm.

Categories: ASIAN Chinese Indian Japanese Thai Asian – various

EUROPEAN + AMERICAN American Italian French European – various

MIDDLE EASTERN Bahraini Lebanese Iranian Middle East – various

INTERNATIONAL – OTHER Polynesian Mexican nternational – various

Ruka – fushion Japanese restaurants on the 24th floor of the Ramee Grand Hotel (1711 1999) restaurants. Usually busy. Um Al Hassan, Tel: 1772 8700.

Soie An upscale Chinese market that is a capsule of calm in the Central Business District. Sheraton Hotel, Tel: 1753 3533.

STEAKHOUSE SEAFOOD CAFES FAMILY

ASIAN CHINESE China Garden Premium restaurant with enchanting décor and interesting dishes. Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Tel: 1774 6423.

Hong Kong One of Bahrain’s most established Chinese 14

Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

INDIAN

Rasoi Fine dining Indian restaurant. Ramee Grand Hotel, Seef, Tel: 1711 1973.

Rasoi by Vineet First fine-dining Indian restaurant in Bahrain operated by a Michelin starred chef. The Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Tel: 1771 3000

Clay Oven Adliya, Tel: 17 717 008

Spices Indian fine dining at the Crowne Plaza, Diplomatic Area, Tel: 1753 1122.

Copper Chimney Um Al Hassan, Tel: 17 728 699

JAPANESE

Lanterns Enjoyed for its slightly kooky décor as much as for its high excellent dishes. Several locations (each has a different personality) Tel: 1724 6777.

Nirvana High class intimate setting.

Ritz-Carlton, Seef Tel: 17 580 000.

Akiko Eatery offering high standards in contemporary Japanese cuisine.

Adliya, Tel: 1771 7080.

Imari Japanese Restaurant at the Domain Hotel, Manama, Tel: 1600 0333.

Kei Popular for its maki. Golden Tulip, Tel: 1753 5000.

Dining Maki A well-reputed chain in the Middle East featuring innovative takes on sushi and maki.Moda Mall, Tel: 1752 2733.

Mirai Trendy lounge serving contemporary Japanese food, not just sushi. Adliya, Tel: 1771 3113.

Primavera Overlooking the hotel gardens and out to sea.

Ritz Carlton. Tel: 1758 0000.

Plums – fine dining steakhouse located at the Ritz – Carlton Hotel (1758 0000)

THAI

Aroma Luxurious and modern Middle Eastern shisa café offering food. Popular with all nationalities.

Seef Mall, Tel: 1758 2711.

Hash House Adliya, Tel: 17 715 094 Royal Thai Beautiful high class Thai restaurant with an emphasis on seafood. Gulf Hotel, Adliya. Tel: 1771 3000.

Thailand Traditional Thai food.

Adliya, Tel: 17 717 040

ASIAN - VARIOUS Bushido Enormous Samurai-themed Japanese restaurant by day, and offshoot of Buddha Bar by night. Seef, near Ritz-Carlton. Tel: 1758 3555.

Meisei Stylish pan-Asian restaurant spread out over three floors with a trendy rooftop bar. Serves Japanese, Chinese, Korean and fusion.

Adliya’s block 338, Tel: 1700 7770.

Monsoon Fine East-Asian cuisines served in a beautiful pavilion Adliya, Tel: 1774 9222.

Nu Asia Popular lunchtime venue. Al Ali Mall, Tel: 17 587 171 re Asian Cuisine | Wolfgang Puck New dining experience on the 50th floor of the Four Seasons. Bahrain Bay, Tel: 1711 5000.

Non Alcoholic

Café Lilou French themed café serving light meals.

Adliya, Tel: 1774 1440.

Coco’s Very popular, especially when the weather is good as it has a large enclosed garden. Adliya, Tel: 1771 6512.

Dome Café Part of the London

From next month we will further improve listings by including icons to help you decide if an outlet is your sort of place • Smoking allowed • Outdoor seating • Romantic • Fine dining • Children friendly • Live music • Non alcohol

chain of trendy yet cozy bistros.

Juffair and Seef, Tel: 1781 0180.

Le Chocolat Famed for specialty dishes including their chocolates (of course)… and people rave about their burgers and pizzas. Seef, Tel: 1758 2259.

The Ritz Gourmet Lounge Decorated in the style something akin to the Palace of Versailles, offering teas and delicacies.

Ritz-Carlton, Tel: 1758 0000.

Veranda Interior garden themes and interesting knick knacks to buy. There are now 3 in the chain located in Adhari, Amwaj, and Adliya, Tel: 1771 5868.

pr@gulf-insider.com

CAFES

If we missed somewhere you feel deserves listing, please email us its details and we will consider including it next month –

Sato Excellent sushi and teppanyaki, with private rooms. Gulf Hotel, Tel: 1771 3000. Adliya, Tel: 17 717 080

YOUR FAVORITE PLACE ISN’T HERE?

Ruka Fusion Japanese dishes with panoramic views of Manama from the 24th floor. Ramee Grand Hotel, Seef, Tel: 1711 1999.

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Dining

EUROPEAN + AMERICAN AMERICAN Bennigan’s American themed diner with live music in the evenings. Al Safir Hotel, Juffair. Tel: 1781 3750.

Hard Rock Café Part of the international chain of themed restaurants. Live music.

Exhibition Road, Tel: 17 291 569 Johnny Rockets Themed burger bar. Al Ali Mall and Amwaj Lagoon, Tel: 17 566 565 Ric’s Kountry Kitchen American restaurant with a lively karaoke night and separate bar that’s very popular with Americans. Near Al Jazira supermarket, Juffair. Tel: 1772 5550.

FRENCH Camelot Friendly bar and restaurant located in a faux castle. Live singer.

Adliya, Tel: 3997 7540.

La Fontaine A spectacular and romantic restaurant hidden away amongst small streets close to the centre of Manama.

Manama, Tel: 1723 0123.

Le Sauvage Masculine, leatherbound restaurant on the 36th floor with great views. Le Domain, Tel: 1600 0000.

ITALIAN Bice Modelled on a restaurant with a proud Italian heritage going back to the 1920s. Moda Mall, Tel: 1753 3666.

Café Italia Stylish restaurant, modern Italian cuisine Adliya, Tel: 1774 4774.

Cico’s In Bahrain for 35 years, traditional Italian meals Adliya, Tel: 1771 3710.

Cucina Italiana Home-made 16

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Le Sauvage – fine dining steakhouse set on the 36th floor of The Domain Hotel (1600 0000) pasta, and wood-fired pizza. Al Safir Hotel, Juffair. Tel: 1700 1317.

Mediterranean and Arabic cuisine. The Ritz Carlton, Seef, Tel: 1758 6499.

La Pergola Italian favourites in opulent Roman-style settings. Gulf Hotel, Tel: 1774 6419.Oliveto’s restuarant and lounge, beautiful outdoor seating. Adliya, 1771 6747.

La Vinoteca Barcelona Serving a selection of authentic Spanish tapas, mains and desserts. Adliya, Tel: 1700 7808.

Masso Strong focus on quality organic ingredients. The Palace Boutique Hotel, Tel: 1772 1061.

Mondo Mediterranean favourites in cool surroundings. Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Tel: 1753 1666.

Prego Family friendly. Royal Golf Club, Tel: 1775 0777.

Rialto Authentic old country dishes served up by chef Mateo. Ramee Grand Hotel and Spa, Tel: 1711 1974.

Roma Italian fare with live music every night. Um al Hassam, Tel: 1772 3818.

Vento Open-air poolside Italian-style restaurant Four Seasons Bahrain Bay, Tel: 1711 5000.

EUROPEAN - VARIOUS Café Amsterdam and Vino Barcelona 2 European restaurants joined to one another and sharing a large enclosed outside area. Adliya, Tel: 32 000 177 La Med Popular for its buffet, offer a blend of Arabic breakfast,

Nicole’s Mediterranean Restaurant and Lounge at Block 338, Tel: 1728 0700.

Tapas Serves a wide range of tapas and cocktails on the seafront. Sofitel. Tel: 1763 6363.

Txoko A Basque-inspired sky lounge serving tapas. The Domain, Tel: 1600 0000.

From next month we will further improve listings by including icons to help you decide if an outlet is your sort of place • Smoking allowed • Outdoor seating • Romantic • Fine dining • Children friendly • Live music • Non alcohol

Dining

INTERNATIONAL OTHER

MIDDLE EASTERN

INTERNATIONAL - VARIOUS

Bayti Trendy Bahraini outlet. Next to Bahrain Financial Harbour, Tel: 17 29 778

Fusions East meets west at this venue where chefs blend Asian and Mediterranean cuisines. Gulf Hotel, Tel: 1771 3000.

Mei N You One of the only restaurants in Amwaj lagoon that serves alcohol, the cuisine draws from international influences.

Amwaj Lagoon, Tel: 1601 0160. Live band every Friday.

BAHRAINI

Saffron AlAreen Menu inspired by modern Bahraini dishes blended with European & Khaleeji fusion. Al Areen Palace & Spa, Tel: 1784 5000.

Villa Mamas Located in a converted villa. Opposite Saar Cinema, Tel: 17 305 031

IRANIAN Upstairs Downstairs Live music nightly, a jazz band plays on weekends. Adliya, Tel: 1771 3093.

Zoë Restaurant with rooftop and basement lounges. Adliya, Tel: 1771 6400.

MEXICAN Casa Mexicana Adliya, Tel: 1771 5521 Margarita Mexicana First finedining Mexican restaurant in Bahrain.

The Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Tel: 1771 3000.

Senor Pacos Bahrain’s popular lively Mexican themed restaurant. Adliya, Tel: 1772 5873.

POLYNESIAN

Golestan Iranian fine dining restaurant at Sheraton Bahrain Hotel, Manama, Tel: 1753 3533.

Takht Jamsheed Flavoured Iranian specialties and fresh oven-baked breads at The Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Tel: 1771 3000.

LEBANESE Bey Route Lebanese restaurant and deli. Budaiya Tel: 1728 0111.

Kenza Lebanese and Iranian fare.

K Hotel, Juffair, Tel: 17360 000.

Mawal Lebanese cuisine, set menu, live Lebanese and Iraqi singers and belly dancers.

Golden Tulip – Diplomatic area, Tel: 17 535 000 ext. 8543

Outlets listed are based on specific comments and recommendations, initially from the Bahrain 101 editorial team who have usually experienced the outlets, and thereafter from our readers and via social media. We are bound to miss out a few worthy places in our first few issues so please excuse us and send us your views on who else you think we should include.

Rayes Lebanese food with outdoor seating looking across a small marina. Fateh Corniche, Manama, Tel: 17 312 700 Shoo Fe Ma Fee Lebanese dining. Adliya, Tel: 17 311 280 Zahle Lebanese cuisine, belly dancing. Gulf Hotel, Adliya, Tel: 1774 6417.

MIDDLE EASTERN - VARIOUS Bahart Dishes from across the Arab world, accompanied by sounds of live Oud player. Le Meridien Bahrain City Centre, Tel: 1717 1111.

Kontiki Asian food in stylish surrounding. Diplomat Radisson Blu, Tel: 1753 1666.

Trader Vic’s Signature cocktails in a sociable atmosphere. Sit outside to enjoy one of the most beautiful settings in Bahrain. Ritz Carlton, Tel: 1758 6555.

no padding, just info!

Mawal - Lebanese fine dining at the Golden Tulip (1753 5000 ext. 8543)

Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

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Dining

STEAKHOUSES Butcher Shop & Grill South African family chain. Non alcohol.

City Centre, Tel: 17 172 323 CUT by Wolfgang Puck Bahrain’s newest steakhouse located at the Four Seasons.

Bahrain Bay, Tel: 1711 5000.

Ibrida Live music. Ramee Grand Hotel & Spa - Seef, Tel: 17 111 999 Lanterns – Indian cuisine, “kooky” interiors, several locations (1724 6777)

FAMILY Non Alcohol Al Abraaj Offers both Arabic and International cuisine.

Branches throughout Bahrain.

Burger Lounge Serves gourmet burgers, salads and side dishes in a venue as trendy as any nightspot.

Amwaj Lagoon. Tel: 7705 5772.

Chili’s Serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwesternstyle setting. Tel: 1750 6070

SEAFOOD Fish Market Fresh seafood prepared to your own taste and liking. Al Bander Hotel & Resort, Sitra, Tel: 1770 1201.

ESSENTIAL INFO 24-Hour Pharmacies Jaffer Pharmacy Tel. 1729 1039 18, Tarfah bin Al Abid Avenue, Manama 319 Nasser Pharmacy Tel. 1774 0900 63-B, Qadisiya Avenue, Manama 332 Awal Pharmacy Tel. 1777 2023 30 Shaikh Ali bin Khalifa Avenue, East Riffa 901 Muwasaa Pharmacy Tel. 1733 5666 Shaikh Mohd bin Salman Avenue, Road 205, Muharraq 18

Bahrain101.com | Ramadan 2015

P.F. Chang’s Asian-themed diner located in Bahrain City Centre Tel: 1717 9757.

Legendz at the InterContinental Regency Bahrain, Manama, Tel: 17 227 777.

The Meat Co. South African restaurant with roof bar. Adliya, Tel: 1774 2080.

T.G.I Friday’s International chain focusing on casual dining. Bahrain City Centre, Juffair Tel: 1717 9041

Plums Fine dining steakhouse.

Ritz-Carlton, Seef, Tel: 1758 0000.

Also see:

Also see Le Sauvage (French)

Butcher Shop & Grill (Steakhouses) Chili’s (American) Johnny Rockets (American)

La Mer Select your meal from the display and watched it cooked before your eyes. Sofitel Bahrain Thallassa Sea & Spa, Zallaq, Tel: 1763 6363.

Flight Information Airline offices are normally open from 8am to 12.30pm and from 3pm to around 5pm, Saturday till Wednesday.

Flight Info 1733 9339 British Airways 1758 7777 Turkish Airlines 1731 2233 Air India 1729 6444 Cathay Pacific 1722 6226 Emirates 1758 8700 Gulf Air 1733 5777 Jet Airways 1722 7114 KLM 1722 9747 Kuwait Airways 1722 3300 Lufthansa 1782 8762 Qatar Airways 1721 2202

Waves Seafood restaurant at the Crowne Plaza, Diplomatic Area. Tel: 1753 1122.

Also see Royal Thai (Thai)

Saudi Airlines 1721 1550 Hospitals & Clinics Emergency 999 American Mission Hospital (AMH) 1725 3447 Saar Medical & Dental Clinic (AMH) 1779 0025 Bahrain Specialist Hospital 1781 2000 Ibn Al-Nafees Hospital 1782 8282 Salmaniya Hospital 1728 8888 Gulf Dental Speciality Hospital 1774 1444

Society

Who Was Where... because this IS Bahrain Brazil Lounge celebrated its 7th anniversary with a special White Party

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Saxy Sunset, a ladies only night, was held at Zoe in Adliya.

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Society

Lebanese/Canadian singing superstar Karl Wolf live in Ibrida, Ramee Grand

Arabia’s most intelligent magazine The multi-award winning Arabian magazine

WORK for PLAY see page 33

The Arabian Review

Issue 125

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