Through MY EYES Samantha Wood

Each month, we ask residents to share a guide to the UAE through their eyes, their favourite places, hidden gems, must-try dishes, local brands they love. This month, we chat to Samantha Wood (@foodiva), founder of impartial restaurant review website FooDiva.net and curator of dining experiences. After living in Dubai for 24 years, she shares her tips to making the most of UAE life.

Six Senses Zighy Bay is my favourite UAE staycation spot. Strictly speaking it’s in Oman, however, given the two hour drive from Dubai, in my book, this resort qualifies as local. Having returned so many times since my first visit back in 2011, I’ve lost count. A combination of pool villas, outdoor showers, endless beach for long strolls, five-star butler service and utter serenity makes this resort extra special.

My recent discovery is Josette, a French restaurant in DIFC with a Parisian-style, roaring 20s theme, complete with the most mesmerising singers and dancers, tap dancing included all the way from France. I love the press for Champagne button that actually works by lighting up the table number at the bar. This is classic French brasserie-style fare with the odd twist.

A traditional Chinese massage at Yin Yang Connection Spa is my favourite hidden gem. I frequent the JBR branch for a no-frills, deep tissue treatment by Bonnie that alleviates muscular aches. If I am feeling lazy, then I’ll book an at-home massage with Kaina Home or Solace Home Spa.

One restaurant that is close to my Greek-Cypriot heart is Mythos – the OG in JLT. Delicious mezze morsels aside and a wallet-friendly Greek wine list, plus the warmth of the service, sets this restaurant apart.

To switch off I love a pool day, preferably an adults-only pool with low volume music. I love La Baie’s pool at the RitzCarlton on JBR Walk where, swimming aside, I spend the day reading. A piña colada at the swim-up bar is mandatory. I’ll end the day with a sundowner at the hotel’s beach-fronted Latino restaurant Tamoka – paired with a choripan (Argentinian chorizo hot dog).

Jaleo Dubai offers signature tapas, hearty paellas, summery sangrias, and a selection of the finest Spanish cheeses, and vines. Legacy and whimsy in one bite, taste an experience that will stay with you forever.

For reservations, please call +971 4 426 2800 or @Jaleodubai

Desert dining at Sonara Camp

It may not be centrally located, but Sonara is a game-changing desert dining experience. The focus is as much on the experience as it is on the inventive gastronomy, where brash buffets and gimmicky belly dancing are replaced with magical entertainment and Middle Eastern fare with a fine dining edge. Experiences begin at 5pm, where you’ll watch the sunset as the golden orb drops behind the stretching dunes, sipping drinks and enjoying sandboarding, soft archery and hawk shows. From there, guests retreat to tables under the twinkling lights of the lower restaurant for a three-course menu, accompanied by fire shows, live music or even a movie under the starry night sky. nara.ae

Immersive theatre at Krasota

The newest addition to Dubai’s immersive dining scene is Krasota, a collision of food and art at Address Downtown. Self-described as an ‘immersive gastro-theatre’ prepare to settle in for a meal that’s been designed to be photographed. Each course, or ‘act,’ is a homage to eight world renowned artists, with each dish complemented by interactive installations, 3D projections and custom AI designs that captivate each of the senses. For Dhs2,318 per person, it comes with a welcome amuse bouche, eight-course menu and two signature cocktails served at the intervals. krasota.art

Private dining in the sky at Shangri-La Dubai

While many Dubai hotels offer intimate spots for a private dinner, from beachfront setups to exclusive private dining rooms, few have the commanding views of Shangri-La Dubai’s 42nd floor terrace. Backdropped by exceptional Burj Khalifa views and a panoramic skyline that looks so good it could have been photoshopped, guests can curate their own menus for any occasion. From a family gettogether to celebrate a birthday, to a swoon-worthy proposal when only the best will do, this is the kind of spot that makes for an unforgettable setting. Experiences start from Dhs4,500. shangri-la.com

Food-meets-art with a heart at Message in a Bottle

If you love immersive dining experiences, Message in a Bottle at JA The Resort is a culinary adventure you need to know about. It takes place on a boat and begins with a 30-minute cruise. Once anchored, a fairy from the future transports you to a world where the harsh repercussions of human carelessness play out in eyeopening projections, each course presented at a key moment in the narrative.

jaresortshotels.com