ROLEX SHANGHAI MASTERS RETURNS
WHERE YOU'LL BE DINING IN DUBAI THIS SEASON
BEYOND THE AEGEAN BLUE
The ultimate guide to where to eat, stay and play in Santorini
editor's letter
This issue begins on the island of Santorini, where we explore the very best of where to eat, stay and play on one of the world’s most romantic destinations. Beyond the caldera views, we also uncover quieter corners of the island, proving that sometimes the most memorable experiences come when you step away from the expected. From cliffside restaurants serving sun-drenched Greek flavours to boutique hotels carved into the rock with infinity pools that seem to melt into the Aegean, Santorini remains an island that knows how to impress. Among the highlights is Nikki Beach Santorini, the island’s stylish beach club retreat and our cover this month, showcasing laid-back luxury meets Santorini’s signature energy.
From Greece to the Gulf, we shine a light on Dubai’s ever-evolving dining scene. With the city cooling down, new restaurant openings are heating up, and we’ve rounded up the ones to watch.
Elsewhere, we take you to Riyadh as Saudi Arabia prepares for the launch of Riyadh Air, the Middle East’s newest airline, a development set to reshape regional travel. In Jumeirah, La Baia by the Beach pairs authentic Italian flavours with breezy seaside charm, while on the global stage, the Rolex Shanghai Masters makes its highly anticipated return, once again drawing the world’s best tennis stars to China. And finally, we celebrate the creativity and individuality of Phoebe Philo as she continues to define fashion on her own terms. Enjoy the issue!
021 | SEPTEMBER 2025
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ELISE KERR elise@the-rume.com
MANAGING PARTNER
PAULO EDUARDO COSTA paulo@the-rume.com
LEAD DESIGNER
DOROTHY CASTILLO
VISUAL STRATEGIST
TIN IGLESIAS
JUNIOR EDITOR
ANDREA MORCO
GRAPHIC ASSISTANT
KIMBERLY CO
It's true what they say about Santorini
Its sunsets, beaches and villages are every bit as captivating as promised. Yet beyond the postcard views, Santorini reveals refined touches – private yachts to volcanic springs, caldera-side wineries, and beaches of black and red sand – ensuring the island lives up to its reputation in style.
Oia
Oia (ee-ya) remains Santorini’s most iconic village, where luxury travellers can pair the island’s legendary sunsets with private terraces and infinity pools overlooking the caldera. The cobbled lanes are dotted with designer boutiques and galleries, while Michelinrecognised restaurants offer fine Greek dining with an international touch. For a more exclusive vantage point, consider a private yacht charter from nearby Amoudi Bay to take in the cliffs from the water before returning for twilight drinks in a romantic cliffside suite.
Fira
As Santorini’s capital, Fira combines energy with elegance, offering sweeping views best enjoyed from luxury cliffside hotels. Visitors can browse high-end jewellery shops, art galleries, and carefully curated boutiques before settling into a rooftop bar for panoramic vistas of the caldera. Private guided tours of the Archaeological Museum and cable-car rides down to the old port elevate the experience. A helicopter
transfer or sunset dining in one of Fira’s acclaimed restaurants ensures that every moment balances refined sophistication with striking scenery.
Nea Kameni Hot Springs
For those seeking seclusion, a private yacht or catamaran charter to Nea Kameni offers a tailored escape. Guests can step ashore for a guided hike across the volcanic crater before unwinding in the therapeutic hot springs of Palea Kameni. These mineralrich waters provide a natural spa experience in complete privacy. Luxury charters also allow effortless access to hidden coves, Red Beach, or even Thirassia, ensuring travellers enjoy Santorini’s volcanic wonders at their own pace, away from the island’s busier routes.
Red Beach
Red Beach, near Akrotiri, is one of Santorini’s most dramatic natural landmarks. Towering crimson cliffs frame a narrow strip of volcanic sand, creating a striking contrast with the turquoise waters. The beach is reached
by a short walk from the car park or, for added comfort, by private boat. Luxury visitors often arrive by yacht to swim off-shore, avoiding the crowds. It’s an essential stop not only for its geological uniqueness but also for the breathtaking backdrop that defines Santorini’s raw beauty.
Venetsanos Winery
Perched high above the caldera, Venetsanos Winery is a must for travellers who value heritage paired with refinement. Built in 1947, it was the island’s first industrial winery and is renowned for its innovative gravity-
Between red cliffs, black sands and golden horizons, the island proves that its legend rings true
fed design. Today, private tastings can be arranged on sun-drenched terraces where volcanic Assyrtiko wines are paired with gourmet bites. The views stretch from the cliffs of Fira to the distant islands, offering a serene ambience that transforms Venetsanos beyond a winery into a luxurious Santorini landmark.
Kamari Black Beach
Kamari’s black sand beach, created by ancient volcanic activity, offers a distinctively different experience from the caldera villages. Stretching for kilometres, it is lined with chic loungers, stylish beach clubs, and fine-dining spots where luxury blends seamlessly with a laid-back atmosphere. The dark volcanic pebbles and Aegean waters create a unique setting for both relaxation and photography.
Private cabanas, attentive service, and proximity to Ancient Thera make Kamari an ideal choice for travellers who want a balance of comfort, history, and dark coastal beauty.
Sun Spirit Cocktail Bar
Perched above Oia’s caldera, Sun Spirit Cocktail Bar is among the island’s most coveted addresses for golden hour. With its tiered terraces and uninterrupted horizon views, it offers a refined yet relaxed setting to take in Santorini’s famed sunsets. Guests settle into cushioned seating while attentive staff serve elegant mezze and light fare. The atmosphere balances exclusivity with intimacy, making it a perfect spot to conclude a day of discovery and watch the sky transform over the Aegean.
OIA
RED BEACH
SUN SPIRIT
Where to stay:
Nikki Beach Santorini
Arriving at Nikki Beach Santorini feels unexpectedly effortless. Situated less than five minutes from the airport, the property is remarkably convenient without losing its sense of seclusion. Despite its proximity to the runway, the hotel is well insulated from sound, making the occasional sight of a plane taking off more of a natural curiosity than a disturbance.
The resort sits directly on one of Santorini’s striking black sand beaches, where crystal-clear waters meet a relaxed shoreline. Instead of being tucked away in the island’s busier towns, Nikki Beach has carved out a beachfront sanctuary that still feels connected to the island’s natural beauty. The design evokes a small Greek village, with whitewashed houses scattered around winding paths. Guests walk past the pool and gardens to reach their suites, bypassing the need for a formal lobby. It creates an inviting atmosphere that feels both intimate and welcoming.
Check-in set the tone for the stay. Arriving early, before the room was ready, the hotel invited guests to settle in with breakfast. Tables overlooking either the pool or the sea provide a setting where Greek yoghurt drizzled with honey and hazelnuts quickly became a highlight. Watermelon, fresh fruit, and frothy cappuccinos rounded out mornings that felt peacefully unhurried yet full of energy. The suites themselves balance simplicity with comfort. In the Signature Room with a private pool, the white interiors are accented by touches of blue, while a small terrace offers space to unwind. Many guests gravitate instead to the main pool, where oversized sunbeds and cabanas create a social hub. Music is central to the Nikki Beach identity, and one afternoon was elevated by
DJ Nikkolas Dash, whose set blended classics with live vocals. His performance gave the day a distinctive rhythm, transforming the poolside into a space of relaxed celebration.
Meals at the resort shift from casual to more atmospheric as the day unfolds. Poolside dining includes sushi rolls and tacos, dishes that lean more towards Nikki Beach’s international style than Greek tradition, but are well executed and enjoyable for a light afternoon by the water. Dinner, however, brings an entirely different ambience. A scattering of tables close to the shoreline are lit with hanging lamps, softening the space into something far more intimate. The menu introduces more local touches: zucchini fritters with tzatziki, a halloumi salad, and salmon fillet served with sweetcorn. While well presented, the chicken dish was less
memorable, feeling more straightforward compared to the other plates. Dessert, however, proved worthwhile: a lemon tart with a chocolate mousse and ice cream was light yet indulgent.
The rhythm of each day changes with the light. At sunrise, the view across to Anafi Island creates one of the most dramatic scenes in the Aegean. With the moon fading and the sea calm, the colours shift from deep violet to orange, rewarding anyone who wakes early enough. Later, the beach becomes a focal point. A stainless steel staircase has been installed on the rocky outcrop, giving safe access for swimming and serving as a perch for photos as the tide rises and falls. A beachfront massage adds another layer of relaxation, where the sound of waves and the morning breeze enhance the sense of calm. The spa and wellness offering may not be as extensive as larger resorts, but the simplicity of a treatment
AT SUNRISE, THE VIEW ACROSS TO ANAFI ISLAND CREATES ONE OF THE MOST DRAMATIC SCENES IN THE AEGEAN. WITH THE MOON FADING AND THE SEA CALM, THE COLOURS SHIFT FROM DEEP VIOLET TO ORANGE, REWARDING ANYONE WHO WAKES EARLY ENOUGH.
by the sea proves just as memorable. Over three nights, Nikki Beach Santorini revealed itself as more than just a branded outpost. The resort manages to blend its
signature energy with the island’s quieter rhythms. Its village-style layout fosters a sense of belonging, the beachfront location keeps the pace unhurried, and the poolside programming brings in the vibrant character Nikki Beach is known for. It may sit slightly outside the island’s main towns of Fira and Oia, so having a car or quad bike is recommended for those who want to
explore. Yet for guests content to split their time between the beach, pool, and a scattering of excursions, the resort strikes a satisfying balance. Nikki Beach Santorini is not about indulgence alone, nor about seclusion – it is about letting the two coexist, in one of the most photogenic corners of the island. nikkibeach.com/santorini
Where to dine:
ROKA Santorini
Signature Japanese robatayaki combines with a cliffside setting that overlooks the island’s famous caldera at sunset.
When a restaurant brand as established as ROKA takes its concept abroad, expectations run high.
The Santorini outpost, a summer-only residency at Cavo Tagoo, delivers both the familiar hallmarks of the brand and a setting utterly cinematic.
The dining terrace is cut into the cliffside, its infinity pool stretching toward the caldera. Arrive before sundown and the whole space shifts with the light, the volcanic landscape behind it giving the restaurant a sense of place that feels unmistakably Santorini. Music drifts across the lounge as guests settle into low-lit tables that blur the line between indoors and out. Service follows a relaxed island rhythm. Staff are attentive without being overbearing, encouraging a slower pace that suits the location.
The menu draws on the signatures that have made ROKA a recognisable name internationally. Sushi remains a highlight, with maki rolls that balance clean freshness with just the right amount of heat.
From the robata, the black cod arrives with delicate texture and depth of flavour, while the beef fillet demonstrates the precision of the grill.
Diners seeking lighter plates can begin with crisp iceberg lettuce with caramelised onions, or share smaller bites that showcase both simplicity and technique.
Desserts bring a softer finish to the evening. The coconut parfait, filled with a passionfruit centre, reflects the brand’s preference for contrasts – creamy and sharp, indulgent yet refreshing. It is the kind of dish that stays with you long after the table has cleared.
ROKA Santorini succeeds because it balances familiarity with a sense of place. It does not attempt to imitate the island, nor does it simply transplant a formula from London or Dubai. Instead, it adapts to its context, maintaining the DNA of the brand while letting the caldera and the Aegean light do their part. The result is a restaurant that feels international yet unmistakably of Santorini – a dining experience inseparable from its view, its timing, and the memory it leaves behind. rokarestaurant.com
ROKA balances familiarity with a sense of place
KOUKOUMAVLOS
A symphony of flavours under Santorini’s skies
Perched high in Imerovigli, Koukoumavlos has is considered to be in one of Santorini’s most iconic dining addresses, blending culinary artistry with the island’s natural drama. The setting is extraordinary. Guests descend through a discreet entrance and emerge into a terrace that seems to hover above the caldera, the volcanic cliffs falling steeply into the Aegean
while the evening light shifts from the warm glow of golden hour to the deep blues of night. It is a place where the view alone could suffice, yet the refined fine dining experience rises to meet it with equal brilliance.
Under the creative direction of Ettore Botrini, the celebrated GreekItalian chef behind the Michelin-starred Botrini’s in Athens and the longstanding Etrusco in Corfu, the menu reimagines Mediterranean cuisine through refined creativity. A citrus salad composed of fresh orange segments and sweetened olives creates an unforgettable opening. The surprising interplay between bright citrus and subtly sweet olive inspires a visceral reaction that echoes
the dramatic setting, the kind of dish that lingers in memory long after the evening ends.
The veal tartare arrives transformed into delicate meatballs, topped with ribbons of vegetables and sage cream, offering visual grace as much as sensory delight. The main courses continue this balance of tradition and innovation. A Santorinian eggplant dish layered with mushrooms, truffle, smoked cheese and hazelnuts brings indulgence and depth, while a Naxos beef fillet with cherry sauce and goat cheese showcases poise in flavour pairing, combining richness with a restrained elegance. Dessert reaches memorable heights with a chocolate
cream accompanied by olive oil and rosemary ice cream that remains among the very best of its kind. Smooth, aromatic and impossibly fresh, it feels at once daring and timeless. Service matches the quality of the food, attentive without intrusion. Koukoumavlos is a Santorini experience and an essential evening for any visitor to the island. koukoumavlos.gr
What makes Riyadh Air different?
Riyadh Air will be Saudi Arabia's second flag carrier, complementing the existing Saudia airline. Based at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the airline plans to connect over 100 destinations across six continents by 2030. What sets this venture apart is its commitment to being the world's first digitalnative airline, creating seamless experiences from the moment you book until you reach your destination. The airline is backed by the country's Public Investment Fund, with seasoned aviation executive Tony Douglas at the helm as CEO. Having previously led Etihad Airways, Douglas brings extensive experience in luxury aviation to this ambitious project. The goal is nothing short of revolutionary: to create an airline that rivals the world's best while showcasing authentic Saudi hospitality.
When can you fly with Riyadh Air?
Mark your calendars for October 2025. Saudi Arabia's General Authority of Civil Aviation has already granted the airline its operating certificate, clearing the path for commercial operations. The launch strategy focuses initially on connecting Riyadh with major European and Asian capitals, creating a sophisticated network that serves both business travellers and those seeking new cultural experiences. The inaugural route will be a daily service to London Heathrow starting 26 October, using Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This coveted Heathrow slot, secured through a strategic arrangement with British Airways, will offer morning arrivals in London at 7:30am and departures at 9:30am. The service will operate from Terminal 4 alongside other premium Middle Eastern carriers.
What are the cabins like?
What will the cabin crew wear?
In an aviation industry first, Riyadh Air debuted its cabin crew uniforms on the runway at Paris Haute Couture Week. The collaboration with Saudi designer Mohammed Ashi, founder of Ashi Studio, resulted in what the airline calls "cabin crew fashion" rather than traditional uniforms. The 15-piece collection draws inspiration from the golden age of aviation in the 1950s, featuring timeless cashmere outerwear, fine wool dresses and trousers, iconic pillbox hats, and amethyst earrings. The palette features bespoke "Electric Amethyst" tones for female crew and "Dark Amethyst" variations for male staff, paying homage to the lavender fields of Saudi Arabia.The elegant designs include distinctive Riyadh Air elements, such as the canopy twist from the airline's logo integrated into the silhouettes. Practical details like integrated hijabs offer inclusivity, while boat neck collars and tulip cuffs provide both style and functionality.
The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners form the backbone of long-haul operations, featuring cabin designs that blur the line between flying and luxury hospitality. These aircraft accommodate 290 passengers, including four ultra-premium Business Elite seats and 24 standard business class seats, all in a private 1-2-1 configuration. Safran's Unity suites feature privacy doors and an innovative canopy design inspired by traditional Bedouin tents, a sophisticated nod to Saudi heritage.
The airline will introduce true first class cabins designed to rival the world's most luxurious aviation offerings. Details remain closely guarded, but the airline promises an experience that will be "uniquely Saudi" while meeting the highest international standards.
Where can I fly to?
Alongside the inaugural London Heathrow route, additional destinations will follow, with the airline expected to announce further European cities and Asian hubs such as Singapore, Delhi, and Mumbai. All major destinations are expected to be covered in the initiral list, however the airline plans to reveal its complete route network in the coming months, building towards its goal of connecting over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
RIYADH AIR PREPARES FOR LIFT OFF
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector is set for change with the launch of Riyadh Air, a new carrier operating alongside Saudia. As the Kingdom’s second flag carrier, it sits within the Vision 2030 drive to broaden the economy. Riyadh Air aims to strengthen links between the Kingdom and
markets, with design placed at the centre. The airline’s remit aligns with Vision 2030 priorities, supporting tourism, trade and connectivity while advancing hub ambitions, route development and guest experience through digital innovation and operational excellence.
BE AMONG THE MAGMA
Not every visit to Santorini needs to be about the caldera’s crowded viewpoints. On the quieter side of the island, Magma Resort Santorini by Hyatt presents a different kind of beauty, one where stillness, space, and the glow of sunrise take centre stage.
From the first moment at Magma Resort Santorini, the tone is set with a warm welcome: cool towels, attentive staff, and the sensation of slowing down. With just 53 rooms, the resort achieves something rare for Santorini: ample space and a design that feels calm rather than congested. Many rooms come with private pools or jacuzzis, and in this case, a spacious balcony jacuzzi became an integral part of the stay. There is something indulgent about sitting in the warm water as the island quiets, glass of local wine in hand.
The infinity pool, the largest in Santorini, forms the property’s natural hub. Framed by minimalist architecture and shaded loungers, it is where the resort comes alive. Guests drift between sunbeds, the bar, and the restaurant, all seamlessly integrated around this central space. One highlight was a private cocktail-making experience, guided by a skilled bartender who shared simple techniques that elevated even the most classic drinks. Dinner carried the same thoughtful rhythm. The setting,
poolside with soft light and open to the evening breeze, was elegant yet relaxed. The Greek salad was a standout, reimagined with cherry tomatoes, croutons, and feta that held its freshness.
A dish of eggplant with beef and vegetable sauce impressed with its depth of flavour, while the pasta, generously layered with cheese and beef, provided a comforting counterpoint. Not every plate struck the same note. The chickpea stew with sea bass leaned heavy, its balance overtaken by the density of the legumes. While not disastrous, it lacked the finesse of the other dishes. Yet the closing dessert was unforgettable: traditional Greek orange pie paired with vanilla ice cream, juicy and fragrant, delivering
a burst of citrus sweetness that brought the evening to an end beautifully.
The resort proved equally enchanting by day. An early wake-up for sunrise revealed a side of Santorini often overlooked. From the rooftop terrace, soft light washed over the landscape as a yoga class began, the calm atmosphere rivaling any sunset. Breakfast by the pool felt abundant and celebratory, with glasses of sparkling wine alongside thick Greek yoghurt, pastries, hot dishes, and fresh fruit, a buffet worth lingering over.
Although time was short, the spa with its sleek indoor pool and quiet atmosphere hinted at yet another layer of the Magma experience.
Magma Resort Santorini is not about spectacle but about balance. It offers calm where the island often rushes, space where there is usually crowding, and an experience that stays with you long after departure.
hyatt.com/unbound-collection
Tattu Dubai
Tattu blends ancient mythology with modern design, offering refined Chinese and Japanese menus alongside dramatic interiors. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Dubai Marina and the Palm, while the Sunset Lounge provides an ideal spot to enjoy golden-hour views in a stylish, atmospheric setting.
@tattudubai
A taste WHAT’S NEW
As Dubai reaches its peak season once again, with it comes a host of exciting new openings. If you're looking to cut through the noise and see what's worth your reservations, here are our top suggestions.
Each opening adds another flavour to Dubai’s dining scene
Nobu Dubai
Nobu brings its celebrated Japanese-Peruvian fusion to The Link’s striking cantilevered structure. Guests can expect black cod miso and yellowtail sashimi, complemented by panoramic skyline views. Anticipated features include a sushi bar, private dining, and outdoor seating.
@nobuonezaabeel
Son of a Fish
Inspired by the Athenian Riviera, Son of a Fish offers fresh seafood and Greek classics with a contemporary twist. Located at the upcoming Harbour House in Dubai Harbour, it will transition from relaxed alfresco lunches to lively evenings, capturing the coastal spirit in both food and ambience.
@sonofafishdubai
SON OF A FISH
NOBU
taste of NEW IN DUBAI
Měi Dubai Carbone
Opening at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, Měi combines Chinese and Japanese influences with refined design and live entertainment. Highlights include Toyosu-sourced sashimi and traditional dim sum. The terrace overlooks Burj Al Arab, while the venue evolves from dinner to late-night lounge. @mei.dxb
Arriving at Atlantis The Royal, Carbone brings New York’s iconic Italian dining to Dubai. Known for its spicy rigatoni, veal Parmesan, and tuxedo-clad service, the restaurant recreates mid-century glamour with jewel-toned interiors, Venetian mirrors, and a lively terrace where the elite flock.
@carbonedxb
KIGO
Set within Four Seasons DIFC, KIGO delivers a refined omakase and kaiseki experience led by chef Izu Ani. A striking Aji stone sushi counter anchors the space, where Japanese dishes embody harmony, impermanence, and craftsmanship. Exclusive sake pairings elevate this intimate dining journey.
@kigo.dubai
MĚI
MĚI
KIGO
CARBONE
JUMEIRAH’S NEW CULINARY JEWEL
Three Bros, the latest concept by The Orfali Bros Group, celebrated for their Michelin-starred flagship, can be found just a short stroll away from the original. This compact, 22seat restaurant channels the same dedication to ingredient-driven cooking but packages it in an even more casual, free-flowing format. Here, dishes arrive as they’re ready, encouraging a relaxed, grazing style of dining.
The décor nods to the 70s and 80s, with a patterned monochrome floor, deep maroon walls, and bronze wall sculptures of the brothers themselves. Simple wooden tables, open shelving dotted with books and retro speakers, and an open kitchen with a pizza oven keep the space informal, while the precision on the plate hints at a more fine dining discipline.
To start, the OB croquettes made with 18-month Comté cheese and truffle mayo offered a velvety,
savoury bite, generously portioned for what is billed as a single mouthful. The pan con tomate with beef cecina impressed with its balance of crisp, airy bread and tender beef. From the cold section, the Otoro tuna garum was thinly sliced and lightly dressed with olive oil and lemon; ordering toasted sourdough on the side elevated its richness considerably. Moving to the hot dishes, the OB cheeseburger stood out as the star. A Wagyu patty cooked to a juicy pink, encased in a fluffy Hokkaido bun with OB sauce, cheddar, and a mix of caramelised and raw onions, was faultless. The Come with me to Aleppo Wagyu beef kebab with sour cherry, parsley, pine nuts, and cinnamon was tender, though the sharp fruit slightly dominated the beef’s subtle flavour.
From the pizza section, the burnt leeks with truffle showcased an exceptional sourdough base, crisp yet airy, with brown butter miso and hazelnuts adding depth. The leeks, however, slightly overpowered the truffle, leaving the latter more in the background than expected. Dessert kept things simple with the Chocola Mole dark chocolate ice cream, whipped cream, and a cherry. Pleasant enough, though lacking the distinctiveness found in earlier courses. No alcohol is
served, and while the drinks list offers iced tea and sparkling water, the pour size for the iced tea felt overly restrained. Service, however, was attentive and swift, with food arriving promptly and the atmosphere remaining warm despite the small size.
Three Bros delivers on flavour, pacing, and personality. While not every combination hits the same high, the croquettes, Otoro tuna (with bread), and OB cheeseburger alone warrant a return visit. This is a place that thrives on its own rhythm small in size, but confident in identity.
threebros.ae
La Baia
BY THE BEACH
La Baia Dubai is part of J1 Beach’s line-up of luxury beach clubs – a stretch that has quickly positioned itself as a home for global concepts with local polish. Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, La Baia blends the leisurely pace of a Mediterranean afternoon with the level expected from Dubai.
Set right on the sand at J1 Beach, the beach club is a study in colour and texture. Lemons tumble across tabletops, Amalfi tiles add bursts of blue and yellow underfoot, and walls in rich maroon contrast with the bright light streaming through floor-to-ceiling glass. Outside, the pool – one of the deepest in J1 – is framed by sun loungers and the open horizon.
Our day began outside, where the music was low and the pace unhurried. My first order, the Limoncello of Vietri sul Mare, was light, citrusforward, and a perfect foil for the summer heat.
The meal opened with two cold starters designed for sharing: burrata with tomato, basil, and olive oil, and beef carpaccio with parmesan. Both arrived on oversized plates, accompanied by a large, warm focaccia and an olive paste, the kind of generous, unfussy touch that sets the tone for an Italian table.
The linguine alla nerano was a clear standout. Thick strands of homemade pasta carried the buttery richness of provolone del Monaco,
the light freshness of courgette, and the lift of fresh basil. Our second main, the branzino al forno, was equally considered. The ovenbaked sea bass flaked at the touch of a fork, layered with thin potato slices and finished with a drizzle of olive oil. Uncomplicated but deeply satisfying, it was a natural follow-on from the pasta.
Dessert brought a moment of theatre. The tiramisu was prepared tableside, with the waiter building layers of savoiardi biscuits soaked in coffee, fresh mascarpone cream, and cocoa powder from Dolce
& Gabbana-branded tins. The biscuits retained a slight crunch, having just been dipped, giving the dessert a contrast of textures that is often lost in pre-made versions. Watching it come together, and then tasting it, was a fitting close to the meal.
La Baia Dubai isn’t just another beach club. It’s a place where you can spend an afternoon in the pool before transporting straight to Italy. The portions are generous, the atmosphere easygoing, and the details show a kitchen that values both tradition and presentation. labaia-dxb.com
ROLEX SHANGHAI MASTERS
The Rolex Shanghai Masters 2025 will take place from 1 to 12 October, bringing together some of the sport’s finest players at the Qizhong Tennis Center. As the only ATP Masters 1000 tournament staged in China, it continues to hold a unique place in the international tennis calendar.
Since its first edition in 2009, the event has built a reputation for excellence both on and off the court. Matches are played on outdoor hard courts beneath
the magnolia-shaped retractable roof of Qizhong Stadium, a distinctive landmark in its own right. Over the years, champions have included Roger Federer, Novak Djokovic, Andy Murray and Jannik Sinner, reflecting the calibre of competition that the tournament attracts.
With a 96-player draw and prize money coming to an impressive total of US$9,193,540, the Masters remains a highlight of the season for players and fans.
A defining sporting occasion
The Rolex Shanghai Masters has grown into more than a competition. It represents Shanghai’s role as a global hub for sport, culture and entertainment.
For international visitors, October offers a chance to watch the world’s best tennis players while discovering a city that balances heritage with modernity. Exploring Shanghai beyond the baseline
For visitors travelling to the Rolex Shanghai Masters, the
tournament is only one part of the experience. The city offers a rich mix of history and modernity, from the tree-lined boulevards of the French Concession to the architectural icons of The Bund. Each neighbourhood presents a distinct character, inviting exploration away from the stadium.
Xintiandi and Tianzifang are popular for their blend of preserved architecture and contemporary life, featuring cafés, boutiques and creative spaces. Across the river, the skyline of Pudong stands as one of the world’s most recognisable cityscapes, defined by its cluster of soaring towers. Together,
these districts capture the city’s dynamic energy, complementing the intensity of the matches.
Classical and contemporary highlights
Those looking to extend their stay can find quiet moments at Yu Garden, a classical Chinese garden known for its pavilions, koi ponds and intricate design. Meanwhile, Huaihai Road and Wukang Road offer a more cosmopolitan outlook, with Art Deco façades, stylish shops and street cafés reflecting Shanghai’s international influences.
Evenings provide a shift in rhythm, as the city transforms under its illuminated skyline. Rooftop viewpoints and social spaces along the Huangpu River make for ideal settings to unwind after a day of tennis. The atmosphere continues well after the last match, ensuring the spirit carries into the night.
rolexshanghaimasters.com
PHOEBE PHILO QUIETLY REIGNS
A label defined by independence, intention, and unmistakable creative clarity.
Phoebe Philo's long-awaited return to the fashion industry, with the launch of her self-titled label, marked a pivotal moment in her career. Backed by LVMH yet majority-owned by Philo herself, the brand debuted in October 2023 and represents her first independent venture. Rooted in London, it allows the designer to set her own direction while connecting with her following. Her departure from Céline in 2017 left a notable gap in the industry, but the launch of the namesake brand reasserted her presence with a renewed sense of purpose. The label takes a clear stance against overconsumption by producing limited runs of wardrobe staples designed to endure. Philo’s collections lean into permanence, prioritising timeless forms over fleeting trends. Sustainability is more than a marketing phrase – materials and processes reflect an effort to create clothing that lasts, while encouraging mindful consumption. This ethos aligns with the wider shift in luxury fashion towards long-term value and reduced environmental impact. Philo’s creative language continues to balance refinement with utility, designed for women “on the move”. Her collections embrace oversize proportions and sculptural silhouettes, often created through layered textures and subtle structural details. Rounded shoulders on tuxedo jackets, floor-grazing trousers with
back zips, and long jersey skirts underpinned by neoprene linings show her attention to form.
Born in Paris and educated at Central Saint Martins, Philo began her career under Stella McCartney at Chloé before succeeding her as creative director in 2001. Later, at Céline, she redefined modern womenswear with her minimalist aesthetic and pragmatic approach, drawing a community of “Philophiles”.
Phoebe Philo’s career has been recognised with multiple British Fashion Awards, an OBE, and the International Award at the CFDA Fashion Awards. With her own label, she brings this history of influence into a future that places independence, permanence, and creative clarity at its core.
phoebephilo.com