From irresistible European cuisine to exotic Asian flavours and an innovative week-long culinary fest, here are our suggestions for everything exciting this weekend and the weeks ahead
Dubai, UAE
MINA Brasserie, Four Seasons Hotel DIFC
Calling all Dubai’s discerning diners! Mark your calendars for November 17 to 21. The Michelin-starred celebrity chef Michael Mina will be back at MINA Brasserie, Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, this month to reveal an array of new brasserie-style culinary creations, each inspired by his Middle Eastern heritage. The visit coincides perfectly with the launch of MINA Brasserie’s new and gorgeous terrace, offering diners the option to dine al fresco and make the most of the pleasant winter weather.
November 17 to 21. Call +9714 506 0100 or email minabrasserie.dubaidifc@fourseasons.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Bagatelle Dubai
If an unforgettable French-style night out is what you’re looking for, look no further. The exquisite Bagatelle Dubai is celebrating life and all things fine and fabulous at their iconic French night, Le Mardi C’est Permis. Translating to mean ‘On Tuesday… Anything Goes’, the mid-week affair invites you to live a glorious life and embrace the French lifestyle with its luxurious energy, indulge in all things sophisticated and make the most of every moment. On the culinary front, expect a contemporary yet traditional approach to French gastronomy as trendy tunes set the tone for a beautiful evening.
Le Mardi C’est Permis on Tuesdays from 8pm-late. Call +9714 354 5035 or email reservation@bistrotbagatelledubai.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Chuan
Chuan, the authentic Chinese restaurant sited at the west end of The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, has revealed an ultimate dining experience that will transport you straight to the lands of China. Titled Yum Cha, the feast features a distinctive selection of flavour-packed appetizers, dim sum and decadent desserts that will tantalise your taste buds to no end. No matter if you’re planning an intimate mid-week outing, a celebratory gathering or a way to kickstart the weekend, you’re assured a perfect epicurean experience elevated by glittering Palm Fountain views from the restaurant’s spacious terrace.
Monday to Friday from 4:30-9pm. AED188 per person. Call +9714 564 3888 or email info@chuanseafood.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen
Kick off your weekend plans with a Friday brunch at the Mezzanine Bar & Kitchen, nestled within Souk Madinat Jumeirah, boasting stunning views of the majestic Burj Al Arab. The three-hour evening experience offers unlimited crafted beverages, including grape, hops, creative concoctions, house sips and more; accompanied by one classic British dish from the British gastropub’s à la carte menu. Take your pick from options such as Sausage & mash, Fish & chips, Shepherd’s pie, Chicken and mushroom pie, vegan Sausage & mash and vegan Cottage pie. If you’re a fan of live music, you’ll be glad to know the venue hosts artists from 5pm onwards.
Fridays from 7-10pm. AED265 per person (inclusive of one dish and unlimited beverages). Call +97158 599 4659 or email reservations@mezzaninedubai.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Pai Thai, Jumeirah Al Qasr
Make your way to Pai Thai to celebrate the traditional Thai festival of Loi Krathong, with a special ‘Five Tastes of Thailand’ set menu. Whet your appetite with Miang Kham, a traditional snack; followed by appetisers such as Marinated chicken in pandan leaves and Green papaya salad. Mains call for an aromatic Green chicken curry, Stir-fried sea bass in red curry paste and Wok fried tofu. The grand finale is a purple sweet sticky rice dessert, topped with Thai mango. Also known as the Festival of lights, the celebration will showcase live music and performances as a decorated Abra makes its way through Madinat Jumeirah’s waterways, leaving behind charming lotus-shaped hand-crafted lanterns in the water.
November 10 to 13 from 6-11:30 pm. AED590 for two persons and an additional AED400 for grape pairings. Call 800 323232. Visit the website or Instagram.
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Alba Terrace, The Abu Dhabi EDITION
Make the most of the lovely outdoor dining weather with this spectacular Saturday Spritz offer at Alba Terrace, a gorgeous setting at The Abu Dhabi EDITION brimming with lush greenery and chic décor. The three-hour experience features exquisite creations from the Michelin-starred chef Tom Aikens, beginning with a signature Charcuterie board adorned with cold cuts and bread and a visit to the impressive Burrata cheese trolley. Mains call sharing-style dishes including a Herb-crusted veal chop Milanese and Vegetable tian; and the popular Alba pizza. These unlimited, irresistible dishes are complemented by a selection of Spritz sips and Amalfi-inspired beverages, smooth tunes from a live entertainer and sweet treats.
Saturdays from 12:30-5pm (3-hour experience). AED245 per person (inclusive of soft beverages), AED365 per person inclusive of creative concoctions and house beverages) and AED465 per person (inclusive of bubbly). Call +9712 208 0000 or email restaurantreservations.auh@editionhotels.com. Visit the website or Instagram.
Salalah, Oman
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara
Gourmands, gather your loved ones and plan a getaway to the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara in Oman for a week-long culinary fest from November 22 to 27, the Al Baleed Food Festival 2022. Tease your taste buds with international cuisine, showcased across exclusive dinners, demonstrations and informative workshops by a handpicked selection of talented chefs including Patrick Jeffroy, Dina Macki, Roger van Damme, Thomas Bühner, Louis Anjos, and Peter Gast. The food festival will close with a Gala Dinner on November 27, where each chef will present two signature dishes.
November 22 to 27, 2022. OMR10 onwards per workshop and dinners from OMR25 onwards, with the Gala Dinner at OMR35 per person. Call +968 2322 8222 or email res.aabs@anantara.com. Visit the website or Instagram.