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    What it’s like to stay inside this ultra-luxe property in Dubai

    Even if you make a five-day trip to Dubai, two of the days should definitely dedicated to this ultra-luxe property in Dubai – Atlantis The Royal.At the pinnacle of A-list luxury, the grand opening wasn’t just an elaborate one-day affair. Home to a plethora of fine-dining havens, this property caters to all taste-buds, making it the perfect hotel to celebrate a special occasion or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life.Crafted by the world’s leading designers, architects and artists, this exquisite haven takes visitors on a journey with artful masterpieces, iconic entertainment and beautiful craftsmanship at every turn.The iconic one-of-a-kind landmark houses never-before-seen attractions, 17 dining destinations, wellness facilities, multiple pools as well as beachfront and access to the newly enlarged Aquaventure Waterpark.With the on-going Louis Vuitton mascots around the ultra-luxe property guests can celebrate the resort’s iconic first anniversary of the hotel’s opening. As part of the campaign, many of the luxury fashion brand’s mascots, also called Viviennes, will be present around the hotel grounds in the form of larger-than-life statues.If the UAE is all about what’s next and what’s more, Atlantis The Royal’s tagline hits the nail on the head with ‘This is it’ and we’re sure that this tops the charts for all those who live in Dubai and are also visiting.So if you’re thinking of taking a break, this quick escape is definitely worth a visit and should definitely be added to your bucket list – here’s why.Stunning viewsSituated on Dubai’s man-made island, this lavish hotel has a beachside plot on the edge of the Palm, giving way to views over the tree-shaped sands and Dubai’s skyline in the distance. Atlantis The Royal is the place where something incredible happens at every moment. This is Atlantis The Royal. This Is It.Spacious roomsThe rooms feature bespoke amenities exclusively crafted for Atlantis The Royal by Graff and Frette, as well as hand-stitched mattresses by Hypnos. Expect luxurious walk-in wardrobes and dressing rooms, walk-in showers and stand-alone bathtubs coupled with unmatched personalised service. Prices start at Dhs1,936 per night, with a minimum of two nights required to be booked. For those who wish to have more space, they can relax on one of the sun loungers and swing to the motion of the ocean at the Sky Pool Villa; you’ll want to spend as much time as possible on this dream-worthy terrace. With a dining table that can seat six, you can get your butler to arrange an al fresco dinner for you and friends.A culinary explosionThe hotel sets the bar when it comes to dining and entertainment with over 17 restaurants and lounges, including eight helmed by celebrity chefs. Guests can dine at Heston Blumenthal’s Dinner, Ariana’s Persian Kitchen by Ariana Bundy, Nobu by the Beach, the contemporary Asian haven Ling Ling by TAO Group and Jaleo by José André, to name a few. The main all-day dining and breakfast venue, Gastronomy, features multiple live stations dispensing everything from dim sum to decadent desserts, sushi to slices of pizzas. Plus there’s a casual American-inspired diner and a robatayaki spot.A Glimpse at the propertyA shopping haven at this ultra-luxe propertyForgot an accessory at home? Level Shoes has you covered with its boutique store featuring brands such as VEJA, Aquazzura and more. With the world’s most luxurious designer brands and exquisite lboutiques all in one destination, Atlantis The Royal is Dubai’s newest retail paradise. From home-grown brands to world-renowned haute-couture labels, we’ll make sure to have you turning heads, from morning till night. The stores include Valentino, Graff, Tangara, 100% Capri, Olebar Brown, Damas and Louis Vuitton with its timeless pieces, that we simply coildn’t take our eyes of.The finer detailsThe sleek and contemporary Atlantis The Royal might look like one seamless structure, but it actually consists of two buildings – the hotel to the west and the residences towards the east, both connected by a spectacular Sky Bridge. Soaring 43 storeys (185 metres above sea level), the interiors represent the absolute pinnacle of modern contemporary opulence, embodying illuminating materials and hand sculpted textures, leathers and geometrics to frame walls. Guests can also enjoy a curated array of bespoke amenities from luxury brands including Hermès, Frette and Graff in their rooms.Experience an afternoon in the cloudsExperience a visual feast that defines exclusivity. Unwind on deluxe sun beds, be captivated by vibrant cocktails and savour the finest Italian inspired cuisine as you bask in an ultra-luxurious setting. Guests can also elevate their poolside experience with the new Moonlight Sessions by Cloud 22. This is where the night comes alive and blends sophistication, mesmerizing ambiance and entertainment. Experience an enchanting night swim and bar lounge high above the sea from Thursday to Saturday 7pm to 11pm.A holistic approachIf you’re thinking about health from the inside-out, AEON’s treatments are split into three categories, regenerative medicine, regenerative wellness and aesthetic treatments. Under regenerative medicine clients can expect to have access to some of the world’s most cutting edge therapies, including Exosome Therapy, Functional Medicine, Genomics, Mitochondrial Medicine, Sports Medicine and Stem Cell Therapy. For regenerative wellness, clients will be able to try out the clinic’s top of the range detoxification programmes, as well as, male and female wellness programmes, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Peptide Therapy, Photobiomodulation (low level laser therapy), IV Therapy and Shock Wave Therapy. Located on the lower level floor of the resort, the layout and ambiance has been designed to cater to client’s emotions, comfort and privacy needs in a relaxed and tranquil environment.The ultimate spacationFeel the power of authentic wellness experiences focusing on calming techniques and self-discovery accelerated by high-tech therapies to create meaningful change. At AWAKEN Spa, guests can avail of the Halotherapy Salt Cave Vitality Pool, Air Loungers, snow fountain Alchemy shower aromatherapy steam charcoal sauna tepidarium loungers deep relaxation retreat meditation and the garden plant-powered refreshment lounge. Some of the key treatments include the lymphatic massage, deep tissue massage, golden hour massage and more.Overall, the resort stands as a testament to the unparalleled craftsmanship and dedication of its award-winning team, promising an extraordinary experience that celebrates the very essence of opulence and indulgence and is definitely a must-visit.To make a reservation or learn more about what the property has to offer visit atlantis.com– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied  More

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    Looking where to spend NYE? Here’s why Atlantis is the perfect option this year

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    1 hour ago

    New Year’s Eve is all about celebrating it in style, especially in Dubai and which better place than Atlantis The Royal and Atlantis The Palm to kick in the New Year.
    After the grand opening of Atlantis The Royal this year, the surefire success of the property came with a myriad of Michelin restaurants and occasion based celebrations.
    For the upcoming NYE festivities both Atlantis The Palm and Atlantis The Royal have a host of special celebrations lined up on December 31, 2023.
    Watch The Sting live

    Celebrate New Year in style with an extraordinary live performance from musical icon Sting as he takes the stage to perform his iconic hits and his latest songs at the annual Gala Dinner at Atlantis, The Palm. Expect a night of glamour and glitz, a luxury buffet, live cooking stations, free-flowing Champagne, and the greatest show on earth: The Atlantis Fireworks. Throughout the evening, guests will be able to savour a delicious buffet with something for everyone, ranging from lobster to caviar, complemented by live cooking stations and a magnificent selection of handcrafted desserts, cakes and petit fours.The Gala dinner packages start from Dhs7,500 for ages 14 and above are for Dhs4,500. The doors open at 07p.m. and the show starts at 8pm.
    All tickets for this elaborate experience are available for purchase here.
    Book an experiential dinner

    Looking for something a bit more unique? You can book a fine-dining experience at the one Michelin-star restaurant, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. A regional first, Dinner offers experiential dining and storytelling in a relaxed and informal culinary experience, with a menu inspired by the tastes and flavours of Britain dating back as far as the 13th century, from the farmers’ table to the royal courts of England. This lavish dinner features an indulgent set menu including Meat Fruit, Beef Royal and more from 7pm to 12:30am starting at Dhs2,950 per person and Dhs35,000 for the private dining room for up to 12 guests.
    Kick-in Latin style
    Celebrate New Year’s Eve infused with the carnival spectacle at En Fuego, Dubai’s hottest South American restaurant. Be entertained by dancers and live music while Le Cordon Bleu-trained Chef Daniel García, treats guests to a selection of the finest dishes and flavours from the streets of Rio De Janeiro to the mountains of Peru. On the night diners can indulge in a set sharing style menu whilst enjoying the exciting entertainment. En Fuego will also be hosting a special after party from midnight until 2am, perfect for those looking to continue the fun after dinner. The vening starts from 7pm onwards and is priced at Dhs1,650 for those 14 years and above, Dhs625 for ages 4 to 13 and free for children below the age of 3. It includes a set menu-sharing style and unlimited premium beverages along with live entertainment from salsa dancers, fire gipsy, a Columbian live band and an in-house En Fuego DJ Grelu. Additionally, the after party takes place from 12am to 2am for Dhs120 for three beverages.

    For the ultimate party
    Saffron’s New Year’s Eve celebration promises to be an unforgettable soiree that is not to be missed. With more than 220 delectable dishes, live cooking stations, partygoers can watch a team of top chefs slice, dice, sizzle and stir at Saffron’s impressive variety of authentic dishes from India, Southeast Asia and beyond. Guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, including a selection of sushi, Boston lobster, roasted prime ribs, classic roasted turkey, slow-roasted venison loin and mouth-watering desserts. A resident DJ, meanwhile, will be on hand to get everyone into the party spirit startng at 7pm onwards with the DJ featuring 80’s, 90’s, 20’s hits along with rock n roll and an elaborate fireworks display. The packages start at Dhs1,250 for ages 14 and above, Dhs625 for ages 4 to 13.
    For more information visit Atlantis.com
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    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @alphaspotting More

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    World-renowned chef José Andrés brings his Spanish culinary sensibilities to Jaleo

    Emirates Man

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    Spanish restaurants come rare in Dubai and only a few stand out. It’s no surprise that one of them is located in Atlantis The Royal.
    Having only opened in early this year, a hallmark of this dining destination are the regionally-diverse traditional dishes elevated with complex techniques, designed to be shared among friends in a casual atmosphere.
    At the helm is a Spanish-American internationally recognized chef and humanitarian José Andrés, who holds two Michelin stars for his avant-garde tasting counter minibar and four Bib Gourmands.
    Here, the culinary legend shares his formative culinary memories during childhood, his remarkable career journey, and what makes Jaleo different among the roster of exceptional dining destinations at Atlantis The Royal.
    Talk us through your daily routine, the first 30 minutes of the day.
    Probably for the first 30 minutes of my day I am thinking of just one thing: un cafe.
    When did your love for food begin?
    Both of my parents were nurses who worked very hard to put food on the table for four – yes four! – growing boys. My mother was a magician, she could make an incredible meal from next to nothing. Her croquetas, to this day, are the best I have had in my life and I have been trying for a lifetime to make them as good as hers.
    You’ve had an incredible career and have earned plenty of accomplishments. How did you get your start in the culinary space?
    My father was the one who taught me first about the importance of controlling the fire. That is, in fact, more important than cooking itself! Without fire, there is no paella! You must first learn to tend the fire. He loved to cook for everyone. If more people showed up he told me, just add more rice. I was not exactly the best student but I did go to culinary school before leaving to learn from my mentor, and now friend, Ferran Adrià, at his legendary restaurant, El Bulli.
    You’ve clearly worked incredibly hard to get where you are today. As a highly accomplished Michelin-starred chef, is there pressure to constantly innovate revolutionary gastronomy concepts?
    Innovation I think is misunderstood. You know what is revolutionary? Simple solutions. Sometimes the most ground-breaking discovery where everyone says oh, wow this is genius is actually something very simple, that has been right in front of us the whole time. Think of something like fermentation: it’s wild. You have these microscopic sugars breaking down, giving off heat, becoming something new before our very eyes. This is a revolution, man! It’s not so much up to us to make something new but to pay attention to what is becoming new all around us, all the time, everywhere, all at once!
    The culinary experience at Jaleo is exceptional. In a short span of time, it has become the go-to spot for Spanish fine dining – what is the recipe to this success in such a location?
    You know what blows my mind? Jaleo – the first one – opened in Washington DC thirty years ago! In some ways, that feels like yesterday. Then, people really thought I was crazy, making these tapas for everyone to share. Who knows, maybe they still do? But, what I love about Jaleo is that in just one bite you are transported to the best of Spain. It is this beautiful dance of flavors in your mouth. You are one bite away from the best trip of your life.
    To you, what are the must-try standout dishes at Jaleo?
    Just one? No, no, no you must have 3 or 4 or 10 or 20 dishes. That is the Jaleo way! Start with a hot, creamy croqueta, then the crunchy pan con tomate, maybe some sizzling gambas next, then boom a giant paella comes to your table like a parade… please tell me you will eat more than one dish.

    In your personal opinion, what is the difference between a good meal and a great meal?
    If you are lost, share a plate of food with a stranger…you will find who you are. A great meal is one you share with others.
    What’s next for José Andrés?
    One never knows. It has been a truly remarkable year for Jaleo at Atlantis The Royal, and we look forward to many more successes in 2024. From Jaleo securing inclusion in the Michelin Guide Dubai 2023 to the Gault&Millau UAE Guide 2024, I couldn’t be prouder of the team. All I can say is watch this space as we’re currently cooking a few new launches which we’ll be revealing in the coming months.

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    Images: Supplied More

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    Chef Tom Allen on helming Heston Blumenthal’s Michelin-star restaurant Dinner in Dubai

    Emirates Man

    by Joelle Albeaino
    3 hours ago

    Chef de Cuisine Tom Allen of Michelin-star restaurant, Dinner, by Heston Blumenthal talks to Emirates Man about his culinary journey so far and his current stint in Dubai.
    Can you tell us a bit about your background and how your culinary journey began?
    I was born and raised in Cheltenham, a small town in Gloucestershire, England. In 2001, I began my first full-time role working at Lumiere, a small 30-cover restaurant in Cheltenham as Chef de Partie. Working there at such an impressionable age, I learned the values of hard work and dedication and it was during this period that I met Ashley Palmer-Watts, who was at the time the Head Chef of Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck. In 2005, I made the move to The Fat Duck restaurant working with an incredible team where I developed a passion for the many processes of the prestigious three-Michelin-starred kitchen. I then joined Dinner in 2009 assisting Heston Blumenthal and developing the historical dishes that they would open the restaurant with, working alongside food historians and museum curators to bring Heston’s vision to life. In 2019 I then took on the role of Head Chef – Dinner London.
    What or who has been your biggest culinary inspiration throughout your career?
    Before I started my career, my parents inspired me. My mum was a stay-at-home mum, so we would always cook together in the kitchen and my dad would grow fruit and vegetables in our garden. Cooking at home was a way to bring the family together and is where I formed an emotional connection with food. My main inspiration since being in the culinary world would have to be Heston Blumenthal; he has been my main inspiration. His profound outlook on cooking, along with his approach to food, flavours, and storytelling has always amazed me. I’ve had the opportunity to work directly with Heston for more than 14 years, and this has had a real impact on the way I approach food.

    Could you describe your signature style that sets you apart from other chefs?
    My style as a chef is twofold, there’s my approach to cooking and discovering dishes from the ages and bringing them to the modern pallet, to how I manage and work with my team, boosting morale and garnering camaraderie. At heart, I am a perfectionist, and every intricate detail must be met to the highest of standards – this is across everything I do. That said, my culinary style is forever evolving and that is a testament to how I have been mentored by such an innovative teacher, that is Heston. It starts with sourcing great quality ingredients and having an amazing team to bring the dishes to life. At Dinner, we always tell the story behind each dish to give it authenticity, that point of difference, and reference. That’s why we search for historical links and work with historians, museum curators, and people who are passionate about food history to help bring all those components together, which we can then use when applying our techniques and methodology to provide a genuine story that that we can deliver to our guests.
    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    Before I came to lead Dinner by Heston Blumenthal in Dubai, I was overseeing Dinner in London. Heston had instilled immense trust in me to carry and drive his concept further, from the development of the dishes to overseeing the entire team. Years of dedication and commitment resulted in the opportunity to come to Dubai, to bring the concept here, and to make the restaurant a success. It was thrilling, and equally inspiring to come to an exciting new market like Dubai, which at the time was receiving global recognition for its culinary landscape.

    Dinner by Heston Blumenthal was awarded a Michelin star – what does this mean to you?
    To receive a star after being open for a very short period of time, we were completely overjoyed at the award and very proud and very honoured to receive the recognition from the MICHELIN Guide. It means a lot to me and the team; our hard work and dedication have been recognized by one of the most prestigious names in the culinary world. It’s given us a major boost to continue pushing our boundaries and raising the bar.
    Running a Michelin-star restaurant requires meticulous attention to detail and maintaining exceptional standards. How do you stay on top of that?
    We uphold Michelin-star standards through meticulous processes, ways of sourcing products, menu creation and service excellence, but the backbone to the success comes down to the team and passion. I’ve always been passionate about harvesting authentic culture and making sure that we are a collaborative force working towards the same goal. I’ve put in place a regular training session, where the team not only tests their skills but encourages them to be creative and experiment in the kitchen. My team must be happy and motivated because, at the end of the day, the level that we work at is hard enough, and so I want people to wake up in the morning after their days off and feel happy and inspired about coming to work.

    In your opinion, what is the hero dish at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal?
    Looking at the menu at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, we celebrate hero dishes from the ages, so it’s hard to choose one. From our starters, the Meat Fruit is the most iconic, there is a sense of playfulness, and it shows that things aren’t quite like what they seem (something Heston would always say). When you finish your dining experience two desserts stand out the most. You have our Tipsy Cake (c.1858), which historically takes the lead from the arrival of the first pineapples to the English court in 1700. It’s served with slices of roasted pineapple that have been slowly roasted on a spit for up to six hours. How it’s roasted is really interesting, our pineapple rotisserie is driven by our ‘The Dinner Escapement’ (clock), which is a breath-taking installation in the centre of the restaurant, its pully system reaches across the dining room and to the kitchen, to turn the rotisserie. Then we have our showstopper, which was inspired by one of the world’s first innovative chefs, the theatrical table side Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Trolly (c.1901). This is inspired by the work of Agnes B Marshall, a 19th century culinary entrepreneur, also known as ‘the Queen of Ices’ for her work in the development and design of ice cream production and storage.
    Finally, what is the future for Chef Tom Allen and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal?
    Despite only being open since earlier this year, we have achieved a great deal of success already and this is just the beginning for us. Our focus right now is building the team, enhancing the experience for our guests, and ensuring that we’re driving Dinner forward as one of the world’s most unique and exciting award-winning restaurants. We look to launching and showcasing many more dishes from history, and to story tell them through the language of taste and flavour.
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    Images: Supplied by Dinner by Heston Blumenthal More

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    Here’s what happened when we dined at Heston Blumenthal’s Michelin-star culinary haven

    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    4 hours ago

    Atlantis The Royal in The Palm beckons discerning epicureans to indulge in its exquisite gastronomic offerings.
    Boasting an impressive line-up of culinary masterpieces crafted by world-renowned chefs, it stands as a beacon of unrivalled luxury and culinary excellence, putting Dubai on the map as a culinary hotspot.
    A can’t-miss experience? Dining at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. This exceptional culinary destination offers an exquisite dining experience of unparalleled culinary artistry that transcends expectations.
    Having earned its prestigious Michelin star this year, this exceptional restaurant nestled within Atlantis The Royal invites guests on an extraordinary gastronomic journey curated by the visionary chef, Heston Blumenthal.

    The renowned Michelin star chef Heston Blumenthal OBE, reigns as an emblem of culinary prowess, commanding the epicurean stage with his signature style that exudes refined decadence. Blending avant-garde techniques with an unwavering commitment to the timeless British classics, Blumenthal’s gastronomic creations transport diners on a captivating journey through taste and texture. From his humble beginnings in Oxfordshire to the opulence of his world-renowned restaurants, each dish meticulously crafted by Blumenthal embodies an exquisite symphony of flavours, artfully harmonised to tantalise the senses.
    Chef Heston Blumenthal OBE comments, “Atlantis The Royal and Dubai were the perfect locations for Dinner outside of London, I like the idea of the juxtaposition of the old and the new, historically inspired recipes reimagined with modern techniques; so there’s the old and the new, housing it in an incredible new building; Atlantis, on the sea in Dubai.”
    THE AMBIENCE
    Stepping into Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is akin to entering a world where time-honoured traditions meet avant-garde innovation. The theatre of the Tudor dining experience, adorned with contemporary accents and a harmonious colour palette, sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. A notable part of the decor is the pineapple rotisserie installation featuring a pulley system and clock that powers a clockwork spit roast in the kitchen that cooks the pineapples.
    Blumenthal shares, “The Dubai venue has something extra special that our London guests won’t see, a giant pineapple escapement, which is the magical centrepiece of the restaurant, that also provides a functional element, turning the rotisserie which has roasted pineapples on it. Pineapples, historically, were unbelievably expensive, they were seen as unbelievable luxury… and so ours will signify adventure, exploration and discovery”

    THE HERO DISHES
    The menu at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is a symphony of flavours, showcasing Blumenthal’s unique vision and culinary expertise with dishes offering edible history dating as far back as the Medieval and Victorian times. Inspired by historical British recipes, each dish ignites the senses with re-imagined culinary delights that are a masterful blend of traditional elements and modern techniques.
    A five-course tasting menu starts out with an intriguing bite-sized caviar ball covered with white chocolate followed by an exceptional serving of sherried scallops cooked to perfection. The real dining experience though begins once the “Meat Fruit” is served – an unexpected true showstopper of the night. This iconic dish, presented as a vibrant mandarin, is a flawless revelation and recreation of a medieval delicacy. Delicately crafted chicken liver parfait, encased in a citrus-infused gel, delights the palate with its velvety texture and exquisite balance of flavours.

    As the feast progresses, the “Roast Halibut” a succulent fish cooked to perfection is served with a medley of seasonal vegetables and a green rich, buttery sauce with a side of triple-cooked fries. Not bland nor boring, the marriage of flavours is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing the harmonious interplay between the ingredients and the unwavering dedication to sourcing the finest produce. It is then followed by the “Powdered Duck Breast”, a complex and rich main paired with duck hearts and pickled cherries with braised red cabbage is a testament to the level of detail that goes into each dish.
    No gastronomic journey would be complete without a sweet nitrogen-infused conclusion, and the “Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream” does not disappoint. However, what stands out from the dessert menu is another signature creation that marries simplicity with decadence. The “Tipsy Cake” is a fluffy brioche lightly basted in Sauternes, baked to golden perfection, and served alongside a generous dollop of spit-roasted pineapple – a fitting finale for guests with discerning palates.

    THE SERVICE
    Complementing the culinary offerings, the restaurant offers an extensive beverage list including an impressive selection of vintages from around the world. The sommelier’s expertise and guidance elevate the dining experience to new heights of sophistication, as they effortlessly curate and pair each course with a perfectly suited beverage, enhancing the overall sensory journey.
    The attentive and knowledgeable team at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal elevates the experience further, giving the highest standards of service. From the moment you are welcomed to the final farewell, their impeccable attention to detail and genuine passion for gastronomy create an atmosphere of indulgence and exclusivity. Each dish is presented with precision and finesse, and the staff’s profound knowledge of the menu ensures that every culinary nuance is brought to life.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied by Atlantis The Royal More

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    An exclusive interview with Executive Chef Cesar Ulloa at La Mar by Gaston Acurio Dubai

    Adding to the thriving Peruvian restaurant scene in Dubai is the recently opened La Mar By Gaston Acurio at the iconic, Atlantis The Royal.
    Known for its myriad options of fresh ingredients, this restaurant decided to bring a unique blend of ancient Peruvian cuisine with authenticity at its helm.
    Known for its dedicated cebiche bar and an anticucho grill, this restaurant promises the entire experience from start to finish with exquisite pisco sour cocktails to complement the meal.
    Inspired by the design of a Fisherman’s Wharf, the simple interiors promise a laid-back atmosphere with natural light and colourful hues to emulate that classic Peruvian feel.
    After already receiving awards internationally, the restaurant has recently been awarded one Michelin star in the latest 2023 guide.
    Adding to the dynamic food scene in this part of the world, Emirates Woman speaks to the restaurant’s Executive chef, Cesar Ulloa to delve into its culinary journey.
    Talk us through your career.
    Before discovering my passion for food, I was fascinated with the world of magic, but that quickly changed when I began cooking and learning culinary arts at Le Cordon Bleu in Peru. 11 years ago, before I started working with Gaston, I had the opportunity to work at several Michelin restaurants including Celler de Can Roca Girona Spain (three-Michelin-star), Noma Restaurant in Copenhagen (three-Michelin-star), as well as Mugaritz Donostia, San Sebastian (two-Michelin-star). In 2012 I began working with Gaston at the original La Mar restaurant in Lima, and since then it has been a wonderful journey. Thanks to Gaston my culinary career has taken me all around the world and I am excited to see where my new chapter in Dubai takes me.

    Where does your love for food come from?
    Flavour! I enjoy trying and tasting different foods, cuisines, and most of all flavours. It’s a simple thing in life that brings me so much joy, inspiration, and excitement.
    This restaurant explores authentic flavours of Peruvian gastronomy. How was this a challenge and how did you overcome this?
    Peru boasts an abundance of ingredients that make distinctive regional cuisines and is recognised as one of the best cuisines in the world. It was important for us to capture the essence of Peruvian cuisine and bring a slice of Lima (capital of Peru where La Mar was first brought to life) so sourcing the right ingredients was definitely a priority. Leading up to the opening of the venue, it took us up to six to seven months to find the right produce – we’re currently sourcing most of our ingredients straight from Peru, from small ingredients such as chilli to staples such as potatoes and corn.
    What does it mean to you and the La Mar brand to work along Atlantis The Royal?
    Atlantis The Royal is the latest icon of Dubai and is home to a collection of ultra-luxury experiences, especially when it comes to F&B – there is no other hotel that offers a celebrity F&B showcase like Atlantis The Royal. The operations team has carefully identified each cuisine and has invited the best of the best to represent it. To be the Chef de Cuisine at La Mar, representing Gaston Acurio and my homeland’s cuisine is an honour. As I travelled with Gaston to his various venues across the globe I would always feel like an ambassador of Peru, and this is the same feeling while in Dubai and at Atlantis The Royal.

    What are the hero dishes according to you at the restaurant?
    As the only dedicated cebichería in Dubai, one of my hero dishes is of course cebiche! At La Mar you can explore a wide range of different cebiches from traditional cilantro, lime, and red onions to more unique creations such as nori and daikon. The other hero dish would be the Anticuchos, which was originally a street food and a major part of Peruvian culture. Anticuchos is grilled marinated meat packed with flavour and is served with a spicy salsa and Peruvian chilli paste. When I have these, the flavours transport me back to days as a child playing with friends.
    What are the three rules of thumb for a perfect Cebiche and what does LA MAR’s live cebiche bar add to the restaurant?
    The cebiche bar at La Mar is what anchors the restaurant, it’s a focal point that is interactive. Here we practice three very important rules of thumb which is to make sure you only use the freshest fish possible, Never use fish or seafood that’s been previously frozen, Always use fresh lime, never juice from a bottle – slice and squeeze and consume immediately. Ceviche is not a dish that should be left to linger.
    You take presentation seriously. How do you seamlessly combine design with gastronomy?
    Peruvian cuisine is so colourful, full of contrast focusing mainly on the ingredients. The country has more than 2,500 varieties of potatoes in every colour imaginable. More than fifty kinds of corn grow there, too, in shades ranging from midnight black to pale pink. So, our main focus is really the ingredient, whether it’s the delicate raw fish or the fresh garnish – we always let the ingredients be the hero. Our second focus is the chinaware, we went on a quest to find the right chinaware that will complement our dishes the most. We currently source handmade designs from both Spain and the UAE.
    What piece of advice would you give to those wishing to follow your culinary journey?
    Passion is the main drive in the hospitality industry in my opinion. You definitely need passion if you’re going to succeed. While a lot of perks come with the job which involves travelling the world, and working with amazing brands – it is possibly one of the most competitive sectors to work in, which is where passion comes in place and drives you forward.
    Working at LA MAR in different cities & continents, how do you take a brand globally while maintaining the essence of Peru?
    The DNA of La Mar is cemented by Gaston’s love for Peruvian cuisine and his energy to share it with the world. Of course, country to country the consumer tastebud differs, and they have desires for certain flavours, but we use this as an opportunity to educate the world about Peru and to entice them to explore the flavours of our cuisine. We story tell the diverse history and culture through the sense of taste no matter where we are. Another way La Mar remains true to its core is the fact that Gaston always recruits a handpicked team many of which are Peruvian nationals. I have been lucky to experience this a few times. During my career, my work with Gaston has taken me from Lima to Geneva, through each experience I’ve seen how he builds his teams while igniting enthusiasm and passion.

    How does the F&B Industry differ here from the rest of the world?
    Given its geographic location, Dubai is a cultural melting pot, and this is reflected in the F&B industry here; it’s one filled with excitement, diversity, and creativity. I think we are all very lucky to live in a city where you can discover all cuisines – especially when it’s authentic. In recent local reports, we’ve seen that Peruvian food is back on the rise – this is very exciting for everyone at La Mar. It’s been such a privilege to be part of a growing cuisine here in the Middle East region. At La Mar Dubai we try to elevate Peruvian cuisine through creative gastronomy, nicely mixing traditional flavours with unique plates. La Mar Dubai’s menu features exclusive dishes that have been crafted especially for this restaurant at Atlantis The Royal with the Dubai market and clientele in mind.
    You’ve been working with Gaston Acurio for years, what’s your biggest learning from him?
    Over the past 11 years, my journey with Gaston has taken me to different places across the world, which has been incredibly exciting as I have been able to become an ambassador for Peru. Even though we were cooking our native cuisine and Peruvian cuisine is becoming more popular, the customer differs from country to country, culture to culture. This means we never stop learning and this is something Gaston has ingrained in me.
    What’s next for La Mar?
    We opened our doors a few months ago and the feedback has been overwhelming and positive. It was also incredible being recognised during Dubai’s second edition of its Michelin Guide, where Tomislav Lokvicic, General Manager of La Mar was awarded Service of the Year and the restaurant received an honourable mention in the 2023 guide. For the time being we are going to continue delivering excellent service, delectable food, and culinary stories of Peru. We are excited to see more people to come to La Mar and experience Peru.
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    Revealed: Dubai’s second Michelin Guide for 2023

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    With a tried and tested seal of approval on Dubai’s culinary scene, the highly anticipated Michelin Guide has officially presented its selection of restaurants for the emirate this year.
    Michelin-starred restaurants as well as its official Michelin Guide for the emirate have been awarded accordingly.
    In partnership with Dubai Tourism, an official announcement was made at a VIP event this morning with the former Emirates Man cover star and Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Tourism, Issam Kazim, and Gwendal Poullennec, International Director, Michelin Guides at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal.

    The stars are awarded only to eateries that are judged by Michelin Inspectors to be of a particularly high standard, and it’s unanimously respected by both chefs and gourmands around the world.
    “We never had any doubt about Dubai’s culinary potential, and this year this fascinating destination confirms its gastronomic appeal,” said Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides.
    At the VIP event which took place at Atlantis The Royal, the 90 Michelin Guide restaurants were unveiled, as well as three Michelin Green Star Restaurants for sustainability and 17 Bib Gourmands. See the full list below.
    Two Michelin Star
    New: Tresind Studio• STAY by Yannick Alleno• Il Ristorante by Niko Romito
    One Michelin Star
    • New: Avatara• New: Dinner by Heston Blumenthal• New: Moonrise• Tasca by Jose Avillez• Ossiano• 11 Woodfire• Hōseki• Al Muntaha• Armani Ristorante• Torno Subito
    Michelin Green star for sustainable gastronomy
    • New: Boca• New: Teible• Lowe
    The Michelin Guide restaurants
    • New: 99 Sushi• New: Ariana’s Persian Kitchen• New: At.mosphere• New: Boca• New; Chic Nonna• New: City Social• New: Fouquet• New: French Riviera• New: Jaleo• New: Josette• New: Jun’s• New: L’Ovilo at Al Mahra• New La Mar• New: Mayabay• New: Milos• New: Mina Brasserie• New: Mott 32• New: Pierchic• News: RSVP• New: Rüya• New: Takahisa• Akira Back• Al Mandaloun• Al-Fanar• Amazonico• Avli by tashas• Bombay Bungalow• Carnival by Trèsind• CE LA VÌ• Celebrities by Mauro Colagreco• Cipriani• Clap• Coya• Demon Duck by Alvin Leung• GAIA• Hashi• Hell’s Kitchen• Hutong• Il Borro• Indego by Vineet• L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon• Little Miss India• LOWE• LPM Restaurant & Bar• Marea• Masti• Mimi Kakushi• Netsu by Ross Shonhan• Nobu• Pierre’s iT• Rhodes W1• Rockfish• Sea Fu• Shang Palace• Siraj• Sucre• Tan Cha• The Artisan• Trèsind• Zuma

    Bib Gourmand
    • New: 21 Grams• New: 3Fils• New: Amara• Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant• Bait Maryam• Brasserie• Boulud• Fi’Lia• Folly• Goldfish• Indya by Vineet• Kinoya• Ninive• Orfali Bros• REIF Japanese Kushiyaki• Shabestan• Teible
    For more details on the 2023 tables -to-book visit guide.michelin.com
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    11 luxe new restaurants to visit in Dubai ASAP

    Dubai is never short of new restaurants to dine in.
    Known for its enriching culinary options, tourists and residents are never short of dining gems to visit in the city.
    With a plethora of new openings, it’s hard to keep track of where to visit next and to do so, Emirates Woman has curated a guide of all the latest must-visit hotspots in the city, that you’ll keep going back to.
    Tagomago

    For the ultimate Balearic feel, the restaurant, bar and beach club Tagomago has officially opened its doors in Dubai. With bohemian aesthetics, this must-visit hotspot serves both lunch and dinner with freshly sourced ingredients. Opened under RIKAS Hospitality, this holiday spot offers a signature menu curated by chef Gilles Bouquet, with dishes for everyone. The space features 120 sunbeds on the beach and outdoor 200 covers across the terrace dining area, in the pergola area and at the chiringuito. Located at Palm West Beach, Azure Residence, the venue’s restaurant is open from 12pm to 1am and the beach is open from 10am to sunset.
    For more information visit tagomago.ae
    Josette

    As part of Orange Hospitality, this glamorous restaurant has opened its doors in the heart of Dubai. After the success of other renowned restaurants such as Il Borro Tuscan Bistro and Alici, this unique dining experience welcomes decadent experiences such as a stylish afternoon team and an evening live performance dining show. Adding to the charm are its unique interiors designed by renowned London-based artists and designer Luke Edward Hall. Guests can slice into tune tartare, foie gras terrine, escargot, ratatouille, soup a l’oignon, and plateau de Josette, a signature seafood platter. The restaurant is located in ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC and is open from 12pm to 3am.
    For more information visit josette.com
    Fouquet’s

    As a combination of art and culture, this fine-dining haven has embodied the spirit of Paris in every realm. With red parasols, traditional French café tables and a hanging garden against the backdrop of the city, the interiors complement the restaurant’s story. The menu draw upon local produce, with a good measure of creative flair and fresh ingredients. With the hanging garden against the city’s skyline, the evening is enhanced by the restaurant’s DJs. Situated in the heart of Downtown, the restaurants is located in Burj Plaza and open from Monday to Thursday 8am to 2am and Friday to Sunday 8am to 10pm.
    For more information visit hotelsbarriere.com
    Bungalo34

    After recently being added under the Tashas Group wing, this chic restaurant offers a blissful escape from city life with uninterrupted seaside views of the Arabian Gulf. The menu promises a variety of offerings ranging from Strapatsada, Lobster Benedict, Three Cheese Souffle Omelette and a housemade glyko koutaliouof sweet pumpkin served on vanilla Greek yogurt for all the sweet tooths, to name a few dishes. Founded by the talented Natasha Sideris, the sophisticated Mediterranean experience ensures a calm environment to enjoy with friends and family. For all the shopaholics, this new hotpot offers a bespoke retail experience for guests with a selection of beachwear pieces, handmade accessories, bags, swimwear and other hand-picked experience for the complete experience. Situated at Nikki Beach, this restaurant is open from 9am to 12am.
    For more information visit dubai.nikkibeach.com
    La Mar by Gastón Acurio

    If you’re on the lookout to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a fine-dining experience, La Mar at the newly opened Atlantis The Royal is the restaurant to visit. Curated by Chef Gaston Acurio, the restaurant offers diners a chance to explore authentic flavours of Peruvian Gastronomy with an enticing menu of freshly grilled anticuchos, signature cebiches and other specialty cocktails. As a culinary leader in the world of Peruvian gastronomy, Chef Gaston has created dishes with recipes passed down from his mother. Open daily from 6pm to 11pm, the restaurant is located at the mezzanine lobby level and overlooks the Skyblaze fountain, guests can choose to take a seat on the large open terrace or at the bustling cebiche bar, or the main dining area surrounded by incredible subtle decor. The restaurant is open daily from 6pm to 11pm.
    For more information visit atlantis.com
    Masti

    After shifting to a new location, Masti is all set to welcome guests to its restaurant situated at the Dubai Edition. Listed in the first Michelin Guide this restaurant brings a bold 360-degree experiential offering of innovative food, experimental beverages and unmatched hospitality. Masti remains emboldened and unafraid to be different. The new location will take risks and deliver a buzzing dining scene, with a sprinkling of Masti spice at The Dubai Edition. Befitting of the restaurant’s legendary reputation, the iconic Dubai Edition Hotel, optimally positioned on Fountain Street, Downtown will prove a stellar destination from which the restaurant can shine from. The restaurant is open from Sunday to Thursday from 12:30pm to 1am and 12:30pm to 2am.
    For more information visit mastidubai.com
    La Niña

    With Iberian-Latino fusion cuisine, La Niña opened its doors this year with sophisticated décor featuring lavish chandeliers and rich red velvet furniture that has taken inspiration from centuries of sea exploration. Designed with traditional Azulejo tiles from Portugal, this sophisticated dining venue takes visitors back in time with a renewed sense of excitement. or an unforgettable dining experience, guests can indulge in an array of delectable delights crafted by a team of world-class experts to conquer every diner’s taste buds. By taking it up a notch, the restaurant offers a host of cutting-edge cocktails and a selection of premium beverages. Located in the heart of DIFC at ICD Brookfield, the restaurant is open daily from 12pm to 4pm and 7:30pm to 1am.
    For more information visit laninarestaurant.com
    Mott 32

    Looking for somewhere new to dine? Mott 32 made the Middle East its first destination this year. Inspired by Manhattan’s first Chinese convenience store, the restaurant seamlessly blends the finest flavours of Hong Kong with lofty New York-style interiors. With signature hand-crafted cocktails and freshly prepared dishes such as a selection of dim sums and plat-based signatures, guests are spoiled for choice from the moment they enter. Located on the 73rd floor, it features an impressive indoor area, as well as an open-air terrace with stunning views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai. The restaurant is open daily from dinner from 6pm until 1am
    For more information visit mott32dubai.com
    City Social

    Launched by celebrity chef Jason Atherton, this sophisticated restaurant serves fine European cuisine with 360-degree views of the city. With unrivalled views across Dubai Marina and Dubai Harbour, diners can indulge in modern European cuisine that showcases the best ingredients from around the world with exquisite beverages to complement the menu. With the team of expert mixologists and beautifully created cocktails. Located at Grosvenor House, it’s open from Monday to Thursday 6pm to 2am and Friday & Saturday 6pm to 3am and is closed on Sunday.
    For more information visit citysocialdubai.com
    Hawkerboi

    What started as one of Dubai’s most sought-after supper clubs has now gone on to open its own restaurant. From first hosting in secret locations around Dubai, this highly-anticipated venue will serve Asian-hawker style food that takes inspiration from the founder’s life in the Far East. Known for his concealed identity, Hawkerboi is considered the Banksy of Dubai in the culinary world and never fails to amaze his diners with exquisite dishes that represent his travels. With delectable dishes such as Wagyu Skewers with Peanut Nahm Jim, Charcoal Short Ribs and more, the space is designed for with red neon piping to balance the underground foodie community in the city. Designed by its parent company EatX, this space projects a vast open kitchen by mastering the art of balance and theatre. Located at The Park, Jumeirah Lake Towers, the restaurant will officially open for walk-ins on Wednesday, April 26, 2023 and will be open from Sunday to Thursday 7pm to 10pm and Friday and Saturday 7pm to 11pm.
    For more information visit hawkerboi.com
    Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar

    Recently opened in the heart of city, Nola Bijou Bistro and Bar, promises an immersive experience unlike any other. Inspired by the 19th century New Orleans with hints of Parisian influencers, Nola offers an easygoing vintage modern look in the culinary world. With a sensational music experience rooted in Jazz, guests can expect soulful live performances by the loved Nuvo Soul band complimented by high-energy jazz and soul beats by the in-house resident DJ. With French and Cajun food traditions, the restaurants lends to an explosion of flavours in its premium dishes such as char-grilled broccoli, burrata topped with anchovies and wagyu beef tartare. For the space, the restaurant features rich velvet sofas, a library, antique lamps and lush greenery with bi-folding windows that brings the outdoors indoors. The restaurant is perched atop Mythos Urban Greek Eatery at The Square in City Walk and open daily from noon until 1am and until 2am on the weekends.
    For more information visit citywalk.ae
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