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    Alaya: Chef Izu’s new dining destination that strikes a balance of authentic delicacies

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    Life

    by Camille Macawili
    3 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 5 IMAGES
    Located in Gate Village at DIFC, Alaya is the latest upscale lifestyle dining destination by award-winning Chef Izu Ani and F&B trailblazer Evgeny Kuzin.
    From one successful homegrown concept to another, Chef Izu continues to enhance the culinary offering in the region. The award-winning chef leads the way within the ever-evolving F&B space with an unrivalled flair and attention to detail which embeds his clean, fresh and light culinary style loved by royals including Crown Prince of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
    Evgeny Kuzin, the mastermind behind A-list approved iconic international venues such as Cipriani and Scalini to regional favourites like GAIA and Shanghai Me which blend ambiance, cuisine and location across the globe, enhancing Dubai’s culinary status globally.
    With its integrated approach, Alaya pays homage to the traditions of the region interweaved with a refined and elegant decor by Richard Saunders of Sagrada, that infuses Middle Eastern worldliness combined with the beauty of the Mediterranean to deliver a boho-eclectic sensorial dining experience.
    One of the hallmarks of Alaya is centered on the joy of sharing and dining in good company, which is expressed in the authentic dishes that are served through a sharing concept to draw people around the table. Whether you’re having a leisurely lunch or a hearty dinner, expect a gastronomic journey that are emblematic of the region. Among the appetising hot and cold starters and main dishes, The Shish Kofte stands out along with the Shish Wagyu – seasoned to perfection with a blend of homemade harissa, which comes highly recommended by the warm and well-trained staff. The restaurant prides itself on the high standards of its grilled meat so do not miss out on the rotisserie chicken, a centrepiece within the restaurant, for a warm and comforting dish that feels just like home.
    After a sumptuous meal, the journey continues at LY-LA, a refined speakeasy style bar and lounge tucked away behind a concealed door below the main dining space. From 11pm to 3am, guests can revel in nostalgia to afro, melodic house and organic beats alongside Middle Eastern instruments. The opulent space, adorned with Arabian-inspired fixtures adds a magical touch.
    For more information and reservations, visit www.alayarestaurants.com 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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      This private Dubai dining experience exudes the nostalgia of home

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      44 mins ago

      Looking to host a gathering and want the professionals to take the lead? We’ve got the perfect place for you.
      Take a seat at Gaia’s Chef’s Table, for a Grecian escape and a one-of-a-kind culinary adventure. With Greek-inspired traditions taking the centre stage, this luxurious experience transcends beyond the world of food.
      In an intimate space right by where all the action in Gaia takes place, diners can feel at home with the relaxing interiors that evoke a sense of warmth. This inviting setting invites guests to indulge in the kitchen’s creativity from its mirrored walls to the earth wooden table.
      With a curated menu of the chef’s classics, diners can savour their favourite dishes from the a la carte menu. Created with fine produce and fresh ingredients, each dish is carefully prepared with the daily import of fresh seafood and fish cooked according to the customer’s preference.

      Each dish allows guests to feel connected to the kitchen as they can see what goes on behind-the-scenes, through the transparent glass separating the kitchen from the table.
      For an evening of conversation, this 12-seater experience ignites meaningful discussions and an evening of laughter with your loved ones. After making its mark globally, this is a menu and fine-dining experience you wouldn’t want to miss.
      Located at Gate Villa 4, DIFC, Podium Level, advance booking is recommended and for more information visit gaia-restaurants.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images & Feature Image: Supplied More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      Watch: Sheikh Mohammed gives Chef Izu’s new restaurant a royal stamp of approval

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      52 mins ago

      The UAE royals have guaranteed this restaurant is a must-visit.
      Known for his love for food, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has given Chef Izu Ani’s latest restaurant a royal thumbs up.
      In a video shared on Chef Izu’s Instagram, Sheikh Mohammed is seen exchanging a handshake with the restauranteur outside new venue Alaya, whilst also sharing a few moments of laughter together.
      “Happiness is found in the smaller moments, the beauty of sharing our time with others, and conversations that touch and inspire us,” he also captioned the post. “I am so grateful for all of the support we have received from His Highness and the country that we are so blessed to live in.”

      Sheikh Mohammed’s visit comes a few days after his son, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai paid a visit to Alaya.
      Masterminded by Chef Izu and one of Emirates Man’s former cover stars Evgeny Kuzin, the concept is nothing short of extraordinary, with a combination of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences. Inspired by their travels, each dish is prepared with the freshest ingredients.
      After only opening last month, the restaurant has gained quite a bit of traction as the duo has brought a new concept to DIFC. By taking each visitor on a culinary journey, the warm inviting space, ensures guests feel at home from the moment they enter.
      Having previously visited other fine-dining establishments under the same group, Sheikh Mohammed is known to be a fan of Gaia and Shanghai Me.
      The restaurant is now well truly on the scene, especially if Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Hamdan have both paid a visit.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Instagram, Feature Image: Instagram @chefizu More