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    How Pai Thai offers an unforgettable culinary experience in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    17 mins ago

    As the perfect escape to Thailand, the award-wining restaurant Pai Thai takes guests on an unforgettable culinary journey.
    Nestled within the serene gardens of the palatial Jumeirah Al Qasr, this one-of-a-kind restaurant is surrounded by lush greenery and pristine waterways for a completely dedicated experience.
    There are some cuisines out there which are just universally popular around the world, and we think that Thai food is certainly one of them.
    With the Head Chef at Jumeirah Al Qasr’s Pai Thai restaurant, Chef Amara Mahayothee making waves, her immaculate creativity and attention-to-detail ensures authenticity in whatever she creates.
    Known for delivering an extraordinary experience with a burst of flavours, Emirates Woman spoke to Mahayothee to see how she puts her creativity to the forefront.
    Talk us through your career.
    My culinary journey has been an exciting and fulfilling one. It all started when I started my career as a Sous Chef at Blue Elephant Thai Restaurant in Al Bustan Rotana Hotel Dubai. This experience provided me with a strong foundation in Thai cuisine and allowed me to develop my skills and passion for the culinary arts. Following that, I had the opportunity to work in various renowned establishments. I took on roles in Wafi City’s Thai Chi Restaurant in Dubai and contributed to the pre-opening of Chop Chop Restaurant in Mall of Emirates Dubai and Thai Chi Restaurant Franchise in Kuwait. Additionally, I was involved in a special assignment at the Thai Consulate in Qatar, where I had the chance to showcase my culinary expertise and represent Thai cuisine. Before joining Jumeirah Group, I held the position of Head Chef at Bambooda Thai & Asian Restaurant in Roda Al Bustan Hotel Dubai and today, I am honored to serve as the Head Chef at Jumeirah Al Qasr’s Pai Thai restaurant.

    Where does your love for food come from?
    My love for food stems from my upbringing in a household that has a deep passion for cooking. Growing up, I was fortunate to have my mom as my greatest inspiration. She would dedicate countless hours in the kitchen, preparing delicious meals with love and care and as a curious child, I couldn’t resist the temptation of sneaking a taste of her curries when she wasn’t looking. Those small moments got me excited to start shadowing my mom around the kitchen and learning her recipes and techniques.
    Tell us about the journey that guests can experience when they visit Pai Thai?
    Guests can expect a captivating journey when they visit Pai Thai, starting with an abra ride through Madinat Jumeirah’s waterways. When they arrive at the stunning waterside location, they will discover a little piece of Thailand in the heart of Dubai – a restaurant that serves up a truly authentic Thai experience where guests can savour the vibrant flavours and spices of Thai cuisine. The menu features the perfect blend of Thai flavours and it includes soups, meat, seafood and curries fragrantly infused with Thai herbs and spices. The warm and inviting atmosphere adds to the charm, making the dining experience at Pai Thai truly unforgettable.
    What are the hero dishes to try at the restaurant?
    Some of the highlights and personal favorites on the menu include the tantalizing Tom Yum Soup, the classic Pad Thai, the flavourful Chicken Satay, the delightful Chor Muang and the delectable Prawn Curry.
    As a highly accomplished chef, what sets your cooking style apart?
    My cooking style is distinguished by my dedication to authenticity and innovation. I take pride in combining traditional recipes with my own creative flair to showcase the vibrant flavours and techniques of Thai cuisine. It is my passion and commitment to provide guests with an unforgettable culinary journey that delights them with each bite.
    What are the hurdles that you’ve experienced during your career and how have you overcome them?
    Thai cuisine presents its own set of challenges, and one of the main difficulties I face is sourcing authentic ingredients. Some of these ingredients may not be readily available, making creating truly authentic dishes challenging. Additionally, one of the complex tasks I face is ensuring that every dish I create is prepared from the depths of my heart and there are instances where some guests may not be completely satisfied. However, I’ve overcome these challenges by constantly striving to improve and learn. I am dedicated to ensuring that every dish I create not only meets the highest standards but also brings joy and satisfaction to the dining experience of my guests.
    The restaurants offers an exclusive ‘Five tastes of Thailand’ menu – tell us more.
    Guests are taken on a culinary journey of discovery that explores the five key flavours of Thailand – bitter, salty, spicy, sour and sweet. In every dish, each one of these flavours is often pronounced, complimented by a supporting act of some, or in some cases all of the others. Starters include the Gai Hor Bai Toey, marinated chicken wrapped in pandan leaves, Chor Muang, purple flower chicken dumpling and Som Tam Pai Thai, green papaya salad. Mains feature Gaeng Massaman Nuea, braised beef massaman curry, Gaeng Panang Goong, tiger prawns in a creamy red curry sauce and Gaeng Khiew Wan Phak, mixed vegetable green curry. For the sweetest finish, the meal ends with the delicious Kao Niew Ma Muang, purple sweet sticky rice topped with ripe Thai mango. The sharing menu also has plant-based versions that can be enjoyed by vegans. Pai Thai serves this exclusive menu every Monday to Friday from 6pm until 11:30pm and Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 PM – 11:30 PM. Dhs590 for two guests inclusive of food only and Dhs990 for two guests inclusive of wine pairing.
    How does Pai Thai stand out with its exclusive culinary flavours?
    Pai Thai stands out with its exclusive culinary flavours by providing guests with a truly unforgettable dining experience. When guests indulge in our dishes, they are treated to a delightful taste that is sure to leave a lasting impression. We take great pride in offering a unique and complete range of flavours that are unrivaled in Dubai or the UAE. Our commitment to using authentic ingredients and our skilled culinary techniques result in dishes that guests have likely never tasted before in this region. At Pai Thai, we strive to exceed expectations and provide an extraordinary gastronomic journey that will truly blow our guests away.

    What’s next in the pipeline for the restaurant?
    We have exciting plans in the pipeline to enhance our guests’ dining experience. Firstly, we are working on updating our à la carte menu, incorporating new and exciting dishes that showcase the best of Thai cuisine. These additions will further highlight my signature culinary style and offer a wider range of options for our guests to enjoy. Additionally, we are excited to extend our operating hours to include lunch and dinner services. This means that guests can now visit Pai Thai throughout the day and indulge in our exquisite menu.
    Overall, how would you describe the UAE’s F&B scene?
    The F&B scene in the UAE is quite diverse and offers a wide range of culinary options. In Dubai, there are many Thai restaurants available, but finding authentic Thai cuisine prepared by experienced Thai chefs can be a bit challenging and requires research and exploration to offer the real standard of Thai cuisine.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    How Trèsind Dubai approaches Indian cuisine through a contemporary lens

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    20 mins ago

    Modern Indian fine-dining has taken over the culinary scene in Dubai with restaurants such as Trèsind, making their mark.
    By setting the benchmark for innovative dining in the emirate, the dishes are created with fine attention-to-detail by embracing a myriad of regional flavours.
    Presented through Chef Mohammad Zeeshan’s culinary vision, guests can indulge in a variety of dishes, to visualise a fresh perspective on this legendary cuisine. From Aragula pani puri to the modernist chaat tart, each dish presents a nuanced appeal with its presentation and burst of flavours.

    Located in the Arabian Court at the One&Only Royal Mirage, the restaurant welcomes guests from all around the world has already put the emirate on a global map.
    To see how it all began, we speak to Chef  Zeeshan, who began his journey with Trèsind in 2014 and has contributed to the restaurant’s overall success since then.
    Talk us through your career.
    I was born into the renowned Qureshi culinary family in Lucknow, India. Growing up, I was surrounded by food and immersed in the culinary traditions of Awadh, it was a natural progression for me to pursue a career in hospitality as a Chef. My journey in the culinary world has been marked by passion, dedication and a desire to present traditional Indian flavors in modern and innovative ways.
    What inspired you to become a chef?
    The inspiration to become a chef came from my upbringing in a family deeply connected to the culinary world. I was exposed to the rich and diverse flavors of Awadhi cuisine from a young age, and this instilled in me a deep appreciation for cooking and a desire to share these flavours with the world.
    The restaurant has put Indian cuisine on Dubai’s culinary map How did it all begin?
    Trèsind Dubai’s journey began with a vision to showcase Indian cuisine in a new light. I aimed to create a dining experience that would elevate Indian flavours and presentation to a new level. By combining modern culinary techniques with traditional recipes and ingredients, the restaurant quickly gained recognition and put Indian cuisine in Dubai on the global culinary map.
    Trèsind focuses on its presentation and gastronomic journey. Talk us through your creative process.
    The creative process at Trèsind involves a meticulous approach to presentation and the overall gastronomic journey for the guests. My team and I draw inspiration from the rich Indian culinary heritage, seeking to reinterpret classic dishes into contemporary masterpieces. The process involves experimenting with flavours, textures, and techniques to create a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity on the plate, delivering an unforgettable dining experience.

    The restaurant is known for serving progressive Indian cuisine. How do you curate a menu that’s different from others?
    Curating a menu that stands out from others is a constant challenge that my team and I work on a daily basis. We focus on showcasing progressive Indian cuisine by continuously exploring new ingredients, innovative cooking methods and artistic plating. While honouring the traditional roots of Indian cooking, we try to push the boundaries to surprise and delight diners with unexpected flavuor combinations and visually stunning presentations.
    The restaurant is known for its seasonal changes – how do you keep up with the latest innovations?
    To keep up with the latest innovations and embrace seasonal changes, we try and stay at the forefront of culinary trends. We are continuously experimenting with new ingredients and techniques, attending food festivals, collaborating with other chefs, and engaging in research to ensure that the menu evolves with each season, offering guests fresh and exciting dining experiences.
    What are some of the key hero dishes to try at Trèsind?
    Trèsind boasts a menu filled with exceptional dishes, but some of the key hero dishes that guests must try to include signature creations that blend traditional Indian flavours with contemporary twists. Examples may include The Modernist Chaat trolley, and Hunter’s Lamb Raan.

    As a MICHELIN restaurant, how is the experience constantly evolving since its launch in the UAE?
    As a MICHELIN Guide Dubai 2023 selected restaurant, Trèsind Dubai maintains a commitment to excellence, which drives the continuous evolution of the dining experience. The team strives to elevate their offerings, incorporating guest feedback, experimenting with new techniques, and embracing culinary advancements to consistently deliver an exceptional experience that lives up to the prestigious MICHELIN Guide recognition.
    The restaurant pays homage to a nostalgic time – what are some of the key elements that have contributed to this?
    Trèsind’s homage to a nostalgic time is deeply rooted in its approach to traditional Indian cuisine. The key elements that contribute to this nostalgic experience are the use of time-honoured recipes and techniques passed down through generations, the selection of authentic ingredients, and the careful preservation of culinary traditions from various regions of India. This creates a sense of familiarity and nostalgia while being presented in a modern and progressive setting.
    What is your favorite comfort meal?
    My favourite comfort meal likely draws inspiration from his upbringing in the culinary haven of Awadh. It may include soul-warming dishes such as biryani, kebabs, or traditional Lucknowi dishes that remind him of home and evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
    How’s Dubai’s F&B scene evolving as a whole?
    Dubai’s F&B scene is known for its rapid evolution and innovation. The city has become a melting pot of global culinary trends and experiences. Chefs and restaurants continually strive to push boundaries, experiment with flavors, and introduce new dining concepts. Dubai’s cosmopolitan population and diverse visitor base have contributed to the city’s dynamic F&B landscape, with a wide array of options ranging from street food to high-end gastronomic experiences.
    What’s next in line for the Trésind?
    The team at Trèsind Dubai are known for their innovation and commitment to evolving Indian cuisine, the future holds exciting prospects. They may continue to explore new culinary territories, collaborate with other chefs, delve deeper into regional Indian cuisines, and perhaps even expand their presence to other locations, both within Dubai and beyond, to share their unique culinary vision with a broader audience.
    – For more on how to look smart and live smarter, follow Emirates Man on Facebook and Instagram
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    The best premium Ice-creams to try in Dubai for some midweek indulgence

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    If you’re looking to beat the summer heat, Ice-creams are possible the best option.
    We’re all softies for ice-cream and might always need a cheat treat occasionally.
    With a range of exciting flavours such as fresh Pistachio ice-creams and other vanilla flavours topped with 24kt gold carat for that premium experience.
    So, if you’re looking for a delicious dessert after a meal or simply want to cool down after a long day, we’ve curated a guide of all the must-visit spots that have a plethora of delectable choices that your palate can’t simply get enough of.
    Saddle

    This exciting pop-up food experience promises innovatively delicious food. This UAE’s beloved homegrown brand is an extraordinary summer adventure during Dubai’s hot summer months. With the finest ingredients, this café is all about quality experience. Guests can indulge in the refreshing Pineapple Ice Cream and Coconut Ice Cream flavours, savour the creamy goodness of the Coconut.From Matcha ice creams to the extremely popular flavours such as Pistachio ice cream, this one-of-a-kind hotspot is definitely a must visit. Located at Al Wasl and Al Khawaneej, this venue is a must-visit.
    For more information visit saddle.com
    Massimo’s Gelato

    This famous restaurant is the first Italian artisanal gelato known for its creamy, light and explosive flavours. Like the authentic homemade Gelato, these flavours are produced fresh every day in the laboratory in small quantities with natural ingredients that melts in the mouth slowly releasing the flavour of each ingredient. With vegan options for its Dark Chocolate and pistachio, each flavour caters to a wide audience. It’s the first outlet in Dubai, which has its own motorcycle fleet and can bring Gelato to your home in just a few minutes with its traditional flavours. Located in Dubai Marina, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates, this venue has best Italian ingredients.
    For more information visit
    Godiva

    For a gourmet experience, Godiva brings its 100 years after being founded in Brussels with fine craftsmanship. Each spoonful of ice cream pairs the finest ingredients with the iconic chocolate experience. With flavours such as Midnight Swirl and with Dark Chocolate to innovative flavours such as Mint Medallion, customers are spoiled for choice. Located at City Walk, Dubai Festival City, Mall of the Emirates and The Outlet Village, the restaurant is situated around various spots in Dubai.
    For more information visit Godiva.com
    Mirzam

    Known as Dubai’s premium chocolate makers, guests can experience every aspect of the process at the factory and see it from roasting the cocoa beans to each bar being wrapped. From vegan options such as a floral hibiscus & creamy mango to the OG dark chocolate softie with an espresso shot, the options are endless. Located in Al Quoz 3, Mirzam is open daily from 8am to 11pm
    For more information visit mirzam.com
    Majama

    For all the vegan lovers, this much-loved ice-cream spot makes healthy treats that our 100 percent vegan, gluten-free and refined-sugar free. Handcrafted from scratch, the brand has a myriad of delectable flavours such as Count Macchiato, Judge Fudge, Loco Chococo, Choco(Lit) Dynamite and Mango Django. Created with a coconut base, this light ice-creams are the perfect option for a treat without feeling guilty. As a homegrown label in Dubai, it’s located in Cluster N, Jumeirah Lake Towers and is open daily from 10am to 10pm and is available for ordering on Deliveroo and Chat Food.
    For more information visit eatmajama.com
    Krema’s

    This newly launched venue has entered the ice cream space with its limited-edition bite-sized ice cream Melts to maximise the summer glory. The ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept,ice cream is crafted to perfection in collaboration with Two at Symphony, Krema’s sister concept, with a gorgeous venue at Dubai Mall’s Fashion Avenue, where guests can enjoy incredibly delightful desserts. Orders can be placed via Chatfood, Talabat, and Deliveroo and the incredible ice cream flavours will be delivered across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain and are priced at AED 59 per tub containing 18-20 pieces. Krema’s Melts are also available for pick-up at Two at symphony at Dubai Mall.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    This Dubai-based culinary haven explores vibrant Latino flavours with a twist

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    18 mins ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: A new culinary haven has been added to the list of fine-dining restaurants in Dubai.
    With Iberian-Latino fusion cuisine, La Niña has opened its doors 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.
    Born to tantalise your taste buds, this restaurant takes visitors on a unique food journey by steering away from the traditional dining scene. As an amalgamation of bold flavours from Spain, Portugal and South America, this unique experience celebrates the team of award-winning chefs. By catering to both lunch and dinner options, guests can indulge in all-day dining at this venue.

    For 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.

    Known for his culinary adventures, Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid a visit to this exquisite restaurant giving it the royal seal of approval.
    Designed to bring back the romance of life at sea, the concept takes inspiration from a bygone era to naturally combine the strength of Latino and Iberian cultures seamlessly.
    So, if you’re in need of a fine-dining option to visit in Dubai, La Niña is the perfect option to experience with your loved ones.
    Located in the heart of DIFC at ICD Brookfield, the restaurant is open daily from 12pm to 4pm and 7:30pm to 1am. To make a reservation call +971 4 395 1300 and +971 50 889 8336
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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