More stories

  • in

    The ultimate après ski experience makes a return in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    2 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: We may be missing a white blanket of snow here in Dubai, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the après ski experience altogether.
    This festive season, the Chalet 105 X Montblanc experiential dining adventure returns to Twiggy by La Cantine for the second year in a row after becoming a popular annual occurrence at parent restaurant La Cantine du Faubourg.
    Encapsulating the very essence of a cosy après ski experience following a day of swishing down the snowcapped mountains, Chalet 105’s vintage aesthetic and alpine setting allows you to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city of Dubai.

    In fact, dare we say, you’ll feel as though you’ll be whisked away to the aura of the French alps as soon as you enter Chalet 105.
    This intimate dining experience, priced at Dhs425, at Twiggy starts with a welcome drink followed by delicious truffled chestnut soup.
    Then enters the main event, the ‘Fondue Savoyarde’, melted cheese accompanied with bread and green salad, as well as melted raclette cheese accompanied with green salad, potatoes and pickles, just as you’d enjoy it at an altitude of 2000 metres.
    Tying a nice festive bow on this après ski experience is a delectable chocolate fondue complete with a selection of fresh fruit and sweets.
    Enjoy the true meaning of the festive season with friends, loved ones or even colleagues with an exceptional winter touch at Chalet 105.
    Twiggy by La Cantine, located at the Park Hyatt Dubai Creek, is open daily from 9am to 2am. For reservations, email book@twiggy.ae, call +971 4 602 1105 or visit twiggy.ae.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    12 fabulous things to do in Dubai (and Abu Dhabi) this weekend

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    4 hours ago

    Your ultimate guide to this weekend in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – November 18 to November 20, 2022.
    F1 in Abu Dhabi

    The F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is making its return for 2022 this weekend with the best in racecar driving set to descend upon the UAE capital. In tandem, there’s also plenty happening in the emirate including huge post-race concerts – Kendrick Lamar will be performing on Saturday night, while Def Leopard will take to the stage on Sunday.
    Brunch time

    Dine in style for brunch this weekend at Ongaku, the hidden bar within Clap. The popular nightlife hotspot comes alive in the day every Saturday from 12.30pm to 4pm. The luxe brunch includes a huge sushi station, prawn cocktail tower, fresh oyster section, dedicated ceviche station and more – and this is just the starters! For mains enjoy the black cod, pistachio crusted baby chicken and beef sando and an indulgent surprise courtesy of the chef, all served family-style with sides of grilled vegetables and wasabi mash. Prices for the brunch start at Dhs495.
    Dior arrives at Nammos

    A unique Dior pop-up store has recently opened its doors for the second year at Nammos in the Four Season Hotel in Dubai. The fascinating architectural installation of the pop-up unveils the latest Dior Cruise 2023 collection with an exclusive selection available only in Dubai.
    A picture of health

    Biolite, Dubai’s premier aesthetic clinic for over 15 years, has launched the region’s first Healthness Centre, offering a personalised and preventative approach to aesthetics, health, and longevity with the aim of optimizing the client’s overall health and ageing process. The concept is formed of carefully crafted health and wellness modalities supporting longevity, nutrition, and sleep, developed, and designed through years of research by the Biolite advisory board and founder, Mona Mirza. The new centre takes you on a health journey with a comprehensive consultation with an integrative medicine doctor, IFMCP certified. Unlike a typical GP visit, the examination starts with innovative preventative diagnostic testing and extensive health intake designed to accumulate as much information as possible. Genetic testing, tracking of functional biomarkers, microbiome analysis are just some of the tests clients do in the process. Visit their website for more details.
    Italian feast

    Enjoy a classic rituale Italiano at Fi’lia – the Aperitivo. Traditionally known as a way of ‘opening the palate’, guests can enjoy a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages paired with light bites from 4 to 6pm daily. The perfect way to relax and unwind, the Aperitivo is served in the lounge area adjacently located to Fi’lia and guests can expect Italian classics such as beef tartare, vitello tonnato and an antipasti platter amongst other culinary delights.
    Kick-off time

    World Cup fever is officially underway. Taking place in Qatar, the official kick-off takes place this Sunday, November 20. If you haven’t been able to snag yourself a ticket to the live action in Qatar, there’s plenty of places to watch here in Dubai. Take a look at our Emirates Man edit here.
    The Dubai Run

    This Sunday, November 20, the fourth edition of Dubai Run – one of the key highlights of Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) – will take place. Runners of all ages and fitness abilities are able to register and enjoy a once-a-year chance to run along Dubai’s iconic Sheikh Zayed Road with two routes to choose from: a 10km route and a 5km route. Register for the Dubai Run here.
    Escape to the desert

    At long last, the best weather of the year has arrived in the UAE. Long gone are humid days and nights paired with the sweltering heat and the cooler temperatures and outdoor weather is here to stay for the foreseeable future. With that comes the return of the UAE’s beloved desert cafés and concepts. To keep you in the know, we’ve rounded up some of the best desert cafés to visit in the UAE this winter – click here to read the full edit.
    A fashion pop-up

    Homegrown fashion label Second Summer has teamed up with beachside hotspot Koko Bay to launch a month-long pop up La Sol Shop. KoKo Bay will play host to an immersive pop up with Second Summer’s consciously curated collection of seasonal lines made up of effortlessly cool pieces that will be retailed at the Bali inspired restaurant. Given that the cooler weather is finally here, it’s the perfect time to visit this seasonal pop-up.
    The Lion King comes to Abu Dhabi

    This weekend marks the first of The Lion King musical in Abu Dhabi after launching on November 16. The popular Broadway musical is being performed at the Etihad Arena until December 10 and you can book tickets here.
    Burger time

    Indulge this weekend on some succulent sliders from London Slide this weekend. Located at Bluewaters Island, the casual dining venue brings the “grace of essence” of London to the shores of Dubai. From sliders packed with shredded blue lobster to Wagyu beed with shaved truffle, this haven offers bite-sized eats with something on offer for everyone.
    Pick up the latest copy of Emirates Woman

    For November, we are proud to present The Collectors Issue. We are proud to have partnered with Louis Vuitton for our cover shoot – an incredibly fitting brand for the theme of this issue as their luggage is a multi-generational icon. We shot their CR23 collection with rising star and Saudi model Taleedah Tamer. In this issue, we share an incredible collection of stories, women and voices. For us, depth is a priority as without this there is no value. We champion collected wisdom, learnings and understanding as paramount in importance, as well as the aesthetic symbols which bring peace or sentiment. Pick up a copy in stores now or download the issue here.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Nadya Hasan Instagram More

  • in

    10 restaurants in Dubai with luxe private dining areas

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    14 mins ago

    When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver.
    However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room?
    With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms.
    From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs.
    Indochine

    There’s a piece of New York City right here in Dubai that you can enjoy – Indochine. Whether you wish to host a private event for a new launch or simply want to celebrate a special occasion, this is the place to be. The French-Vietnamese restaurant brings its classic dishes to the table with an in-house indie DJ for some eclectic tunes all night long. The restaurant can seat large parties of 10 to 20 guests in a luxurious private dining setting. Guests can relish a five-course menu served family-style accompanied by an evening of conversation and laughter in this intimate setting. Hosts also have an option of full or partial buyouts for larger gatherings.
    For more information visit indochinedxb.com.
    Amazonico

    This jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai’s scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes.
    For more information visit amazonicorestaurant.com.
    Shanghai Me

    Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements.
    For more information visit shanghame-restaurant.com. 
    Le Guépard

    Designed as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone’s personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that’s sure to impress.
    For more information visit leguepard-est2021.com.
    Cé La Vi

    With out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings.
    For more information visit celavi.com.
    Roka

    If there’s one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant’s main menu and a long banquet hall, it’s surely a luxe option to add to your list.
    For more information visit rokarestaurant.com. 
    GAIA

    This award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there’s something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef’s Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering.
    For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com.
    At.mosphere

    In the world’s tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant’s culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high.
    For more information visit atmosphereburjkhalifa.com. 
    Zuma

    By adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant’s private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Il Borro Tuscan Bistro

    Il Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot’s private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements.
    For more information visit ilborrotuscanbistro.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: @Indochinedxb More

  • in

    From LA to Dubai: The Nice Guy lands in DIFC

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 hour ago

    With a never-ending A-list celebrity guestlist including Gigi Hadid, Justin and Hailey Bieber, Kylie Jenner, Kendall Jenner, Nicki Minaj and more, The Nice Guy has opened its first-ever venue outside of Los Angeles right here in Dubai.
    Launched in partnership with MKIA Hospitality, the group’s managing partner and co-founder, Mohammad Irshaid discusses what The Nice Guy has in store for its Dubai debut.
    Talk us through your career.
    It all started at the age of 21 when I travelled to New York to license the brand Sugar Factory, I did my training in NY, LA and Las Vegas, and a year later franchised Dum Dum Doughnuts from London. In between, I consulted for brands such as Bora Bora Juice Kuwait and Pizza Factory DIFC on menu development, brand concept creations and many more. Then around two years ago, the idea of The Nice Guy was presented and here we are.
    Where does your love for food come from?
    Throughout my childhood, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my mother, who is an amazing cook and would constantly be experimenting in the kitchen. From prepping lunches and dinner gatherings to late-night snacks. Other than being physically present in the kitchen I had a natural curiosity about the process of cooking and how flavours came together. This established the foundation of my passion for food and beverage.

    You’ve just opened the iconic LA hotspot The Nice Guy in Dubai. How long has this been in the works? Why Dubai?
    We started the conversations around two years ago during COVID-19. Dubai is home and is an emerging F&B hub of the world. Yet with everything around, I still felt there was a gap that The Nice Guy could fill. A place with an old school ambience, a good Italian vibe, great music and most importantly, a place to meet and connect with like-minded individuals.
    Talk us through the concept of The Nice Guy.
    The Nice Guy Dubai will follow suit of its LA predecessor as a highly sought-after, reservations-only destination, complete with a world-class lineup of classic Italian cuisine offerings for lunch and dinner, including signature menu items and crafted cocktails. In true The Nice Guy fashion, dining hours seamlessly transition into a nightlife backdrop with regularly programmed live entertainment and DJ sets.
    What are the hero dishes at The Nice Guy?
    Diners can expect distinctly Italian plates with a unique LA spin such as the kale salad, cacio e pepe, Margherita pizza. I would say that the meatballs and lobster pizza are the must-try dishes. We also developed special dishes and versions of dishes for the Dubai location that aren’t available in LA such as beef carpaccio and burrata salad.
    What sets the F&B industry in Dubai apart from the rest of the world?
    Dubai is a cosmopolitan melting pot of multinationals that come from all over the world to live in this city. Having people from all over the world based here creates a natural and constant demand for all types of local concepts and franchises to open and do so well here.
    What are your hopes for The Nice Guy Dubai in 2022 and beyond?
    My hope is for The Nice Guy to be an essential spot for anyone living in Dubai, but also for all the visitors. Our plan is for The Nice Guy to be a landmark spot in the region and to constantly give our customers what they want.
    November’s – The Collectors Issue – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    4 luxe, low-key restaurants to try in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Dan Robinson
    4 hours ago

    In a world of gastronomy and 12-course menus, we give you the low down on the best luxe low-key restaurants.
    Terra

    The Where: The earthy spot is located at Al Thanya Street in Umm Suqeim, covered in lush planting and trees with an unassuming organic aesthetic.
    The Why: Named after the Latin word for Earth “Terra” and designed with minimalist yet rustic décor, the eatery is a welcome addition to the hub of eateries in Umm Suqeim. Terra’s priority is sustainability, using only locally grown produce, eluding a farm-to-table ethos. The menu features a Mediterranean influence of flavours and wood-fired pizzas to savour the palate. Timing is key to avoiding crowds.
    The Hero Dish: Terra features an extensive international menu of fresh cuisine. The Short Rib Pappardelle is the standout. Slow-cooked, shredded short beef ribs gently mixed with pappardelle ribbons and a decadent chocolate salted caramel tart for dessert is a welcome palate cleanser. Vegan and vegetarian options are also served on the menu with seasonal local ingredients.
    Kinoya

    The Where: Neatly tucked away in The Onyx Tower 2, The Greens, it would be easy to pass by this gem. Launched in 2021 by Ramen Chef Neha Mishra, Kinoya has established itself as the go-to restaurant for authentic Japanese cuisine with a bustling atmosphere earning itself a place in the Michelin guide.
    The Why: Expect an informal Japanese dining experience with a warm Asian-themed décor. The 77-seat venue is split into three sections, each offering a different intimate experience. The eatery also caters to group bookings with private dining rooms. Whether you’re meeting friends at the ramen counter or taking a date for a seat at the chef’s table for Izakaya, there is something for every crowd, all-encompassing the perfect low-key spot for the best bowl of ramen in town.
    The Hero Dish: Ramen is the signature dish on the menu at Kinoya, boasting five different options. Each is individually made with delicious ingredients, noodles, and rich chicken broths, bringing the heart of Japan to your table. Japanese classics such as sushi, sashimi, tempura, and an indulgent katsu sando are also available to satisfy famishing appetites.
    Fi’lia

    The Where: Located on the 70th floor of the SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences in Downtown Dubai. Fi’lia offers style and substance with a female-focused ethos.
    The Why: Featuring incredible views of the Dubai skyline and accompanied by traditional Italian cuisine. The first of its kind, Fi’lia (meaning daughter) restaurant is run by an entirely female team inspired by recipes that were passed down from generations of women specializing in Italian-Mediterranean dishes.
    The Hero Dish: Italian flare meets Mediterranean influence at Fi’lia. With a focus on sustainability, sourcing local produce where possible, and utilizing every ingredient in the kitchen to achieve zero waste. Signature dishes include Jerusalem artichoke pizza, pappardelle with veal osso buco, and a must-try seabass with feta crust.
    Lana Lusa

    The Where: Alfresco meets European boulevard dining at Lana Lusa. Located at Wasl 51 on the bustling Wasl Road, Jumeriah. You can’t miss the eatery covered in bright yellow parasols, wicker furniture, and oversized terracotta pots transporting you to a slice of Portuguese nostalgia.
    The Why: Inviting you to leave the stress of the city behind. Lana Lusa serves up authentic Portuguese cuisine set against a backdrop of intimate interiors. Stop for a quick coffee and pastéis de nata on the terrace watching the world go by or a sundrenched dinner with friends over sharing plates and great conversation, all reminiscent of the Bairro Alto in Lisbon.
    The Hero Dish: Inspired by Portuguese roots, the menu is full of modern dishes and hearty flavours. Equally as famous for breakfast as it is for dinner. Stand-out dishes include the salted codfish with seabass and avocado and the marinated octopus perfectly complimented with the signature Lusa Spritz mocktail. Quite possibly the best Portuguese food you will try in Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    This world-renowned DJ is playing at a luxe Dubai beach club next weekend

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: A world-renowned DJ is set to perform in Dubai next weekend.
    Welcoming the cooler months with open arms, Twiggy Dubai is kicking off the winter season in style.
    Known for his legendary live performances in party hotspot Mykonos, DJ Valeron will take to the decks in the emirate on October 29, 2022, at the luxe beach club at the Park Hyatt Dubai.
    With Provence-inspired decor with pastel and cream hues and touches of rattan, party the day away with your nearest and dearest as you soak up the sun in style.

    Opt for one of the beach club’s luxe loungers or for those who prefer more privacy, one of the six cabanas is the ideal place to spend the day lounging, swimming, chatting and indulging in the finest cuisine all day, until the sun sets.
    Dine poolside as you listen to DJ Valeron hit the decks playing a plethora of club hits. With a menu curated by the expertise of Chef Fabio Luz, indulge in an array of Mediterranean-inspired dishes from the classic burrata to a refreshing lentil salad to royal prawns to black truffle pizza.
    Sunlounger prices start from Dhs350. The Lagoon Lounge package starts from Dhs4,000 for six people and the Lagoon Lounge VIP package starts from Dhs6,000 for six people.
    For more information visit twiggy.ae, contact +97146021105 or book@twiggy.ae. 
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • in

    How L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon’s executive chef pursued his culinary dreams

    Lifestyle

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    When it comes to fine dining, Dubai most definitely knows how to impress.
    Adding to the emirate’s food scene is a concept by late renowned Michelin-starred chef Joël Robuchon. Enter L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon where dishes are born to touch all the senses. Known for his love for quality ingredients, textures and flavours, Executive Chef, Roberto Torre has played an imperative role in bringing his culinary vision on a plate.
    It was no easy feat for Chef Roberto to pave a way for himself in this industry and despite the challenges, he pursued his dreams after learning from his revered mentors including Monsieur Joël Robuchon himself.
    “The hardest part of starting my career as a young Commis Chef was being away from my family since I was 17,” he tells Emirates Woman.
    By converting his passion for food as a young child into a full-time successful career, Chef Roberto has led the brigade as Executive Chef of the L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai since its opening in 2020.
    Emirates Woman spoke to L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon’s Executive Chef, to delve into his career and how he’s played a pivotal role in transforming the brand.
    Talk us through your career.
    Having been born and raised in Italy, I attended the Hotel School in Salerno, which is located in Campania (southwestern Italy). I began my career in luxury hotels in Italy, under the direction of Executive Chef Domenico d’Imperio at the six-star hotel Tre Vaselle in Umbria, where I learned about consistency and how to enhance flavours. After spending some time in the Maldives, I settled down in Paris in 2011 and joined Chez Jean – a Michelin star restaurant. In 2015, I joined Joël Robuchon Group and more specifically L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon Saint Germain (which is the first L’Atelier of Monsieur Joël Robuchon, created in 2003) as Executive sous-chef. Since 2020, I have led the brigade as Executive Chef of the new L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai.

    What initially inspired you to enter the hospitality realm?
    In the beginning, there was nothing that predestined me to enter this world. No one in my family or in my circle came from this hospitality background. Some of my earliest memories come from my grandparents and my mother. I remember helping my grandmother and mother make traditional pasta when I was a child. I learned how to cook authentic Italian dishes, particularly those from the south of Italy, where I’m from. A practice that, over time, gave me a taste of the ingredients as well as the gastronomy, was introduced to me by my grandfather who taught me how to grow vegetables. Ultimately, each of them transmitted to me, in their own way, the taste of effort, the love of a well-done task, and the taste of simple, honest and authentic work. It wasn’t long before what started out as only curiosity gradually turned into a passion.

    What eventually brought you to Dubai?
    The opening of the new L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in the Middle East. Joël Robuchon Group offered me the opportunity to be in the driver’s seat of this amazing kitchen and restaurant as Executive Chef.
    L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon opened back in October 2020. How have things evolved for the restaurant over the last two years?
    Since the opening, our team has worked very hard and has become even stronger. We have found our cruising speed. Over the months, the team has continued to grow together. To make our clients happier and more satisfied, we will continue to improve ourselves. These conclusive results have been achieved with the help of our loyal guests for a few months now. We are actively developing new suggestions to always surprise our guests. Our concept is timeless and present everywhere in the world. Providing quality and pleasure to our gastronomic clients is the most important thing to us. It is our commitment to focus on quality and pleasure, and pursue our efforts to be at the top.
    How do you continue to embody the legacy of Joël Robuchon?
    We will pursue the legacy of Joël Robuchon, the most starred chef in the world, in being creative and maintaining the requirement of Monsieur Joël Robuchon as he taught us.
    In your opinion, what are the hero dishes at L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon?
    Le caviar “Royal Oscietra” – Caviar over a crispy poached egg with smoked salmonLa Langoustine – Langoustine in ravioli with truffle, foie gras sauce and green cabbageLe Black Cod – Marinated with miso under daikon with a yuzu infusionLe Ravioli King Crab – King crab with thinly sliced daikon, lightly spicedLa Papillote – Langoustine in a crispy papillote with basil
    What sets the F&B industry in Dubai apart from the rest of the world?
    Dubai’s culinary scene has become increasingly reliant on the F&B industry. It is now one of the fastest growing and most competitive industries in the world. A great deal of innovation has occurred in the quality and diversity of food and restaurants over the years. International travellers are becoming attracted to Dubai and the UAE because of its food scene. Here in Dubai/the UAE, there are some brilliant places to eat, full of life, style and atmosphere.
    What are the hurdles you’ve experienced throughout your career?
    The hardest part of starting my career as a young commis chef was being away from my family since I was 17. At this age, you usually spend time with family and friends and enjoy a carefree existence. Today, with hindsight and experience, it looks more like a plus than a negative. My life and career as an Executive Chef have been greatly enriched by these sacrifices made 20 years ago.
    What have been the milestones?
    The first decisive step was joining Chez Jean with Chef Attilio Marrazzo as soon as I arrived in Paris. The opportunity to work in the world capital of gastronomy is one of the most important events in the life of any cook. There is a reason why French Gastronomy has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later, when I joined the first Atelier de Joël Robuchon Saint Germain and I met Axel Manes, a disciple of Joël Robuchon, and one of his Chefs. Throughout his career, he has been always in search of new creations, always more original, composed of excellent products, which have been carefully selected. This journey with Joël Robuchon Group really defined who I am today.
    Finally, what are the future plans for L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon?
    L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon in Dubai is one of his last projects. Monsieur Joël Robuchon was very involved in this project which took many years to be achieved. His spirit, mind, and imprint are evident in this accomplishment. In keeping with his style and principles, we will work hard as he always did.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images & Feature Image: Instagram @atelier_robuchondubai More

  • in

    In pics: A luxurious new Grecian-inspired beach club opens its doors in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Olivia Morris
    1 hour ago

    Now that the cooler weather is well and truly on its way, all of us in the UAE can finally get excited about the beach season.
    Enter Kyma. Just in time for the cooler temperatures arriving, the luxurious new Grecian-inspired beach club has opened its doors on Dubai’s Palm West Beach.
    The new concept by Rikas Hospitality Group – which is known for some of the most renowned concepts in the emirate including La Cantine du Faubourg, Ninive, Mimi Kakushi, Twiggy and more – and The St. Regis Dubai is set to be the go-to place for winter.
    Taking inspiration from the shores of the Mediterranean, the sophisticated beach club entices guests to escape from the ordinary with a breath of fresh air.
    Earthy tones complete the colour palette of the venue which features an infinity pool, private cabanas, luxe sun loungers, as well as a chic restaurant complete with a high-end curated menu by Gilles Bosquet, the corporate chef at Rikas Hospitality Group.
    The menu’s hero dishes include a plethora of much-loved Greek staples including taramosalata, tyrokafteri and truffled seabream to cheese saganaki, feta loukoums, moussaka and biftekia.
    Take a peek inside Dubai’s newest hotspot below.

    Kyma, Palm West Beach, pool open daily 10am to 8pm, restaurant 12pm to 2am. +971 46 665 999, book@kymabeach.ae, kymabeach.ae.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More