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      The best Diwali gifts to order in Dubai for all the foodies

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      52 mins ago

      As the Festival of Lights is approaching soon on Sunday, November 12, 2023, celebrating together with your loved ones is one of the most precious moments of the season.
      From traditional sweets (Mithai’s) to a myriad of wellness teas, this auspicious occasion comes with a lot of house parties, dinners and bringing all your loved ones together. To show that you care, a small token of appreciation can go a long way and even make it an evening to remember.
      Whether a friend, family or any of your work colleagues, there’s a gift for every kind of foodie this Diwali season.

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      Have a special occasion coming up? Order from this UAE-based cake haven

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      Life

      by Sarah Joseph
      57 mins ago

      Why settle for the ordinary when it comes to indulgent cakes to celebrate a special occasion. For a host of decadent creations, The Mandarin Cake Shop offers a series of in-house delights in the heart of Dubai.
      With a menu curated to suit all taste buds, the café has a myriad of cakes to choose from including, Carrot Cake, Chocolate Caramel Cake, Japanese Mixed Berry Cake, Hazelnut Glanduja Cake and Black Forest Cake.
      Made in-house by a team of highly-skilled pastry chefs, the cakes, chocolates and sweets are definitely going to be talking points at your next event. They look as incredible as they taste. Ice teas and coffees are available to complete the experience at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah.

      Emirates Palace – Le Cafe Retail Cake Shop
      Beyond the world of cakes, guests can indulge in a selection of the finest tea blends from around the world, complemented by fabulous pastry creations and savoury classics all situated in Episodes, the newest dining destination at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, designed to take guests on a culinary journey. With tea apothecary in Episodes 1, artisanal sandwiches in Episodes 2, a pastry-lover’s delight in Episodes 3 and decadent gelato choices in Episodes 4, this one-of-a-kind space is sure to take visitors on a journey of exquisite culinary choices.

      So, whether you are celebrating a birthday, anniversary, graduation or looking for a sweet treat a special someone, you know exactly where to order from. Available to eat in, in an elegant lounge-style environment or to take home to enjoy, The Mandarin Cake Shop’s creations are almost too beautiful to eat.
      To choose from a selection of gourmet cakes, visit mandarinoriental.com
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      Chef Gökhan of Rüya Dubai on the importance of culture in culinary excellence

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      Life

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      Nestled within the elegant premises of The St. Regis Dubai, The Palm, Rüya Dubai, stands as a true embodiment of culinary artistry.
      This dining destination has gained renowned acclaim for its innovative Anatolian gastronomy, earning it a recent accolade within the prestigious Michelin Guide’s distinguished list.
      At the helm of this exquisite culinary journey is Gökhan Çökelez, a virtuoso in the realm of gastronomy who orchestrates the creation of exceptional dishes. Hailing from the landscapes of Turkey’s Black Sea region, Gökhan infuses his mastery into a tapestry of flavors from the Middle East and Mediterranean, skillfully weaving together the finest ingredients with an impeccable culinary technique.
      In a detailed conversation with Emirates Woman, the chef talks to us about his career trajectory so far, his focus in the presence and vision for the future.

      What inspired you to become a chef, and how did your culinary journey begin?
      My family has truly been my biggest inspiration. Growing up, our home was a hub of food, culture, and togetherness. I’d be right there beside my family, helping prepare meals and soaking in the joy of sharing delicious food. This upbringing ignited a spark within me to turn my love for cooking into a career. That’s why I decided to enroll in culinary school, to take my passion to a professional level.
      Can you share a memorable experience or dish that had a significant impact on your cooking style?
      One cherished memory that shaped my culinary approach is our family tradition of making Borek on special occasions. Picture this: we’d gather in the garden, and prepare this delicious dish on a flat sheet. The aroma would fill the entire neighbourhood with anticipation. We’d make variations like cheese, meat, and potato, combining flavours that resonate in my heart. This experience instilled in me the art of cooking with passion and soul.
      What techniques or ingredients do you enjoy experimenting with the most in your dishes?
      My technique involves giving classic recipes a contemporary twist. There’s something magical about picking fresh herbs and produce from the farm that sparks my creativity. When I think of ingredients that are my kitchen favourites, it’s always lemon, olive oil, and sea salt—my culinary trio that elevates flavours in every dish.

      How do you approach creating a balanced menu that caters to various tastes and dietary preferences?
      At Rüya, our menu is designed to have a wide variety of signature dishes that range across the 7 regions of Anatolia. From the savoury goodness of traditional meats and kebabs to lighter options like seafood, fresh salads, and plenty of vegetarian dishes, there’s a plate for every palate.
      Could you highlight a regional cuisine or cooking tradition that you find particularly fascinating?
      I’d like to shine a spotlight on the famous Simit bagel, a culinary tradition which originated in my hometown Devrek, Zonguldak. The secret to creating a truly authentic simit is soaking the dough in grape molasses. It then gets coated in yellow sesame and baked for slight sweetness making the perfect simit; crispy outside, and soft inside.
      What’s the most challenging aspect of maintaining consistency and quality in a busy kitchen environment?
      Our kitchen is a global melting pot with team members from 12 different nations. It’s a challenge to keep everyone aligned with the Anatolian cooking artistry. While Anatolian cuisine may be less familiar than French or Italian, we ensure consistency and quality through meticulous training and innovative methods.
      How do you stay updated with the latest food trends and incorporate them into your own culinary creations?
      I love exploring diverse restaurants and sampling the latest trends. Connecting with fellow chefs, sharing insights, and witnessing their culinary stories fuels my creativity. It’s a tight-knit global community that sparks my inspiration.

      Chef Gökhan of Rüya Dubai
      Can you describe a dish that perfectly represents your personal culinary philosophy and style?
      Imagine a dish that embodies simplicity and refinement – prepared with the finest ingredients and impeccable technique. My culinary passion revolves around Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines. It’s all about savouring authentic flavours with a contemporary touch, celebrating the essence of good food.

      Having been raised in Turkey, how do you infuse culinary uniqueness from your country into the restaurant you’re currently heading?

      Anatolian flavours are close to my heart, and I’m thrilled to share them at Rüya Dubai. We’ve gathered inspiration from every corner – whether it’s the fresh seafood from the coast, hearty kebabs from the east, or delicious flatbreads from the north. You can savour Turkey’s rich food culture on your plate.
      What according to you is the USP of the dining experience at Rüya Dubai?
      At Rüya Dubai, our open kitchen invites guests to be part of the culinary symphony. Our menu thrives on the spirit of sharing, allowing you to embark on an Anatolian adventure through an array of signature dishes. And let’s not forget our breathtaking terrace overlooking Palm Jumeirah and the Arabian Sea – a culinary delight paired with mesmerizing views.

      How do you manage to infuse creativity into your dishes while still respecting traditional flavours and techniques?
      It’s like adding a modern twist to a familiar tune. I take the flavours we all know and love from Anatolian cuisine and give them a creative spin. Think of it as paying homage to the classics while sprinkling a bit of my own culinary imagination. The result is a harmony of tradition and innovation that keeps your taste buds intrigued.

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      Executive Chef at Mott 32 on bringing a contemporary approach to Chinese fine dining

      by

      Emirates Man

      by Ruman Baig
      3 hours ago

      Frankie Yang Tao, Executive Chef at Mott 32, talks to Emirates Man about the culinary evolution in Dubai and how important it is to blend traditional cuisine with modern techniques.
      What do the first 30 minutes of your day look like, your morning routine?
      The first thing I do every morning is cook breakfast for my daughter so I can spend quality time with her before the busy day ahead. I like to try different recipes and make a variety of dishes (she is a massive foodie). I then check guests’ feedback based on their experience from the night before and share their comments with my team, so we are constantly improving.
      Talk us through your career.
      Since I was a child, I have been deeply influenced and inspired by my family. I always wanted to explore and experiment with food. My grandparents are experts in cooking. Every Chinese New Year, we prepare a table full of dishes presented with different styles, tastes, and colours, which makes me admire the culinary process and inspires me deeply. I have been working in Dubai for 17 years (since 2006) and have experience cooking in various luxury hotels. My cooking style is not limited to Chinese food, as I am also experienced in Asian and European cuisine. From 2012 to 2016, I participated in the chef cooking and carving competition held at the Emirates Salon in Dubai. Such valuable experiences constantly inspire my process and have expanded my expertise. I am fascinated by the catering industry, and always treat my work with passion to keep the motivation going.
      How do you bring a contemporary approach to fine Chinese dining?
      I use a variety of cooking techniques combined with modern seasoning and take a lot of time sourcing the freshest ingredients from sustainable producers both local and abroad to maintain the quality of the food. However, what makes Mott 32 really stand out as a concept is its ability to marry traditional cuisine with modern culinary innovation.
      As the brand’s eighth global branch, what sets Mott 32 Dubai apart?
      Mott 32 Dubai is committed to providing customers with a unique and fashionable food experience, offering a standard of true Chinese cuisine that does not exist anywhere else in Dubai. The interiors are impressive, and we have an open-air terrace with views across Bluewater Island, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and the Ain Dubai (it is one of the highest restaurants in the world). Our traditional menu is in line with the brand’s culinary creativity, where we use familiar and bold flavours of Mott 32’s signature gastronomy through adapted versions of its classic dishes. The menu concept is consistent yet wide in its offering but of course, we have adapted iconic and traditional Chinese dishes to fit the local palate of the Dubai market. For example, we do not feature pork on our menu. Some may say this is a challenge being a Chinese restaurant, however I believe it is an opportunity to showcase the versatility of the cuisine and how it can be adapted in a skilful, yet exciting way. By replacing pork with alternative ingredients, it allows us to experiment with new delicacies and flavours, while still respecting the culture.
      Tell us about the concept of Mott32 Dubai.
      Every Mott 32 celebrates the culture and food of modern Hong Kong with a fusion of traditional and culinary innovation. It brings a menu inspired by Cantonese, Szechuan, and Beijing cuisines, and yet also showcases some of the famed restaurant’s own signature dishes. Our food aims to bring the best from the past, with honoured recipes passed down from generations to generations. The location of Mott 32 Dubai adds to its magnificence. Nestled on the 73rd floor of the Address Beach Resort, the Sunset Hospitality Group has made the whole dining experience so unique by incorporating culinary excellence, an energetic ambiance, and impeccable service all into one. Our culinary team has also been hand-selected by me, with most of our team members coming from other Chinese restaurants and 5-star hotels in the region. I truly believe we have introduced a completely new chapter of Chinese dining to Dubai’s restaurant scene.

      Having been in Dubai since 2006, how have you seen the culinary industry evolve in the region?
      In recent years the hotel and restaurant scene, as well as the increasing importance of sourcing sustainable produce from local farms and suppliers, have all contributed to the development of Dubai’s ever-expanding F&B industry. Simultaneously, there is an on-going need for fresh cooking exhibitions and large-scale food festivals. Most of the participants are professional chefs and culinary experts, which promotes the multicultural development of global tastes and deepens the depth of local culinary culture. The city’s culinary scene continues to evolve as society’s tastes and interests in food change and diversify. Dubai is definitely one to watch for all chefs around the world and now, we are seeing the rise of prestigious culinary awards, such as the MICHELIN Guide Dubai and Gault & Millau. After only four months of operations, I am delighted that Mott 32Dubai is already the recipient of one toque in the Gault & Millau UAE 2023 Guide.
      It is the world’s first luxury Chinese restaurant to expand from the East to the West, what makes it a pioneer in the Chinese fine dining scene?
      “Mott 32” pays homage to 32 Mott Street in New York, where the city’s first Chinese convenience store opened in 1891. The store served as the nucleus for what is now a vibrant Chinatown in one of the most dynamic cities. It brings the American Tang cuisine style back to Hong Kong in the form of high-end Chinese food and as a result, the menu design is simple and elegant. The unique collection comprises drinks, snacks, appetisers, and dishes from around the world. The name alone is classic. When it comes to Chinese food, few places can compare to Hong Kong. Whether it’s the best char siew or Peking duck, classic Cantonese cuisine or innovative cuisine, these restaurants can always satisfy all needs with outstanding dishes, with the highest quality of hospitality and beautiful surroundings.

      What are the hero dishes?
      We have created an ethical menu which offers Chinese dishes with Western cooking techniques and elegant presentation. Some of the diners’ menu favourites include the Applewood Roasted Peking Duck (which takes 48 hours to prepare), Truffled Mushroom Lettuce Cup Appetisers and Chilled Chicken with Szechuan Pepper and Chilli Sauce. Main courses include the signature Smoke Black Cod, Crispy Triple-Cooked Wagyu Beef Short Rib and Kung Pao Lobster are a must try. Guests also enjoy our selection of dim sum freshly made daily and plant-based signatures for those looking for a more sustainable approach to eating.
      How is Mott 32 Dubai different from its counterparts in other countries?
      We firstly implement the same quality of dishes and service as all Mott 32 restaurants globally. With its expansion to Dubai, we try to evoke the city’s energy and creative passion within our dishes and culinary style and have also curated signature cocktails and mocktails that are reflective of Dubai’s lively ambiance, such as the Fujian Negroni, Hanami, and Forbidden Rose.
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      Prada Caffè opens at Harrods in London

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      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      On 31st march, 2023, the Italian luxury brand opened Prada Caffè at Harrods in London – unlocking a whole new dimension under the fashion house.
      The space visually boasts of Prada’s signature hallmarks – from the decor and menu to the tableware and atmosphere – every element has the brand’s DNA displayed in a distinctive way.
      Once you enter the luxe Prada Caffè, the walls, ceilings, velvet-upholstered sofas and armchairs are all synonymously painted in the iconic Prada green.  The floors replicate the black-and-white chequered patterned, referenced from the historic Prada boutique on Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan.
      The floral bas-reliefs on the walls will remind you of the many Prada flagship stores across the world. Original tableware ranging from pale-blue Japanese porcelain with a contrasting double black line, inspired by ancient Celadon potter  to blown-glass crystal glassware, including the Triangle series with its quintessentially Prada triangular pattern, can be found resting on the goregous furniture of this new cafe.
      Providing a modern spin on traditional Italian, the Prada Caffè  serves a wide range of dishes between breakfast and evening cocktails. From sandwiches and risotto sitting alongside buffalo mozzarella to salmon and crab dishes, along with spritz – and negroni-based aperitifs complementing the list of signature cocktails.
      Pastries are the focal point at this gourmet spot – showcased both on the central counter and the wall behind. The wide selection includes fine patisserie products, paired with expert craftsmanship that demonstrates modern techniques and classic ingredients with contemporary flavours.
      The Prada Caffè will be open from 31st March 2023 to 7 January 2024. From 9 AM to 9 PM Monday to Saturday and from 12 PM to 6 PM on Sunday, with an entrance on Hans Road. It will soon be joined by an outdoor stall, which will offer Londoners a delicious range of ice creams.
      Inside the Prada Caffè

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      Dubai’s Twiggy by La Cantine will rekindle the feeling of “joie de vivre” this season

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      IN PARTNERSHIP: Riviera reverie — “a state of being pleasantly lost in one’s thoughts; a daydream.” It is exactly the sentiment that Twiggy by La Cantine, the new beach club and restaurant at the park Hyatt Dubai Lagoon brings to Dubai.
      Located at the edge of the Park Hyatt Dubai Lagoon, Twiggy by La Cantine is a whimsical escape. Once you’re here, you can tune out from the rest of the world and get momentarily lost in this minimal space. Under the shining sun, above the cobalt blue waters of this Persian Gulf lagoon — the white sand beaches juxtapose it all, perfectly nestled next to the Park Hyatt’s stunning 100-m infinity pool.
      At Twiggy, the art of idleness is celebrated by enjoying the simple pleasures of life. The Provence-inspired decor ensures you make switch up your mood on a mundane day. You can begin your day by lounging, eating and swimming — until the sun melts into oblivion.

      Under the watchful eyes of Pierre Pirajean, Héléna Paraboschi and Rizwan Kassim, the one-of-a-kind flavour of La Cantine has been recreated in Dubai, but with a distinct approach. Starting with La Cantine du Faubourg in Dubai and Ninive to Lana Lusa, Tagomago, Mimi Kakushi, Gohan, Kyma Beach and Madeleine et Marcel — each space is created with a state-of-the-art vision.
      La Cantine strategically integrates its aesthetic without interrupting the royal view, the sea and the sky. The decor boasts of a Mediterranean ambiance, infusing rattan, pastel and hints of cream along with turquoise blue, inspired by the lagoon.
      Having a meal Twiggy is an experience to behold, as the view and food make for an invincible combination. The team of chefs knows that the majestic sun-drenched view is doing its job, by satiating the appetites with delectable food, they take this escapade to a whole new level.
      The chef’s beach club cuisine includes an array of lip-smacking dishes. From burrata and royal prawns to sushi platters — the chef knows how to ace a delicate seafood platter and handle the most sophisticated caviar. Whether it’s mastering the famous Angus beef to perfecting popular dishes like black truffle pizza and quinoa and kale salad — the menu will transport you across Ibiza, Saint-Tropez, Cassis and Formentera via Okinawa.
      The great outdoors at Twiggy by La Cantine could easily pass off as a slice of paradise. Three gorgeous cabanas set slightly behind the tables offers you the ultimate privacy. Unwinding with your group of 6 to 12, the heavenly corners called Coco Cabana, Bardot Cabana and Grace Cabana can be your relaxing hideaways. Is there a better way to experience Dubai? we think there isn’t.

      The Lagoon is open from 9 am to sunset. Restaurant open from 12 pm to 2 am.  For more information, visit www.twiggy.ae
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      Ozen Bolifushi in Maldives is the perfect secluded slice of paradise for slow living

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      Lifestyle

      by Ruman Baig
      2 hours ago

      While luxurious resorts in The Maldives are hardly scarce – here you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything other than smart island retreats – Ozen Bolifushi is simply put, a cut above, taking barefoot luxury to an entirely new level.
      The Arrival
      Step off the plane and onto the resort’s private catamaran, a smart charter outfitted with cream sofas, an espresso bar and panoramic windows. The convenient 30-minute ride to Ozen Bolifushi relieves the hassle of connecting seaplanes, a true sanity-saver when travelling with children. As you near the island, the resort zooms into focus – all swaying palm trees and powdery sunbleached sands surrounded by the brightest blue water. You’ll be met with traditional Maldivian drumming, a fresh coconut water and a mist of Avène’s thermal spring water, before heading straight to your villa in one of the island’s elegant Rolls Royce buggies along with your personal butler.
      The Vibe
      The island is smaller than some, lending an intimate feel where faces become familiar after just a day. You’ll find there is a sleepy sense of stillness and privacy to Ozen, withonly the sweeping waves, paradise-perfect beaches and occasional guest on a bike within eyesight. Days can be spent lounging, swimming, snorkelling and scuba-diving, or browse the island’s boutiques, charter a yacht, feed the stingrays at sunset and simply wander the maze of palm tree-lined pathways dotted with crochet hammocks and swings. And while adults settle poolside, children of all ages will be kept entertained with daily activities, such as treasure hunts, pizza making, water polo and ice hockey on the resort’s open-air ice rink, a first in The Maldives. With Ozen’s Reserve Plan, guests will not be required to sign throughout their stay, allowing for complete self-indulgence on the free-flowing premium bottles and culinary experiences.

      The Stay
      No stone has been left unturned when it comes to furnishing the villas, where spacious suites offer floor-to-ceiling windows with unobstructed ocean views, walk-in wardrobes, private pools, outdoor dining verandas, spa-inspired bathrooms and a fully-stocked private bar. Perched above the sea, the water villas stand out and are perhaps what springs tomind when envisioning the Maldives. Accessed by bike or buggy along a boardwalk, these villas offer a sprawling outdoor deck with several seating areas and sunken sofas, from which you can spot shoals of fluorescent fish swirl by. A number of the villas also feature a water slide into the sea which makes for a playful way to wake up on your morning swim. For the ultimate in seclusion and splendour, the Royal Reserve is a sprawling threebedroom beachfront home (along with separate spaces for staff) complete with an open-air jacuzzi, a gym, pool, an overwater bar, plus a dedicated Teppanyaki restaurant as well as a kitchen and grape cellar.
      Wellness
      When not racking up steps strolling the island, guests can take to the ocean-facing treadmills at the gym or book in for a group class and sunrise flow on the yoga pavilion. Further unwind at Ozen’s spa, an idyllic garden sanctuary where expert facials and knot-banishing massages in the overwater treatment suites will soothe you into a mediative state. Guests can also book a consultation with the island’s resident Ayurveda doctor, who after checking your pulse will recommend holistic healing remedies to work into your daily regime.

      Dining
      Food at Ozen draws on a “garden-to-table” concept where chefs plate dishes using herbs, seasonal vegetables, microgreens and tropical fruits freshly picked from island soil. Breezy lunches will be spent on the beach at Vista Del Mar where the varied buffet includes a spread of salads, grilled meats, seafood, sushi and homemade pastas to rival that in Rome. Come evening, feast on mezze and tagines at Sangu or sample Saffron’s mouth-watering curries through their concept dining experience. While fine dining restaurant ORIGINE, delivers an elegant culinary journey along with grape tasting sessions held by the resort’s enthusiastic sommelier – an experience well worth booking ahead for.
      theozencollection.com
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      SUSHISAMBA shares what it takes to stay relevant in the gastronomy world

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      Lifestyle

      by Dan Robinson
      2 hours ago

      We talk to Ida Garphagen, General Manager at SUSHISAMBA on being ahead of the game in an ever-changing industry
      What is the inspiration behind the restaurant – tell us more?
      The concept and idea of SUSHISAMBA came to light in early 90’s when our founder Shimon Bokovza travelled to Brazil and fell in love with the vibrant culture and diversity of the country. SUSHISAMBA is based on the food and culture born out of the emigration of thousands of Japanese to South America in the early 20th Century. Fast forward a few years, and the first ever SUSHISAMBA opens in New York in 1999 – it was the place to be back then, and I believe everyone is familiar with the famous SUSHISAMBA’s “Pink Cosmo” from Sex and the City. SUSHISAMBA is one of the very first restaurants that embraced the lifestyle offering and made the dining experience fun and multi-dimensional in every city.
      How does SUSHISAMBA Dubai differ from the other four global locations?
      SUSHISAMBA is recognized worldwide, yet every location is unique with its own concept. They are all different from one another, providing guests with a new and immersive experience at each as they travel globally.
      What are the must-try hero dishes?
      Our bite size yellowtail taquitos are very popular, and I can see why – they are the perfect size to enjoy with a pre-dinner drink. My personal favourite is the seabass anticucho glazed in sweet miso and grilled over the robata – anyone that walks through the doors of our restaurant can’t leave without trying them. Our SAMBA Dubai roll, which is a lobster maki roll, is always special since it is exclusive to Dubai only.
      How does the F&B industry in the UAE differ from other cities globally?
      With big cities, comes high competition as the option for consumers become endless. Here in Dubai, we have guests visiting from all over the world, and this helps when consumers recognize chain names – global brand names tend to perform better than smaller local brands. But this, of course, trickles down to the preference of residents and visitors and the overall experience provided. Nowadays, consumers want to know that they are not only savouring delicious food but are gaining an overall dining experience, and when they are bombarded with so many options, opting for a global brand name is always a safe choice. This is exactly why, we must never take our customers for granted, and need to stay relevant in this ever-evolving market.

      You have a stunning 360-degree view, was this the plan from the outset?
      We wanted to make sure we would represent the brand in the best way possible, knowing SUSHISAMBA Heron Tower in London is offering a breathtaking view overlooking London’s most iconic landmarks. Here at SUSHISAMBA Dubai, you can see 360-degree views of the entire Palm Jumeirah, the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf, the skyline of Dubai Marina and if the day is clear, the Burj Khalifa is visible as well. And what better location to see the city than an afternoon here, savouring the delicious flavours of Japan, Brazil and Peru all under one roof while sipping on a glass of champagne.
      You recently launched the afternoon Sky Tea at SUSHISAMBA, can you elaborate on this experience?
      At SUSHISAMBA, we want our guests to enjoy more of what we have to offer and take advantage of our wonderful SAMBA room, which has tantalizing floor to ceiling views of the Palm Jumeirah. Guests can indulge in a delicious selection of sweet and savory bites that are beautifully displayed on a three-tier spiral tree accompanied by a wide selection of loose teas, fine Japanese teas, coffee, or bubbly. I can’t think of a better location to watch the sunset in Dubai while Bossa Nova tunes set the perfect ambiance.
      What piece of advice can you give someone starting out in the hospitality industry or looking to start their own business?
      It’s always best to start from the bottom up and build the experience needed for any position you’re planning on joining. If you’re looking to start your own business, it’s always great to learn from existing organizations and then applying the lessons learned to your own model. If you want to be a CEO for example, then you must understand all aspects of the business before you start at the top – it’s recommended to break it down into smaller compartmentalized areas first, so it doesn’t feel too overwhelming. Lastly, don’t be scared to roll up your sleeves and be prepared to work hard for what you want. And in times of difficulty, always ask for help and never give up.
      What are the plans for growth and what’s next for SUSHISAMBA?
      We are expanding the brand with openings in Riyadh, Edinburgh, and Bahrain in 2023, Milan is due to open in the second quarter of 2024 – major expansions for SUSHISAMBA in the following years to come. As for the venue in Dubai, we will continue to enhance our guest experience and focus on our most recent activation, Sky Tea at the SAMBA room.
      This is The Style Issue. What does style mean to you?
      Style is something subjective and personal – everyone has their own understanding of what is fashionable and will try to make it unique to their own identity. Which is why,being your most authentic self is the best and only way one should present themselves.
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