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    Inside the secret supper club in DIFC where photos are prohibited

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    The most exciting new secret supper club in DIFC, Adaline, is now open. We discuss what making it work looks like with co-founder Chef Izu Ani.
    Tell us about your background.
    Growing up in London, my passion for the kitchen began during my time at school. For me, cookinghas always been a way to express happiness and share this with others. After my studies, I first gained experience working across London before moving to France, where I met my wife. In 2010, I moved to Dubai to help open La Petite Maison. The UAE has since become a foundation for my career. It has provided me with countless opportunities, enabling me to develop my own restaurant concepts with my partner Evgeny Kuzin. Together, we launched GAIA, La Maison Ani, La Petite Ani, Izu Burger, Shanghai Me, Scalini, Alaya, Piatti by the Beach and most recently, Adaline. In recent years, we have focused on taking our restaurants from Dubai to a global audience. We first opened Gaia in Monaco followed by Doha, and Marbella. We also opened GAIA in Mayfair and La Maison Ani in Knightsbridge, London, which has been such a humbling experience – having grown up there, it will always be home to me.
    Talk us through the concept of Adaline?
    Adaline is a contemporary supper club that blends vibrant dinner experiences with Old-School Italian cuisine and live music, such as jazz and modern soul, to offer an elevated dining experience for guests. Our menu showcases the culinary heritage of Italy, celebrating timeless Italian dishes where each plate tells a story. To complement the cuisine, the bar offers a selection of classic Italian aperitifs and cocktails, giving guests a blend of the familiar and the unexpected.
    Every detail is designed to leave a lasting impression – was this the plan from the outset?
    Our interiors capture the depth and elegance of the Jazz Age, where glamour and sophisticationmeet in a celebration of the senses. The attention to detail and commitment to luxury at Adaline ensures an unforgettable dining experience for guests.

    Guests can experience jazz and modern soul – how important is music in the offering?
    Music is at the core of the Adaline experience, with the live performances designed to evoke a sense of nostalgia. Each night, guests may enjoy live bands blending jazz, modern soul, and anthems from the 1990s and 2000s. All of this enhances guest’s dining experience.
    The experience highlights old school Italian cuisine – what elements stand out?
    We wanted to create an element of nostalgia. The warm memories of Italian elegance are woven throughout the concept, from the menu to the ambiance and vivacious entertainment. There is something so alluring about the past, an understanding that we can never experience the same moment twice, yet somehow, we aim to re-create and enhance our fondest memories. The food we eat provides such a beautiful way of connecting with the past and the future, of celebrating our history while enjoying the present moment. I love to see a full table of dishes to share between friends and family. Start with the Tuna Tartare and Beef Carpaccio, alongside the Parmigiana, Calamari and the Adaline Cesar salad for a blend of flavours and textures. For mains, I like to indulge in something heart-warming and nourishing, like the Tagliolini All’Astice, a beautiful lobster pasta, and the Wagyu Tagliata.
    How is the supper club culture growing in the Middle East?
    People are looking for more than just a meal – they are looking for connection, for excitement. Our guests seek an atmosphere that combines culinary excellence with entertainment and social interaction. Adaline exemplifies this trend, offering a fresh alternative to traditional dining by blending high-end cuisine with elements such as jazz, and classic entertainment.

    What advice would you give to your younger self?
    One of the greatest lessons that my mother taught me is to show up every day, to keep going and keep striving towards your dreams. She showed me how to make things happen, instead of waiting for things to change. There is so much beauty and power in putting in the work and taking daily action.
    This is The Winter Escape Issue – where are you travelling to this year and what will you be packing?
    This winter, I will be spending time in Monaco and the South of France; followed by London to visit my family and our restaurants there, before travelling back to welcome the new year with my loved ones in Dubai. I travel quite a lot and have developed quite a streamlined approach to packing. I find the more organised and structured I can be about my wardrobe, scent and daily non-negotiables; the more space, calm and mental clarity I must handle everything each day brings.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    December’s – The Winter Escape Issue – Download Now  More

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    6 elegant jazz spots in Dubai that strike a chord

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    20 mins ago

    After a long week at work, a sophisticated evening with jazz is one of the best ways to wind down.
    Having been around for years, jazz has become a staple in our lives with its soulful sounds of classics in an opulent setting. As we delve into the world of pure musical bliss in Dubai, knowing how it all began, sheds light on how these hotspots focus on authenticity.
    The History
    Jazz began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, primarily in the culturally diverse city of New Orleans, Louisiana. It emerged from a blend of African American musical traditions with European influences, creating a new, vibrant style of music.
    During Prohibition, from the 1920s’ jazz thrived in illegal speakeasies where people came to drink, dance, and listen to live performances.
    Early on it began as a hybrid of African rhythms, European harmonies, and American culture. However, it quickly became a vehicle for self-expression, improvisation, and artistic innovation. It spread from New Orleans to the world, evolving into a rich and diverse genre with numerous subgenres and global influence.
    Overall, Dubai has a lively scene with a mix of upscale venues and intimate settings.
    Here are some popular spots to enjoy live jazz in Dubai:
    Q’s Bar and Lounge

    Located at Palazzo Versace, the space offers an intimate venue created by legendary music producer Quincy Jones. The atmosphere is luxurious and chic, offering performances by world-class musicians. It ensured the perfect blend of great music, fantastic cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere.
    For more information visit Q’s Bar and Lounge
    Jass Lounge

    First of all, the bar is just how a Jazz Club should be, dark and sultry but with a large sprinkling of DIFC with its first-class cocktail experience. All you need to do is sit back and be entertained by the fantastic selection of musicians that they have on their roster. It’s a place where art attracts art and often fellow musicians who frequent the venue as spectators can’t help themselves but join the fun and contribute to the show, adding to the eclectic atmosphere of the venue. It’s open daily from 6pm until late in DIFC Gate District 2.
    For more information visit Jass Lounge
    Sola Jazz Lounge

    Experience an evening of live jazz at the award-winning SOLA Jazz Lounge, taking guests on an authentic one-of-a-kind journey. Romanticize your evening and immerse in the world of Jazz to go back in time to a vintage era. Here guests are immediately engulfed with thrilling music by world-renowned jazz artists, bands, and hotly-tipped rising stars, accompanied by a wide selection of cocktails and perfect end to the evening. With each programme designed by the team’s designated music curator, this evening is not one to miss out on. Located at Raffles The Palm, it’s open from 5pm to 3am.
    For more information visit raffles.com
    Nola Eatery & Social House
    This New Orleans-inspired venue offers Southern American cuisine alongside live jazz music. It’s a casual and lively place with a focus on laid-back jazz vibes. Located in JLT, NOLA revolves around music and evolves throughout the day to create an immersive ambience from day into the late night. Delivering a sensational music experience rooted in Jazz and complimentary genres. Guests can expect live performances by the loved Nuvo Soul band complimented by high-energy jazz and soul beats by the in-house resident DJ.
    For more information visit Nola Eatery & Social House
    BOCA
    A stylish Mediterranean restaurant in the DIFC that occasionally hosts jazz nights. The ambiance is elegant, and the jazz complements the fine dining experience.
    For more information visit Boca.
    The Fridge

    As a hub for independent musicians and live performances. The Fridge often hosts jazz events in its artistic warehouse space.Located in Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz. If you’re looking for a more underground, artistic vibe in Dubai’s arts district, this is the space to be.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram  More

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    6 elegant jazz spots that strike a chord in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    40 mins ago

    After a long week at work, a sophisticated evening with jazz is one of the best ways to wind down.
    Having been around for years, jazz has become a staple in our lives with its soulful sounds of classics in an opulent setting. As we delve into the world of pure musical bliss in Dubai, knowing how it all began, sheds light on how these hotspots focus on authenticity.
    The History
    Jazz began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the United States, primarily in the culturally diverse city of New Orleans, Louisiana. It emerged from a blend of African American musical traditions with European influences, creating a new, vibrant style of music.
    During Prohibition, from the 1920s’ jazz thrived in illegal speakeasies where people came to drink, dance, and listen to live performances.
    Early on it began as a hybrid of African rhythms, European harmonies, and American culture. However, it quickly became a vehicle for self-expression, improvisation, and artistic innovation. It spread from New Orleans to the world, evolving into a rich and diverse genre with numerous subgenres and global influence.
    Overall, Dubai has a lively scene with a mix of upscale venues and intimate settings.
    Here are some popular spots to enjoy live jazz in Dubai:
    Q’s Bar and Lounge

    Located at Palazzo Versace, the space offers an intimate venue created by legendary music producer Quincy Jones. The atmosphere is luxurious and chic, offering performances by world-class musicians. It ensured the perfect blend of great music, fantastic cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere.
    For more information visit Q’s Bar and Lounge
    Jass Lounge

    First of all, the bar is just how a Jazz Club should be, dark and sultry but with a large sprinkling of DIFC with its first-class cocktail experience. All you need to do is sit back and be entertained by the fantastic selection of musicians that they have on their roster. It’s a place where art attracts art and often fellow musicians who frequent the venue as spectators can’t help themselves but join the fun and contribute to the show, adding to the eclectic atmosphere of the venue. It’s open daily from 6pm until late in DIFC Gate District 2.
    For more information visit Jass Lounge
    Sola Jazz Lounge

    Experience an evening of live jazz at the award-winning SOLA Jazz Lounge, taking guests on an authentic one-of-a-kind journey. Romanticize your evening and immerse in the world of Jazz to go back in time to a vintage era. Here guests are immediately engulfed with thrilling music by world-renowned jazz artists, bands, and hotly-tipped rising stars, accompanied by a wide selection of cocktails and perfect end to the evening. With each programme designed by the team’s designated music curator, this evening is not one to miss out on. Located at Raffles The Palm, it’s open from 5pm to 3am.
    For more information visit raffles.com
    Nola Eatery & Social House
    This New Orleans-inspired venue offers Southern American cuisine alongside live jazz music. It’s a casual and lively place with a focus on laid-back jazz vibes. Located in JLT, NOLA revolves around music and evolves throughout the day to create an immersive ambience from day into the late night. Delivering a sensational music experience rooted in Jazz and complimentary genres. Guests can expect live performances by the loved Nuvo Soul band complimented by high-energy jazz and soul beats by the in-house resident DJ.
    For more information visit Nola Eatery & Social House
    BOCA
    A stylish Mediterranean restaurant in the DIFC that occasionally hosts jazz nights. The ambiance is elegant, and the jazz complements the fine dining experience.
    For more information visit Boca.
    The Fridge

    As a hub for independent musicians and live performances. The Fridge often hosts jazz events in its artistic warehouse space.Located in Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz. If you’re looking for a more underground, artistic vibe in Dubai’s arts district, this is the space to be.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram  More

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    Inside the new DIFC hotspot you’ll want to visit ASAP

    Lifestyle

    by Hermione Edwards
    1 minute ago

    Whether you’re a jazz fanatic or just have an appreciation for upcoming local talents, this new Dubai venue is right up your street.
    Introducing Jass Lounge, located in DIFC. This new hidden gem is set to transport you to the roaring 1920s in New York City with its opulent and rich decor paired with live music and decadent cocktails.
    The vibe
    Embodying the 1920s speakeasy vibe with a glamorous twist, the venue has a dark ambience featuring lavish yet cosy decor and a magnificent hand-painted ceiling.
    The music
    Bursting with a variety of genres from, jazz, smooth soul, rhythmic funk, Cuban jazz, classic blues and their resident DJ Esh, this spot takes you through a musical journey.
    The drinks
    Indulge in the expertly crafted cocktails all curated and mixed to provide a sensory experience, from their signature Nearness cocktail that packs a ‘milky punch’ to the renowned Django for a more sweet experience.
    Take a look at Jass Lounge below.

    For more information call 050 912 4242.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More