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    This Dubai restaurant kept all of its staff employed full-time during lockdown

    October’s – ‘The Bravery Issue’ – Download Now
    Having cultivated LPM Restaurant & Bar as a global power player in the F&B industry, Raphael Duntoye knows it takes grit, determination and bravery to stay true to your passion and craft in order to succeed.
    “If I had not been brave enough at that time to start, where would we have been today?” Raphael Duntoye asks. It’s a particularly poignant question for LPM’s Chef Patron as he celebrates the 10-year anniversary of the restaurant’s opening in Dubai. Launching three years after LPM’s flagship London restaurant – previously known as La Petit Maison – in 2010, LPM Dubai has become a source of inspiration globally for the brand. “In the same way as the city and people aim for the best, LPM Dubai has kept pushing boundaries,” Duntoye tells Emirates Woman.
    Pushing boundaries they have done, particularly in a year of total uncertainty. It’s what Duntoye has found continues to fare him well on his road to success – don’t be afraid to work hard. “Perseverance and tenacity have always made me move forward in times of difficulty, as has hope and believing in people and myself,” he says. This is the exact attitude that was taken during the height of lockdown for LPM Dubai – use your perseverance, tenacity and bravery to move forward.

    While many industries have been affected drastically by the COVID-19 pandemic, the F&B industry has taken a particularly hard hit. With strict lockdowns in place, no one was dining out in the UAE effectively losing 100 per cent revenue for many restaurants throughout the region. However, as they have done so for a decade, LPM Dubai adapted, pushed the boundaries and embraced the immediate change. By doing so, every single staff member was kept in full-time employment. “Put it this way, you have to adapt if you want to make it,” Duntoye says. “If someone would have told me before coronavirus that we would do delivery, I wouldn’t have believed them.” Despite having had many requests for years to launch delivery, it was never in the cards for LPM simply because they were always so busy, but the pandemic totally changed that. “When we were having our back against the wall during the lockdown, we had to adapt,” he explains. “Hard times always bring out the best in you. Everybody worked hard together and look at what the team has been able to achieve – we are not only known as a great restaurant, but also one of the best take away concepts there is.”
    This is the exact reason why LPM Dubai continues to be a leader in the F&B space in the UAE – the continued reinvention to engage loyal customers and entice new ones. Duntoye puts it bluntly, “In simple words, if you don’t want to be a dinosaur and become extinct, you have to adapt.” LPM’s Chef Patron recently sat down with Emirates Woman to discuss the restaurant’s 10-year milestone in Dubai, expansion plans for the franchise and what it takes to make it in this industry.

    Talk us through your career history.
    In 1995 I began my culinary journey, when I abandoned a career in engineering to follow a life-long passion for food and cooking. I joined Butlers Wharf Chef School in 1995. Following my graduation, I spent the next five years earning my culinary stripes under the mentorship of Pierre Koffman, one of the UK’s most celebrated chefs. Later I served as Executive Sous Chef at Sketch in Mayfair and as a Senior Sous Chef at the Japanese restaurant, Zuma in Knightsbridge, London. In 2007, I opened the first LPM Restaurant & Bar (at the time it was known as La Petite Maison) in Mayfair, London. I have since grown the award-winning restaurant, which now has branches in six major metropolitan cities across the world. So I am an accidental chef. But with every disappointment comes a great blessing.
    Who is your mentor in the food business? 
    I have to pay homage to Pierre Koffmann, for whom I worked at La Tante Claire. He taught me discipline and how to get the most flavour and texture from each ingredient. Rainer Becker, co-founder of Zuma, for whom I worked and learnt many things, in the kitchen but also how to run a business successfully.
    I have also had heroes from within the industry over the years – Nick Jones of Soho House, Paddy McKillen of Maybourne Hotel Group (Claridge’s, The Connaught and The Berkeley). Also, a great hero of mine that has passed, Sir Terence Conran. What he has been able to achieve has been amazing. Quaglino’s was probably one of the first super-restaurants that achieved greatness back in the days. At the Sir Terence Conran’s chef school (Butlers Wharf Chef School), I was able to take my first step in the kitchen and realize my dream of becoming a chef.
    In terms of bravery – it takes a lot to succeed in this industry, what do you think makes or breaks success?
    You must never be afraid to work hard, and to be a great chef you must have passion for what you do. Without passion you cannot do this job. Perseverance and tenacity has always made me move forward in times of difficulty, as has hope and believing in people and myself. Also, get your priorities right, to ensure you align your goals and know what is more important. Sometimes in life you need to retreat in order to better fight a battle another day.
    What was the reaction to bringing the LPM brand to this region?
    We were a game-changer. Zuma came in first, and we came in second and I think we changed the game of hospitality as far as restaurants are concerned. I would gladly say that we helped the industry to evolve for the better. Look at the produce as an example; we had to fight tooth and nail in order to make sure we were getting the produce we needed, as LPM is all about the quality in order to keep the integrity of our brand.
    How have things changed for LPM and the F&B industry in Dubai in the last decade?
    Things have changed a lot; there are now a lot more restaurants. It is more competitive, and the offering is very vast. Dubai is now a culinary destination. I am happy to see that a lot of concepts have been inspired by LPM, as this has pushed us to always work harder in order to remain a step ahead, as the competition has become better and more diversified for the benefit of Dubai and its people. We have been complimented a lot, with that I feel we have now reached a point where we need to go through an evolution and take LPM to the next level.

    What does this 10-year milestone mark for you?
    Not everybody can say they have been around for 10 years. If anything, it tells us that we have been doing the right thing, but that we also become even better, so I really look forward to the next 10 years.
    Tell us about the future plans for LPM.
    Firstly, we need to keep taking care of our Dubai and Abu Dhabi restaurants, and ensure we keep great consistency, while being relevant by evolving and reinventing ourselves. There is no point to expand if you do not have a plan for your existing businesses to keep growing.
    Before the end of the year, we will have hopefully opened in Riyadh. The restaurant is ready, but we are waiting for the visa and flights to open to get our team to Saudi Arabia. I am actually really looking forward to this opening, as after the highly successful pop-up we had last year for the Al Diriyah Season, I was impressed by the pallet of the Saudi nationals and also by the love and appreciation we received as a brand but also as a team.
    The growth opportunity that the Middle East has to offer to LPM is unparalleled to any other region, so there is still a lot to do for us in this part of the world.
    How do you view LPM Dubai within its global network?
    Dubai has been our second international restaurant after London and has definitely been a milestone in our LPM history. It has been a great source of inspiration for all our other LPM restaurants and has been highly regarded by our peers. In the same way, as the city and people aim for the best, LPM Dubai has kept pushing boundaries. We have achieved a lot as a restaurant, a business and as a team.
    This is ‘The Bravery Issue’ – what does bravery mean to you?
    Bravery means a lot to me. It means being inspirational to others and paving the way. Taking steps that others would not take. My philosophy is that the greater the risk the greater the reward. I am a believer that if you never do, you will never know. Commitment and faith are also important values when it comes to bravery. As an example, when I wanted to start LPM and wanted it to be a French sharing concept, my mentor Rainer Becker told me to stick to my guns, if you decide this is what you want then stick to it. No matter how much resistance I got from people (and I got a lot, believe me), I stuck to my belief and look at us today. It is a great emotion to feel you have influenced others in a positive way. If I had not been brave enough at that time, what would we have been today?
    October’s – ‘The Bravery Issue’ – Download Now
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    6 unique experiences you need to do in the Maldives

    IN PARTNERSHIP: As the travel industry slowly but surely begins to recover, some countries are ready to welcome back tourists with open arms.
    This includes one of our favourite holiday desintations, the Maldives.

    The country reopened its borders to tourists on July 15. Since then, the country has ensured it’s taking every precaution necessary to ensure the wellbeing and safety of its nation and tourists who are visiting.
    With regular flights from the UAE now running to the Maldives, it’s the perfect time to take a break in this luxurious oasis.

    If you’re on the fence about whether to travel right now, the Maldives really is the ideal place to go. With the unique and signature “one-island-one-resort” concept which the country is known for, it’s the perfect place to go to ensure social distancing measures are met in order to enjoy an isolation vacation.
    There are also many other aspects that are unique to the country. With that, here’s six bespoke experiences which you can do in the Maldives.
    Underwater dining

    While we know the Maldives is filled with sandy beaches and home to the some of the bluest waters you’ll find around the globe, have you ever thought about what it’s like underwater? With their seas filled with a rich variety of fish and other sea creatures, experience a one-of-a-kind dining extravaganza underwater. There are many resorts that offer the experience including SEA at Anantara Kihavah; Subsix Underwater Restaurant at Niyama Private Islands; and Undersea Restaurant at Hurawalhi just to name a few.
    In a bubble

    Perfect for those who are on a romantic break, enjoy a night sleeping under the stars right on the beach at the Finolhu Resort. Staying overnight in their bubble tents truly is a once in a lifetime experience and one that you’ll be sure to never forget.
    Movie night under the stars
    While you can enjoy a movie night under the stars all around the world, doing it amongst the serenity and relaxing atmosphere of the Maldives is like no other. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop of the beaches, along with some of your favourite flicks.
    Over the water villas

    This type of accommodation has become synonymous with the Maldives. Overwater villas are truly living at its finest. With resorts across the Maldives offering villas with their own pools, with uninhibited views of miles of sea, it’s the optimum opportunity to get away from it all.
    A private flight over the islands

    Whilst most of us have been on a plane at least once in a lifetime, taking a private flight over the Maldives will give you an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime. With expanding views of azure waters, sandy white beaches and the lush greenery of the islands, it’s something that is one-of-a-kind to the Maldives.
    The local culture

    It’s easy to basque in the glory of the views, crystal clear waters and sandy white beaches, but to truly get the most out of your holiday, immerse yourself in the local culture. The Maldives is a melting pot of culture, influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, Malaysia, Arabs and more, locals are warm and welcoming people, always wanting to ensure their visitors have the best experience. Whether it’s trying the local cuisine, experience local music and dance or simply spending time with Maldivians, it’s something to add to your list when visiting this glorious country.
    Now, it’s time to book. With a negative COVID-19 test required and the country’s ‘Safe Travels Stamp’ – which has been endorsed by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) – you can be rest assured health and safety are being followed to the highest standards.
    For more information go to visitmaldives.com/en.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

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    PrettyLittleThing recruits its very first hijabi model

    In another step towards being more inclusive, high street e-tailer PrettyLittleThing has recruited its very first hijabi model.
    Say hello to Billy Marsal.

    The 21-year-old Black Muslim from London has become the face of PLT’s new line of modest clothing.
    With the UK-based brand recently having launched in the MENA region, it’s a refreshing step to see retailers taking.

    Sharing her excitement about working with PLT, Marsal took to Instagram last week to post about the news.

    “How unreal that’s me you guys,” she said in disbelief. “FIRST HIJABI ON PLT!!!!!! Literally crazy.”
    PrettyLittleThing themselves also shared their joy about being more inclusive, particularly on their latest modest line.
    “Following our successful launch into the Middle East we are delighted to be launching our ‘Modest clothing’ collection on [the] site,” the brand said.
    “Our ethos of ‘EveryBODYinPLT is extremely important to us, so it’s been amazing seeing such positive customer feedback and working with models who represent all of our customer base.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: PrettyLittleThing More

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    In some exciting news, Starbucks pumpkin spice lattes are back in the UAE

    Yes, we know what you’re thinking – we previously told you that the oh-so sought after Starbucks pumpkin spiced lattes wouldn’t be returning to the UAE this year.

    However, we have some good news for you – they’re back. But only for a very limited time.
    In celebration of the autumnal season, the franchise has reinstated the PSL just until Friday, October 30 at selected Starbucks’ around the UAE.
    In Dubai, you can grab one at Business Bay, Dubai Marina Mall, JBR, La Mer, Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall and The Pointe. Meanwhile, in Abu Dhabi, you can find them in Al Wahda Mall, Eastern Mangroves, twofour54 and Yas Mall.
    You can also grab one in Sharjah at the Sharjah Corniche and American University Sharjah. And if you’re really craving it that much, Starbucks PSLs are also available on Deliveroo in the UAE.
    Enjoy!
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Starbucks Instagram More

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    There’s a huge sale happening at Dubai Mall happening this weekend

    In celebration of the start of Sheikh Hamdan’s Dubai Fitness Challenge 2020, a huge sale will be taking place at Dubai Mall over the weekend – and it just so happens to perfectly coincide with the long weekend.
    The ‘Mega Sale’ will see discounts of up to 90 per cent off on sports, health and wellness brands. Meanwhile, there will be up to 75 per cent off on fashion, beauty and jewellery brands.

    From October 29 to October 31 shoppers will be treated to some amazing deals across hundreds of retailers which are available in Dubai Mall.
    To get ahead of the game, if you have the Dubai Mall App, you can view the best deals ahead of heading to Dubai Mall.
    Shoppers also have the opportunity to spend and earn Emirates Skyward Miles through the app during the sale. All you need to is scan the receipts via the app with purchases over Dhs100.
    Well, now you know where to find us this weekend…
    For the details on the brands taking part visit their website.
     – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Paramount Pictures More

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    Gigi Hadid has just posted her first photo of herself since giving birth

    Gigi Hadid has just posted the first photo of herself since giving birth to her first child last month – and it’s for a very important reason.
    The supermodel has been far from silent on social media since welcoming her daughter with boyfriend Zayn Malik, but this snap marks the first photo of herself in a number of weeks.

    Wearing a black T-shirt with the word ‘VOTE’ emblazoned on it, the mirror picture of the 25-year-old sent an important message – encouraging those in the USA to get out and vote in the upcoming election.
    The new mum explained that she “voted absentee last week with my daughter next to me”.

    Gigi welcomed her first child just over a month ago, revealing she had given birth on Instagram posting a sweet photo of new dad Zayn holding the tiny hand of baby Hadid-Malik.
    “Our girl joined us earth-side this weekend and she’s already changed our world,” she captioned the photo. “So in love.”

    According to E! News, the name of baby Hadid-Malik, which has been kept private by the couple, is “unique” but an alleged source wouldn’t give anything else away.
    Gigi’s pregnancy was first reported on back in April. The model first spoke of her pregnancy – news which was revealed in the press and not by Gigi or Zayn – during a video call appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, admitting they would have liked to reveal the news on their “own terms”, but also thanked everyone for their congratulations.
    “Obviously, we wish we could’ve announced it on our own terms, but we’re very excited and happy and grateful for everyone’s well wishes and support,” she said.
    Zayn and Gigi originally started dating in 2016, and have been on-and-off ever since, with their latest split taking place in mid-2019. However, the pair reunited earlier this year, but have been keeping their romance away from the public glare.
     – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Gigi Hadid Instagram More

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    10 ways to celebrate Halloween in Dubai

    Ready for things to get a little spooky this weekend? Here’s eight ways you can celebrate Halloween in Dubai.
    The dark side
    Join the dark side at the 90s-themed Forever Brunch at Farriers on October 29 from 7pm until 10pm. Expect the perfect mix of spooky and fun with this ultimate Halloween brunch, so, put on your best scream queen-inspired outfits. Brunch packages start at Dhs199 for soft drinks; Dhs249 for house beverages; or upgrade to the bubbly package for Dhs69.
    Tulum – Day of the Dead

    While the traditional Mexican holiday Day of the Dead normally falls on November 2, celebrate it a few days early on Halloween from 8pm until 12am at Tulum in Dubai Mall. Enjoy unlimited Mexican treats for just Dhs190. This includes cauliflower dynamite, guacamole, street style corn, cheese fondue and a selection of tacos.
    Sky-high Halloween celebration

    From October 29 to October 31, celebrate Halloween at CÉ LA VI Dubai for their one-off celebration Yelloween. Enjoy three hours of non-stop Halloween fun between 12pm to 12am for Dhs595 for four courses and unlimited beverages. Even better, if you turn up in a spooky costume, guests will get an extra hour completely free.
    Spook-tacular trick-or-treating

    If you’re at home with the family this year for Halloween, you might enjoy this “fuss-free” partnership between Deliveroo and Marks & Spencer. From October 25 until October 31 customers can order limited-edition trick or treat bags, filled with exclusive signature treats, from Marks & Spencer like Creepy Peppers, Oozing Skulls, Ghoulicious Graveyard Treats and Bubbly Boo! Amongst others. The Halloween treats arrive in a bold orange reusable bag, great for keeping for Halloween’s to come. The limited-edition bags full of sweets come in two different sizes. So, depending on how much of a sweet tooth you have opt for the smaller bag for Dhs60 or the larger bag for Dhs100.
    Dress up in DIFC

    The Bull of Wall Street brunch at Bull & Bear at the Waldorf Astoria in DIFC is encouraging you to dress up from your favourite character in the Scorsese classic The Wolf of Wall Street. The stylish DIFC hotspot will also be awarding a Jordan Belfort worthy prize to the best-dressed guest – a stay in the Waldorf Astoria’s exquisite Presidential Suite.
    Enjoy live music from house-band Cross Fire and a fine selection of signature dishes from 1pm to 5pm this Friday. Brunch packages start from Dhs290 for soft drinks and Dhs450 for bubbles, house hops and a selection of cocktails.
    Family Halloween fun

    Enjoy Halloween fun with the family at the newly launched Il Passaggio on The Pointe, but with more treats than tricks. All guests dining at the restaurant with little ones, will receive cookies that kids can decorate to their heart’s delight. The homegrown Mediterranean inspired restaurant has an onsite bakery, offering freshly baked bread, pastries and cakes daily.
    Halloween at the Distillery

    Enjoy Halloween at the Distillery with their double extravaganza on October 30 and 31. On Friday there’s the Freaky Friday Brunch from 1pm to 4pm with a three-course menu. Packages start at Dhs149 for soft beverages; Dhs279 for house beverages or Dhs549 for sparkling. Some Halloween-inspired cocktails include the ‘Bloody Bloody Mary’, ‘Grave Digger’, ‘Devil’s Margarita’ and the ‘Soul Taker’.
    If you’re looking for a Saturday celebration on the day of Halloween, why not try the Spooooky Saturday Night Brunch which will take place from 7pm until 10pm, inviting all zombies to come along, get spooked and enjoy the same three-course menu with unlimited drinks for Dhs149 for women and Dhs249 for men.
    Note everyone’s encouraged to dress up, which is advised as there will be prizes available for the best dressed.
    The spook-tacular screening

    Host a fright night with your friends at the Studio One screening room this weekend from October 29 to October 31. Old scary classics include Annabelle, Chucky, Psycho, The Shining and more. Prices start at Dhs666 for up to 12 adults (above 12) with Halloween themed treats, soft drinks and surprises.
    Slots available are as follows: Thursday 29 to Saturday 31 – 6pm – 8pm , 9pm – 11pm and midnight.
    Neighbourhood hangout Halloween

    For another family-friendly option, head to Zabeel House by Jumeirah at The Greens. LAH LAH BAZAAR is hosting two al fresco Halloween brunches on Friday October 30 and Saturday October 31. For Dhs269 from 1pm to 4pm enjoy a haunted bouncy castle, spooky arts and crafts, scary face painting and incredible prizes for best costumes. Pooches are also welcome to join all the fun with its dog-friendly outdoor space. There will also be live music.
    A bewitching concoction

    The new spook-tacular movie The Witches is set to hit the silver screen soon, and in celebration Black Tap, the cult New York burger brand, is launching a wickedly wonderful, limited edition Witches CrazyShake at their Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall branches. Priced at Dhs62, the shake will be available at their branches until October 31.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied, Feature Image: Walt Disney Pictures More

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    Pawsome news: Puppy Pilates is coming back to Dubai

    It’s time to say goodbye to your personal trainer and hello to your pooch as your workout motivation.
    For its third year in a row Puppy Pilates run by the Animal Agency and Phoenix Rising is returning to Dubai.

    On Wednesday, October 28, ensure your pup is ready for an early rise to take part in some pilates at 9am at Bounty Beets at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi.

    Also ensure your pooch is ready to motivate you to work your core to the max, as yoga instructor Kirsty MacPherson-Wright will be putting your body to the test.
    However, after a testing workout you can treat yourself to a tasty breakfast at Bounty Beets. For all those taking part in the class will get 25 per cent off the breakfast menu.
    Sounds like the perfect way to start a Wednesday.
     – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Feature Image: Stretchy Yoga Instagram More