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

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      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

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      International Coffee Day 2022: Where you can get complimentary coffee in Dubai

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      24 mins ago

      If you’re a coffee aficionado, there’s some good news for you.
      With International Coffee Day soon approaching on October 1, the UAE has a host of exciting offers brewing to celebrate the occasion.
      From complimentary coffees to exclusive barista-inspired workshops, there are plenty of opportunities for coffee connoisseurs to make the most of this day.
      So, if you’re looking for a complimentary cup of joe, Emirates Woman is here to help.
      Jones the Grocer

      Did someone say unlimited coffee? Yes, Jones the Grocer in DIFC is offering coffee all day on October 1 in its chic venue. With space for over 50 people at once, residents and tourists can visit and enjoy unlimited coffees after purchasing one. Available from 8am to 10pm, visitors can choose any sized regular coffee and have a second, third or fourth complimentary add-on with free refills to avail of on October 1, 2022, at the DIFC, Gate Building 5, Level 2.
      For more information visit jonesthegrocer.com
      Hampstead Bakery and Café

      There’s nothing like a caffeine fix accompanied by pristine views of Dubai’s skyline. This London-inspired eatery is offering guests one complimentary coffee to mark this special occasion. Whether a classic cappuccino or a hot caramel latte, visitors can experience this downtown gem with their friends and family. Located at Downtown Kitchens, Fountain Views, this offer is valid on October 1, from 9am to 10:30pm.
      For more information visit thehampsteadbakery.com
      Flat12 Café

      Known for its vintage cars and heritage motors, this boutique coffee show will let you fuel up your day in the most enticing manner. At one of Dubai’s most quirky venues visitors can relish a complimentary cup of joe to kick off the International Coffee Day celebrations. Additionally, the café has collaborated with Khaleeji platform Wilk Arab West to create a unique WAW coffee pod, which will be displayed during a pop-up and available on a first-come basis between September 30 to October 2, 2022. Located in Port Rashid, guests can enjoy one free hot coffee per customer available between 12pm to 1pm on October 1, 2022.
      Mondoux

      For visitors going to either of Mondoux’s two locations at Dubai Creek Harbour and The Beach, JBR, they’re allowed one complimentary coffee with each purchase of a dessert or crepe from 3pm to 6pm on October 1. To add to this exclusive experience, guests can also attend an exclusive one-hour coffee workshop to delve into the basics and learn about the fundamentals of beans and various preparation methods. Led by the café’s head Barista, the class will take place at Mondoux Dubai Creek Harbour from 10am to 11am, which is subject to availability and prior booking.
      For more information visit mondoux.ae
      Around the Block

      This minimal Emirati homegrown concept is giving away a mega prize, where guests can walk home with a grand prize on International Coffee Day. Without limiting to one day only, visitors have a chance to win free coffee for the entire year. The competition takes place at the Wasl 51 branch from 4pm to 6pm to win a year of free coffee. To participate guests must find the hidden golden coffee bean with the venue and present it to a member of staff. Adding to the prizes, guests can also participate in a raffle draw and win a masterclass with their Chief of Coffee, Justin and taught the methods of brewing from the master himself.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @lucky_h_girl More

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      UAE announces public holiday date for Prophet Muhammad’s birthday

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      The UAE has announced the date of the public holiday to mark Prophet Muhammad’s birthday.
      The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) confirmed via Twitter that the public holiday would fall on 12 of the Hijri month of Rabi Al Awwal which aligns with October 8, 2022, in the Gregorian calendar.

      The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced that Saturday, October 8, 2022, Rabi Al-Awwal 12, 1444 will be a paid leave for the private sector on the occasion of Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday.#MoHRE pic.twitter.com/ho6FfiGOgj
      — وزارة الموارد البشرية والتوطين (@MOHRE_UAE) September 27, 2022

      Since the public holiday falls on a Saturday, it, unfortunately, means there will be no long weekend for those who work Monday to Friday.
      So, when can UAE citizens and residents look forward to the next public holiday?
      UAE Commemoration and National Day
      The next long weekend is will take place for the country’s Commemoration Day and National Day on December 1 and 2. It will fall on a Thursday and Friday this year, with the official days off for these dates being Thursday, December 1 until Sunday, December 4, 2022.
      As always, the final and official dates and public holiday eligibility for public sector employees and private sector employees are determined by UAE authorities.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Unsplash More

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      Marina Home’s latest collection infuses a sense of wanderlust into your home

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      Lifestyle

      by Team Emirates Woman
      2 hours ago

      Travel is transient, however, your home doesn’t need to be.
      By incorporating a myriad of memories reminiscent of everyone’s post-pandemic travels, Marina Home has launched an exclusive collection, LES VOYAGEURS which takes inspiration from the world in the form of every shape and texture this season.

      Fuelled by a world of discovery, the aesthetics will add a touch of elegance to your home. By celebrating freedom once again, the collection depicts how furniture can enrich your space with an acute representation of our dream destinations.
      Designed to echo the harmony of nature, the furniture and décor in the collection embraces natural earthy tones adding a touch of warmth to your most important rooms.
      The theme of the collection was born to champion the traveller who’s free to explore the world once again through each exotic element.

      So, whether it’s a tour of Brazil or a visit to the Moroccan mountains that inspired you this year, it’s a time to bring those memories to life through these nostalgic-driven interiors.
      From an avant-garde New York loft-style inspired sofa to a minimal Scandinavian crafted reclaimed bench, the varying interior design styles embody the charm of every decorator’s notion allowing them to make a house a home.
      [embedded content]
      Our editor-approved guide allows you to explore the world with travel-inspired décor and accessories from the comfort of your home.
      The Hero Buys

      The latest collection is available across all markets in the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Pakistan, Egypt and KSA in stores and online on marinahomeinteriors.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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      Exclusive: At home with… Founder and CEO of Z7 Communications, Zeina El-Dana

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      Lifestyle

      by Dan Robinson
      1 hour ago

      Nothing excites us more than aesthetic interiors and clean spaces.
      One such place that stands out prominently is Zeina El-Dana’s home. As the founder and CEO of one of the region’s prominent PR agencies, Z7 Communications, she has made strides in every aspect of her career and it all lies at the place she works from.
      From muted hues to carefully curated furniture pieces, every room is tailored to complement her sought-after interior choices.
      For an exclusive peek, Emirates Woman shares all our most loved elements from El Dana’s home.
      How long have you lived/worked in this space?
      I moved to this house five years ago after a long hunt of over 40 different villas. I fell in love instantly as this space felt like home when I walked in. The light, the bright feel from the double-height ceiling and windows and the lush green garden resonated with the elements that I was looking for. I am very close to the beach, the vibrant cultural communities in Dubai as well the Z7 offices in Dubai Design District.
      Did you have a clear concept from the outset, and which key pieces are your favourite?
      Given my busy schedule, which involves a lot of travelling, finding my happy place was vital. I con- sider my home to be my haven, where I can recharge. I was on the lookout for an airy, bright space with an open living area where I could host my friends and family. I also like to be surrounded by nature and my home strikes the perfect balance with natural elements such as wood, plants, and flowers in the interiors and the beautiful garden where I enjoy spending the winter months in the warm company of my friends. Some of my favourite interior pieces are the collector’s Sumo edition of Murals of Tibet from Taschen, signed by the Dalai Lama, a vintage tribal carpet from Tribal Rugs in Beirut, and of course the art pieces I’ve collected over the years.

      Have you custom-built any bespoke pieces?
      My square red dining table was custom-made by The Line Concept and the marble bar that an independent designer in Dubai created. Both are unique pieces that stand out in the space.
      How do you think your interior reflects you/your brand?
      I created my home interior around my lifestyle, which I like to maintain as healthy, neat, and peaceful. I love the white interiors, which exude a holistic effect, Zen, and oodles of positive energy. There are also influences from art, vintage pieces, and my fashion choices to a certain extent. My style is minimalist, but I like mixing patterns and colours to add warmth. Similarly, my home’s mini- mal, white base is layered with splashes of colours and details, and I am always on the hunt for new, stylish, and subtle items I could add to my house. Being an ardent traveller, I’ve collected unique pieces throughout the years which add a personal touch to my space and reflect my journey. I love the charming old yet minimalistic design of the house overall.

      Describe your taste in three words.
      Minimalist, bohemian and evolving!
      September’s – The Entrepreneur Issue – Download Now
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Emirates Woman, Photography by Mark Mathew More

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      COVID-19 in the UAE: Masks are no longer mandatory

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      3 hours ago

      If we cast our minds back to March 2020, the world was grinding to a halt as an official pandemic was declared by the World Health Organisation following the outbreak of coronavirus, also known as COVID-19.
      Stay-at-home guidelines were implemented for countries around the world, flights were grounded and everyday life as we knew it came to a standstill.
      From the get-go, the UAE was proactive in its approach to combatting the virus, implementing health and safety guidelines, social distancing measures and a mask mandate which came into effect on March 26, 2022, and has been strictly monitored since then.
      Now, two and a half years later, it’s been announced by UAE officials, masks will no longer be mandatory to wear in almost all instances.

      #NCEMA: During our media briefing today, we announce the loosening of COVID-19-related restrictions nationwide, as well as the updates to all sectors, which will be in force from 28th September, 2022. #TogetherWeRecover pic.twitter.com/GoUCp0uih4
      — NCEMA UAE (@NCEMAUAE) September 26, 2022

      It was announced by the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) on Monday night during a briefing that from September 28, 2022, wearing face masks would now be optional in most open and closed facilities and spaces across the UAE, as well as in Dubai private schools, early childhood centres, universities and training institutes. Masks, however, do remain mandatory inside medical facilities, mosques and on public transportation.
      In addition, masks are no longer mandatory on flights, but airlines have the power to mandate them if deemed a necessity.
      Furthermore, the isolation time period for individuals who test positive for COVID-19 has been reduced to five days and the green pass on the Al Hosn app has been extended from 14 days to 30 days.
      And while we’re finally seeing almost all restrictions ease, it was noted by the NCEMA that “despite the current stable situation, the pandemic is still ongoing, and the next phase will require community responsibility”.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      Queen Rania’s touching message to her daughters to mark their birthdays

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      Lifestyle

      by Olivia Morris
      30 mins ago

      Her Majesty Queen Rania of Jordan has shared a touching message to her daughters in celebration of their birthdays.
      Princess Salma celebrates her birthday today, September 26, turning 22 years old, and Princess Iman marks her birthday tomorrow, turning 26.
      To mark her lookalike daughters’ birthdays, Queen Rania shared a new photo on Instagram of the three of them alongside a heartfelt note.
      “Our friendship gets stronger as you both get older,” she said. “Couldn’t have asked for better besties. Happy birthday Iman and Salma.”

      The family trio are seen outdoors together wearing casual clothes with both princesses looking the spitting image of their mother.
      It’s been a period full of celebration for the Jordanian royal family as of late having celebrated Queen Rania’s birthday at the end of August. Prior to that, the family announced the joyous news of not one, but two royal engagements.
      Back in July, Princess Iman, the eldest daughter of King Abdullah II and Queen Rania, announced her engagement to New York-based financier Jameel Alexander Thermiotis.
      Six weeks later,  Crown Prince Hussein of Jordan announced his engagement to Rajwa Al Saif of Saudi Arabia.
      While no confirmed dates have been revealed as to when Princess Iman and Crown Prince Hussein will wed their respective partners, the weddings are expected to take place next year.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied More

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

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      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