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    7 spec-taco-lar Mexican restaurants to book in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 7 IMAGES
    Mexican food is nacho your average cuisine.
    Curated with a host of spices, herbs and flavours, each dish is sure to guac your world. From Burritos to empanadas, the unending mix of ingredients creates the perfect meal to savour with your loved ones.
    While dining in Dubai can be an exciting experience due to its diverse culinary scene. Here are some key tips to enhance your dining experience in the city:
    Reservations:
    Plan Ahead
    Popular restaurants can get busy, especially on weekends. Making reservations in advance is recommended.
    Special Events
    If you’re dining for a special occasion or during peak times like Ramadan or holidays, book even earlier.
    Punctuality
    Be punctual for your reservation, as some restaurants may release your table if you’re late.
    Ambiance:
    Choose your dining spot based on the atmosphere you prefer, whether it’s a lively, trendy restaurant or a quiet, romantic spot with a view.
    From special occasions to a weekly Mexican treat, we’re here to help you choose a spot with deliciously authentic flavours. So, swipe through our guide of the best Mexican restaurants to visit in Dubai.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @chrissyteigan @enfuego More

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    National Caviar Day: The best restaurants to celebrate in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    15 seconds ago

    Today is day is dedicated to enjoying and appreciating caviar, which is a delicacy made from the salt-cured eggs (roe) of sturgeon fish.
    Every year on July 17, National Caviar Day is celebrated. It is considered a luxurious treat and is often associated with fine dining and gourmet cuisine.
    The History
    To go back in time, Caviar has a rich and storied history that dates back thousands of years, with roots in ancient civilizations and a legacy that has evolved over the years.
    The Persians were among the first to consume sturgeon roe, recognizing its nutritional and aphrodisiac qualities. In the late 19th century, the United States became a leading producer of caviar. The abundance of sturgeon in American rivers, particularly the Delaware and Hudson Rivers, led to a boom in caviar production.
    Types
    The different types of caviar to be found include Beluga, Osetra, and Sevruga.
    Beluga
    Beluga caviar is the most famous and expensive type of caviar. It is known for its large, pearlescent grains and delicate, buttery flavor. The eggs range in color from light to dark gray.
    Osetra
    Osetra caviar varies in color from dark brown to golden. It has a firm texture and a nutty, briny flavor. The golden Osetra, known as “Royal Osetra,” is particularly prize.
    Sevruga
    Sevruga has smaller, grayish-black eggs and a more intense, briny flavor compared to Beluga and Osetra. It is the smallest and most abundant of the Caspian sturgeons.
    These are the main type of caviars and the other include Hackleback, Paddlefish, Siberian Sturgeon, American, Kaluga and Serlet.
    Caviar remains a symbol of luxury and sophistication. It is often associated with high-end dining, celebrations, and special occasions. Its historical significance and enduring appeal make it a sought-after delicacy around the world.
    From its ancient origins to its modern status as a gourmet delight, caviar’s history is a testament to its enduring allure and the lengths to which people will go to enjoy this exquisite food. Overall, National Caviar Day is a great opportunity for both seasoned caviar enthusiasts and those new to the delicacy to appreciate its unique taste and cultural significance.
    Zuma
    Having opened in Dubai in 2009, Zuma was one of the first to set up in DIFC, as the trailblazer for the city’s now famous gastronomic hub. And where others have come and gone, Zuma remains.  Some of the main dishes to try include salmon and tuna tartare with Oscietra caviar and wagyu beef tataki with truffle ponzu. Located in Gate Village, Building 3, it’s never too late to visit this restaurant.
    For more information visit zumarestaurant.com
    Kaspia

    The venue invites guests to experience the pinnacle of culinary luxury at Kaspia Dubai this World Caviar Day. Located in DIFC, this renowned Parisian establishment invites you to indulge in a one-day-only, five-course caviar tasting menu on Thursday, July 18th. Starting at AED 690, this exclusive event promises a decadent journey through the finest caviar varieties paired with gourmet dishes, offering an unforgettable dining experience in an elegant and chic ambiance. Located in DIFC, Gate Village Building 2.
    For more information visit kaspiadubai.com
    OKKU

    This restaurant warmly invites guests to indulge in an ever luxurious caviar experience. Served over a bed of crushed ice, diners can savour high quality caviarhand picked specially for OKKU. Produced from sturgeon, the caviar is known for its rich and smooth texture with a deliciously unique flavour profile. Served over a bed of crushed ice, diners can savour high quality caviarhand picked specially for OKKU. Produced from sturgeon, the caviar is known for its rich and smooth texture with a deliciously unique flavour profile with notes of butter, nuts and mild hints of the ocean, the prices start at Dhs750. Located in Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, it’s a must-visit.
    For more information visit okku.com
    Above Eleven
    Above Eleven offers the finest caviar dishes within their Nikkei cuisine menu. Prepared using specially sourced, high-quality ingredients, guests can indulge in the Hokkaido scallops delicately enhanced with lime and caviar, or the Triaditos Hamachi Truffle Ponzu – a fusion of yellowtail, shiso leaves, chilli ponzu, truffle oil and indulgent caviar, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Dubai’s skyline.
    For more information visit aboveleven.com
    Nobu By the Beach
    Dubai’s celebrated pool and beach club, Nobu by the Beach at Atlantis The Royal, is known for its minimalistic Japanese traditions into a one-of-a-kind pool and beach club experience. Inspired by Nobu’s universally beloved Japanese Peruvian cuisine with a bitesize twist, the menu at Nobu by the Beach focuses on sharing and lighter bites. . Indulgent options such as black cod croquettes and lightly seared chutoro sashimi served with fresh mustard leaf mizuna dressing with caviar promise a memorable dining experience. . Indulgent options such as black cod croquettes and lightly seared chutoro sashimi served with fresh mustard leaf mizuna dressing with caviar promise a memorable dining experience. Nobu by the Beach pool service is open daily from 9am to 7pm and the restaurant is open daily from 11:30am to 11pm.
    For more information visit nobudubai.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    How this Beirut hotspot Amelia has made its mark on Dubai’s culinary scene

    Situated in the heart of Downtown at Address Sky View, this hotspot Amelia offers a delectable menu of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines.
    Embracing a theme of retro-futuristic revelry, Amelia’s cocktail menu is a testament to the artistry and skill of its mixologists. Known for its insatiable appetite for bringing people together, it focuses on warm service in an uplifting atmosphere to invoke all senses.
    Overall, the the fine-dining lounge restaurant at Address Sky View presents an exquisite selection of cocktails that embodies a journey through innovation. The restaurant provides an experiential culinary experience with a difference, hence it promises to take guests on a journey unlike any other.
    To see how the restaurant continues to innovate, Emirates Woman spoke to Rayan Nicolas, the CEO of Amelia Dubai on preserving and furthering culinary expression and innovation.
    Tell us about your background.
    My background began with an engineering education, but my curiosity for the F&B sector and entertainment scene blossomed during college. This interest led me to start with a small restaurant in Beirut and venture into event management, specializing in musical events and concerts. Over a span of 15 years, I expanded our portfolio to include over 10 restaurants and lounges in Beirut, as well as managing hotels and resorts. In 2018, we launched Amelia Lounge, which quickly became a local sensation. However, Lebanon faced significant challenges from 2020 onwards, including financial crises, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the devastating Beirut explosion.
    These events prompted us to explore new markets, and after extensive research, Dubai emerged as the most promising opportunity. Recognising the risks and intense competition in Dubai, we decided to expand Amelia from Beirut to Dubai, scaling up to meet the city’s grandiose standards. It was a daunting task, but we meticulously studied the market’s nuances to ensure our concept aligned with Amelia’s established identity and principles.

    The concept hails from Beirut – what inspired you to bring it to Dubai?
    The story of Amelia revolves around adventure and transcending boundaries in all aspects, particularly in architecture, mixology, gastronomy, and music. Our menu takes guests on a culinary journey inspired by Japanese and Peruvian origins, showcasing a finely articulated blend of Nikkei cuisine with Mediterranean hints. This fusion reflects an intense intercultural exchange and expresses a rich diversity of flavours. Bringing the Amelia concept from Beirut to Dubai was inspired by the city’s vibrant and cosmopolitan food scene. Dubai is a global hub known for its appreciation of diverse and high-quality dining experiences. We saw an opportunity to introduce our unique blend of Nikkei cuisine and steampunk-inspired design to a market that values innovation and cultural fusion, enhancing the culinary landscape with a new and exciting offering.
    The chefs take guests on a Japanese and Peruvian culinary journey – what are the key dishes to try?
    The key dishes to try at Amelia include, Salmon Ponzu Truffle Ceviche: Fresh salmon combined with the rich umami of truffle and the tangy brightness of ponzu, the Wild Sea Bass with Coconut Tiger Milk which is A creamy, tropical twist on classic ceviche, highlighting the delicate texture of sea bass. The Rollo De Camarones: A delightful combination of shrimp, halloumi cheese, avocado, kimchi, and Togarashi. This is one of our cooked sushi dishes and one that is favourite amongst our diners and the Flammkuchen A la Truffa (Truffle Pizza): Crispy, thin crust with the luxurious flavor of truffle, creating a unique and indulgent experience.
    The interiors shed light on aviation – tell us more.
    The interiors of Amelia shed light on aviation by paying homage to Amelia Earhart, the pioneering aviator. The design includes aviation-inspired elements such as a majestic airplane atop the main bar and abstract representations being submersed underwater in the mezzanine area. These elements celebrate Earhart’s adventurous spirit and the golden age of aviation, creating an ambiance that transports guests into a world of exploration and discovery.
    The restaurant journeys deep into the retro-futuristic steampunk-inspired theme – how did the theme begin?
    The inspiration behind the steampunk-retro design concept for Amelia is deeply rooted in the adventurous spirit of its namesake, Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Drawing parallels between her boldness and the restaurant’s theme, Amelia embodies a fusion of her adventurous spirit and timeless elegance, marrying aviation-inspired decor with subtle nods throughout the menu. The design concept is a homage to the retro era of the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by the industrial revolution and art deco movements, intertwined with elements from the aviation industry.
    Steampunk serves as the overarching theme, infusing the space with surrealism and a twisted fairy tale ambiance, all brought together in a modernized manner. This eclectic combination of styles serves as the perfect backdrop for Amelia’s culinary offering of Nikkei cuisine. Just as the design concept blends different eras and influences, Nikkei cuisine similarly represents a fusion of cultures and flavors, modernized and elevated to create a unique and harmonious dining experience. The rich tapestry of influences and the innovative approach to both design and cuisine align seamlessly, embodying the spirit of exploration and creativity that defines Amelia.
    Amelia’s private room “Voyage by Amelia” is a hidden gem – talk us through the concept.
    “Voyage by Amelia” is a hidden gem that offers an exclusive and immersive experience, set to transport guests to the 1920s through a sensorial journey. Accessed via a private elevator, this secret spot is designed for those in the know, making it the perfect venue for special occasions and private gatherings. The journey begins with the opening of the pendulum-inspired door on the first floor, leading guests into a surrealist interior that depicts strong themes of travel and adventure. The room is designed to portray the inside of a clock, complete with gears and spirals, enhancing the sense of being transported to another time and place. A vintage train station-inspired bar sits centrally, surrounded by walls framed with retro windows and dreamlike art.
    The dedication to the 1920s steampunk era continues with plush velvet, vintage-inspired furniture that resembles retro pieces of luggage, heightening the senses of space and time. Open every Thursday to Saturday from 11pm until the early hours, “Voyage by Amelia” features a musical focus on deep house, ensuring the vibe is always on point. A lineup of resident and international DJs dictates the audio tempo, with sultry sounds paired with an extensive drinks menu of the finest serves. This eclectic design and carefully curated atmosphere set the stage for evenings of master mixology and incredible music, making “Voyage by Amelia” a must-visit for those seeking a unique and exclusive experience.
    Guests can experience a blend of cultures at Amelia – what is the main theme?
    The main theme at Amelia is the fusion of cultures, particularly through our Nikkei cuisine, which blends Japanese and Peruvian culinary traditions. This fusion is reflected not only in our diverse menu but also in the design and overall dining experience. We aim to provide a journey through different cultures, offering a unique and memorable experience that celebrates diversity and innovation.
    How has the F&B scene evolved since Amelia’s launch?
    Over the past two years, we have observed a significant increase in the number of Nikkei concepts emerging in the UAE, reflecting a growing awareness and appreciation for this unique culinary fusion. However at Amelia, we offer more than just food; we provide a comprehensive dining experience that includes expertly crafted cocktails, engaging music, and impeccable service. Our patrons have wholeheartedly embraced this holistic approach, consistently praising the quality of our food and the immersive atmosphere we create.
    From the very beginning, our guests have expressed their love for our cuisine and the overall experience we offer. Our guests appreciate the innovative fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, as well as the attention to detail in every dish. From day one, our guests have expressed their love for our cuisine and the immersive experience we provide. It’s been a rewarding journey, albeit challenging at times, to satisfy such a diverse range of tastes. Since Amelia’s launch, the F&B scene has continued to evolve with a growing appreciation for fusion cuisines and unique dining experiences and Amelia has set a new standard for culinary and experiential dining in Dubai. Our success has inspired other establishments to explore similar innovative concepts, enriching the local food scene.
    What sets Amelia apart from other restaurants in Dubai?
    Amelia sets itself apart through its unwavering commitment to culinary innovation, immersive design, and exceptional guest experience. At the heart of our identity is a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavors, meticulously crafted by our team of world-class chefs. The Nikkei cuisine, harmoniously marries the delicate precision of Japanese culinary techniques with the bold, vibrant flavors of Peruvian ingredients. Our menu features an array of exquisite dishes, from fresh sashimi and sushi rolls to inventive ceviches and tiraditos, each offering a delightful journey for the palate. Stepping into Amelia, guests are immediately transported to a different world, thanks to our captivating steampunk-inspired ambiance. Our interior design is a masterful blend of elegance and industrial revolution aesthetics, featuring exposed gears, brass fixtures, and vintage mechanical elements.
    This unique setting, with its warm, moody lighting and richly detailed decor, creates an atmosphere that is both sophisticated and adventurous, inviting guests to relax and lose themselves in the experience. Moreover, Amelia prides itself on meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering dedication to high-quality service. From the moment guests walk through our doors, they are greeted with warmth and genuine hospitality. Our staff, trained to anticipate and cater to every need, ensures that each visit is seamless and enjoyable. Whether it’s a personalized menu recommendation, a perfectly timed wine pairing, or a special accommodation for dietary preferences, every aspect of the service is designed to exceed expectations. In addition to our culinary and design elements, Amelia frequently hosts exclusive bar events, with guest shifts from bartenders not only based in the UAE, but from around the world.

    What lies ahead for Amelia?
    Looking ahead, Amelia plans to continue pushing the boundaries of culinary and experiential dining, constantly striving to elevate the guest experience to new heights. Central to our future vision is the introduction of new and exciting menu items that further explore and celebrate the dynamic fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavours. Our culinary team is dedicated to ongoing experimentation and creativity, ensuring that our menu remains fresh, innovative, and reflective of the latest trends and techniques in the culinary world. Guests can look forward to seasonal dishes that highlight the finest ingredients, as well as inventive takes on classic favorites. In addition to our food offerings, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our new cocktail menu.
    This carefully curated selection of beverages will feature unique, handcrafted cocktails that push the outer boundaries of mixology with an almost chemical precision. Utilizing a range of exotic ingredients and artisanal spirits, our mixologists will craft drinks that not only complement our dishes but also stand out as exceptional experiences in their own right. Each cocktail is a testament to our commitment to innovation and excellence. Enhancing our immersive design elements is another key focus for Amelia’s future. We plan to further develop our steampunk-inspired ambiance, incorporating even more intricate and captivating details.
    Expansion
    Moreover, Amelia is poised to expand its presence into other vibrant markets, bringing our unique dining concept to new audiences. We are exploring opportunities to open additional locations in key cities known for their culinary diversity and appreciation for innovative dining experiences. Each new venue will retain the core elements that define Amelia while incorporating local influences to create a distinct and authentic experience for our guests in different regions.
    This expansion will allow us to share our passion for culinary fusion and immersive design with an even broader audience, establishing Amelia as a leading name in the global dining scene. Our goal is to keep evolving and innovating, providing our guests with unforgettable dining experiences that celebrate the fusion of cultures and the spirit of adventure. By consistently pushing the envelope in both our culinary offerings and our overall guest experience, Amelia will continue to set the standard for excellence in the world of experiential dining.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @amelia.dubai More

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    How Terra Eatery has become a retreat in the heart of UAE

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    4 hours ago

    Restaurateur Rashed Al Tayer, founder of Terra Eatery, on creating a locally grown haven that nourishes mind, body and soul.
    With an aim to create a retreat from the buzzing city. The restaurant offers a redefined culinary experience and takes pride in using only the finest sourced produce from across the globe to prepare each dish served.

    Talk us through your background.
    During my time at university whilst studying finance in San Diego, I spent some time travelling, dining out and immersing myself in diverse culinary experiences, from touring coffee roasters in California to homegrown concepts in Greece that focused on fresh and local produce. This left a lasting impression on me and inspired me to craft a new style of relaxed yet elevated dining concepts bringing them to the region. After returning to Dubai, I embarked on a professional journey in real estate alongside my family for some time but felt compelled to explore bringing a new style of F&B concepts to the local scene, giving me a chance to showcase my creativity and gauge my ability to craft innovative concepts inspired by what I had seen during my university days.
    The contemporary restaurant redefines Mediterranean cooking – talk us through the concept.
    At Terra, we embrace coastal-inspired Mediterranean plates that championingredients as the stars of each dish. We prioritise the use of premium and locallysourced ingredients, ensuring that each dish undergoes meticulous tastings and adjustments before earning its place on our menu. Embracing the ethos of seasonality, we periodically refresh key dishes to reflect the freshest produce available.

    Terra Eatery beautifully captures local flavours – tell us more.
    As an Emirati and the owner of a homegrown business, it is important for me to support other local businesses where I can. Prioritising local produce, andcollaborating with homegrown architects and designers to infuse authenticity intoevery aspect of the dining experience is of utmost importance to me.

    “Attention to detail is everything, Terra was designed to offer upscale cuisine in awarm and welcoming environment”

    What are some of the key dishes to try at the restaurant?
    For lunch or dinner, the Spicy Prawns are my all-time favourite as well as The French beans salad – simple yet fresh and flavourful and as for the pastas, the Short Rib Pappardelle – all of our pastas are made in-house which adds a special touch.For breakfast, all are my favourites but my go -to is the Menemen with sumac yoghurt, onion and capsicums or Frittata.
    The restaurant is known for its beautifully crafted interiors – what was the creative process behind the space?
    I envisioned a restaurant influenced by the Mediterranean, my personal favourite culinary region. A nestled haven where comfort, inspiration, and relaxation come together. The design of Terra is a testament to attention to detail, with rustic open kitchens, earthy hand-finished clay walls, Italian artisan tiles, reclaimed wood, linen fabrics, and lush green foliage bringing an inviting indoor-outdoor southern European courtyard feel to the dining experience.
    The concept has been selected for the MichelinGuide Abu Dhabi 2024 – how does itfeel?
    Receiving recognition and awards for our efforts is immensely gratifying – it validates the hard work and dedication we’ve poured into our craft which is particularly rewarding.
    Everything at Terra Eatery embodies fine attention-to-detail – how important was this from the outset?
    Attention to detail is everything, the restaurant was designed to offer upscale cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment. The customer profile at Terra is the everyday person who appreciates authenticity, honesty, and attention.

    How has travel influenced ideation through the restaurant?
    Massively! My love for the Mediterranean coast majorly influences me, as I travel there often. The ambiance, music, and cuisine at Terra are all imbued with theessence of that region.

    This is The Body Issue – what are your nonnegotiable self and body care practices?
    I believe that what you consume, your environment, and physical activity all contribute to self-care and overall well-being. To maintain balance, I incorporate a variety of workouts such as Pilates, cycling, and stretching into my routine. Additionally, I prioritise nourishing my body with balanced, highquality meals from places that not only inspire me but also provide a positive feel to the dining experience.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram

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    The best business lunches to book for a midday break in Dubai

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph1 hour ago VIEW GALLERY/ 19 IMAGESKnown for its vibrant dining scene, Dubai has a plethora of restaurants with a host of irresistible business lunches you simply can’t miss.Designed for a luxe networking experience or even to take a break from the mundane routine of a 9 to 5, a business lunch is quick, convenient and fancy, making it the perfect meal to savour in the emirate.If you need to recharge those creativity levels and tuck into lunch outside the office or if you have to sign a business deal with a client, there are plenty of business lunches in Dubai to choose from.Quite often it’s important to have a change of scenery during the day to switch off for an hour and simply laugh and unwind. Dubai is home to several  Michelin-recognised spots in Dubai, Green star, and Bib Gourmand spots where the finest quality resides.Hence, with our hectic schedules and day-to-day meetings, trying out new spots can be a challenge, which is why several top-rated eateries in town offer set business lunch menus for the busy bees in the city. From LPM to Zuma, the city offers the best without breaking the bank.So, if you’re looking for where to dine next, Emirates Woman has curated the ultimate guide of fine-dining restaurants in Dubai for an elegant midday meal.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @haileybieber @kimkardashian More

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    16 global restaurants that have made their mark in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 16 IMAGES
    For a myriad of culinary options, Dubai is the place to be. With a host of global restaurants opening in the emirate, diners can choose for a variety of concepts to dine at.
    As Dubai is home to 200 nationalities, so it’s no surprise there are great global dining options and restaurants from all over the world here – there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re heading home for the holidays or just a jet setter, you can enjoy a taste of Dubai around the world in the most luxurious fine-dining setting.
    From Cipriani to Fouquet’s, there’s a myriad of captivating dining concepts that have made their mark internationally and now being loved by both tourists and residents in Dubai. Overall, the emirate has also seen a complete transformation in the food scene as they are finally starting to have its moment in the spotlight, with the Michelin Guide launching in the city in 2022.
    With more international chefs setting their base here and making their mark in this part of the world, Dubai is becoming the center of attraction when it comes to fine-dining options. Over the years, this part of the world has also seen a number of exceptional homegrown restaurants and cafés that have impressed diners in the city.
    As the emirate is well-known for offering an unparalleled fine-dining experience no matter what the cuisine, Emirates Woman takes a closer look at all the global culinary havens that have made their mark in the city.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
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    AMAYA: Where culinary excellence meets artistic innovation with a Burj Khalifa view

    Lifeby Team Emirates Woman2 hours ago IN PARTNERSHIP: Dubai, known for its opulence and breathtaking skyline, has yet another gem added to its culinary landscape.Nestled within the vibrant cityscape, AMAYA emerges as more than just a restaurant; it’s an immersive experience where gastronomy intertwines with artistry.Conceived by renowned restaurateur Murat Tütüncü in collaboration with international production expert Mohamed Ezzat, AMAYA promises an enriched dining affair. Situated strategically to offer a panoramic view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, AMAYA serves as a beacon for those seeking a blend of indulgence and spectacle.The brainchild of Tütüncü, co-founder of the esteemed Bosporus Dubai, AMAYA’s menu is a testament to his culinary expertise and commitment to offering a diverse array of flavors to cater to every palate. From earthy Truffle Pizza to meticulously crafted sushi, from premium Wagyu cuts to tantalizing seafood delicacies like Hamachi, Carpaccio, and Ceviche, each dish is a symphony of flavours designed to tantalize taste buds and ignite culinary passions.But AMAYA is more than just a culinary destination; it’s an art gallery in its own right. Designed by contemporary artist Joseph Klibansky, the restaurant’s interior is adorned with captivating artworks and specially curated pieces that elevate the dining experience to a new level of sophistication.As daylight fades into night, the ambiance undergoes a transformation, evolving into a more subdued and enchanting setting, accompanied by the beats of DJs spinning tracks that set the mood for an unforgettable evening.Adding to the allure is AMAYA’s embrace of digital art, with three pillars of innovation that dynamically change throughout the day, mirroring the shifting ambiance from dawn till dusk. This fusion of culinary mastery and artistic expression creates an environment where every moment is Instagram-worthy, inviting guests to capture memories against the backdrop of the majestic Burj Khalifa and the mesmerizing fountains that dance in harmony with the city lights.Whether you’re a connoisseur of fine dining, an art enthusiast, or simply someone in search of a memorable experience, AMAYA promises to leave an indelible impression on all who step through its doors.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    How I got my job as… a pastry Chef at Dubai’s exclusive experiential dessert haven

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    2 hours ago

    Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
    This week, we speak to Chef Carmen Rueda, who’s regarded as one of the most innovative pastry chefs in the UAE. As a renowned chocolatier and two-time runner-up at the prestigious World Chocolate Masters. She has studied culinary science and worked with some of the best dessert chefs in the world.
    Chef Rueda first moved in 2019 to Dubai as an Executive Pastry chef for Five Hotels, where she continued creating new items, combining innovation and with traditional baking styles. With a stint at Nobu Hotels in June 2020 teaching and creating new desserts concepts, she’s now settled in at BRIX dessert bar in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour.
    To delve into her journey, Emirates Woman spoke to this renowned chef to see how her journey in the F&B industry began.
    What was your favourite subject at school?
    Math and history were always my two favorite subjects, I love learning about the past and how we move forward. We often don’t realize math is part of our everyday lives, in everything we do – however, as kids the complicated equations feel unnecessary.
    What was your first job?
    My first job ever was a nice small restaurant near in the beach in Spain where I had the chance to cook in their kitchen and start my culinary journey and drive my passion for food.
    What brought you to Dubai?
    My journey In Dubai started with Brix Café, after being presented with the opportunity it seemed like such a great journey I wanted to embark on and experience a new territory in the F&B scene.

    What inspired you to enter the F&B space and work at BRIX dessert bar?
    I always loved creating with my hands, I used to play with chocolate as a kid and with any other ingredients around me. It’s another form of art where you can express yourself and your emotions through food and desserts.
    Talk us through the concept of Brix Desserts?
    BRIX Desserts provides a diverse dessert experience for anyone seeking something extra special. At BRIX Cafe, guests can savor fresh pastries and an all-day breakfast menu. For a truly memorable experience, they can embark on a BRIX Journey, where they’ll be transported back in time, to another place, enabling them to taste flavours never tasted before with a unique menu that tells a captivating story by myself and my BRIX team.
    What are the key elements of your role?
    My main role at Brix Journey is to create new experiences including at the BRIX journey. One of my key roles as well to lead my team and help them improve their skills every day. One of the main stand out points at Brix Journey is the unique experience, so I am always looking for new ideas and resources – how to improve the overall experience.
    Talk us through your daily routine
    First thing I head to the bakery, plan out the day for me and the team. I am often testing new items and experimenting in the kitchen. After that i go through the stack and finances, then when i finish around midnight (hospitality hours) i go to the gym – I try to have some sort of balance and get my body moving after a long day at the bakery.

    What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
    My advice is simple yet highly effective – learn, travel and eat as much as you can, take in all the experience, the income will come but you need to learn first. Traveling allows you to explore diverse ingredients, flavors, and techniques, inspiring you to create innovative and unique desserts/ pastries/ etc.
    Tell us more about the pastries offered?
    BRIX is a place where you can enjoy a large variety of fine desserts, from the exclusive story-driven set menu experience at BRIX journey – which is one of 10 only in the world – to the simple yet memorable pastries at BRIX Cafe, where you can enjoy a slow morning or day, soak in the natural light that hugs the space, the greenery the wholesome set up by the water. We’re always innovating our pastry offering, we just launched the flat croissant which has been going viral however, we made sure we add our own Brix touch to it.
    What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
    We often find ourselves in rush to get to places, whether in your career or personal life and we can’t help but compare ourselves to people around us. My best advice is one step at a time, we don’t have the same journey as the others’ and everything happen for a reason… enjoy the journey that comes with each step
    And what is the worst?
    This might sound odd by constant getting compliments such as ‘you are great’ or ‘you are the best’ could limit your mind set. We always need that push to be better, a motive to out-do ourselves and get better. Once we believe we’re the absolute best, we get comfortable which is the worst enemy.
    What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
    Once you decide to go global, you need to act local in order to appeal to the demographics of that country you’re working & living in. So, I would say finding new flavors and implementing it in my creations as I traveled throughout my career.

    What’s your future for the brand?
    Growing and spreading the concept of BRIX around, both BRIX Cafe and BRIX Journey, ensuring everyone can enjoy our experiences and leave with a memorable and elevate dessert experience. The concept of a dessert-only set course menu still seems unorthodox as diners immediately associate it with an overload of sweetness when it fact it’s quite the opposite and it’s part of our journey is to educate people on our concept and slowly integrate it to become a as popular as a regular dining experience.
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