No surprise, perhaps, that it’s fine dining restaurant The Loft is part of the 2019 Ramadan offering.
The Gold & Honey iftar is all that you might expect of this prestigious address - from the unique setting high in iconic building through to dishes that you’ll want to break into song about.
Subtle decoration and candlelight add to already elegant surroundings and a sophisticated atmosphere with food that matches up to both in presentation and flavour.
And then there’s the tabbouleh, taken up an octave or two by gorgeous chili marinated prawns that lend this iftar staple striking flavour and texture that gives the dish star quality.
Overall, The Loft kitchen has produced a medley of Levantine and Khaleeji favourites, delivering signature modern European dishes, but also daily evolving menus inspired by Greek, Italian, Turkish, Algerian and Persian specialities, aided by a central beverage counter serving up hand-crafted mocktails, milkshakes and Ramadan inspired beverages,
The skill and ideas put into the cold mezze alone justifies the visit and the price tag. Welcome, farro with spinach and tahini dressing, quinoa and pomegranate with pom dressing, roast cauliflower and pumpkin, roasted fig and feta crostini, chickpea and onion with lemon yoghurt dressing, all delivered with finesse.
Arabic chicken stew gives it a run for its ladle while other more traditional flavours are given similar love - stuffed baby eggplant with pine nut relish is moreish, contrasting a subtle kapsa style lamb with wild rice and surprisingly delicate grilled hamour ratatouille.
While they tick more taste boxes it’s hard to ignore a carvery section starring whole grilled salmon, prime rib and shoulder of lamb.
Unsurprisingly, desserts might be a struggle after all this dining decadence, but at least spare a spot for the rose cheesecake.
It graces a mercifully sensible table that majors on quality rather than quantity of choices with light pannacotta for those seeking a treat rather than a belt bust.
Then with the Gold & Honey Iftar happening until a generous 10pm from sunset and a lady violinist serenading diners, you can take your time to indulge in an iftar that immerses guests in a true sense of occasion.
DETAILS:
GOLD & Honey Iftar costs AED265 for adults, AED125 for children from aged six-11, with kids under six dining for free.
FIND The Loft at Dubai Opera, at Dubai Opera, on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashed Boulevard, Downtown Dubai.
AN experiential dining concept conceived around the “poetry of an oyster shell”, the restaurant design represents the harmony between oceanic architectural references and contemporary design with each interior element paying tribute to the colours and tones of the sea, oyster and sea cliff.
FOR more and to book your table call 971-4362-7312 or email reservations@loftatopera.comor visit www.loftatopera.com