AVID Dubai diners will already be aware of the myriad culinary attractions available in THE BEACH.
But look a little closer at the range of restaurants now operating in the smart and evolving “lifestyle destination” opposite JBR and you’ll discover you can take your appetite on a trip around the globe.
But look a little closer at the range of restaurants now operating in the smart and evolving “lifestyle destination” opposite JBR and you’ll discover you can take your appetite on a trip around the globe.
TUCK IN: A world of foods awaits at THE BEACH
MustDoDubai.com was invited on a tasting tour of some of the newer and more familiar names bringing smiles to stomachs along THE BEACH.
Yes, it’s a tough job, but we stepped up to the plate – and a bowl – and took in a handful of the smart eating options at the far end of this stylish development.
And for those not tempted to wander the full length of THE BEACH…well, you’d be missing out on some amazing food opportunities if you don’t put in a few extra metres.
Before any plates arrive, however, step inside and soak up the atmosphere...
For example, to walk into Almaz By Momo is to enter a contemporary and stylish slice of North Africa.
The sound of Arabic music washes over authentic furnishings and ornaments that could have you convinced you were in Casablanca or Marrakech.
Head upstairs and avid chatter mixes with the sweet smell of shisha smoke as we are given a demonstration in the art of preparing traditional mint tea.
Pouring this savoured drink from an ornamental pot held on high into a relatively tiny glass is nowhere as easy as our spirited, traditionally-attired hosts make it appear, but we succeed with little spillage even if the technique is lacking.
And for those not tempted to wander the full length of THE BEACH…well, you’d be missing out on some amazing food opportunities if you don’t put in a few extra metres.
Before any plates arrive, however, step inside and soak up the atmosphere...
For example, to walk into Almaz By Momo is to enter a contemporary and stylish slice of North Africa.
The sound of Arabic music washes over authentic furnishings and ornaments that could have you convinced you were in Casablanca or Marrakech.
Head upstairs and avid chatter mixes with the sweet smell of shisha smoke as we are given a demonstration in the art of preparing traditional mint tea.
Pouring this savoured drink from an ornamental pot held on high into a relatively tiny glass is nowhere as easy as our spirited, traditionally-attired hosts make it appear, but we succeed with little spillage even if the technique is lacking.
HIGH TEA: Pouring technique is part of the show at Almaz By Momo
Tucking into a mix of Middle Eastern cakes and dessert items proves a fair bit easier and it is all too easy to get comfortable in this cosy environment, first brought to the UAE when Algerian Mourad Mazouz expanded the concept of his pop-up stall in London’s Selfridges to a restaurant in Mall of the Emirates and then The Galleria, Abu Dhabi with a menu fired by mainly Moroccan and Levant cuisine.
The next stop on out tour requires a short walk but takes us across continents as Poco Loco exhibits its passion for Latin American cuisine.
Coinciding with Mexican Independence Day, on our brief visit there’s enthusiasm for the traditional bashing of a piñata filled with sweets.
But the biggest fuss is deservedly made over the laid-back restaurant's stunning soft tacos.
Filled with chicken or beef, these moreish delights are assembled by Head Chef Pablo Flores and his team who grant us a rare glimpse behind the scenes.
We see the kitchen prepare a flour taco using imported Mexican equipment and heated on a hotplate rather than fried before the little works of art are assembled and placed in wooden taco holders.
Open just one month and the brainchild of a British foodie inspired by his South American travels, Poco Loco is a lively, urban Latino eatery with great views across to the under-construction Dubai Eye.
Watch out for live salsa acts and mariachi bands to soundtrack a menu “centred on fun and creative sharing options” amid funky decor, including wooden doors hanging from the ceiling.
The menu includes Ceviche, Patagonian Toothfish, slow cooked Lamb Barbacoa and Josper Roasted Sea bass with red and green adobe.
The next stop on out tour requires a short walk but takes us across continents as Poco Loco exhibits its passion for Latin American cuisine.
Coinciding with Mexican Independence Day, on our brief visit there’s enthusiasm for the traditional bashing of a piñata filled with sweets.
But the biggest fuss is deservedly made over the laid-back restaurant's stunning soft tacos.
Filled with chicken or beef, these moreish delights are assembled by Head Chef Pablo Flores and his team who grant us a rare glimpse behind the scenes.
We see the kitchen prepare a flour taco using imported Mexican equipment and heated on a hotplate rather than fried before the little works of art are assembled and placed in wooden taco holders.
Open just one month and the brainchild of a British foodie inspired by his South American travels, Poco Loco is a lively, urban Latino eatery with great views across to the under-construction Dubai Eye.
Watch out for live salsa acts and mariachi bands to soundtrack a menu “centred on fun and creative sharing options” amid funky decor, including wooden doors hanging from the ceiling.
The menu includes Ceviche, Patagonian Toothfish, slow cooked Lamb Barbacoa and Josper Roasted Sea bass with red and green adobe.
BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: Two flavours of sea bass at Poco Loco
It takes only a few strides to reach the bright, white interior of Sapori di BICE and deliverance to an Italian eatery that traces its origins to 1926 and is no stranger to winning hearts and awards in Dubai.
Black boards, white furniture, olive trees seemingly growing out of tables…the fresh design and layout is memorable and attractive, like a beacon glowing in the stuffy night air. And while it sports a casual family-dining concept, the vibe is one of leisurely cool with a hint of dynamism, but inviting all the same.
Executive Chef Luca Zanchetti sports the anticipated energy via an interactive demonstration in the art of making gnocchi.
Our fellow bloggers make a grand job of rolling and chopping the ingredients and loading these little Italian ‘dumplings’ into boiling water. But the proof is, as ever, in the eating and the accompanying thick tomato sauce with ligurian pesto prompts swift demolition of a bowlful – and a neighbour’s leftovers.
Of course, the menu offers much more; our future 'must try' list includes Orata al Cartoccio (sea bream fillet in aromatic papillotte) and Assaggi di Pasta (a sharing spread of Penne Arrabbiata, Mushroom Risotto and Ravioli Massala).
Not to mention, any of the salads and breads….
Black boards, white furniture, olive trees seemingly growing out of tables…the fresh design and layout is memorable and attractive, like a beacon glowing in the stuffy night air. And while it sports a casual family-dining concept, the vibe is one of leisurely cool with a hint of dynamism, but inviting all the same.
Executive Chef Luca Zanchetti sports the anticipated energy via an interactive demonstration in the art of making gnocchi.
Our fellow bloggers make a grand job of rolling and chopping the ingredients and loading these little Italian ‘dumplings’ into boiling water. But the proof is, as ever, in the eating and the accompanying thick tomato sauce with ligurian pesto prompts swift demolition of a bowlful – and a neighbour’s leftovers.
Of course, the menu offers much more; our future 'must try' list includes Orata al Cartoccio (sea bream fillet in aromatic papillotte) and Assaggi di Pasta (a sharing spread of Penne Arrabbiata, Mushroom Risotto and Ravioli Massala).
Not to mention, any of the salads and breads….
ITALY TRANSPLANTED: The stylish interior of Sapori di BICE
If ever you needed a reminder of how European countries can vary in their styles of food and décor then Ladurée – sister to the Champs-Elysées original and Dubai Mall branch - is a classy reminder.
Once through the door you’re senses are whisked off to Paris as sumptuous surroundings – decorative beading and mirrors, lavish lighting and elegant furniture place us anywhere but a macaroon throw from Dubai’s famous stretch of sand.
We’re again allowed into that most sacred sanctum of any chef as our Gallic host demonstrates the art of preparing the perfect Vol-au-vent de Volaille aux Champignons Sauvages.
That translates as a calorific treat of chicken breast, wild mushrooms and cream sauce frequenting and slowly moistening a well of crispy pastry.
It's a tempting insight into a beyond patisserie menu that spans the day with classic French dishes covering Le Petit Dejeuner eggs and mid morning macaroons to veal fillet with baby artichokes, turnip and chervil cream right through to impossibly naughty desserts, such as Tentation, comprising dark chocolate biscuit, crispy praline, hazelnut nougatine and praline chocolate smooth cream. Just writing that has us reaching for our trainers.
It would take several visits to put a dent into their extensive menu, but you can extend the experience via the shop with its colourful creations, including a rainbow of macaroons.
Once through the door you’re senses are whisked off to Paris as sumptuous surroundings – decorative beading and mirrors, lavish lighting and elegant furniture place us anywhere but a macaroon throw from Dubai’s famous stretch of sand.
We’re again allowed into that most sacred sanctum of any chef as our Gallic host demonstrates the art of preparing the perfect Vol-au-vent de Volaille aux Champignons Sauvages.
That translates as a calorific treat of chicken breast, wild mushrooms and cream sauce frequenting and slowly moistening a well of crispy pastry.
It's a tempting insight into a beyond patisserie menu that spans the day with classic French dishes covering Le Petit Dejeuner eggs and mid morning macaroons to veal fillet with baby artichokes, turnip and chervil cream right through to impossibly naughty desserts, such as Tentation, comprising dark chocolate biscuit, crispy praline, hazelnut nougatine and praline chocolate smooth cream. Just writing that has us reaching for our trainers.
It would take several visits to put a dent into their extensive menu, but you can extend the experience via the shop with its colourful creations, including a rainbow of macaroons.
PARIS BY THE SEA: Ladurée is a slice of France in food and decor
Last stop on the tour and something of a must if you crave a true taste of Emirati cuisine is Seven Sands.
This stylishly designed venue is also, literally, the final outlet on THE BEACH, but it promises you a journey through the seven emirates and dishes inspired by the culture and history of the UAE.
Anyone who thinks that may make for a limited range should take a look at a menu that is anything but short of enticing options.
It takes in refreshing-sounding salads such as Homeidh with Green Mango, Shorbat Harees – an Emirati-style soup made from Abu Dhabi white wheat and infused fresh veal – and Jisheed Bil Ajeen, a baked homemade dough filled with minced shark.
The likes of Fouga, which among other ingredients combines perfumed stock and basmati rice with fish, shrimp or chicken, and Thereed – a Bedouin stew – get to the heart of the region’s cooking past while Seven Sands signatures include an Emirati Vegetable Moussaka. The there is a Ouzi whole lamb, Manakish and desserts that cry out to be tried; Aseeda Bobar, Ferni with Khabeesa or Kunafitna.
If you want to know what goes into those exotic-sounding dishes – or what delights they offer (Dango, Choubab, Bajela…) for breakfast appetites - you’ll have to go to the website menu.
This stylishly designed venue is also, literally, the final outlet on THE BEACH, but it promises you a journey through the seven emirates and dishes inspired by the culture and history of the UAE.
Anyone who thinks that may make for a limited range should take a look at a menu that is anything but short of enticing options.
It takes in refreshing-sounding salads such as Homeidh with Green Mango, Shorbat Harees – an Emirati-style soup made from Abu Dhabi white wheat and infused fresh veal – and Jisheed Bil Ajeen, a baked homemade dough filled with minced shark.
The likes of Fouga, which among other ingredients combines perfumed stock and basmati rice with fish, shrimp or chicken, and Thereed – a Bedouin stew – get to the heart of the region’s cooking past while Seven Sands signatures include an Emirati Vegetable Moussaka. The there is a Ouzi whole lamb, Manakish and desserts that cry out to be tried; Aseeda Bobar, Ferni with Khabeesa or Kunafitna.
If you want to know what goes into those exotic-sounding dishes – or what delights they offer (Dango, Choubab, Bajela…) for breakfast appetites - you’ll have to go to the website menu.
EMIRATI FOCUS: Seven Sands puts the cuisine of the UAE in the spotlight
Or better still, call in and try them.
In fact, that goes for all of these contrasting eateries in ever-impressive Dubai destination THE BEACH.
DETAILS:
TO read more about Seven Sands, go to www.sevensandsrestaurant.com
FOR the history of Ladurée and to see the full extensive menu go to www.laduree.com
SEE what else Sapori di BICE has to offer at THE BEACH and its Citywalk branch by clicking onto www.saporidibice.com
GET a great feel for Poco Loco at www.pocoloco.ae
TO connect with Almaz by Momo head to www.momoresto.com/restaurant/dubai/almaz-by-momo/about
AND to find out what else THE BEACH has to offer browse on at www.thebeach.ae
In fact, that goes for all of these contrasting eateries in ever-impressive Dubai destination THE BEACH.
DETAILS:
TO read more about Seven Sands, go to www.sevensandsrestaurant.com
FOR the history of Ladurée and to see the full extensive menu go to www.laduree.com
SEE what else Sapori di BICE has to offer at THE BEACH and its Citywalk branch by clicking onto www.saporidibice.com
GET a great feel for Poco Loco at www.pocoloco.ae
TO connect with Almaz by Momo head to www.momoresto.com/restaurant/dubai/almaz-by-momo/about
AND to find out what else THE BEACH has to offer browse on at www.thebeach.ae
