But with Ramadan very much underway, it proves to be an idyllic setting for iftar.
It all combines to enhance the special atmosphere of this air conditioned open air dining experience in a Downtown Dubai hotel that cleverly manages to infuse modernity with tradition.
Sharing plates and bowls of hummous, pickles and salads already occupy table space on arrival, ahead of iftar beginning a few minutes after 7pm each night.
Once the signal has been given to break the fast and start, service is then largely to the table, courtesy of friendly waiting staff with brandishing warm breads and hot mezze items.
Hot dishes of skewered meat – here presented sizzling on cute gold individual BBQ grill boxes – comprise lamb kofta, chicken basted two different ways and moist lamb chunks.
Additional food is available from four serving stations, including ouzi lamb, saj, falafel and shawarma done to order, as well as two flavours of soup to ease away the appetite in gentle fashion.
It’s worth the stroll over regardless of whether you need to add to your plate, if only to fully appreciate the special hubbub here as shisha and BBQ smoke begin to compete with subdued lantern lighting.
DETAILS:
THE Courtyard is at Manzil Downtown, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, The Old Town, Downtown Dubai.
IFTARis served from sunset to 9pm and Suhoor (a la carte) happens from 10pm to 3am,with dining accompanied by a traditional oud player.
THESE cost AED195 per person, including soft beverages and Arabic juices. Children aged below six years dine for free and there’s a 50% discount for children aged six-12 years. It is, however, recommended that children dine indoors, if present. TO book call 04-888-3444 or email connect.downtown@vida-hotels.comor visit http://www.vida-hotels.com/en/manzil/index.aspxfor more.