Latest news with #Novikov
Daily Mail
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Exclusive London restaurant beloved by A-listers including Tom Cruise and Prince Harry leaves people horrified over 'inhumane' window display
Social media users have criticized Novikov Restaurant for displaying a live crab in its window. The celebrity hotspot in Mayfair, which charges £1000 for a whole crab, features a water tank in its front window, which homes the sea animal presumably before it's cooked for customers. TikTok user Marta Kalinowska took to the platform to share footage of the setup, which has proved triggering for thousands of viewers. The clip, which has amassed three million views, shows the crab as it looks out onto the street. 'Novikov in London tortures alive crabs in their windows,' Marta wrote. She continued, 'The tank is extremely tiny, they barely have any space to move. They are suffering until they end up on someone's plate, they are suffocating and clearly in extreme distress.' 'I feel powerless, please help me to blow [the] video so we can change this. You're welcome to leave them a review about it too.' She additionally claimed that the restaurant is deleting reviews that discuss the topic online in the caption, writing, 'Google reviews are being deleted so you are welcome to email/ call them… Thank you so much, sending you lots of love.' Viewers took to the comment section to share their thoughts, and many expressed their disgust with the setup. One wrote, 'Shame on Novikov! I'll leave review later! Poor babies…they don't deserve it. 'I wish I could do it with the people who [have] done it to them - at least for few months and ask them how they felt about it. I bet they wouldn't like it.' A second person agreed, questioning, 'Horrifying. What is wrong with us as a species?' A third wrote, 'I love crabs. Why can't they give them a bigger tank. At least let them live until they die.' MailOnline has contacted Novikov Restaurant for comment. However, others took a different stance and failed to see an issue with the display. One wrote, 'Can't imagine caring about the living conditions of a crab for a few hours before it gets eaten.' Another added, 'More cruel things happen to other animals people eat every single day.' It comes after the Ritz's long-standing chef has claimed the hotel's two-Michelin-starred restaurant's £221 tasting menu is the 'best value in London'. John Williams MBE, The Ritz Restaurant's executive chef for over 20 years, curated a high-end menu using only the finest ingredients. Despite charging £221 for the seven-course The Epicurean Journey menu or £199 for the five-course version, he 'solemnly' believes his cuisine is the best value in the city. The seven-course experience allows diners to sample the best Williams MBE has to offer and includes signature plates of native lobster, duck liver, Dorset crab and pigeon. Because the chef goes above and beyond to source the finest British ingredients and ensures his kitchen employs the 'highest level of technique', Williams MBE believes his prices are a steal. 'I believe solemnly, 100 per cent, [that] I'm the best value in London, for cost of product and then selling price. Value for money is everything that I believe in,' he told The Telegraph. When Williams MBE started his role at The Ritz in 2004, his first change was to lower the prices of the menu du jour by £10 - which was a significant amount 21 years ago. The tasting menus can change depending on what produce is in season and feature an array of signature dishes. While most fine dining establishments strive for the best ingredients, Williams MBE believes he takes his produce sourcing to the next level. 'You could interview 100 chefs, they're all going to say that,' he said. 'Let me tell you there's only about three or four of them looking for the very, very best, and capable of paying the very, very best. Some of my ingredients are extreme in price.' Williams MBE told The Telegraph that he buys his Dublin Bay prawns for up to £9 each and the champagne and lobster sauces on his turbot dish are so precise, they are the sole responsibility of one chef. On today's seven-course epicurean menu, diners start with a plate of Dorset crab with crème fraiche and imperial caviar before being served a ballotine of duck liver with damson, a small plum-like fruit, and pistachio. Third in the line-up is the Native lobster with spiced carrot and lemon verbena then the Agnolotti, a stuffed pasta, with black truffle and Parmesan. Next is the chestnut-fed pigeon then dessert starts with grapefruit with lemon pepper and buttermilk. There is the decadent Ritz Signature Chocolate hazelnut and fudge to finish off the meal. The £199 five-course menu has the crab and duck liver, and Suffolk lamb as well as the famous Cornish turbot with two sauces; one made from lobster and the other from the Ritz Reserve Champagne Barons De Rothschild. For dessert, diners are served the grapefruit and, to finish, wild strawberry with lemon verbena and lime. To accompany the food, customers can add five or six glasses of wine selected to pair perfectly with the Epicurean Journey. Wine packages range from £140 to £750 meaning, with the 12.5 per cent discretionary service charge, one diner could pay almost £1,000 for the entire experience. According to The Ritz's website, the menus are 'fitting ways to impress a client with a corporate lunch, enjoy quality time with friends or family over a weekend lunch, or celebrate a special occasion with a memorable dinner.' Those who can fork out the eye-watering prices will have to wear their finest attire so as to not break the Ritz's strict dress code. Men are required to wear a jacket and tie and ripped jeans, trainers and sportswear are explicitly forbidden. Last week, The Ritz Restaurant was named the UK's best at the National Restaurant Awards. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Williams MBE, said, 'With so many great restaurants across the UK, it is a true honour and privilege to receive this recognition. 'This award is a testament to our commitment to culinary evolution and affirms that, whilst The Ritz Restaurant is part of an historic landmark, it continues to remain relevant.' 'London's most decadent dining room is a wonderful and memorable assault on the senses,' the National Restaurant Awards wrote after revealing the prestigious rankings. Alongside the restaurant's 'exceptional' food, judges noted the allure of the opulent dining room settings.
Time Out Abu Dhabi
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Novikov is opening in Abu Dhabi and it's absolutely gorgeous
Abu Dhabi's dining scene just got a serious glow-up. Novikov, the internationally acclaimed restaurant known for its high-profile London flagship and globally inspired menus, is officially opening its doors at The Galleria on Al Maryah Island – and it's nothing short of spectacular. Making its debut with a new Mediterranean concept, Novikov Abu Dhabi blends the sun-drenched flavours of coastal Italy, Southern France, Greece, Spain and Portugal into one stylish, ingredient-forward menu. You may also like: 20+ new restaurants in Abu Dhabi It's a bold move that perfectly matches the capital's rising reputation as a culinary and cultural hub. Inside, the space is pure escapism. Real olive trees line the floors, hand-painted artworks adorn the walls and sculptural lighting gives the interiors a warm, golden glow. The restaurant flows between a statement open kitchen, a chic bar, a lively main dining room and a private dining space. A waterfront terrace overlooking Al Maryah Island's glittering promenade will open later in the season, promising perfect views for golden-hour dining and late-night lounging. At the centre of it all is executive chef Marco Lubian, who along with head chef Alberto Dorigo, brings a soulful, technique-driven approach to Mediterranean cuisine. Starters include fresh buffalo burrata with sweet cherry tomatoes, delicate tuna carpaccio with foie gras and truffle and a refined beef carpaccio topped with rocket, parmesan flakes and more truffle. For mains, highlights include charcoal-grilled octopus served with roasted potatoes and padrón peppers, lobster linguini in a rich tomato sauce and a deeply satisfying mushroom and truffle risotto. Desserts are just as thoughtful, with a standout meringue cake, a tart-sweet lemon Amalfi made with lemon jam and yuzu ganache and a scoop of velvety gelato topped with Amarena cherries – Chef Marco's personal favourite. In a nod to its London roots, a few of Novikov's Asian favourites have made the trip to Abu Dhabi, including the wildly popular Wagyu tacos and the dramatic wasabi king crab leg, served tableside. The Novikov experience doesn't stop at the table. As night falls, the venue transforms into a sleek, after-dark destination with live piano performances and curated DJ sets from Tuesday to Saturday. The bar buzzes with conversation and Mediterranean-style mixed drinks, and there's also an extensive grape list to choose from. Reservations are open now and yes, it's already the place to be seen. Opens Fri Jun 13. Sun-Thurs (12pm-1am), Fri-Sat (12pm-2am). Al Maryah Island, (02 563 2937). You might also like… Abu Dhabi's Best Restaurants: All the places you should try at least once All the top places in one read Dance the night away: the best bars and nightclubs in Abu Dhabi to bust a move Ready to party? The 43 best Abu Dhabi ladies' nights you need to know about Enjoy a night out for less at these brilliant bars and restaurants
The National
30-05-2025
- Business
- The National
Novikov Abu Dhabi first look: London-born bistro brings comforting Mediterranean flavours
After testing the UAE waters with a cafe in the Dubai Mall, Mayfair restaurant Novikov is bringing its Mediterranean flavours in a fine-dining setting in Abu Dhabi. Located on second level of Galleria Mall in the heart of Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, the restaurant is due to open on or around June 14. But I have taken up the opportunity to check out what's on offer in advance. It is located in a corner of the mall by itself, but when I step inside it becomes immediately clear from the plush interior that it has an atmosphere all of its own. Pushing for the best A selection of fresh fish on ice catch the eye, across from a DJ station. The open kitchen, where guests will be able to watch chefs prepare and plate their food, takes up a large part of the space. The seating area is spacious, with comfortable sofas hugging each table and an expansive view of the water canal. Later, when the sun begins to set, a warm yellow glow washes over the area, soaking guests with sunlight and creating a cosy sanctuary. The resident pianist's soft sounds play in the background and a smell of aromatics and herbs fill the air, adding to the overall charm. Once night falls and the lights dim, the space transforms into a lively evening destination, as the pianist suddenly becomes the in-house DJ and the bar lights up. Italian head chef Alberto Dorigo, 26, says he will feel the responsibility of making customers happy. 'We will communicate through taste,' he explains. 'Taste sometimes is much more simple. It creates one unique culture, which is about enjoying food together. 'We are here to create the best restaurant in Abu Dhabi, so we push for that and we're going to succeed.' Italian executive chef Marco Lubian adds: "I like the concept of bringing comfort food to a very high level. Here we have 60 to 70 per cent Italian food and we bring our vision from the Mediterranean sea." Plates from the Mediterranean and beyond Offering more than 45 dishes, Novikov's menu is a colourful and diverse, bringing together comforting Italian flavours, classic Greek dishes and staple Asian bites. One of its signature starters is the beef carpaccio (Dh105), elegantly arranged with thin slices of Parmesan, rocket leaves, small dollops of truffle mayo and black truffle pieces. While the truffle and cheese pairing with the beef is exquisite, the presentation of the dish is even more enjoyable. The pieces of truffle and cheese are extracted to the side, while the carpaccio is carefully rolled up with the arugula stuffed inside. It is cut and served with the toppings, creating a perfect bite into one. The salads are light and fresh, stimulating the palate before the main dishes arrive. The catalana lobster salad (Dh220), made with fresh lobster, celery and potatoes, is a tribute to the summertime. The celery is an unexpected yet pleasant addition to the dish, enhancing the flavour profile to the next level. As for pizza, the black truffle (Dh187) is a Novikov special, made with three cheeses and fresh black truffle pieces adorning each slice. The dough is neither thin nor thick, while the cheese and truffle melt together. If you are a fan on black truffle, this dish is for you. Pasta dishes are a focus of the Mediterranean brand. One of them is the lobster linguine (Dh265) featuring sweet meat tossed in an herby tomato sauce. This dish transported me to the shores of a Greek island, its ocean-fresh flavour distinct with every bite. Another fan-favourite in Novikov branches across the world is the rock shrimp tempura (Dh110), which is fried to a crispy-golden perfection and paired with a spicy mayonnaise sauce. While a simple dish, the visually-appealing presentation and satisfying crunch is a marker of its success. As for the meat, the Australian grilled Wagyu sirloin (Dh480), which happens to be the most expensive dish on the menu, is worth splurging on. Cut into neat slices cooked medium, the well-salted meat is paired with a warm umami-gravy and a side salad with sun-dried tomatoes. Its tenderness is evident and the gravy seeps in the meat's crevices. It can all be washed down with a 'where's your smile' sweet lychee mocktail (Dh50), infused with pieces of strawberry and blueberry. Every sip is refreshing and addictive. The dessert menu is extensive. I try the vanilla gelato with candied cherries (Dh55) and it turns out to be a light yet sweet homage to Novikov's Italian cuisine. Contact information Novikov Abu Dhabi can be found in Galleria Mall, Al Maryah Island. When open, the restaurant will open daily for lunch and dinner. Reservations can be made from June 14 by calling 02 563 2937.
Time Out Dubai
06-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah: All the new restaurants coming to the hotel
The culinary lineup has been revealed for the Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah. One of the new luxury hotels coming to Dubai, the resort is expected to open in Jumeirah 1 at the beginning of 2027. Bringing with it 380 impressive rooms and suites looking out from one of the peninsulas of Port de la Mer, there will also be a selection of luxe dining experiences. If you like this: The unbelievably cool Dubai hotels launching in 2025 and beyond Having already announced that Zuma Beach House (the first in the GCC), would be becoming a permanent feature, Meliá Hotels International has now confirmed four additional restaurants. Here is everything we know is coming to the Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah so far. Zuma Beach House (Credit: Supplied) Zuma Dubai Beachhouse will be located at La Mer, adjacent to the upcoming Gran Melia Dubai hotel and will overlook the Port de La Mer marina. The space promises to feature a sleek pool with day beds and a resident DJ playing throughout the day. There will also be a lounge and bar overlooking the sea as well as access to the private beach. If you're spending the day there, you can also enjoy Zuma's creative mixed drinks and an izakaya menu, which we're hoping will be similar to the offering at Zuma Dubai. Mini miso black cods perhaps? Novikov Bringing some European glamour, the global dining experience will be bringing Italian and Mediterranean flavours to the table. You'll be able to dig into handmade pastas, wood-fired specialities and of course, a huge selection of fresh seafood. Park Chinois (Credit: Supplied) Expect 1930s Shanghai glamour at this fine dining spot. Sitting pretty on the 360-degree rooftop at the Gran Meliá Dubai Jumeirah, the restaurant will be an impressive sight when it opens. First launching in London in 2015, the restaurant is set to offer a cosmopolitan feel as well as exceptional Chinese gourmet dishes. Cazibeli Taking inspiration from the Turkish sofra, the restaurant will be all about communal dining and a selection of traditional flavours. Decorated with some incredible Arabic decor and scented with oud, you'll be able to watch on into the show kitchen and watch your dinner being put together. Rubia Gallega The Spanish steakhouse is set to be a sizzling addition to the hotel and is known for its premium Galician beef. From the famed txuleton steak to traditional tapas and a thoughtfully curated grape list, you'll be treated to a real flavour of northern Spain. Hungry for more? New Dubai restaurants: The just-opened spots you need to try next The new dining spots you need on your radar 34 lively indoor brunches in Dubai to try next Let the fun vibes continue It's official: The 10 best Thai restaurants in Dubai to try now These are the best places to eat Thai food in Dubai
