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What's On
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
6 fun things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend: July 18 to 20
Abu Dhabi weekends have a rhythm of their own, calm in some ways, more vibrant in others. There's always something quietly brilliant happening somewhere: a thoughtfully put-together breakfast, a new class in a space you haven't seen before, or a night that feels exactly as it should – well-paced, well-lit, and with music that sets the perfect mood. Whether you're in the mood for something social or something solo, here are 6 fun things to do in Abu Dhabi this weekend. Friday, July 18 Catch up with a friend over coffee at a Yas Island café Drop Coffee's first Abu Dhabi outpost brings its award-winning brews to Yas Bay Waterfront, alongside its debut food menu crafted with UAE chef Reif Othman. The café uses imported, daily-roasted beans brewed with nine different methods, satisfying even the most discerning coffee lovers. The food menu covers everything from shakshuka and avocado toast to burgers and pasta, plus lighter options like acai bowls. Minimalist interiors with wooden textures and greenery create a calm setting, while the outdoor terrace offers waterside views. Ideal for catching up with a friend over coffee and a bite, or spending a quiet hour solo with a book in hand. Location: Yas Bay Waterfront, Yas Island Times: Daily 8am–11pm; Fri–Sat until midnight Contact: (0)2 550 4683 | @wearedropcoffee Go for a fusion dinner with live music Coya Abu Dhabi delivers a bold mix of Peruvian, Japanese, Chinese and Spanish flavours, all set within rich Incan-inspired interiors. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame waterfront views, adding to the atmosphere while live music subtly enhances the evening. Whether it's the carefully crafted dishes or the immersive setting, this spot knows how to set the right tone for a weekend dinner. Location: Four Seasons Hotel, The Galleria, Al Maryah Island Times: Dinner 6.30pm–11pm (Mon–Thu); 6.30pm–12am (Fri–Sat); 6.30pm–10.30pm (Sun) Contact: (0)2 306 7000 | @coyaabudhabi Saturday, July 19 Get hands-on with the basics of ceramics Image: Cultural Foundation website Learn the art and craft of pottery in these practical workshops. Under the guidance of instructors Muneera (Mondays) and Heba (Tuesdays, Saturdays, Sundays), you'll shape clay and discover the firing process that transforms it into durable, often beautiful, ceramic pieces. Sessions cover everything from forming to decorating clay bodies – perfect for anyone aged 14 and up wanting to explore ceramic art beyond the usual craft. Location: Al Marsam Al Hor, Cultural Foundation Times: Saturdays: 5pm–8pm, Sundays: 11am–2pm Cost: Dhs630 for a package of 4 sessions Contact: 02 657 6348 | Book a summer staycation to unwind and recharge Escape for a summer staycation at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi. Book two nights or more to access special rates valid until 31 August. The resort offers private beaches, four pools, and dining ranging from Italian to beach bar fare. Families can enjoy the Rixy Kids Club and teen Recreation Room, while adults have the Exclusive Sports Club and sunset yoga or paddling to unwind. Location: Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi Times: Available until 31 August Contact: (2) 498 0000 | @rixosmarinaabudhabi Sunday, July 20 Treat yourself to a proper breakfast at Art Market Breakfast is the day's most important meal, and Art Market makes sure it counts. Their menu uses a small but powerful selection of fresh, local, ethically sourced ingredients to create standout dishes. Choose from French toast with orange zest and cinnamon, organic porridge with coconut, almond butter and berries, or an array of toast options – all paired with coffee specials that truly impress. Location: Yas Bay, Yas Island Times: Check website for opening hours Contact: 052 917 1523 | @artmarketuae Find your flow with a mindful yoga session YogaOne isn't just a studio – it's a community focused on personal growth and wellbeing. Offering everything from Ashtanga Vinyasa to gentle flows, classes suit all levels. You can choose group sessions or private classes in two Abu Dhabi locations: Mangrove One Compound and Masdar City. The teaching team brings an international perspective in a welcoming, relaxed environment. Locations: Mangrove One Compound, Al Matar and Masdar City, RC-01 Ground Floor, Block C MIN Plaza Times: Thu 8am–1:30pm, 4–8pm; Fri 8am–6pm; Sat 9am–1pm; Sun 8:30am–1pm, 5:30–7:30pm; Mon–Wed 8:30am–1pm, 4–8pm. Contact: 050 950 8863 | @yogaone_uae Cool down with afternoon tea under cherry blossoms Episodes at Mandarin Oriental Emirates Palace offers a refined afternoon tea experience. The setting is palatial, with gold ceilings, marble floors, and seating beneath cherry blossom trees. The menu features artisan sandwiches and gourmet pastries alongside one of the most comprehensive tea selections in the city. For something truly decadent, try the brew topped with 24k gold leaf. Location: Mandarin Oriental, Emirates Palace Times: Daily fro 8am to 11pm Contact: (02) 690 7999 | @
What's On
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
A complete dining guide to Dar Wasl Mall
Located in a vibrant part of Jumeirah, Dar Wasl Mall has fast become a hotspot for great food, great concepts and homegrown offerings. Championing the very best of local and some international favourites, this is one place to explore if you're a certified foodie. REIF Japanese Kushiyaki Founded by homegrown star Chef Reif Othman, Reif Kushiyaki is an unconventional Japanese restaurant, devoted to the many different parts of the chicken – neck to tail. An edgy and affordable alternative to kushiyaki experiences, the restaurant also has a special daily menu and an exclusive chef's table menu. Proudly local and rooted, the spot has several branches, located in Dar Wasl Mall and Dubai Hills. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 12am Contact: ( 0) 4 255 5142 @reifkushiyaki A Normal Day Unassuming at first glance, this spot serves no nonsense. Just plain good food. It's meant to feel cosy, peaceful, like a home, where you can savour daytime delights, sip a cup of freshly-brewed coffee, indulge in some thoughtful conversation. A lot of the food is good breakfast fare and comfort classics. A new brand of restaurants taking over in Dubai, straying away from the frilly grandeur of things and keeping it simple but meaningful. Times: Daily, 9am to 10pm Contact: (0) 4 886 8380 @ Kishmish Serving up soulful Afghan food, Chef Iman Nazemi tells the story of her childhood through every dish plated at Kishmish. The concept brings the very best of Afghani comfort classics and all-time favourites, and a space that feels like home, decked out with all that represents the land – pillars decked out in Afghan carpets, custom furniture in tribal patterns and traditional Afghan clothing framed on walls. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 12am Contact: (0) 4 349 6665 @kishmishdubai Berenjak Persian food, done right – that is Berenjak for you. A grand space that envelopes you with the warmth of a Persian home, here you'll find not just the classics, but also inventive takes on Persian cuisine, packed with flavour, feel and filling ingredients that offer a hearty dining experience. Persian carpets, crystal chandeliers, colourful portraits and grand drapes – you eat not just with your mouth, but with all your senses. Now open across Dubai and Sharjah. Times: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 5pm, 6pm to 11.30pm, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 12.30am, Sunday, 12pm to 11.30pm Contact: (0) 4 295 3644 @ Creme All the way from Soho, this famous bakery and dessert shop's Dubai outpost is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth with the giant ooey gooey cookies, freshly churned soft-serve ice cream, and indulgent milkshakes. Crème puts a French twist on classic American sweet treats. In other words: all the butter. The bakery specialises in three things: cookies, soft-serve ice cream, and coffee. The best part? Everything is made fresh, daily. Times: Monday to Thursday, 9am to 11pm, Friday to Sunday, 9am to 12am Contact: (0) 4 352 9708 @cremelondonuae FLAVE by Chef Wali If you're looking for a solid burger, this is the place to go – FLAVE by Chef Wali is a contemporary burger bistro, serving delicious, indulgent handhelds and hand-crafted sides. A cosy, homely spot, here it's all about good food and good company, and there's a sandwich on the menu to tickle everyone's fancy. This is the epitome of comfort food, also serving a solid steak, wings and rich desserts. Times: Daily, 10am to 3am Contact: (0) 52 738 2486 @flavedxb Mamafri This South East Asian restaurant serves the whole spectrum, from noodles to fried rice and burgers to buns, Korean wings and sandos. The vibe is very much of quick, easy, delicious street food, and a wholesome homely flavour that is fuss free and won't break the bank. To make things even better, they even have a breakfast menu, with breakfast sandos, breakfast mains, breakfast buns and pancakes and desserts. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 11pm, Friday and Saturday, 10am to 12am Contact: (0) 4 262 7259 @lovemamafri She Burger Homegrown and proud – She Burger was founded by Shaikha Eissa At Lutfi, from a humble home kitchen to becoming an Instagram rage and now a full outlet in a prime location like Jumeirah. Now with branches all across the country, the joint serves up not just incredible burgers, but also sides, noodles, amazing drinks and even desserts. Plus, they do some of the coolest collaboration dishes in town. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 11am to 12am, Friday and Saturday, 11am to 1am Contact: (0) 4 333 3258 @she_burger Stay Bakery and Cafe For all your beautifully designed, Instagrammable cafe needs – Stay Bakery and Cafe offers beautiful, romantic interiors draped in shades of white and cream, and a menu featuring pastries to coffee to desserts and a full fledged, breakfast, lunch and appetizer menu. This is the kind of spot you bring your girlfriends to for girly cafe dates – a whole institution in itself. Kick back, relax and enjoy. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 12am, Friday and Saturday, 8am to 1am Contact: (0) 58 859 6395 @ Doughbai Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Doughbai are the sourdough experts on the strip. This Lebanese bakery and bistro is a family-run affair, and offers all measures of traditional Lebanese baked goods ranging from manoushe to tartines, cakes, cookies and a stellar drinks menu of iced teas, mojitos, coffees, matcha and more. Times: Daily, 8am to 11pm Contact: (0) 54 704 9902 @ Moon Slice Pizza The art of artisan pizza has been mastered by Emirati restauranteur Mahmood AlKamis and Chef Reif Othman. Moon Slice's menu will have all pizza lovers singing their praises. Moon Slice does things a little bit differently, but it's delicious nontheless. The truffle pizza, with pecorino truffle paste, truffle foam, mozzarella and freshly grated truffle is truly iconic. For those wanting something smaller, try their squid ink arancini. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 12am, Friday and Saturday, 12pm to 1am Contact: (0) 4 344 4547 @mmonslicepizza Sarj Art Cafe Calling all horse lovers to this equestrian-themed cafe. This spot serves up authentic Italian flavours in an equestriam-themed setting. Enjoy their truffle mushroom manakish, or warm Medjool sticky pudding, with a piping hot coffee or refreshing drink. Expect delicious food and abstract art at this unique outlet. Times: Sunday to Thursday, 8am to 12am, Friday and Saturday, 8am to 1am Contact: (0) 4 333 3407 @sarjartcafe Images: Supplied/Socials
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Dubai restaurant to launch world's first AI chef experience. Curious how it cooks without tasting?
In a world that often debates whether technology is replacing human warmth, Dubai's latest culinary experiment is asking a different question altogether: Can artificial intelligence enhance the soul of cooking? Set to open its doors in September 2025 at Kempinski The Boulevard Hotel, WOOHOO is not your ordinary fine-dining destination. At the heart of this futuristic restaurant will be Chef Aiman—a non-human culinary genius trained not through taste buds but through data, algorithms, and decades of food science. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Select a Course Category Project Management Others healthcare Design Thinking Cybersecurity Artificial Intelligence Public Policy Leadership Management Data Science Finance CXO Data Analytics Data Science Technology PGDM Operations Management MCA others Product Management Degree Digital Marketing MBA Healthcare Skills you'll gain: Project Planning & Governance Agile Software Development Practices Project Management Tools & Software Techniques Scrum Framework Duration: 12 Weeks Indian School of Business Certificate Programme in IT Project Management Starts on Jun 20, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Portfolio Management Project Planning & Risk Analysis Strategic Project/Portfolio Selection Adaptive & Agile Project Management Duration: 6 Months IIT Delhi Certificate Programme in Project Management Starts on May 30, 2024 Get Details The AI-powered chef, whose name cleverly fuses 'AI' and 'man,' has been created by Gastronaut Hospitality , the Dubai-based group behind culinary hotspots like Trove and BohoX. WOOHOO, according to a reports, is designed to be more than just a tech novelty. It is a fully integrated high-concept experience, where AI helps shape not just the food but the entire ambiance, service, and even sustainability measures. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Mandaguaçu: Hábito noturno essencial após 50+ para massa muscular (incrível) Revista do Homem Saiba Mais Undo — Reuters (@Reuters) From Data to Dinner: How Aiman "Cooks" While Chef Aiman cannot smell a simmering stew or taste the salt on a sushi roll, what it can do is even more astounding. With access to a universe of flavor profiles, global recipes, molecular food composition, and seasonal ingredient databases, Aiman offers combinations even a seasoned chef might not imagine. For example, think of sushi rolls bursting with umami notes, or ceviche balanced so precisely that even a lab technician would nod in approval. But Aiman isn't working alone. Partnering with celebrated Dubai-based chef Reif Othman, the AI receives human feedback to help translate its algorithmic ideas into edible masterpieces. Othman describes the partnership as one of augmentation, not replacement: 'Human cooking will not be replaced, but we believe [Aiman] will elevate the ideas, creativity,' he told Reuters. You Might Also Like: Going for Dubai holidays? Archana Puran Singh warns about how she lost thousands while booking ticket for a popular tourist destination Theatrics on the Plate and Beyond Dining at WOOHOO is meant to be a full sensory experience. Guests will not only taste food designed by AI, but do so in a setting that fuses cyberpunk aesthetics with luxury, featuring reactive LED displays and immersive digital art. A secret lounge called 'Spock' even simulates a journey through space with mood lighting, soundscapes, and DJ sets—think dinner on Mars, minus the travel cost. In a particularly bold twist, Aiman also provides real-time suggestions on how to reduce food waste, including ideas for reusing trimmings and optimizing portions. This is where the data shines—helping not only in flavour construction but in environmental consciousness. From Virtual Waiters to Algorithmic Mixology WOOHOO's concept is part of a growing wave of AI-led innovation in hospitality. In London, the Standard recently reported on 'video waiters' being introduced in restaurants like Masalchi and Gura Gura. Developed by the startup LoveBite, these AI-powered servers let diners watch videos of dishes and interact in multiple languages before ordering—cutting costs while enhancing the customer experience. The result? Happier customers and a measurable increase in per-table spending. You Might Also Like: You might own a humanoid robot butler in 5 years, but will it be useful? Expert makes bizarre prediction As labour costs rise and customer expectations evolve, restaurants across the globe are embracing AI not just as a cost-saving measure, but as a tool for storytelling, design, and hospitality. You Might Also Like: AI humanoid robot winks and denies world domination; but can we trust the sweet talk?
Time Out Dubai
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
10 unique cafés in Dubai to escape the summer heat
Summer is in full-swing, meaning there's no better time to head out on a coffee crawl and sniff out some of the city's best cafés. As well as your well-known favourites, there are some weird, wonderful and incredibly unique cafés in Dubai that are more than worth the visit. If you like this: 16 incredible cafés and coffee shops in Al Quoz (and where to find them) From tea bars to cool museum pop-ups and even an indoor farm, here are some one-of-a-kind places you can't afford to miss. Unique cafés to try in Dubai AMG Kaffeehaus If you're a silver arrows fan, spend a sunny afternoon tucking into an afternoon tea or a signature AMG wrap while checking out the Mercedes models in the showroom. You might not be able to sit outside, but you can take a seat at the window and gaze at the gorgeous courtyard instead. Open Mon-Wed 8am-10pm,Thu-Sun 8am-11pm. Dubai Design District, @amgkaffeehausdxb (04 307 5151). Avantcha Tea Bar This Al Quoz spot is all about the tea, so expect to see it in all forms, shapes and sizes. Smell over 150 varieties of teas with unique ingredients like chocolate, chilli, caramel, honeybush and more. The space also has a café curated by Chef Reif Othman. Expect matcha drinks, iced teas and tea-infused desserts and pastries. Open Mon-Sat 10am-6pm. Kunooz 6th street, Warehouse 19 Al Manara St – Al Quoz 1, (04 338 9114). BKRY (Museum of the Future) The popular Dubai bakery has opened up a new location inside Museum of the Future for the summer and you don't get more of a one-of-a-kind spot for a matcha than this. Set on the 7th floor of Dubai's most iconic cultural landmark, the BKRY x MOTF takeover isn't just about good coffee and fresh pastries (though there's plenty of both). It's a full-on dive into the future of food – where it comes from, how it's made, and why it matters. Plus, you don't even need a ticket for the museum to enter, just head straight up to the seventh floor. Free entry. Open daily 9am-9pm. Museum of the Future, Dubai World Trade Centre, @ (04 832 2433). BRIX Café Located in the idyllic Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, BRIX Café is a Time Out Dubai favourite for a freshly brewed cup of speciality coffee, baked goods and an excellent all-day breakfast. Keeping you cool for the summer, the café has turned into a ski chalet-inspired pop-up, serving wintery snacks from winter truffle to a golden honey mousse. Open daily 7am-11.30pm. Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, (054 515 7861). Forever Rose If you are looking for somewhere that is going to make your followers do a double take then head to Forever Rose. The monochrome interior has been crafted to make the venue appear like a 2D drawing with the help of clever tricks that fool the eye. Pretty cool, right? Founder of Forever Rose, Ebraheem Al-Samadi, was inspired by a storybook theme for the unique café and the black and white backdrop allows the colourful food on the menu to pop even more so than usual. Open Mon-Thu 8am-midnight, Fri-Sun 8am-1am. Boxpark Dubai. (04 548 4210). Kulture House A melting pot of trinkets, artwork and treats, the converted Jumeirah villa is a laid-back spot for a coffee that will instantly have you feeling at home. From lavender cappucinos to crispy halloumi fries and tiramisu basque cheesecake, the menu will have you weak at the knees. Plus, almost every dish is under Dhs60 so it's a steal too. Open Mon-Thu 9am-7pm; Fri-Sun 9am-8pm. Jumeirah, (04 399 1790). Le Nena (Credit: La Nena) La Nena Coffee in Al Quoz is a gorgeous and aesthetic café/furniture store that serves up decent coffee and a selection of bites like bagels, croissants and sandwiches. Sit on one of the stonewashed stools and sip a latte surrounded by warm golden light and some prime Insta opportunities. It's also pet-friendly. Win. Open daily 8am-10pm. Al Quoz, (058 570 0809). Mille Miglia Gallery Mille Miglia Gallery and Café in Al Quoz is stocked up with F1 memorabilia, swish Ferrari cars and signed items by the current drivers, Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. Don't miss the original pit wall that was used between 2017 and 2021 before browsing the menu of speciality coffee, iced drinks and sweet treats. Open daily, 10am-9pm. Plot No. 29-0, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Quoz, The Growhouse by One Life The latest addition to Alserkal Avenue, the new kitchen comes from One Life, which has other branches in JVC and the Design District. All about fresh produce, you can tuck into a kimchi grilled cheese or a burrata pesto pizza before heading to the in-house farm to browse the herbs and pick up something from the vegetable market. Open daily 8am-11pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, 21 Café The Al Ghurair Centre café does far more than make a mean strawberry lemonade and a muffin or two. Entirely operated by people with Down Syndrome, the staff have all been given training and a job through the Emirates Down Syndrome Association. Aiming to create more inclusive opportunities for people with determination, the cafe is a perfect spot to chill out away from the summer heat. Open Mon-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Ghurair Centre, (052 113 3375). Looking for things to do during summer? 10 amazing Dubai restaurant deals to try this summer Save money and eat well? Yes, please 18 brilliant Dubai staycation deals to snap up this summer From free breakfasts to spa treatments Kids summer camps in Dubai to book now: from nature fun to art and crafts Don't miss out on your spot
Time Out Dubai
11-07-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
WOOHOO: A new AI chef-helmed restaurant is opening soon
A robot in the kitchen isn't new. But a robot with opinions, mood-based flavour pairings and a creative partnership with one of Dubai's top chefs? That's a first. Say hello to WOOHOO, a soon-to-open Asian-inspired restaurant that will be located at Kempinski The Boulevard hotel and will be helmed by an AI chef named Aiman The artificial intelligence kitchen assistant is apparently no quiet back-of-house bot. He's designed to collaborate alongside human chefs, offering creative input on flavour profiles, ingredient pairings and culinary techniques. In fact, he'll be working directly with chef Reif Othman on a menu that fuses international flair with Asian influences. Expect umami-rich sushi rolls, punchy ceviche and robata skewers that balance texture and temperature with science-like precision (or AI-like precision, if we're being specific). Credit: WOOHOO Dubai Credit: WOOHOO Dubai Credit: WOOHOO Dubai Unlike the usual behind-the-scenes AI systems running inventory or reservations, Chef Aiman will be front and centre, analysing produce, interpreting seasonality and riffing on recipes in real-time. The drinks list doesn't play it safe either. Expect molecular mixed drinks, algorithm-assisted pairings and rare beverages served with a sci-fi edge. Meanwhile, the space is all cyberpunk meets fine dining. The interiors blend futuristic textures with digital art installations and reactive LED displays. There's also a secret lounge, called Spock, which mimics a spaceship journey, complete with a killer sound system and live DJ sets. Set to open in September 2025 inside Kempinski The Boulevard Hotel in Downtown Dubai, WOOHOO is the latest project from Gastronaut Hospitality (the guys behind Trove and BohoX in Downtown Dubai), and it's bringing the world's first AI chef to the table. Stay tuned. Opening Sep 2025. Kempinski The Boulevard Hotel, Downtown Dubai, @ Want to make a reservation in the meantime? Over 100 of the best business lunch deals in Dubai, by area Upgrade your lunch with an incredible offer Dubai's best restaurants: 86 incredible places to dine in We know where you should book this week The 40 best restaurants and bars on Palm Jumeirah Consider this your definitive, go-to guide to dining on the island
