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Gulf Weekly
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
A tale worth tasting!
The word 'elevated' gets thrown around on menus and in foodie circles like, well, avocado on toast... intriguing at first but quickly lost in overpriced hype. My theory is that it's usually just part of the buzzword salad meant to prime your palate for an average meal in a fancy setting, however, every once in a while, I am happily proven wrong. And last weekend, the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay's first volume of its Arabian Horizons culinary experiences did that and then some, with a dinner that refined not just my stomach but also storytelling as a culinary art form. Held in the intimate and atmospheric Royal Majlis for three nights only, acclaimed Egyptian chef and owner of the Avec Karim brand Chef Karim Abdelrahman was the featured gastronomic storyteller to take 30 diners on A Meaningful Journey – a seven-course experience that elevated Egyptian and Arabic cuisine with stories marinated in smoke, salt, citrus and memory. As we arrived, we were greeted by the top-tier Four Seasons hospitality, as well as a story book on our seats, with tales behind each course explained in poetic prose. 'Some journeys begin with a single step – ours began with a simple meal,' the book began. 'What started as the story of one chef grew into a collection of moments, memories and quiet lessons shared across kitchens, fields and tables. This book is a reflection – not only of Chef Karim's path, but of the many souls that shape Tableside. It's about the search for belonging, the power of intention, and the deep connection between food and soul.' Each named course on the book – A Humble Start, Expectations, Purity and Purpose, Connection in the Middle of Nowhere, Trigger, The Ascent and The Heart's Oasis – shared a different chapter from early epicurean memories in Chef Karim's life through culinary school and the journeys he has taken since, including a black lemon flavoured nod to his time in Bahrain. In A Humble Start, a richly layered pigeon broth poured tableside alongside a foie gras croquette warmed both our stomachs and hearts, as we learned about the soup he missed when he left home to study in France. Paired with cocoa nib and black truffle butter, and exquisite house sourdough, the accompanying selection of canapes offered both comfort and creativity, as we tasted just a bit of the sights, sounds and senses that coloured Chef Karim's childhood. With the second course, Expectations, Chef Karim gave a nuanced nod to his cooking training with royal red shrimp and caviar served with crab and tomato confit condiment, rosewater cream and squid ink tuile. Seductive and sharp, it exalted the rigours of French training, while also showing how these expectations could feel like a prison. Where the second course flexed, the third, Purity and Purpose, meditated, much like Chef Karim had, after he was done his official culinary training. And on the table, reflecting his search for purpose, we were served ricotta stuffed zucchini flower, brightened with lemon balm and a hint of curry – deceptively simple, yet refreshing and thoughtful. At this point, the magic of the evening truly showed itself, not just because of the food, but rather our own stories around the food that fed our stomachs and nourished our souls. The conversation at our table had matured from small talk to an in-depth discussion of the people, food and stories that feed us not just for an afternoon and evening, but across lives and generations. And even though Chef Karim was busy in the kitchen, it felt like he joined us to offer his take on 'rizk' – the Arabic term for sustenance – with his fourth course Connection in the Middle of Nowhere. Here, aged Bahraini wild grouper (called Hamour in the GCC) and Egyptian 'Terfas' desert truffle met under buckwheat in a gentle but evocative harmony. The pairing of sea and desert distilled the region's diverse terrains into a single, elegant moment. After a quick Palate Intermission with flavours of celery, tahini and seaweed, we returned to culinary chapters in our own lives, imagining what kind of dishes we would elevate if tasked with creating what Chef Karim had so effortlessly done. And before we knew it, our main course 'Trigger', a bold dish of hay-smoked lamb saddle and slow-cooked shoulder with spring vegetables, sweet onion and potato puree, lamb jus and freekah casserole, arrived. The plate came alive with contrast – rich and bright, soft and crisp – as we heard about his search for forgotten flavours. The penultimate course, The Ascent leaned toward lightness and nostalgia, with a yoghurt and lemon verbena ice cream, paired with apricots from Egypt's St Catherine mountains and a Bahrain-inspired black loomi meringue. And of course, what Arab meal could be complete without a nod to our 'dated' desert history and The Heart's Oasis did just that – with date, palm sap and siwan salt infused creation, that took date cake, pecan crumble, toffee ice cream and crystal salt, turning them into a majestic crescendo for our culinary adventure. A Clear End to the evening with tea and cardamom – Loomi Bahraini madeleine and a dark chocolate Lagby bonbon reminded us that the best stories have quiet, reflective and lingering ends, that leave us satisfied yet wanting. We knew, when we left that evening, that we had just experienced a story both unique and universal, made all the more meaningful because the tales that rose to the table brought us closer not just to each other but to our own deepest selves.
What's On
09-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Why Atlantis, The Palm's Asateer Tent is one of Dubai's most iconic iftars
Sponsored: A true Dubai institution… As the sun dips below the Dubai skyline during Ramadan, a special seasonal ritual begins – a moment of reflection, connection, and, at Atlantis, The Palm's iconic Asateer Tent, iftar takes the form of a regal fast-breaking feast. The quintessential iftar experience is back, bigger and more poetically-nuanced than ever before, welcoming an astonishing 1,730 guests each night. That's not just a crowd; it's a true gastronomical gathering. Inside the tent, the Arabian Nights' tale unfolds… Ornate, yet effortlessly contemporary. Elegant chandeliers cast a golden glow over plush seating, the shoreline locale offers privileged blue Arabian Gulf views, and the stunning design aesthetic embraces worlds old and new, never anything less than tasteful and uncontrived. But it's not just about art for the eyes. The real magic happens on the plates. The iftar buffet is a culinary odyssey, with themed nights that span the gastronomic map. Their rotating buffet menu ensure that one evening, you could be diving into rich Persian delicacies; the next, you're traversing the spice-laden trails of Turkey or uncovering the bold, fragrant flavours of real Khaleeji cuisine. And for those who prefer a more global approach? The international night ensures no culinary quartier craving is left unfulfilled. For suhoor, a refined à la carte experience awaits, with a connoisseur's blend of modern and traditional dishes, and premium shisha options, all set in Asateer's laid-back luxurious style. Of course, the experience wouldn't be complete without the perfect seating arrangement. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the convivial buzz of the main dining area, retreat to the refined comfort of a VIP Majlis, or experience true exclusivity in the Royal Majlis (because, why not?), Asateer finds a home for every diner. Booth seating offers a touch of privacy, while 120 elegantly set dining tables ensure there's always room at the feast. Opulent, atmospheric, and endlessly delicious—this isn't just iftar, it's an event, a spectacle, a moment to savour. At Asateer, the breaking of fast is nothing short of legendary. Atlantis, The Palm, sunset to 8.30pm, Dhs285 (Sun to Thur), Dhs310 (Fri to Sat). Tel: (0)4 426 0800. @atlantisthepalm > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
The National
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Impressive Ramadan tents in the UAE, from Burj Al Arab's first to Emirates Palace's new majlis
Every year during the holy month, Ramadan tents add an element of festivity to iftar time. In addition to the wide variety of dishes served, here in the UAE, these purpose-built venues can be visual and architectural marvels. This year, these are some of the striking tents to visit around the emirates. By far one of the most famous iftar and suhoor destination in the UAE, Asateer Tent is back bigger than ever, this year including a new garden by the terrace. Set on a patch overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Palm Island, with a backdrop of Dubai's stunning skyline, this expansive tent features a modern decor with unique traditional Arabian touches. Up to 1,730 guests can dine each night with both indoor and outdoor dining options. Those looking for a bit of exclusivity can choose either the Royal Majlis or the VIP Majlis, which seat up to 20 or 14 guests respectively. Helmed by Atlantis Dubai's executive Arabic chef Ali El Bourji, the international buffet will feature a rotating theme each night for iftar, showcasing Arabic, Khaleeji, Persian and Turkish cuisine. For suhoor, visitors can expect live entertainment alongside a curated menu. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and priced at Dh285 per person on weekdays and Dh310 per person on weekends; suhoor is served from 10pm until 2.30am, with a minimum spend of Dh180 per person; Royal Majlis and VIP Majlis are charged separately; a smart casual dress code is enforced; Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai; 04 426 0800 The luxury desert destination has launched a Ramadan experience at its stunning camp, which has been transformed into an authentic Arabian spice market. Guests can book for iftar or suhoor seating and enjoy their meals amidst striking dunes in a specially designed setting. On the menu for iftar are a selection of Middle Eastern and international dishes, including live food stations, regional clay pot specialties such as fish sayadieh, tajines, curries and slow cooked spit roast lamb. After breaking their fast, guests can also go on camel rides and enjoy a falcon show as live oud players entertain. Suhoor entertainment includes a fire show as guests relax in the lounges and enjoy shisha and tea. The camp is also fully equipped with prayer tents for both men and women. Iftar is served from 5.30pm until 9pm and is priced at Dh590 for adults and Dh250 for children; suhoor is served from 9pm until midnight; Nara Desert Escape, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve; 050 336 7909 Iftar and suhoor at Jumeirah Burj Al Arab's first Ramadan tent is meant to be as memorable as visiting the Dubai landmark. With a menu designed by Solayman Hasan, the head chef of Al Iwan, the lavish spread includes live cooking stations, as well as elevated traditional Ramadan dishes for iftar. Three menus will be rotated throughout the holy month, with a separately designed suhoor menu. Guests will be entertained by live music every evening. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and priced at Dh360 per person; suhoor is available from 10pm until 1am on weekdays or until 2am on weekends and priced at Dh260 per person; Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai; 04 301 7333 Another UAE Ramadan staple, The Majlis by the Sea moves to a new location on the grounds of the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental this year. The massive tent will feature pop-ups from the hotel's top restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Talea by Antonio Guida and Hakkasan Abu Dhabi. There will also be catering from their signature Indian restaurant Martabaan by Hemant Oberoi and Japanese Warayaki from Strawfire. The tent also features a Kids Palace, which includes iftar movie nights, Ramadan crafts and team-building games. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and priced at Dh355 per person; suhoor is served from 10pm until 2am featuring an a la carte menu with an average spend of Dh200 per person; Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi; 02 690 9000 Spread across 1,600 square metres and making its debut this Ramadan, Alsimrah is the largest tent in Sharjah, according to developer Arada. Located within the sprawling 2.2 square kilometre megaproject Aljada site close to the airport, the tent will offer a mix of Emirati and international delicacies for iftar and suhoor. For those who want a bit of exclusivity, a VIP Majlis with a set menu for a minimum of 15 guests is available. Entertainment and activities include storytelling sessions for kids, Arabic calligraphy and henna work as well as live oud and qanun performances. Iftar is served from sunset until 8.30pm and is priced at Dh195 per person; suhoor is served from 9.30pm until 2am and is a la carte, with a minimum spend of Dh80 per person; Aljada, Sharjah; 04 702 0600
What's On
07-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Make beautiful memories when you celebrate Iftar at Emirates Golf Club
Sponsored:Celebrate Iftar under the open skies. If you want to make memories and celebrate Iftar in the best way with your family and friends, Emirates Golf club is a great choice. It's easily accessible for everyone, located in the heart of the city with ample parking and right next to the Al Khail Metro Station, so you can gather everyone you love to break your fast together. Appreciate the beauty of nature as you sit under the open skies at the Royal Iftar at Royal Majlis, Emirates Golf Club. Gather as the sun begins to set, take in the greenery of the surroundings and then prepare to enjoy a delicious selection of dishes with Middle Eastern twists. Visit the traditional ouzi station and enjoy the aromatic flavours, or head to the live pasta station and choose from an array of condiments to match. If you fancy Asian, there's also lots to choose from. Make sure you leave some room for dessert too as there's mouthwatering options such as blueberry cheesecake, chocolate mousse and cream caramel, and there's even a Turkish icecream station with lots of flavours to choose from. It's available to enjoy throughout Ramadan from sunset to 9pm, so you have lots of time to catch up and make new memories with the whole family. It's Dhs295 per person inclusive of food and special juices and dine on Saturday and Sunday throughout the Holy Month and children under 12 dine for free, Dhs95 per child under 12 on weekdays. Under 5 dine free throughout the month. For bigger occasions, there are private venues to accommodate bigger groups up to 1000 people with a bespoke menu and a private entrance. Make this one extra special. See more info here. Emirates Golf Club, every day during Ramadan, sunset to 9pm, Dhs295 adults, Dhs95 for children. Tel: +971 (0) 4 417 9999 @emiratesgc > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
