Where to go to eat, drink and be merry in the Middle East this year.

The ultimate places to celebrate Christmas in the UAE and Bahrain

To ring in the season of feasting, we’re counting down a few of our favourite spots for tucking into delicious festive food. From a ski lodge-inspired setting to the ultimate festive brunch and a family-friendly buffet, these are the definitive restaurants for a Christmas meal to remember across the region.

Après

Après overlooks a winter wonderland in Mall of the Emirates

Hot pots of cheese fondue, views of snowy slopes and chalet-chic – we’re not daydreaming of the Swiss Mountains but thinking of Après, an Alpine-themed restaurant overlooking Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates. Expect comfortable chalet-like interiors, festive bites and crowd-pleasing beats to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Baharat

Baharat restaurant offers one of the best buffets in Bahrain  

One of the most popular restaurants in Bahrain, Baharat is well-loved in the city thanks to its sprawling buffet spread of both Arabic and international favourites. Located inside Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, the sleek open-plan dining area and good cooking stations will make for a memorable meal with family and friends this year.

Medley

Medley restaurant at Hotel Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre offers a brilliant brunch deal

Anyone who has visited Medley restaurant will know that the venue hosts an epic Friday brunch, and their Christmas Day extravaganza is not to be missed if you’re a serious foodie. Go with a serious appetite and tuck into the vast array of indulgent dishes on offer.

Foodies will be spoilt for choice at this cool pop-up concept. 

The best street food in Dubai

If you’ve yet to check out INDOORS at City Centre Deira push it straight to the top of your plans for this weekend and experience all that this innovative culinary concept has to offer. Think mouth-watering street food, live music, arcade games and even free movie screenings.

The ultimate spot for laidback social gatherings, the chilled setting comes complete with hanging string lights, vibrant colour-splashed murals, casual communal tables and slouchy bean bags – it’s easy to see why this new venue is already a hit. 

Expect epic street food at INDOORS in City Centre Deira

Go with an appetite, as there are 15 delicious food and beverage stalls to work your way around, ranging from innovative pasta dishes cooked in a wheel of parmesan to mini pancakes from Holland and fresh-as-you-can-get sushi. 

Further foodie highlights include juicy hotdogs from Smart Brat, loaded pies courtesy of Lucky’s Pizza and the meaty Asian bites cooked up at Taiwanese Chicken & Pancake kiosk. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to all the must-try menu hits on offer, you will find a handful of pop-up boutiques showcasing the region’s most stylish homegrown brands - the ideal opportunity to get a head-start on your festive gift shopping. 

Gaming fans will enjoy the arcades at INDOORS in Dubai

Already considered one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids, little ones are well looked after at the dedicated family entertainment area, which includes a karaoke corner, live band performances and special workshops, along with a carnival and arcade games powered by Magic Planet Dubai.  

Experience all that INDOORS has to offer this weekend

The details: INDOORS, City Centre Deira, located on level 2 of the mall. Open from 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays and until midnight on weekends.

More information on: https://www.citycentredeira.com/events/indoors 

Follow our #INDOORSAtCCDeira experience on Instagram.

Try these sizzling sliders at the best restaurants in Dubai  

A definitive guide to the UAE’s best burgers

We try to follow a ‘clean’ diet most of the time, but after a week of low-calorie lunches, post-workout green juices and energy ball snacks, we’re craving a good ol’ juicy burger once the weekend hits. Well, life is all about balance, right? 
The real question is, where can one find the ultimate cheat day meal? While we’re all for feasting at classic fast food joints, we’ve recently stumbled across a few alternatives that offer a fresh take on our favourite indulgences. 
From loaded double patties to extra cheesy creations, our round-up of tasty stacked buns will satisfy all your carnivore cravings. We’ve also tracked down the best veggie burger the region has to offer for our plant-based diet pals.
Word of warning – this list will leave you feeling very hungry…


Brunswick Eastery.Bar.Terrace

Brunswick Eatery.Bar.Terrace in Dubai

Tucked away inside the Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates, this crowd-pleasing spot ticks all the right boxes for a casual feast with family or friends. 
The industrial-chic setting, seasonal fuss-free menu and live streaming of the biggest sports games have helped make this one of the most popular spots in town. After a recent revamp, there are now three different dynamics within the space – a cocktail bar, a main dining area and a pretty plant-filled terrace. 
We highly recommend ordering one of their delicious burgers, made using organic Australian minced beef. The Shopshire blue burger is guaranteed to impress, but our personal bun of choice is the excellent triple cream brie burger. 
Veggies are also catered for with a crispy grain burger that comes with a mix of Puy lentils, quinoa, mushrooms and buckwheat, topped with purple cabbage and vegan mayo – yum. 

Gourmet Burger Kitchen

Gourmet Burger Kitchen in Dubai

Located inside City Centre Mirdif, GBK is a long-standing favourite among die-hard burger fans. 
The perfect pitstop for a speedy pre- or post-cinema bite, the grub is cooked and served quickly but is by no means fast food as you may know it. All dishes are crafted using top-notch ingredients, including 100% prime Australian Angus beef and farm fresh veggies. 
A few must-try buns include the hot smoked BBQ, the wagyu cheese with beef bacon (those with an appetite can make it a double-patty) or the trio of mini burgers if you fancy sampling three different varieties. Other menu highlights include the tasty Cajun chicken and lamb burgers.


T.G.I. Fridays

T.G.I. Fridays is a delicious choice for the whole family   

One of the best places to eat out with kids, T.G.I. Fridays is a top pick for a family-friendly feast. The relaxed eatery has several outposts located across the region, including Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Deira and City Centre Bahrain.
The cowboy triple meat is the real deal when it comes to big burgers, and will arrive to your table topped with tender pieces of BBQ beef rib meat, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, melted cheddar cheese, roasted beef bacon, horseradish sauce and crispy frizzled onions. It’s well worth the meat sweats you’ll experience after munching your way through this colossal bun!

If you can’t decide between a plate of eggs or a bun, go for a dish that combines the two – the hangover burger. As the name suggests, it’s the ideal meal after a big one the night before.

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/discover-the-uaes-best-burgers

Win major brownie points by booking one of these romantic spots.

The most romantic restaurants in the Middle East

From rooftop cocktails to a Parisian-boudoir inspired lounge, these standout venues will set the tone for a truly memorable date night with that someone special. 


Vantage Lounge 

Rooftop views at Vantage Lounge in Dubai 

Vantage is an all-round winner if you’re looking to seriously impress the loved one in your life. Found on the 5th floor of Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates, the lounge and restaurant is the ideal spot to unwind under the stars with your other half. 

A night here includes hand-shaken specialty cocktails, gastropub bites and rooftop views of Dubai’s skyline.


Boudoir

Cocktails in a glamorous setting at Boudoir bar and lounge in Bahrain 

Tucked away inside The Westin Bahrain City Centre, one of the leading hotels in Bahrain, Boudoir is an intimate venue serving up expert cocktails along with the finest cigars. The opulent interiors lend a Parisian vibe to the intimate space, with Art Deco-inspired curved ceilings, velvet banquet booths, black mirrored walls and ornate chandeliers. 

Once you’ve wet your whistle, head for a bite at Furn Bistro & Bakery next door for an authentic taste of Khaleeji cuisine. If you fancy something sweet to cap off the night, we can vouch for the mouthwatering pistachio katayef. 



Medley Restaurant

One of the best buffets in Dubai at Medley Restaurant

With its sprawling buffet selection of delicious dishes, Medley Restaurant caters for even the fussiest eaters (so you can avoid any awkward menu moments).

Situated inside Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, the relaxed eatery serves up an international selection of pasta, meats, seafood platters, salads, sandwiches and so much more, whipped up at live cooking stations where you can pile your plate high with whatever your heart desires. 

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/the-best-restaurants-in-the-middle-east-for-a-date-night

Must-try feasts to break your fast during Ramadan this year.

The best Iftars for Ramadan 2018

With Ramadan in full swing, we’ve scoped out the best restaurants in Dubai and across the Middle East to find the perfect place to break your fast. 
A particular time for prayer, reflection and family, fasting is an essential part of the Holy Month and one of the five pillars of Islam. 
Here, we round up the ultimate spots to feast with family and friends during Ramadan. 

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

Olea Restaurant in Dubai 

Come sunset and Olea Restaurant puts on an elaborate buffet filled with a wide selection of Levantine classics, such as lamb okra, chicken maqlooba and shrimp mutaffa, plus plenty of delicious mezze favourites. 
Those dining with a big family or group can book a private Iftar experience held in one of the luxurious Aspen chalets with a chef, for AED650 per person.
Olea also hosts a daily Suhoor from 10 pm, which includes a set menu of Arabic salads, hummus, mezze and other tasty bites, along with live tunes from an oud player and shisha on the terrace. 

The details: Olea Restaurant, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, daily Iftar, from sunset to 9 pm, AED210; Suhoor from 10 pm to 2.30 am, AED90 per person. For reservations call +971 4341 0000.


The Westin Bahrain City Centre 

Furn Bistro & Bakery in Bahrain

Looking for a family-friendly Iftar in Bahrain to suit all taste buds? Furn Bistro & Bakery is guaranteed to satisfy all of your culinary cravings. Located inside The Westin Bahrain City Centre, one of the leading hotels in Bahrain, the generous buffet spread includes a massive offering of Arabian dishes (think mezzes, mixed grills, salads and much more), in addition to a selection of international cooking stations serving pasta and seafood. 

The details: Furn Bistro & Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre, daily Iftar, from sunset to 8.30 pm, 18BHD per adult and 9BHD for children. For reservations call +973 1717 1000


Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre 

Medley restaurant in Dubai

Head to Medley restaurant after sunset where Iftar features a sprawling Arabic and Moroccan-themed buffet with live cooking stations whipping up a never- ending array of fresh mezzes, chicken tagine, shawarmas, couscous, kebabs and so much more. 
The restaurant’s Suhoor is ideal for night owls with a light buffet spread and refreshments on offer late into the night. 

The details: Medley restaurant, Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, daily Iftar, from sunset to 11 pm, 189AED for adults and AED49 for children; Suhoor from 1 am to 3 am, AED79 per person. For reservations call +971 4603 8201.

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/the-top-iftars-and-suhoors-to-try-in-dubai-malls-and-bahrain

These foodie spots challenge Italy in the pizza stakes.

Where to get the best pizza in the Middle East

Whether you’re partial to a deep pan, Roman-style squares or you’re a loyal thin and crispy fan, most of us can I agree on one thing – a mutual love for pizza.

One of Italy’s most famous foodie exports, the humble pie’s roots date back to 1889 when the first pizza is said to have been made to honour the Queen consort of Italy, Margherita of Savoy. Consisting of baked dough garnished with tomatoes and basil to represent the colours of the Italian flag, this foodie favourite has undoubtedly come a long way since with limitless options.

From stuffed crusts filled with melted cheese to gluten-free bases and a seemingly never-ending variety of toppings, we have tried them all to report back on the top three places for pizza fans to try across the Middle East. 

California Pizza Kitchen 

Serving up some of the tastiest slices in town, California Pizza Kitchen in Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Mirdif is a relaxed spot for all to enjoy and one of the best restaurants in Dubai to take your children.

The casual eatery is well loved for its classic Margherita (take your pick from either hand-tossed original crust or thin and crispy), but delve further into the vast menu and try the spicy chipotle chicken and fire-roasted vegetable options.

California Pizza Kitchen in Dubai

800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza Dubai

Whipped up fresh using high-quality ingredients shipped straight from Naples, 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza is one of the best places to grab an authentic slice of pie. 

Build your pizza from an extensive selection of toppings (think rosemary turkey and smoked provolone) or opt for baked pasta, burratas, salads or grilled meat mains. We’ve chomped our way through the entire menu, and we’re delighted customers!

Find 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza located in Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Me'aisem.

800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizza Dubai in Mall of the Emirates

Pizza Hut

You just cannot go wrong with a round of pizzas at this ultimate cheat-day foodie spot. We are long-time lovers of the too-tasty-to-resist super supreme pizza – an indulgent doughy bite loaded with toppings and stuffed with a melted cheese crust. 

Pizza Hut is located in Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Sharjah, City Centre Ajman, City Centre Qurum, City Centre Deira, City Centre Muscat, City Centre Alexandria and City Centre Maadi

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/foodie-edit-3-of-the-best-pizza-places-in-the-middle-east

There’s a reason these favourite dishes are Insta-famous.

The best restaurants in Dubai

Thirty years ago there was just a handful of restaurants in Dubai. Fast-forward to 2018 and the culinary options are now endless and challenge any other major city on the foodie front.

We have taken on the task of working our way through all the best restaurants in Dubai to report back on the current top three meals you must try immediately. 

If you’re not hungry right now, you definitely will be after reading this.


Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung at Mall of the Emirates, Dubai

One of Taiwan’s most famous restaurant chains, Din Tai Fung can now be found in Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates. There is a reason it was ranked as one of the world’s Top Ten Best Restaurants by The New York Times – it does the most delicious dumplings we have ever tried. Also known for their out-of-this-world wontons and chow mein, a meal here will be one to remember. 

Menu must-try: Their famous XiaoLongBao, a chicken and crab dumpling. 


Gourmet Burger Kitchen

Gourmet Burger Kitchen at City Centre Mirdif, Dubai

Sometimes we all need to sit down and devour a well-earned cheat meal. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect feast-day meal, look no further than Gourmet Burger Kitchen in City Centre Mirdif. This foodie chain serves uploaded buns filled with top-quality meat and fresh toppings. GBK also offers plenty of tasty side dishes and appetisers, including halloumi bites, hot wings and chargrilled chicken skewers. 

Menu must-try: You cannot go wrong with the Jalapeno Overload Burger – it will be well worth every single minute spent working it off on the treadmill. 


Tribes 

Tribes restaurant at Mall of the Emirates, Dubai

Tribes in Mall of the Emirates has become a firm favourite on the UAE foodie map. Expect exotic flavours and super fresh ingredients in the form of lavish meaty platters, fish skewers and curries. The African-themed restaurant also serves up yummy salads and sandwiches if you fancy a lighter bite.

Menu must-try: Do not leave without sampling the beef ribs. 

Texas Roadhouse

Texas Roadhouse restaurant at City Centre Deira, Dubai

Expect all your meaty favourites at Texas Roadhouse in City Centre Deira. This child-friendly eatery offers up plates piled high with hand-cut steaks, juicy rib racks, oven roasted chicken and grilled shrimp. The casual Western-themed atmosphere combined with the mouth-watering BBQ dishes make this a real crowd-pleaser for the whole family. 

Menu must-try: The grilled to perfection New York Strip steak.

The little ones will love eating out at these fun and tasty venues.




From Neapolitan-style pizzas to all-you-can-eat stacks of pancakes, we reveal the very best places to fill up hungry bellies at malls across Dubai and the wider Middle East.

Whether you’re looking for a quick pit stop to grab a bite on the go or a sit-down feast with the whole family, these venues offer something to suit all occasions and taste buds.

Bon appetite!


The Cheesecake Factory

This popular American important attracts the masses, and for good reason – The Cheesecake Factory Dubai’s menu is vast, as is the restaurant space, which overlooks the snowy slopes of Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates. Despite the sprawling size, the décor is warm and cosy with big banquet booths, amber lighting and more than enough seating options to suit your group.

Foodie highlights (and be prepared as portions are huge) include the spicy buffalo chicken bites, crispy crab wontons, California guacamole salad, and famous factory salad, while the little ones will love the roadside sliders and mini corn dogs from the children’s menu.

There is also a glass display cabinet by the entrance displaying a seemingly never-ending array of specialty cheesecakes, so don’t even think about not sneaking in a slice – it will be well worth the calories.

The Cheesecake Factory is located at Mall of the Emirates.

IHOP

As the name would suggest the International House of Pancakes (IHOP) is THE place to get a great stack of pancakes. Aside from golden pancakes topped with everything from blueberry compote to white chocolate chips, the casual eatery also serves up a broad selection of breakfast bites, juicy burgers, melted sandwiches and quesadillas. If you fancy taking the healthier route, opt for one of the fresh salads loaded with greens, grilled lean meats or the soup of the day.

While the menu is already super child-friendly, there is also a specialised kiddie section with create-a-face pancakes, mac ‘n’ cheese and chicken strips.

IHOP is located at Mall of the Emirates and City Centre Bahrain.

800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria

Chow down on some of the best slices in town at 800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria Dubai. Soft, chewy and perfectly topped, the pizzas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Take your pick from three different bases (thin crust, gluten-free or our pick – original Neapolitan) and load up the fresh ingredients, which includes beef carpaccio, classic pepperoni, gourmet ricotta, and over 20 different types of veggies.

You’ll also find plenty of other options aside from cheesy pies, such as tomato and pesto burrata, homemade pasta and lamb shank.

Kids’ meal deals ring in at just AED35 and include a choice of margarita pizza, creamy penne pasta or tomato spaghetti wash down with fresh orange juice and scoop of gelato to finish the feast.

800 Degrees Neapolitan Pizzeria is located at Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Me’aisem, and City Centre Deira.