Art Week Riyadh: Inaugural city-wide event is proposing a new way of discovering art
In Le grand miroir du monde, or the great mirror of the world, thousands of mirrored shards are arranged in a rectangle spanning several metres. The work by Algerian-French artist Kader Attia captures the fragmented state of the world while also suggesting that something new and beautiful may arise from the broken pieces. The installation is the opening piece of Art Week Riyadh's curated section at the Jax District. The scale and nature of the work effectively and immediately sets the tone of the event. It makes it clear from the outset that the inaugural Art Week Riyadh is not an art fair. Rather, the event presents something new – a city-wide initiative that aims to celebrate and bolster the Saudi capital's art scene. 'We thought about ways in which we could create platforms that would allow for connectivity, increased awareness, dialogue, debate, exchange, and at the same time, shed a light on the many actors that play a part in the arts landscape of Saudi Arabia,' Dina Amin, chief executive of the Visual Arts Commission, says. 'We envisioned and envisaged an art week that would be a new model, which would move away from the traditional format of being a commercially inclined event and one that would be culturally focused,' she says. This position is particularly evident in At The Edge, the curated section of Art Week Riyadh and the centrepiece for the event. More than 30 local and international galleries are showcasing works as part of the curated section at the Jax District. By not basing their selections on the priority of sales, galleries are instead all putting their best foot forward. Most of the works presented are grand in scale and teeter to towards the conceptual. The exhibition is a bit like an all-star show, featuring several top names from the local and regional arts scenes. Galleria Continua is showcasing a series of works by Ahmed Mater that were produced using plastic toy gun caps, with a series of panels that spell out the words hilm (dream), hurriya (freedom) and salam (peace). Tabari Artspace is presenting Lulwah Al Homoud's 100 Names of Allah, which proposes a universal geometric language that takes cues from Ibn Muqlah's Proportional Cursive Script and the mathematical principles of the Vedic Square. Lawrie Shabibi is showcasing untitled works by Shaikha Al Mazrou that are emblematic of her use of painted metal to explore form, space and abstraction. Perrotin is showing Monira Al Qadiri's hand-blown glass series, which draws from the form of the toxic Portuguese man o' war jellyfish. Lisson Gallery is presenting the mixed media works of Wael Shawky, which reimagines familiar landscape and forms with a touch of magic realism. Efie Gallery is highlighting the large intricate textile works of Abdoulaye Konate. Ayyam Gallery is showcasing works by Faisal Samra and Safwan Dahoul. Le Lab is presenting paintings and sculptures by Khaled Zaki. There is an arresting work at every turn. 'We wanted to make it inter-generational, not only the youngest or the oldest, really everybody. This was our mission,' Vittoria Matarrese, artistic director and curator of Art Week Riyadh, says. 'With the gallery, it's important to treat them as partners. Too often, we think galleries are just vendors. But galleries are the closest persons to the artists. They discover them, let them grow, of course they also sell their works, but they also figure out how to put them in museums and institutions. 'The whole idea was really to talk to them and select works that you don't see usually in fairs,' Matarrese adds. 'For example, if you see the Wael Shawky booth with Lisson, this is a museum piece. Who ships this for an art fair? Nobody.' However, it's one thing to bring thought-provoking works, but ensuring a cohesive curation is another. The scenography was a key part in this. With an open space, and minimal divisions, the exhibition organically moves from one gallery booth to another, while also shifting across its three thematic threads: Everyday Life, Landscapes and Motifs. 'We really tried to connect it between the galleries,' Matarrese says. While At the Edge can perhaps be seen as the nucleus attraction of Art Week Riyadh – its initiatives and exhibitions are far more sprawling. Collections in Dialogue, also taking place at the Jax District, is highlighting important collections of three institutions. These include King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra), which is showcasing works by Maha Malluh, Michelangelo Pistoletto, Mohammad Alfaraj and Hazem Harb. Art Jameel is presenting works from Ahaad Alamoudi, Hiwa K, Yto Barrada and Mater. The Saudi Research and Media Group is highlighting the development of abstraction in Saudi Arabia, exhibiting artists such as Mohammed Al-Saleem, Abdulhalim Radwi, Taha Al-Sabban, Raeda Ashour, Rashed AlShashai and Zaman Jassim. The Al Mousa Centre in central Riyadh is also a major site of Art Week Riyadh. Formerly a commercial complex, the centre has grown to become a cultural attraction with 15 galleries. The institutions will be presenting a mixture of group and solo exhibitions especially put together for Art Week Riyadh. Although several exhibitions and events have been set up, it is Art Week Riyadh's public programming that seeks to animate these different elements. The programming includes a series of talks titled How to Art World? Lessons in Value. The talks, curated by writer Shumon Basar, will delve into subjects relevant to the visual arts scene in Riyadh. Participants will include cultural experts from Christie's, Sotheby's Gagosian and others. 'As a visual arts commission, we're dedicated to knowledge, knowledge awareness, knowledge exchange, transfer,' Amin says. 'It's part of our DNA as an entity.' Mater, Ayman Zedani, Marwah AlMugait and Muhannad Shono will also be opening up their studios at Jax District to the public this week, allowing audiences to discover their creative spaces and learn more about their artistic processes. 'When we talk about the richness and depth and breadth of everything that's happening here, there's no way we can capture it in one exhibition,' Amin says. 'Part of Art Week Riyadh is really asking that everyone open their doors for all of us to be able to discover what's happening. That discovery will vary from studio to studio, entity to entity. Each organisation has has a different language and a different focus. That richness is really important for us when understanding what Art Week Riyadh is trying to do.'
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18 hours ago
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34 of the best casual spots for chilled out dinner dates
Casual spots for when you want to keep it simple… Some are fans of the grand gestures and overt displays of affection, but if you and your partner like to keep it simple, we've got you covered. If you're looking for something a little more relaxed, laid back and less frilly, this list for you. These casual date night spots will make your date night planning easier. Rare As you step through the doors, Rare comes alive, with the sounds, sights and smells that feed your other senses before you even begin to eat. The first thing you'll see is the stunning bar – it's hard to miss. Everything is draped in shades of red, wine and brown, from the ceiling to the wood walls and the deep velvet seating to the curtains. It's edgy, it's glamorous – it's a mysterious woman in a leather jacket wearing a killer red lip. Rare, C2, City Walk, Sun to Thurs, 12pm to 1am, Fri and Sat, 12pm to 2am, Tel: (0) 4 287 4604, @theraredxb Kinoya This supper-club turned full-fledged restaurant is a perhaps one of the best places to have ramen in Dubai and not only does it serve incredible Japanese fair, it is also perfectly casual for spontaneous dates with your partner, maybe even on weekdays, perfect for Valentine's. The vibe is relaxed and with traditional, modern and on the counter seating, you can sit wherever depending on how private you want to be and bond over a delicious bowl of hearty ramen. You'll feel transported to an authentic Tokyo izakaya. The Onyx Tower, The Greens Tue to Sun 12pm to 1am, Mon closed, Tel: (0)4 220 2920, Manāo Manāo's compact space, minimal, bare-Earth interiors and the absence of foam, fizz, smoke, leaf of various precious metals, caviar, demonstrations, installations, dust from the moon, water from Mars and fire from the sun means there is only one thing in focus – the food. This is a flavour-driven, chef-driven restaurant. Come as you are, dine, drink and leave wanting to do it all over again. Discover something new this Valentine's Manāo, Wasl Vita, Jumeirah, daily, 7pm to 11pm, closed on Mon, Tel: (0) 4 272 2389, @manao_dubai a normal day This new bistro sits inside Dar Wasl and looks unassuming at first glance, but that is the joy of casual dining – no nonsense, only 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, comfort classics and simple, flavourful things. This is a new brand of restaurants taking over in Dubai, straying away from the frilly grandeur of things and keeping it simple but meaningful. Try the cacio e pepe – you won't be disappointed. a normal day, Dar Wasl, daily, 5.30pm to 12am, Tel: (0) 4 886 8380, @ CQ French Brasserie Looking for great French food without the frills? CQ French Brasserie is the answer to that question. This brasserie, merging Parisian old-world charm with contemporary sophistication, brings a fresh identity to the JLT space once home to Couqley. CQ French Brasserie provides an accessible yet refined dining experience for friends and family. The experience is wholly simplistic. Come as you are, indulge and then go back again. Perfect for all your spontaneous date night plans and group dinners as well. CQ French Brasserie, JLT Cluster A, Dubai, daily midday to 1am, A new mint from the Culinary Class of 2024, Khadak is the brainchild of Chef Naved Nasir, the captain of the ship that was the Dishoom brand for 15 years as it grew into a chain of beloved restaurants across the UK, introducing Indian food to curious diners. It's a wonderfully laidback and easy dining experience, made memorable by incredible food, welcoming hospitality and a come-as-you-are policy. Spontaneous dates begin here. Khadak, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah, Mon to Fri, 12pm to 12am, Sat and Sun 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0)4 558 3787. @khadak_ae Itadaku This is a family-run affair – Itadaku feels incredibly traditional and rooted, and the space in Wasl Vita Mall is small, laid back and welcoming. Great for nights out, the spot serves authentic, ingredient driven fare that speaks for itself. While not shorts-and-flip-flops level of casual (if someone shows up to your date like that, run the other way), it strikes a pretty great balance between fancy and simple, and is also spontaneity friendly so your weeknights are also sorted. Itadaku, Wasl Vita Mall, Jumeirah, daily, 12pm to 3pm, 6pm to 10pm, Tel: (0) 4 223 6122, @itadaku_dubai Odeon Inspired by the joys of Parisian life, Odeon serves up delightful authentic food and a mind-boggling selection of gourmet French products, from different kids of chocolate, candy, crisps, spreads and condiments to fresh seafood, freshly-baked bread, cured meat cuts, cheeses, dairy products and more. You want it, they have it. It has that sort of homely feel of a neighbourhood establishment. Odeon, Jumeirah, daily, 8am to 10pm, Tel: ( 0) 4 340 2272, @odeondubai Iranish If you're looking for the most authentic Iranian food you can find in Dubai, Iranish is the place to be. It's a place filled with stories and each dish they serve has a legacy, a sweet tale of nostalgia behind it. The flavours are uniquely Iranian, meaning you won't find Iranian food of this kind elsewhere in Dubai. Decked out in traditional accents and furnishings, it feels like a rich, homely living room, which is exactly why you can come as you are and feast on comfort food. Simply bring a curious appetite and you'll leave fed, happy and wanting to come back for more. Iranish, Wasl 51, Jumeirah, Mon to Thurs, 12pm to 11.30pm, Fri to Sun, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 52 149 5857, @iranishdxb Girl & the Goose Girl & the Goose comes with a long history, a supper club legacy that has enthralled and delighted the taste buds of many a discerning diner, 5000 to be exact. Now, they're expanding their home into a more open space, with a stunning new location in the heart of Dubai that feels like home already the moment you walk in. Inside, you'll have a bite of ravishing Central American fare, reimagined by Chef's Gabi's travels around the world. Read our review here. Girl & the Goose – Restaurante Centroamericano , Anantara Downtown, daily, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 52 772 9888, @ Kiyoshi Located in Dubai Creek Harbour, this spot has all the makings of your next favourite casual Japanese retaurant. At first glance, Kiyoshi looks unassuming but inside, offers a menu of delicious Japanese classics and modern fusions, all with the stunning view of the Creek right outside. It's nice enough for a date night and casual enough to make it spontaneous, and if you're in and around the community, this is where you need to go next. Kiyoshi, Dubai Creek Harbour, daily, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 4 572 6578, @kiyoshidubai bkry You can't have missed the fame of this Alserkal Avenue spot – bkry is a baking and non-alcoholic cocktail lover's dream. From gorgeous croissants to a fully-fledged menu – with incredible mixed drinks to enjoy, bkry is your new home for watching bakers work away at their craft while you enjoy the minimalist vibes. Everything is sourced locally, and the flour is even made in the bakery itself, so you know you're getting it good and fresh. bkry, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, open 8am to 10pm daily, @ Kumo The foundation of the concept is the first step done right. Housed in a refurbished Jumeirah villa from the 80s, it oozes all this retro charm and intimacy, where time slows down and a feeling of calm prevails. The food is delightfully traditional, with a touch of the modern, and the flavours are big and bold, not shying away colour, heat and tang. Kumo, Al Wasl, Jumeirah, Sun to Thurs, 1pm to 11pm, Fri to Sat, 1pm to 12am, Tel: ( 600) 555551, @ Hawkerboi Beginning life as an anonymous-chef-led secret supper club, it's secured a dedicated following, built almost entirely on word of mouth. It was such a success, they were encouraged to open a restaurant permanently, moving into new culinary hub, The Park, JLT, still retaining the trademark lively atmosphere and spicy South East Asian cuisine. Located on the first floor, the restaurant makes a fiery first impression with red neon lighting, an intriguing open kitchen, a buzzing outdoor terrace, and stunning views over the park area. Hawkerboi, The Park, JLT, Dubai. 6pm to 12am Sun to Thurs, 6pm to 1am, Fri and Sat. @ Daikan Izakaya The slightly more glamorous counterpart of Daikan Ramen, Daikan Izakaya in City Walk's C2 Licensed District, is a the perfect crossroads between fancy nightlife and laid back dinner. You can come here on a weeknight or a weekend, dressed up or down and enjoy simple, great food in a vibrant vibe. It feels noncommittal, endlessly fun and a great spot to stay late as well. You can dine, lounge at the bar afterwards and with a bustling atmosphere, it'll always feel upbeat and lively, which is what you want on date night. Daikan Izakaya, City Walk, Dubai, Sun to Thurs, 12pm to 12am, Fri and Sat, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0) 52 703 8369, @daikanizakaya_ae Duo Gastrobar From Russia (St Petersburg to be exact) with love, the award-winning DUO has officially landed in the Dubai desert. DUO is known for its reasonable prices, quality ingredients, delicious signature cocktails, and lively atmosphere. The menu blends modern European cuisine, with a slight touch of Asia. Chef Dmitry Blinov is bringing his 40 best dishes from DUO Band's restaurants to the Dubai Hills outpost including the tuna ceviche (Dhs65), broccoli pate (Dhs35), and oxtail pie with taleggio (Dhs75). Dubai Hills Business Park 4. Weekdays 12pm to 11pm, Weekends 12pm to 12am, @ The Lighthouse Further down on the scale of casual, The Lighthouse exudes the kind of warmth one would hope to find when discovering a new spot. At first glance, it's simple and incredibly inviting to passers-by who might be scouting for a spontaneous haunt. We say that because nothing about The Lighthouse is too much – too intense, too experimental, too fancy or too expensive. Nor is it too pale. It's just right for a weeknight when you don't want to be rudely surprised. The Lighthouse, across various locations, @thelighthouse_ae Wokyo Noodle Bar Nothing beats a hot, hearty and comforting bowl of ramen, and Wokyo Noodle Bar offers a noodle fix like no other. The noodle bar is known for its Sapporo-style ramen with a broth that is slow-cooked for 10 hours and poured over a wok sizzling with fresh vegetables and authentic ramen noodles. Other side dishes you need to try include chicken gyoza, homemade spring rolls and a tteokbokki that will leave you licking the bowl. The restaurant is also vegan-friendly, if that's how you roll. Wokyo, across various locations, @wokyo Uchi Uchi in DIFC is smaller then you'd expect – but it's also cosy, quiet and the perfect place for a casual date that's not too casual. Not only is the food delicious and wholesome, it's such a welcome break from the loud, large spaces that are a Dubai staple. A beautiful bar takes up much of the space in the middle and the service is welcoming and warm. DIFC comes off as too frilly, but this is one of the more easy-going spots where you can show up on the whim and find a good meal, guaranteed. Uchi, DIFC, Dubai, Sun to Wed, 12pm to 1am, Thurs to Fri, 12pm to 2am, Tel: (0) 4 298 5044, @ 3Fils 3Fils first opened in 2016 in Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, and quickly developed a loyal following, despite its petite size. It's an independently owned, unflashy, unlicensed, super-casual, no-reservations joint that also happens to serve delicious food. The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, but all tables are served on a walk-in basis – so you won't be able to book ahead. This is for the uber casual – don't feel like cooking? Head over and find comfort staples. 3 Fils, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, daily 12pm to 11.30pm, walk-in only. Tel: (0 4) 333 4003. Cafe Isan If your experience of Thai food has been limited to food colouring laced curry, tom yum instant ramen, or packets of sweet chilli crisps – you owe it to the land of smiles, to make a reparation trip to Cafe Isan. You can pick up deeply authentic, insanely aromatic versions of the Thai classics. But there's more. Trek deeper into the South-East Asian heartlands with Chef New's off-piste specials, fusion dishes, and less conventional concoctions. Level 1, Armada Avenue Hotel, Cluster P, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai. Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 12am, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 2am, Tel:(0) 58 5291003. 21 Grams 21 Grams is the kind of simple, unassuming eatery that you can go to for a sweet daytime date, maybe a lunch, but even dinner works. It's a small space, minimalistic, where one can pop down to get some work done, catch up with a friend or go on a spontaneous date. The no frills attached atmosphere feels more homely and with a fairly compact menu, you're set for fuss free dining. If you haven't tried Balkan food before, this bistro is a great way to get acquainted. 21 Grams, Meyan Mall, Umm Suqeim, Mon to Wed, 8am to 5pm, Thurs to Sun, 8am to 11pm, Tel: (0) 50 841 5021, @ Lila Molino There's a fair chance that if you're aware of Lila Taqueria, you're aware of Lila Molino. The latter is the former's much-larger and tastefully expansive younger sister, both helmed by the watchful, tender eye and many years of a love affair with Mexican food of Chef Shaw Lash. Lila Molino opened it's doors in a corner of Alserkal Avenue not that long ago – it's a cafe, it's a marketplace and above all, it's where you should go if you couldn't care less about fancies and frills. Lila Molino, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai, Tues to Sun, 9am to 10pm, closed on Mon, Tel: (0) 4 388 5600, @lilamolino Reif Kushiyaki Founded by 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 homegrown, Reif Kushiyaki is located in Dar Wasl Mall, Time Out Market, and Dubai Hills. Multiple locations in Dubai. Open Sun to Thur, 12pm to 11pm, Fri and Sat, 12pm to 12am, Tel: (0)50 235 7071, @reifkushiyaki Brass Monkey Round up the group… After four successful years at Bluewaters, Brass Monkey has officially opened its second Dubai venue at C2. The two-storey adult-only playground features bowling, arcade games, pool tables, two outdoor terraces, and more. Brass Monkey, C2, City Walk, Dubai. Tel:(0)4 582 2244. @brassmonkeysocial Kokoro Kokoro, Dubai's first hand roll bar, is the newest Japanese offering at Alserkal Avenue, a small, almost hole-in-the-wall spot free of frills and fuss and full of the casual, inviting warmth one usually finds at a space like this. And fresh fish, of course. Every variety of it. Everything about Kokoro says laidback but not lazy, spontaneous but not overwhelming, so very cool but not alienating. Like that hipster barista you know who makes you feel like they woke up today to brew coffee for you and you only (and the 12 other people in the line behind you). Kokoro, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, Sun to Wed, 12pm to 10.30pm, Thurs to Sat, 12pm to 11.30pm, @ Hoe Lee Kow If you're looking for a casual eatery to catch up with friends or enjoy quality food with your closest ones, unconventional Korean BBQ, Hoe Lee Kow is well worth a trip. Venturing into a new cuisine, chef Reif Othman was inspired by his years of travel and love for Korean BBQ. Located in Dubai Hills Business Park 4, the restaurant is cosy and minimalistic with playful nods to Korean culture including traditional masks, clothing, and decorative fans. Hoe Lee Kow, Dubai Hills Business Park, Building 4, Dubai. Sunday to Thursday 12pm to 11pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm to 12am, Tel:(0)4 255 5142, @hlkbyreif VNYL This is a new chip on the block – VNYL Dubai likes to call itself a Hi-Fi bar and has a swanky space plastered with all things music. Records on records from the very best of yesteryear, players you can use to have your own personal high-fidelity listening party and young design elements that give it that after-hours vibe. This is where you'd come for a no-frills night out and when you're done with dinner and drinks downstairs, you can head on over upstairs for the after party, which comes alive post midnight. VNYL HiFi, Bluewaters Island, Mon to Thurs, 1pm to 1am, Fri to Sun, 1pm to 4am, Tel: (0) 52 249 4004, @ Cucina Cucina feels like a family neighbourhood Italian, with the warmth and the carbs to show for it. This is a family-oriented restaurant and perfect for a cosy weeknight or weekend dinner date where you all want is a bowl of safe, delicious pasta and the company of a special person. They also have a gelato parlour, because you can't have dinner without dessert and classics on the menu that you know you'll love. Cucina, Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah, daily, 7am to 1am, Tel: (0) 4 666 1408, @cucinathepalm KATA As far as sushi in the mall goes, Kata really takes the cake. This Japanese restaurant not only has incredibly plated food that will look gorgeous for your socials as the Dubai Fountains go off in the background but Kata where the food looks good, it tastes even better – we promise. And it's mall dining, which means you can end up here after a day of shopping or just because and it's all chill. From maki towers to braised short rib, our personal favourite? The mushroom truffle rice pot. Kata, Waterfront Dining, Dubai Mall, daily, 10am to 12am. @ Pitfire Pizza Dubai's beloved homegrown pizza joint Pitfire Pizza has opened its first licensed dine-in branch in Dubai Hills Business Park. With the same relaxed vibe, great food, and wallet-friendly prices as the other Pitfire locations, this is the perfect spot for a quick lunch, impromptu date night, family-friendly dinner, and casual catch-up. What to order? Try their classic pepperoni primo with hot honey, a hot honey margarita, and a non-negotiable side of garlic knots. Pitfire Pizza, Dubai Hills Business Park, Dubai. Daily 11am to 11pm, @pitfirepizzabakers Din Tai Fung Only one way to describe this spot – comfort food. Din Tai Fung's notoriety as wholesome, hearty Chinese fare that can do no wrong is not without true reason, and this licensed outpost on the Bluewaters is no different. Like the Din Tai Fung of your childhood, every dish is a winner, with flavours and textures you're sure to be familiar with, albeit in the fancy packaging of a slightly more upscale venue and inventive cocktails to pair. It's not new, but it never gets old. Din Tai Fung, various locations, @dintaifungbw Isola Ristorante Celebrate love this Valentine's Day at Isola Ristorante, the charming Italian restaurant at Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse. On Friday, February 14, starting from 7pm, couples are invited to an evening of romance with live cello music, a delightful a la carte menu, and specially crafted cocktails inspired by the timeless love story of Romeo and Juliet. A special dessert awaits and the Romeo & Juliet Cocktail menu features unique drinks that reflect the themes of their story. Isola Ristorante, Jumeirah Islands Clubhouse, Fri, Feb 14, 7pm, Tel: (0) 4 583 3124, @isolarestaurantdubai Lola Taberna This Valentine's at Lola Taberna, couples will be welcomed with roses and a refreshing welcome drink before sitting down to a dinner from the la carte menu. With a minimum spend of Dhs199 per person, guests can enjoy a romantic dining experience accompanied by live entertainment. The evening will feature retro Spanish hits by Keco Fontana, followed by DJ Javi to keep the night alive. Who doesn't love some delicious food and a spot of Spanish music? Lola Taberna, TRYP By Wyndham Dubai, Fri, Feb 14, 7pm, minimum spend Dhs199, Tel: (0) 4 247 6688, @lolataberna Images: Socials/Supplied
What's On
3 days ago
- What's On
7 of the most Instagrammable French toasts in Dubai
Breakfast may be the most important meal of the day, but it's also the most Instagrammable. And one dish that particularly pops on your feed is French toast. In our endless quest for the city's best breakfasts, we've rounded up 12 of the most drool-worthy French toasts in Dubai… Somewhere One of the most photogenic French toasts in Dubai, Somewhere's version is inspired by spicy, milky karak tea, with cool soft serve on the side and warm karak poured at the table (Dhs57). Somewhere, Fashion Avenue, The Dubai Mall, Mon to Thurs 9am to 12am, Fri to Sun 9am to 1am. Tel: (6)00 555 551. @ The Sum of Us Golden, gooey, and a little fruity Salted Caramel French Toast gets a luxe upgrade with poached plums and crème anglaise. (Dhs55). The Sum of Us, Ground Floor, Burj Al Salam, World Trade Centre, daily 8am to 9pm. Tel: (0)56 445 7526.@thesumofus Brunch & Cake Everything about this café is made for the 'Gram, and the Nutella French Toast (Dhs76) is no exception — stacked high, slathered in Nutella, drizzled with toasted milk, and topped with fresh berries, caramelised bananas, and crunchy pecans. It's the kind of sweet overload we're not sorry about.. Brunch & Cake, Wasl 51, Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 1, daily 8am to 10:30pm.@brunchandcake Mitts & Trays Homemade Brioche French Toast — thick, fluffy, and golden, served with your choice of fresh berries or cheesecake caramelised banana, finished with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. A sweet start worth waking up for (Dhs56) Mitts & Trays, City Walk and Bluewaters Island, daily 8am to 11:30pm. @mittsandtraysuae Izu Bakery Chef Izu Ani offers a slice of Parisian perfection with his classic combination of French toast, berry compote and caramel cream (Dhs55). Izu Bakery, Galeries Lafayette Dubai Mall, daily 10am to 5:30pm. @izubakery Slab When you want your French toast with a bit of heft, seek out Slab's cornflake-crusted version, with a moist-maker of maple syrup and the freshness of berries. (Dhs65) Slab, Mercato Mall, Jumeirah 1, Sun to Thurs 9am to 10:45pm, Fri and Sat 9am to 11:45pm. @ Sarabeth's For purists on the hunt for French toasts in Dubai, this pretty saffron milk toast is topped with fresh berries, pistachios and whipped cream (Dhs59). Sarabeth's, City Walk, daily 7.30am to 11.30pm. @ Images: Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
FACT
5 days ago
- FACT
The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 June 2025
Our picks of the hottest happenings this long weekend in Dubai. The first weekend in June is here, and whilst the mercury is rising, there's still plenty of time for fun in the sun. We're recommending Eid brunches, stunning staycations and Sunday soirées, so read on for our picks of the best things to do during the long weekend in Dubai. Friday 6 June Book an Eid staycation Make your way to The Lana – Dorchester Collection this Eid Al Adha for a truly luxurious getaway. The Summer in Dubai packages include a guaranteed double upgrade at the time of booking, daily Lana breakfast by Jean Imbert or Middle Eastern breakfast, which you can enjoy in your room or at Riviera by Jean Imbert. With tons of dining options, an infinity pool and the region's first Dior Spa, it's the ideal place to spend Eid. Rooms are priced from AED 1,500, while Junior Suites are from AED 3,500. GO: Visit for more information. Enjoy a festive feast at Palazzo Versace Dubai Gather your loved ones and head to Giardino at Palazzo Versace Dubai this Eid Al Adha for an elegant evening filled with flavour and festive spirit. This special Eid dinner promises a grand buffet experience set in a striking, jungle-inspired dining room or on the scenic outdoor terrace overlooking the pool and waterfront. Indulge in international favourites and regional delicacies designed to mark the occasion in style. Available on 6, 7 and 8 June from 6:30pm to 11pm. AED 263 (food only)or AED 275 (soft beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Try a fancy French brunch at FRNDS Grand Café Designed to be shared, the 'entre amis' (French for 'among friends') brunch from Secret Parties offers a menu of showstopping signatures such as Caviar-topped Dorade, 24-month aged Parmigiano Risotto, Josper-grilled Lamb Chops, Wagyu Tataki with Black Truffle, and the indulgent Grand Seafood Tower. Crave-worthy highlights also include Lobster Spaghetti, Truffle Pizza, and Yellowtail Crudo, rounded off with a playful dessert selection including Chocolate Wasabi. Available on Fridays from 7pm. AED 300 (house beverages only), AED 400 (food and house beverages), and AED 450 (premium beverages). GO: Visit for more information. Saturday 7 June Tuck into the summer brunch at Nahaam Brunch season is heating up at Nahaam as the popular poolside spot at Conrad Abu Dhabi Etihad Towers rolls out its refreshed summer edition. Expect a vibrant culinary journey with live stations serving handmade pasta, poke bowls, smoked meats, sushi, and fresh produce from the hotel's hydroponic farm. Tailored beverages are crafted to complement every bite, while DJ Kristina brings the vibes with upbeat live music. Available on Saturday from 1pm to 4pm. AED 345 (soft beverages), AED 495 (house beverages) and AED 625 (French bubbles). GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Witness the wonder of La Perle La Perle is a one-of-a-kind live entertainment show located in Al Habtoor City. Created by Franco Dragone, the mastermind behind Cirque du Soleil, it combines acrobatics, aerial stunts, water effects, and captivating storytelling to create a visually stunning and immersive theatrical experience. The attraction will be running special ticket promotions during the Eid Al Adha long weekend. Visit for tickets and more information. Sleep in the rainforest The Green Planet isn't simply home to over 3,000 plants and animals. It's also a go-to destination for unexpected experiences offered amidst an indoor ecosystem. Now, it's gearing up for the return of the region's only rainforest camping experience. After a buffet dinner – complete with roasting marshmallows and a nature documentary – you'll discover the rainforest's enchantments by learning about the biodome's most mysterious little friends in a nocturnal tour before falling asleep under the stars to the soft coos and songs of the rainforest's exotic birds. Prices start from AED 900 for two adults in the regular tent, while group bookings can be made at AED 1,700 for a party of four in the large tent. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Sunday 8 June Enjoy family fun at Yalumba Gather the whole family for a lively Sunday brunch at Yalumba, where global flavours meet feel-good fun. From interactive pizza-making and magic shows to a vibrant buffet spread, there's something for everyone. Available on Sundays from 1pm to 4pm. AED 225 (soft beverages), AED 325 (house beverages), AED 395 (premium beverages), and AED 115 (for children aged six to 12 years). GO: WhatsApp 050 289 7728 for more information. Tuck into a superb Sunday roast Sunday lunch gets the Heston treatment at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal. Start with signature dishes like Meat Fruit (c.1500) or new additions such as Smoked Salmon Tartare (c.1847) and Roast Beetroot Salad (c.1830). Mains include Black Angus Sirloin with ox cheek-filled Yorkshire pudding, Roast Chicken with morel and brioche stuffing, and a Truffle Roast Cauliflower. For dessert, choose from a Trifle, Bakewell Tart, or the indulgent Chocolate Bar, accompanied by the playful Liquid Nitrogen Ice Cream Trolley as a sweet finale. Available on Sundays from 12pm to 3pm. AED 345 per adult and AED 195 per child. GO: Visit for more information. Experience Italian dining with a view at Farina Bringing the soul of Italy to the shores of JBR, Farina serves bold flavours, fresh ingredients, and coastal charm at Address Beach Resort. Expect hand-tossed pizzas straight from a traditional stone oven, rich house-made pastas, and seafood crafted with flair. Set against the sparkling backdrop of Ain Dubai and Bluewaters Island, Farina's chic setting is ideal for golden hour aperitivos, relaxed dinners, or late-night bites by the sea. GO: Visit for more information.
