Latest news with #AkmalAnuar
Straits Times
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Straits Times
Singapore chef Akmal Anuar's Harummanis Dubai enters Bib Gourmand list there
Chef Akmal Anuar (foreground, right) and his parents at the Michelin Guide ceremony in Dubai. PHOTO: AKMALANUAROFFICIAL/INSTAGRAM SINGAPORE – Dubai-based Singaporean chef Akmal Anuar's five-month-old Harummanis Dubai has earned a spot on the Bib Gourmand list. Dubai's Michelin Guide 2025 was announced on May 22. This accolade comes shortly after the restaurant opened in the glitzy city in December 2024. It carries the legacy of chef Akmal's parents, who have been running their family's nasi padang hawker stall – also called Harummanis – in Teck Whye since 1992. Harumanis means sweet-smelling and refers to a popular Indonesian mango variety. Akmal opened modern Malay restaurant Harummanis in Kampong Glam in Singapore in November 2023. In Dubai, the menu at Harummanis offers traditional dishes with a modern twist. They include beef cheek rendang; ketoprak, an Indonesian salad reimagined with Japanese sesame sauce and kombu in place of the traditional peanut dressing; and smoky udang galah, featuring Australian jumbo prawns grilled with curry leaves and peppercorns. Chef Akmal, together with his parents, attended the Michelin Guide's ceremony in Dubai and went on stage to receive their plaques. In a post on Instagram, chef Akmal, 42, says: 'Today marks the day that I've fulfilled myself as a chef, son and a dad. To see my parents attend and be up on stage with them and receive their first Michelin award is a beautiful thing. This is so special. 'I feel so blessed and thankful to my team and family. I cannot ask for more.' A post on Harummanis Dubai's Instagram account says: 'This journey took over three decades of feeding the community, storytelling, overcoming tribulations and many celebrations. We continue our mission to introduce Malay cuisine to the world and Dubai is truly home and a platform to do this.' Harummanis Dubai adds to chef Akmal's stable of eateries in the United Arab Emirates city. Japanese restaurants Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori and Otoro are already on the Bib Gourmand list. His Italian restaurant Osteria Funkcoolio also makes its debut on the guide , under the Michelin-selected list. Before chef Akmal left for Dubai in 2014, he was best known as the head chef at one-Michelin-starred Iggy's for seven years. During his time there, Iggy's ranked No. 26 on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list and No. 1 on the Asian list. Over the years, he has created several restaurants, including 53 in New York; Mavia and Chie in Sharjah, the UAE; and a boutique hospitality company, which oversees his restaurant empire. More recently, he was awarded Berita Harian's 26th Achiever of the Year Award in October 2024, for making an indelible mark on the international fine-dining scene. The award by the Malay-language daily honours exemplary individuals from the Malay/Muslim community who have made a significant impact in their field. On expanding Harummanis to Dubai, chef Akmal had said: 'Singaporean Malay cuisine has layers of depth that haven't been fully explored globally. 'Harummanis is about bringing those flavours to the forefront while staying true to my hawker roots. This is the food that shaped who I am.' Check out ST's Food Guide for the latest foodie recommendations in Singapore.
AsiaOne
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- AsiaOne
Singaporean chef Akmal Anuar's Malay restaurant in Dubai earns spot on Michelin Guide, Lifestyle News
Accomplished Singaporean chef Akmal Anuar, who already owns 10 restaurants around the world, has added another accolade to his already impressive list of achievements. The F&B entrepreneur's restaurant Harummanis has been officially recognised in Dubai's latest Michelin Guide. The Dubai-based restaurant took to social media last Friday (May 23) to announce the news. The caption read: "We are officially in the Michelin Guide!" In the post, the restaurant extended its heartfelt thanks to those who have supported it over the years—from guests and staff to family and friends. Harummanis has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1992 as a local hawker stall in Teck Whye Lane serving authentic Malay cuisine. It has since gone international, and the Dubai-based restaurant continues its mission to bring Malay flavours to the world stage. At the heart of its success is Akmal's dedication to honouring the culinary legacy of his parents, who run the hawker stall. Through Harummanis in Dubai, he offers a contemporary interpretation of traditional Malay recipes. View this post on Instagram A post shared by @akmalanuarofficial On the same day Harummanis announced its Michelin recognition, Akmal shared a touching tribute post to his parents on social media. "Today marks the day that I've fulfilled myself as a chef, son and a dad. "To see my parents attend and be up on stage with them and receive their first Michelin award is a beautiful thing," he wrote. While this is a first for Harummanis, it isn't Akmal's only experience with Michelin prestige. His other Dubai-based restaurant Goldfish was awarded the Bib Gourmand for the fourth year running. His other Dubai-based restaurants include one-Michelin starred 11 Woodfire, the Japanese-Italian fusion Osteria Funkcoolio and patisserie Sam Tarts. What to expect at Harummanis According to the official Michelin Guide website, dishes at Harummanis are praised for their "perfectly spiced" and "balanced" flavours. Standout dishes that diners can look out for include the six-hour cooked rendang made with 20 spices and ayam geprek complemented by sambal belacan. It is best to come in a group as dishes are made for communal dining. If a trip to Dubai for a meal there isn't feasible for you, there's good news. A local branch of Harummanis opened in Kampong Glam in November 2024, offering similarly refined takes on Malay classics right here in Singapore. [[nid:702076]] amierul@
Time Out Dubai
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
These are 10 of the best local dishes to try in Karama
No doubt that Dubai is a foodie haven. From poolside spots to brasseries to fancy schmancy dining, there's something to match every mood and craving. But if you want to explore the off-beaten path, discover new cultures and try new dishes, then it's time to head to Karama, the curry corridor of Dubai. One of the best things about wandering its streets? You could have breakfast, lunch and dinner and only have spent Dhs60 by the end of the day. You might also like: The 10 best budget restaurants to try tonight in Dubai Don't know what to order? We've rounded up ten must-try dishes from different cuisines that make Al Karama a food lover's paradise. 10 flavourful dishes to try in Karama Lamb chops at Eric's Price: Dhs30 Cuisine: Goan (Indian) The lamb chops, tandoor-grilled to perfection, are crisp on the outside and juicy on the inside. It's served with this unassuming banger of a mint chutney. We're not exactly sure which is better, the meat or the creamy and fresh chutney. Eric's is a cosy little Goan spot that brings all the laid-back charm of Goa right here. You'll see its Portuguese roots shining through the yellow walls, warm wooden interiors and the pretty bougainvilleas blooming around the place. Open daily from 11am-3.30pm, 6.30pm-11.45pm. Sheikh Hamdan Colony, Karama, (04 396 4447) Appam and tangy mango curry at Calicut Paragon Price: Appam, Dhs2.25, curry, price varies based on your choice of meat Cuisine: Kerala (Indian) Appam is a flat, lacy pancake made from rice flour sourdough, and when it's freshly served on your plate, like it's done at Paragon, it will melt in your mouth. Order a tangy mango curry with Kingfish or prawns to accompany the appam, and you're sorted. It also happens to be the favourite budget dish of Akmal Anuar, the founder of Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori and Osteria Funkcoolio. Located right in the heart of Dubai's 'Curry Corridor' of Satwa, Karama and Bur Dubai, Calicut Paragon is a legendary Kerala restaurant that offers Malabari dishes in a homely setting. Open daily, 7am-midnight. Karama, (04 335 8700). If you like this: 10 best Indian restaurants in Dubai to book right now Grilled shrimps at Sallet Al Sayed Price: Dhs175/kg Cuisine: Middle Eastern Sometimes, simple really is best – and nowhere does that hit home more than with the grilled shrimp here. It's served with a fresh tomato salad, hummus and breads. Smoky, spicy (but not in a burn-your-mouth way, just packed with flavour), this is the kind of dish you'll find yourself craving again and again. Stephen Flawith, founder of Pickl, even called it the best grilled shrimp in the UAE. We get the hype. This laid-back Middle Eastern seafood joint keeps things fuss-free, serving up super fresh fish in the tastiest way possible. There's loads of fish on the menu from sherri to koffer, red snapper, sea bass, salmon, sardines and more. Open daily, noon-midnight. Al Shafar building, Karama, (04 335 5722). Beyaynetu at Zagol Price: Dhs50 Cuisine: Ethiopian Beyaynetu is a vegetarian lentil-based platter featuring injera – a sourdough flatbread – served with an assortment of vegetarian and meat curries. It's simple, but the variety of rich flavours on it is palate-awakening, according to Kelvin Cheung, chef and partner at Jun's. Zagol takes up a humble space in Karama, all done up with straw tables and colourful Ethiopian paintings, it's got charm for days. And when you swing by (which you absolutely should), don't leave without trying the Ethiopian coffee. Trust us on this one. Open daily, 10am-11.30pm. Mabrooka 1 Building, Al Karama (050 323 1822). Nasi padang with ayam baker at Daoper Kita Price: Dhs40 Cuisine: Indonesian Order the Nasi Padang Rendang and replace the rendang with Ayam Bakar, aka grilled chicken, to reduce the eye-watering level of spice (thank us later). This chicken and rice meal comes with a side of sayur lemak (a coconut-milk-based vegetable curry) and egg sambal, which are just *chef's kiss*. Dapoer Kita is an authentic Indonesian restaurant with a menu that features flavorful dishes that keep diners coming back again and again. From delicious chicken satay to nasi goreng and the comforting soto ayam. There's a daily buffet, fantastic service and a comfy space to enjoy the authentic cuisine. Open daily 11am-10.30pm. Sheikh Mohammad Building, Al Karama, (050 453 9991). Read more: 10 delicious restaurants in Al Karama worth visiting Thali at Khandani Rajdhani Price: Dhs53 Cuisine: Rajasthani (Indian) Rajasthani thalis are loved across India for two big reasons: first, every single dish on your plate is freshly made and served steaming; second, the staff will absolutely spoil you with endless servings. And over fifteen minutes, you'll be served with over 27 curries and sabzis and pickles and a range of warm rotis and rice. If comfort on a cold night could take the form of a meal, this would be it. Rajdhani only does one dish – the thali, but that's more than enough to travel to India and be back. Open daily, noon-3.30pm, 7pm-11pm. Al Khafajy Building, Al Karama, @rajdhanimiddleeast (04 334 7977). Idli sambar at Sri Balaji Bhavan Price: Dhs15 Cuisine: Tamil (Indian) Idli is a steamed bun made from rice flour sourdough that is best enjoyed with a steaming bowl of coriander-laced lentil and vegetable curry (aka sambar). Order the idli-vada set along with a filter coffee, and you're all set. At Balaji Bhavan, the idli is soft-as-clouds and the chutneys are freshly made. Having this for breakfast will be the best thing you can do that day. Plus, it's vegan and gluten-free (the kind that doesn't taste like cardboard). Open daily. 7am-midnight. Karama park. (054 294 9897) Kottu mix at Ceylonian Restaurant Price: Dhs26 Cuisine: Sri Lankan Kottu mix is a mish-mash of slivered parathas or hoppers tossed in a wok with onions, capsicum, coriander and meats of your choice. Think of a Sri Lankan version of fried rice. It's spicy, sticky and simply perfect for a quick and filling meal. Ceylonian Restaurant offers Sri Lankan delicacies in a nice spot in Karama, walkable from the ADCB metro station. If you're asking for the most authentic sri lankan dish, we'd recommend the the hoppers and beef stew. Open daily, 11am-11pm. Wasl Hub Block 2, Karama, @ (04 339 3010) Chole bhature at Delhi Highway Restaurant Dubai Price: Dhs26 Cuisine: Delhi (Indian) If Delhi (India's capital city) had a national dish, it would probably be chole bhature. We won't go as far as to compare this version to the legendary bhatures served in crammed gullies of purani Delhi, but this one definitely deserves a shout. This restaurant in Al Karama offers a real taste of the Mughlai charm, with Persian-inspired interiors that set the mood for family-friendly fun. The dishes are as lavish in presentation as they are in flavour. With avocados, broccoli pestos, tandoori tacos, mint pesto and more, the menu is elevated. So don't expect anything basic here. Even the chat is served on a beautiful platter. Open daily, noon-1am. Al Karama. @atdelhihighway_dubai (04 220 8844) Palada ice cream at Cintafresh Price: Dhs26 Cuisine: Kerala (Indian) Papa Scoop is an ice cream flavoured by a popular Kerala dessert, palada payasam. Palada payasam is Kerala's answer to kheer (rice pudding). The rice, milk and sugar are slow-cooked together until the milk thickens and turns slightly pinkish, giving the payasam a rich and creamy texture with a delicate caramel-like flavour. Cintafresh specialises in different kinds of palada-flavoured dishes: chilled palada shake, ice cream and the actual thing. Open Sun-Thu 11.30am-midnight, Fri 10.30am-1pm, 2pm-2am, Sat 11.30am-2am. BK10 building, Karama, (04 422 9976) You might also like 10 delicious restaurants in Al Karama worth visiting We've got the lowdown Your complete guide to Al Karama from rent to restaurants The gems you need to know Parking fees have now doubled in Al Karama And three other neighbourhoods are also affected
FACT
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Akmal Anuar brings funky flavours to Neighborhood Food Hall with Pizzeria Funkcoolio
Dubai is no stranger to great pizza. With beloved spots like Blu Pizzeria, Pitfire Pizza and 'Za' Za constantly drawing crowds, there's a new contender coming to town called Pizzeria Funkcoolio. Located at the Neighborhood Food Hall in Dubai Motor City, Pizzeria Funkcoolio is a NYC-inspired pizza concept backed by acclaimed chef Akmal Anuar. The food hall is already home to some firm FACT favourites like Al Naqa and High Joint, meaning the upcoming restaurant is in great culinary company. The star of the show at Pizzeria Funkcoolio is, of course, the pizza. Chef Akmal Anuar has taken classic Italian flavours and added his signature twist. The menu features handcrafted pizzas such as Margherita, Pepperoni, Spicy Duck, Shrimp Aji Amarillo, Chicken Ragu, Shakshuka, and much more. Served in sizes of 20-inch, 15-inch or 10-inch, you can top off your selection with truffle oil, spicy mayo, chilli oil or honey chilli. Pizzeria Funkcoolio has also got plenty in store for pasta lovers. A build-your-own pasta bar allows you to pick from favourites and pair them with your choice of rich and creamy sauces. For dessert, you can indulge in a terrific homemade tiramisu. For those unversed, Chef Akmal Anuar is the brains behind Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori, Osterio Funkcoolio and Harummanis in Dubai. So, if you're in the mood for a classic slice, a build-your-own pasta, or a creamy tiramisu, Pizzeria Funkcoolio has something for everyone. Pizza enthusiasts, get ready to indulge GO: Follow @funkcoolio on Instagram for more information.
What's On
14-02-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
This Abu Dhabi restaurant serves Frosties cereal and more
Frosties on a frosty… If you've been following What's On of late, you'll have realised we're highlighting more concepts at Abu Dhabi Marina Mall. Which is because the time-tested lifestyle destination is making its way to the top of the capital's preferred locations for retail, dining and entertainment in an almost 2.0-eque way. I In May last year, we were invited to the newly-opened Beau Restaurant, before chef Akmal Anuar's Goldfish Sushi and Yakitori landed on the mall's ground level in November. Now, we're bringing you the scoop on everything the newly opened NAC has brought to town. A popular concept with Dubai diners and those've lived in, or just been to London, NAC has already begun to be a hit with local diners who enjoy its classy aesthetic, menu of comforting treats and a service team that truly understand hospitality. NAC Abu Dhabi is the kind of spot that's ideal for a session of leisurely afternoon indulgence, or just a weekend catch up or mid-day pick-me-up. Short for North Audley Cantine , the elegant French bistro arrives in the UAE capital from London's Adley Street, by way of Dubai. Menu Their line up of delights is divided into a brunch menu, daytime menu, evening picks, desserts and drinks selections. A quick glance in, we dive into their brunch menu appetite-first, opting for the poached eggs – well done – on avocado toast, with feta and coriander (Dhs72). We experience classic breakfast eat meeting a contemporary favourite in this dish, before adding a salad of kale and cabbage, with pine nuts, golden raisins, and honey zaatar dressing (Dhs72), making for a fabulous mashup on the healthier side of their menu. Images: supplied Daytime menu NAC's daytime menu also comprises small plates with dishes such as torched cauliflower with sea salt and olive oil (Dhs75), chicken sliders with sriracha mayo (Dhs75), and popcorn chicken with spicy mayo (Dhs65), which we opt for. Poke into this dish either as starter, or in between bites of their entrees, for a welcome dash of fried indulgence. Breakfast menu The brilliant breakfast menu includes wagyu truffle burger with Monterrey jack and truffle mayo (Dhs97), which you can order with a plant-based Impossible patty at an added Dhs20, if you wish to go meat-free. Fans of truffle can keep the good times going, with a side of truffled mac and cheese (Dhs79) adding a tantalising 2025 twist to an old classic. Desserts While their breakfast and daytime menu picks are excellent, our personal favourite has to be from their dessert menu. While you might have a hard time picking from selections such as French toast with raspberries and the churros, we had a clear winner in the crushed milk chocolate cookies, topped with malted soft serve ice-cream and a sprinkling of Frosties cereal, a dish that intends to whisk you back to the beloved flavours of childhood mornings, and succeeds emphatically in doing so. Grab an energising cappuccino (Dhs29), iced toasted banana latte (Dhs32), or the blackberry and vanilla latte (Dhs45) and you're looking at a well-rounded meal that takes you on a terrific tour of NAC's winning flavours. What's On verdict: Watch an afternoon go by in a flash as you tuck in to the homely, rich, enjoyable flavours of NAC in Abu Dhabi. NAC Abu Dhabi, Marina Mall, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, Mon to Thurs 10am to 11pm, Fri to Sun 9am to 5pm and 6pm to midnight. Tel: (0)2 681 1708. @nacdubai > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
