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The Hindu
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
How padams and javalis are a reminder of the strong link between art and human emotions
Padams and javalis belong to the world of love poetry — rooted in sringara. They emerged from the temple and court traditions of South India and were central to the Devadasi repertoire. The treatment of sringara in literature goes back as early as the 8th century with Andal's Nachiyar Tirumozhi and has been explored with nuance and depth by composers across centuries — Jayadeva in the 12th, Annamacharya in the 15th, Kshetragna in the 17th, and many others up to the 20th century. When Leela akka (Bharatanatyam exponent Leela Samson) and I decided to come together for a performance that would let us explore the inherent charm of padams and javalis through our respective art forms — music and dance — it became a celebration of literature, movement, rasa and sruti. Over several sessions of discussions, we came up with a line-up of these short poetic pieces for the event, which was held in Bengaluru recently. This article is a result of our mutual artistic exchange and the desire to share it with the larger world. Padams and javalis are subtle verses that have suggestive, nuanced meaning, is how Leela akka succintly puts it. 'At the start, we look for exact meaning — word to word, then sentence by sentence and lastly verse by verse. But along the way you realise that the meaning has to emerge from the context of the situation. There is no explanation that the poet leaves behind as an instruction manual that may guide you. It simply says it as the poet felt it. Two to three hundred years later, it is largely anyone's guess as to what he might have meant. Much is left to one's own interpretation, one's svabhaava or nature and to a sense of aesthetic,' she explains. My own engagement with them has been shaped by a deep respect for their musical appeal. Padams feel meditative. They call for stillness and introspection. Javalis, by contrast, are quicker in emotional turns — lighter and playful. Their difference isn't one of skill, but of tone. A padam breathes slowly, through pause and weight; a javali skips along with perky charm. Language plays a central role in both padam and javali. Telugu flows with soft musicality, while Tamil brings its own emotional cadence. When I learn or perform a padam or javali, I let the emotional resonance of the language, and the melody shape each other. The sahitya offers direction, the raga gives depth. It's a quiet dialogue, not a contest. The emotions in a padam may reflect human love or spiritual yearning. I don't see them as opposites — both feel valid, at times intertwined. Rather than impose meaning, I try to let the raga and text lead me. 'For most artistes', says Leela akka, 'male or female, these compositions beg honest depiction. Not a skewed and twisted tale that was not meant. Being honest and subtle in expression is difficult, for it reveals more than when the situation in the poem is laid bare explicitly, leaving nothing to the imagination.' Unfortunately, these pieces have been sidelined in mainstream Carnatic concerts. Some musicians find the eroticism of the lyrics unsuitable for large audiences, but to me, the literal meaning is just the skeleton — empathy, nuance and abstraction give it life. Sringara, the king of rasas, deserves a more graceful engagement in our culture, not dismissal. Moreover, their melodic richness alone makes padams invaluable for deepening one's grasp of raga and expression. Some others fear the languid pace of padams may not appeal to today's fast-paced, Insta-driven audiences. But the so-called slowness is where micro-emotions unfurl. Stillness, when internalised, becomes charged with quiet intensity, which, if alive in the performer, gets conveyed to the audience without any feverish embellishment. The Dhanammal tradition, especially through T. Brinda, exemplifies what these compositions require of musicians — a malleable voice, breath control and the ability to sustain notes with emotional weight. To sing padams in this style (even in spirit if not exact detail) ornamentation must be gentle and deliberate. One needs to project intense feeling without excessive force. Yes, these are products of their time, but within them, the protagonist's voice (mostly female, but at times, also male) is striking — assertive, desiring, self-aware, vulnerable. Their emotional truth speaks across time, needing no translation. Leela akka beautifully sums it up: 'The biggest takeaway from these forms of composition is sensitising oneself to a superior form of music. When this grows in you as a dancer listening to numerous versions of them by great singers, as also by one's classroom memories of the dance teacher singing them, and all form and standard of expression in between, one ought to have learnt where the truth lies. The truth is finite. It asks you to conform, not lead. It asks for collaboration, not superiority. It requests you to let go perhaps? To dream again and not worry that the composition is winning hands down. It is much larger than you. It is superior in every way to the singer or the dancer. It humbles you and says you may join the journey.' The writer is a Carnatic musician.
Time Out Dubai
06-05-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
Best Business Bay restaurants: 21 spots that are worth the hype
Live in Business Bay and fancy a dinner in your neighbourhood? Or want to experience one of the best restaurants in the city to enjoy a post-work feast? From amazing high-end restaurants to cool and casual budget eateries, Business Bay has all the best dining spots. Here are the best restaurants in the area to book a table at and pronto. Time Out reviews anonymously and pays for its own meals, which means that every restaurant on this list has been tried and tested. No free lunches here. The best restaurants in Business Bay 2025 Askim There's a broad menu at Askim but underpinning everything are the flavours of Turkey and the Levant. Salads are colourful and fragrant (the Askim salad with dried figs, beetroot, pecans, feta, balsamic and orange is almost too good to share), grilled kebabs come perfectly charred, the manakish is thin and generously topped and the pida are huge. You'll have to somehow save space for a dessert – from ice cream, cotton candy to Snickers cake, these are an indulgence not to be swerved here. Sit on the terrace during the cooler months and take your time. Unlicensed. Boulevard Heights, Downtown Dubai, (04 266 7099). Carna Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Carna. This modern steakhouse sits on the 74th floor of the SLS Dubai, meaning the views from the dining room are eye-popping. Not only that, the steaks are excellent too. The brainchild of famed Italian butcher Dario Cecchini, there's a meaty nose-to-tail menu that will appeal to carnivores. Cuts include picanha, tenderloin, striploin, rib-eye and tomahawk. Interiors are plush, views are wow-worthy and the dishes shine, making this not only one of the best restaurants in Business Bay but also one of the best steakhouses in Dubai. Licensed. SLS Dubai, Business Bay, @carnadubai (04 607 0737). Check out our full Carna review here Couqley French Brasserie Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Couqley French Brasserie One of the best – and most affordable – French restaurants in Dubai, Couqley in Business Bay is a delightful spot for a Parisian-style meal. The menu boasts all the French classics – beef tartare, tuna tartare, moules frites and an excellent steak frites, swimming with a glorious signature steak sauce. Veggies are not left out here though, as there's a top-notch cheese plate, as well as pappardelle aux champignons et truffes, burrata salad and one of the tastiest sides in town – grilled Portobello with Parmesan. With plenty of deals and a relaxed vibe, there's a lot to like about Couqley. Licensed. Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, (04 514 9339). Check out our full Couqley French Brasserie review here Em Sherif Café Credit: Em Sherif Café Known in Beirut as one of the most elegant restaurants in the city, Em Sherif comes with lofty expectations. And here in Dubai it lives up to those high hopes. The menu in Dubai is a more casual, home-style experience than the Beirut original, and the food is utterly delicious. Start with creamy hummus and sesame-studded falafel before moving onto cheese pie and a perfectly cooked mixed grill. A charming experience with generous, tasty plates – it's no one wonder Em Sherif is the best Lebanese restaurant in Dubai. Unlicensed. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, (056 577 7900). Check out our full Em Sherif Café review here Fi'lia Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Couqley French Brasserie Looking for a top-notch dinner with panoramic views? Fi'lia is the spot for you. Serving up Italian-leaning Mediterranean dishes, the menu is broken down into three sections: nonna – traditional Italian flavours your grandmother would make, mamma – contemporary twists on a classic, and figlia – a daughter's modern approach to a generational masterpiece. There's also a selection of both classic and special pizzas with margheritas, burrata bresaola and more as well as 'la famiglia' sharing dishes. Set on the 70th floor of the hotel, there are 360-degree views across the city, while indoors is bright and airy with plenty of foliage. Licensed. SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences, Business Bay (04 607 0770). Check out our full Fi'lia review here Günaydin Credit: Günaydin If you're looking for somewhere to eat Turkish food in Souk Al Bahar, Günaydin is the one for you. This fancy Turkish steakhouse has prime views of Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain show, so it's an impressive place to tuck into the tasty grills. Having started life as a butcher's shop in Istanbul, there are plenty of meaty mains to try including steaks and a separate lamb menu. Pick on hot and cold mezze while you ponder which cut you want. Licensed. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, (04 554 0700). Check out our full Günaydin review here Honeycomb Hi-Fi Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Fi'lia. Time Out Dubai's Bar of the Year 2023 is not only the number one place for a brilliant night out, but it also serves some of the best bar food in Dubai. One of the coolest spots in town, Honeycomb Hi-Fi is a hit with music-lovers. With a music listening station, a vinyl record store and a roster of top DJs, it's a popular spot for a hip evening with your friends, with creative mixed drinks, too. When it comes to food, it's an izakaya-style idea so try plates such as chicken karaage, lamb gyoza, garlic prawn udon and stuffed wings. Licensed. Pullman Dubai Downtown, Business Bay, (04 412 6666). Check out our full Honeycomb Hi-Fi review here La Maison Atelier Sucré Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: La Maison Atelier Sucré Love waffles? La Maison Atelier Sucré should be on your list. This Belgian pastry shop specialises in Liège waffles – made with brioche-style dough and sugar pearls that caramelise when baked. A sweet, chewy waffle La Maison does a range of flavours from vanilla to cinnamon, chocolate-filled, pistachio, speculoos, cherry, apple and cinnamon, vanilla custard and pineapple and more. Buy them individually, or splash out for a box of four. Whether you share or not is up to you. Unlicensed. Bay Square, Business Bay, (04 446 9014). Long Teng Seafood Restaurant Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Long Teng Seafood Restaurant Long Teng is renowned for its Chinese seafood dishes, which it does extremely well. Set over several floors in Business Bay, this authentic spot is the go-to when it comes to traditional, fresh seafood dishes. There's also a wide selection of dim sum – from crystal prawn to veg, as well as cute little chick-shaped custard buns. From noodles to stir-fries, there is everything you could want, making it one of the best Chinese restaurants in Dubai. It's so good there's even a location in Time Out Market Dubai. When it comes to the best restaurants in Business Bay, this is a must try. Unlicensed. U-Bora Business Tower, Business Bay, @longtengseafood (04 241 1666). Check out our full Long Teng Seafood Restaurant review here Jun's (Credit: Jun's) Hailed as one of the most creative Asian restaurants in Dubai, Jun's comes from acclaimed chef Kelvin Cheung and proudly serves up 'third culture cooking'. A blend of flavours from around the region, with some North American influences, expect everything from lobster pani puri and red-hot chicken kaarage and waffles through to Jamaican-Chinese lamb neck, jalapeño onion burger and bone marrow shrimp fried rice. And of course, the now infamous rainbow heirloom carrots, the only vegetarian dish we've ever eaten that tastes like actual smoked salmon. Try them, and a heap of other signatures when you're there. Innovative, fun and thoroughly delicious – with top-notch service and Burj Khalifa views to boot. Licensed. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, (04 457 6035). Check out our full Jun's review here Mama'esh Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Mama'esh Mama'esh is one of the best budget restaurants in Dubai and one that we can't get enough of. A Palestinian restaurant that has spread to various locations throughout the city, the food is excellent and authentic wherever you go. For a cute date night or lunch out with the family, head to the Business Bay branch for charming décor and a delightful little terrace. Dig into freshly baked manakish laden with gooey, molten cheese, or Palestinian hummus and spinach fatayer. The breakfast platters are ace, and for traditional Palestinian food, there's no better place in Dubai. Unlicensed. Bayswater Terrace, (600 548 287). Check out our full Mama'esh review here Prime68 Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Prime68 An oldie but still a very goodie – Prime68 is a stalwart on the Dubai dining scene with valid reason. Officially the best steakhouse in Dubai – again – Prime68 not only serves delicious, expertly cooked meat, it also offers some of the best views around. As you'd expect from the name, you'll find this steakhouse on the 68th floor of the JW Marriott Marquis Dubai with stunning skyline views. Inside it's a pretty classic setup in terms of steakhouses, but lifted with modern touches. When it comes to meat, enjoy cuts from all over the world, including a tomahawk if you're in the mood to share. Expertly cooked and full of flavour, meat-eaters will love Prime68. These guys are steak specialists – they know what they're doing and they do it well every time while keeping the prices in the mid-range, and for that, we applaud them. Licensed. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @prime68dxb (04 414 3000). Check out our full Prime68 review here Rang Mahal Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Rang Mahal This smart-casual restaurant at JW Marriott Marquis works well whether you're after a date night or catching up with friends, plus offers plenty of deals throughout the week to draw you in. Dishes span across the country, ranging from Kerala fried chicken to Mangalorean ghee roast prawns to Punjabi lamb, so whatever you're in the mood for all bases are covered here. Licensed. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @rangmahaldubai (04 414 3000). Check out our full Rang Mahal review here ROKA Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: ROKA The sister restaurant of Zuma, from chef Rainer Becker, ROKA is focused more on robata than sushi, though you'll find plenty of both on the menu at this Japanese restaurant in Dubai's Business Bay. With a terrace boasting Burj Khalifa views and a bar serving trendy Japanese-inspired mixed drinks, it's also a popular spot for drinks and bites for those who aren't in the mood for a full meal. Dig into a selection of robata and you'll be a happy diner. Licensed. The Opus by OMNIYAT, Business Bay, (04 439 7171). Check out our full ROKA review here Salmon Guru Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit;: Salmon Guru. Born in Madrid, Salmon Guru is a quirky, fun-loving bar that has more than a hint of the eccentric. Alongside neon signage, creative drinks in unusual vessels and banging beats, there's also some of the best bar food in Dubai. With funky fusion plates such as carpaccio, bao tacos, croquettes and fried oysters, it's a menu as eclectic as the décor and drinks. Coming from world-famous mixologist Diego Cabrera, Salmon Guru is also Time Out Dubai's Best Mixed Drinks Bar 2023, so order a beverage alongside your snacks. Opus by Omniyat, Business Bay, @salmongurudubai (052 814 9537). Check out our full Salmon Guru review here Soul Kitchen Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Soul Kitchen A Beiruti-born restaurant found in Business Bay, Soul Kitchen is not only a Middle Eastern restaurant, it's also a bar that has a top roster of live music. Ideal for an entire night out, the vibe is buzzing and the venue is a popular spot late into the night. The menu boasts a mix of Levantine and Latin American cuisine – with dishes such as crudo, ceviche and guacamole neighbouring sambousek, arayes and meaty grills. Licensed. Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Waterfront, Business Bay, (04 836 0900). Check out our full Soul Kitchen review here Tàn Chá Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Tàn Chá Tàn Chá – which translates as 'to explore' in Mandarin has quickly become a must-visit restaurant for Chinese food in Dubai. This lively moodily-lit venue also has a cool, clubby atmosphere about it that makes it a great spot for a Saturday night, while its menu comprises plenty of fan favourites including wasabi prawns, soft shell crab, and a rather extra Peking duck which we suggest enjoying out on the terrace. Licensed. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, (056 681 8881). Check out our full Tàn Chá review here Tang Town Credit: Tang Town With a menu steeped in the thousand-year-old culture of the Tang Dynasty, Tang Town takes its Chinese seafood seriously. An abundant selection of live seafood draws in the connoisseur, with organic fish head served 12 different ways, various cooking methods for baby lobster – from simply steamed with garlic to baked with chicken broth and cheese – and a marinated jellyfish head salad that wobbles delicately as its served. An exceptional new addition to Dubai's Chinese dining scene, with the Tang roasted peking duck with caviar rivalling the best in town. Licensed. Dubai Mall Fountain Views, Downtown Dubai @tangtown_dubai (04 431 2888). The Eloquent Elephant Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: The Eloquent Elephant Known for its decent selection of craft hops, elegant-yet-homely gastropub The Eloquent Elephant has cool, industrial-style interiors and a small outside terrace for when the weather is cooler. With quiz nights, brunches and more, there's lots to draw you in. Once there it's time to check out the brilliant pub food menu, which stars burgers, curries, bangers and mash and proper British puds like sticky toffee pudding and pineapple upside cake. Dubai, Business Bay, (04 438 3100). Check out our full The Eloquent Elephant review here Thiptara Credit: Thiptara If you're after a wow-worthy date night location in Dubai, Thiptara ticks all the boxes with its modern décor and utterly gorgeous location, right at the foot of Burj Khalifa. You're so close to the Dubai Fountain show that you're practically in it. The food is decent too, all the familiar dishes are on the menu, though the prime location demands higher prices. A top choice for special occasions or to impress visitors, you won't forget Thiptara in a while. Licensed. Palace Hotel Downtown, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, @thiptaradubai (04 428 7961). Check out our full Thiptara review here Tong Thai Best restaurants in Business Bay. Credit: Tong Thai This swanky restaurant at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai serves high-end Thai food and is a longstanding spot that's popular with lovers of Thai food. The restaurant itself is a cavernous space, with moody red lighting, hanging lanterns and swish interior design. The menu is also suitably high-end, with all the classics present and correct, but given an upmarket touch. You can choose your spice levels and dishes are indulgent – they're also large so order a few to share and get stuck in. One of the best Thai restaurants in Dubai for many a year, with no signs of fading yet. Licensed. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, Business Bay, @tongthaidubai (04 414 3000). Check out our full Tong Thai review here Need a reservation in the meantime? New restaurants in Dubai that you need to visit right now From casual eats to fine dining, there's bound to be a new venue you'll want to try These are Dubai's best restaurants: 85 incredible places to dine in 2024 All the winners of the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2024 25 of the best restaurants in DIFC: Reservations you have to make now Tried, tested and highly rated restaurants to try in Dubai's financial district
Time Out Dubai
24-04-2025
- Time Out Dubai
Carna Dubai in Dubai
It's the side to your steak you didn't realise you needed – a story. And this one dates back to 1976 in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Italy. Let us set the scene for you. Legendary butcher Dario Cecchini takes over his family's business with a noble mission – to uphold the art of butchery, crafting a properly cooked piece of meat every time whilst eliminating waste and promoting sustainability. Dishes jam-packed with flavour coupled with minimum carbon footprint? We're in. So, where does sparkly Dubai come into this? In May 2021, Cecchini opened Carna by Dario Cecchini, a European Contemporary Steakhouse, on the 74th floor of the SLS Hotel overing Business Bay and beyond. Tapping into the foundation of the family business's early days, it adds in that Dubai twist the right way – with elegance, pizzazz and drama. (Credit: Carna Dubai) From the second you enter, it all delivers. The lift zips you up the SLS's lift before arriving to a lounge-like foyer, where you're greeted by a pleasant host before weaving through an lantern-lit hallway before walking through a plush curtain. It feels exclusive and special. You'll be happy you adhered to the smart elegant dress code. Step inside the main dining room and you'll thank yourself even more. With chandeliers lined the room, forest green wall ties, statement artwork and sky-high windows, it's all very fabulous. But better yet, a tree placed in the middle of the room offers. Once you're done admiring the tree, look outside. The illuminated wheel at JBR and Burj Al Arab steal your attention – they're crystal clear. Take your seats at a white linen-covered tables, complete with table lamps. There are hints of art deco, a welcome contrast from the typical dark steakhouses. It's giving vibrant yet cosy. When ordering we take the lead from our friendly and attentive server. First up is Dario's beef tartare for a starter, prepared tableside to expose the aromatic elements, from special salt to herbs and spices. It's one of those Instagram moments, but in the best way. Have no shame in filming as the dish is whipped up before your eyes. (Credit: Carna Dubai) Burrata arrives at the same time, with shaved zucchini, piquillo pepper, espelette oil, eggplant caviar and toasted sunflower seeds. It's an unexpected yet fantastic combination. Chicken liver parmentier, oxtail croquettes and a candy tomato salad, with watermelon radish black olives and bergamot vinaigrette, are all on the list, making for a strong start to the evening. But onto the main event. Few go to a steakhouse and not order the steak. The server elaborates on the different cuts with ease, from the leanness of the tenderloin, an Australian black angus long fed filet steak weighing in at 200g, to the marbling of the 250g Australian wagyu flank steak. Both grace our table, with pristine presentation. If you really want to splurge, opt for the 420g rib-eye, but beware, it will set you back Dhs495. These don't come with sides, but make sure to add them to your order. Opt for cremed spinach and whipped smoked potatoes to complete your sizzling meal. Every last morsel went down a treat. The requested 'medium' was aced, the staff was knowledge and seemed to mind read (water top ups at the ready). Talk about service. We guarantee you'll be in the best kind of food coma. And if that's not the best bedtime story, we don't know what is.
Gulf News
10-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
Ultimate Dubai Valentine's Day 2025 restaurant guide
Supplied Looking for the perfect place to celebrate love this Valentine's Day? Dubai offers an array of romantic dining experiences, from sky-high fine dining to beachfront escapes. Whether you're after an intimate candlelit dinner or a glamorous night out, here are the most exquisite spots to consider for February 14. Carna at SLS Dubai A must-visit for steak lovers, Carna by Dario Cecchini presents a four-course Valentine's menu featuring the finest cuts of beef, expertly aged and prepared to perfection. Complemented by an elegant selection of side dishes and indulgent desserts, this experience is set against the restaurant's dramatic interiors, with floor-to-ceiling views of the city skyline. Adding to the ambiance, a live jazz performance will set the tone for an intimate yet lively evening. Riviera at The Lana, Dorchester Collection For those looking for timeless romance, Riviera by Jean Imbert offers an elegant candlelit setting with breathtaking views of the marina. Guests can choose from three exclusive Valentine's packages, including a non-alcoholic menu, a classic gourmet experience, and a luxurious package featuring Veuve Clicquot champagne. Live piano music adds a sophisticated touch, making this one of Dubai's most enchanting spots for a love-filled evening. Maison de la Plage For a serene beachfront escape, Maison de la Plage offers a five-course candlelit dinner featuring fresh seafood, premium meats, and artisanal desserts. The soft glow of fairy lights and the gentle sound of waves create an intimate and dreamy setting - perfect for couples who want to dine under the stars. Bar des Prés For a chic, elevated dining experience, Bar des Prés delivers an exquisite five-course Valentine's menu, featuring Toro Tuna Tartare, Wagyu Beef Tataki, and Seared Scallops with Yuzu Sauce. The Love Potion cocktail, infused with rose water and champagne, adds a romantic touch. Set 51 floors above the city, this stylish destination offers breathtaking views of Dubai's skyline, with a resident DJ spinning sultry beats throughout the evening. La Niña For a passionate and vibrant Valentine's dinner, La Niña serves up a Latin-inspired tasting menu featuring Lobster Paella, Truffle Croquettes, and Dulce de Leche desserts. The intimate, moody interiors and flickering candlelight create an unforgettable atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking warmth and excitement. Burj Khalifa Celebrate love at Burj Khalifa, the world's highest restaurant, where panoramic city views set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Enjoy a seven-course gourmet menu featuring caviar, foie gras, and premium meats, expertly crafted for a luxurious dining experience. Paired with fine wines and champagne, each dish is designed to impress. With impeccable service, soft lighting, and live classical melodies, this is Valentine's romance at its peak. Sexy Fish For a playful yet extravagant evening, Sexy Fish presents a Japanese-inspired Valentine's menu, featuring luxurious sushi platters, wagyu dishes, and a decadent chocolate fondant. Expect live entertainment, artistic cocktails, and a buzzing atmosphere in one of Dubai's most glamorous venues. Bâoli Dubai For a unforgettably beautiful and mysterious Valentine's celebration, Bâoli offers a fusion of Asian and Mediterranean flavors, with Black Cod Miso, Wagyu Robata, and a Champagne Mille-Feuille dessert. The evening continues with a resident DJ and a glamorous crowd, making it perfect for couples who want to celebrate in style. Sushiyaki For an authentic Japanese experience, Sushiyaki offers an omakase-style dinner, featuring the freshest sashimi, signature maki rolls, and sake pairings. The intimate setting is perfect for a quiet yet indulgent Valentine's dinner. DREAM Dinner Show From February 12th to 16th, the DREAM Dinner Show will be transformed into a romantic wonderland. On Valentine's Day itself, indulge in a specially curated set menu while enjoying captivating performances, creating the perfect ambiance for an unforgettable evening of love. DRIFT Dubai For the first time, DRIFT Sea Lounge invites guests to enjoy a romantic beachside dinner with rose decorations and stunning Dubai Marina views. Indulge in the Sea Lounge menu featuring signature dishes like Sea Bass Ceviche and Valentine's specials such as Caviar Tortellini and Truffle Lobster. The evening includes a complimentary glass of champagne on arrival, and live music. One&Only The Palm This Valentine's Day, One&Only The Palm unveils a once-in-a-lifetime experience for couples looking to indulge in romance at its finest. Begin with a private boat arrival or chauffeur-driven limousine, followed by an intimate eight-course dinner at Safina, curated by two-Michelin-starred Chef Yannick Alléno. After dinner, retreat to the Grand Palm Suite for a romantic overnight stay, then unwind with a couples' massage at the Guerlain Spa. A once-in-a-lifetime experience. Sign up for the Daily Briefing Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
FACT
07-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Fall in love with SLS Dubai's romantic deals on Valentine's Day
As the season of love approaches, the five-star SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences invites couples and loved ones to embark on a journey of romance and luxury. Located in Business Bay, the sky-high property promises live entertainment and indulgent dining, which will set hearts racing on Valentine's Day and the month ahead. Candlelight, clouds and Carna. SLS Dubai's contemporary steakhouse invites couples and loved ones to bask in the romantic restaurant. Located on the 74th floor, it offers amazing views over Dubai and a singer setting the tone. The set menu features Gillardeau Oysters N4, Endive Salad, Roast Beef and Baked Cheese Phyllo. Plus, Rib Eye on Bone, Spinach Caramelle Pasta, Cuore di Cioccolato, and Frozen Rose with Lychee cloud, raspberries and lime. The experience is available on 14 February from 8pm to 11pm. AED 750 per person, and AED 1,500 per couple. GO: Call 04 607 0737 or email for reservations. Make your Valentine's Day extra sweet by heading to EllaMia. Whether you're with your other half, family or friends, the delectable home-baked creations let them know you're thinking of them. Add a touch of sweetness to the day with pretty pastries available on Valentine's Day from AED 45. GO: Call 04 607 0737 or email for reservations. This Valentine's Day, guests can celebrate amore in a romantic setting. Fall in love with Italian flavours and breathtaking views. Located on the 70th floor of SLS Dubai, Fi'lia offers an elegant, inviting ambience, which is perfect for creating meaningful moments. The Valentine's sharing menu includes Patate Croccanti e Salumi d'Anatra, a delicate pairing of dry-aged duck breast; crispy potato millefeuille and Oscietra Caviar; and Spaghetti alla Vongole, made with fresh pasta, carpet shell clams and white wine. End the evening, indulgent Falling in Love with Choux. If you come from 8pm onwards, there will be a violinist and saxophonist. The menu is available on 14 February. AED 495 per person minimum spend is applicable for outdoor bookings, and no minimum spend is needed for indoor bookings. GO: Visit for reservations. Guests are invited to celebrate Valentine's Day with a special set menu at the Lounge in Privilege. Located on SLS Dubai's 75th floor, it offers breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa, and a roaming singer serenading you under the stars. Couples and friends can indulge in a three-course set menu. Bites include Chicken and Mushroom Flatbread, Mini Hotdog, and Duck Gyoza. The experience is available on 14 February from 8pm to midnight. AED 275 set menu with one glass of bubbly. GO: Call 04 607 0770 or email for reservations. Couples are invited to indulge in a romantic afternoon tea. The experience takes place at S Bar on the 71st floor. Guests can enjoy sweet and savoury treats, two welcome drinks, two hot beverages and dazzling views of Dubai's skyline. On the 14 February, music will pull on your heartstrings as you'll be serenaded with the sounds of a live violinist. The experience is available from 11 to 14 February from 3pm to 7pm. AED 249 per person inclusive of two arrival beverages and two hot beverages. GO: Call 04 607 0737 or email for reservations. Valentine's Day isn't just for couples. With Single Ladies Night on 14 February, guests can celebrate friendship and self-love. Taking place on the 71st floor of S Bar, girls can gather for a night of laughter, connection and love. Enjoy three drinks, live entertainment with a singer and DJ, and cool vibes for the special occasion. The drinks menu features cocktails, white and red grapes, and Prosecco. The Singles Ladies Night is available on 14 February from 8pm to midnight. AED 125 per person inclusive of three drinks. GO: Call 04 607 0737 or email for reservations. Enter the warm glow of Smoke & Mirrors. Located on the 74th floor, it is a sultry place to celebrate the season of love. Against the backdrop of Dubai's glistening skyline and the sounds of a DJ, guests can indulge in a selection of bubbles, paired with exquisite desserts designed exclusively for this special occasion. Dig into decadent chocolate creations, which perfectly complement the sparkling beverages. The experience runs from10 to 16 February from 9pm. AED 149 for two glasses of sparkling and dessert, and AED 349 for a bottle of sparkling and dessert. GO: Call 04 607 0757 or email for reservations.
