Latest news with #J1Beach
Khaleej Times
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Restaurant Review: African Queen at J1 Beach is laid-back luxury done right
Upon entering African Queen, one is immediately greeted by Clet, the affable and utterly charming head of security. It's rare to find a doorman whose warmth and charisma could rival the food, but Clet sets the tone for what is, surprisingly, one of the more relaxed and approachable spots in Dubai's glittering J1 Beach scene. A bit of St. Tropez transplanted into the city's most fashionable strip; it might seem like it belongs among the gilded beach clubs of La Mer, yet, African Queen stands apart, notably more humble, effortlessly cool, and with a refreshing sense of ease that many of its flashier neighbours lack. The service is superb and personal. On more than one occasion, I was greeted by staff who, with a gleam of mischief in their eyes, reminisced about previous visits. It could be unnerving if not delivered with such warmth and good humour, but it's this very charm that ensures you keep coming back. They've somehow mastered that rare art of being attentively familiar without feeling intrusive. As the sun sets over the glistening beach, the atmosphere is exactly what you hope for in a Mediterranean-style hangout. The bar is a particularly good place to start: a team of bartenders who need no menu, just a brief description of your whims, will happily concoct whatever your heart desires. Whether perched by the pool or lounging on one of the generously spaced sunbeds, it's all perfectly accompanied by the low hum of chill tunes that seem more like a soundtrack than background noise. The aesthetic is unmistakably colonial chic, with those revolving fans spinning lazily overhead, as if to remind you that relaxation is paramount. The furniture is sophisticated, elegant, yet somehow still homely, like an old Riviera restaurant where the hours stretch on in an endless, sun-drenched afternoon. The menu? Vast. Perhaps a bit daunting, but undeniably promising. We began our culinary adventure with the towering seafood platter — as formidable as it was delicious. Alongside it, a modestly simple kale salad that managed to be far more addictive than it had any right to be, and a side of beef carpaccio that offered just the right amount of indulgence without tipping over into excess. The prawn chimichurri, a dish that could so easily go wrong, was a triumph. Indulgent without being overly rich, it provided the perfect balance to the dover sole — an unexpected, but entirely appropriate choice in this part of the world. The fish was expertly cooked, delicately accompanied by baked potatoes and a cool, creamy sour cream. All told, the main courses exuded that elusive balance of decadence and restraint that defines the very best of coastal dining. Desserts were a bit of an anticlimax, though nothing to turn your nose up at. The sorbet was refreshingly simple and surprisingly reviving, while the pistachio tiramisu — I dare say it's their signature and earned its place on the menu with good reason. Not groundbreaking, but undeniably enjoyable. And so, with the meal complete, it was back to the bar stools for a final round of sundowners, watching the evening unfold as the sun slipped beneath the horizon. African Queen may not be the most show-stopping on J1 Beach, but it's certainly the most effortlessly inviting, and that's no small achievement in a city brimming with glitzy options.
Emirates Woman
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
5 high street hero buys under AED300 to add to cart right now
Fashion by Amy Sessions 3 hours ago If you're in search of that designer look without the designer price, we've scoured the high street for the hero buys you'll immediately want to add to cart. These fail-safe summer staples are perfect for dressing up or down, taking you from balmy summer days in Dubai to the timeless shores of your favourite Euro summer destinations. And best of all, they all set you back less than a leisurely lunch at J1 Beach, with each piece priced at less than Dhs300. Scroll through the gallery below for 5 hero buys from the high street for less than AED300 you'll want to add to cart ASAP. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images:
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Fundamental Hospitality benefits from Dubai's 17% surge in visitors
Fundamental Hospitality, a UAE-born lifestyle & Hospitality powerhouse behind GAIA, Sirene by GAIA, Shanghai Me, La Maison Ani and other celebrated concepts, announced that more than 1,025,000 million guests visited its venues worldwide in the first 4 months of 2025, underscoring the Group's pioneering position in elevated dining and hospitality. At the forefront of this growth is Sirene by GAIA, the world's most successful luxury beach club. Since its launch at J1 Beach, it has welcomed 210,000 customers, each spending an average of six hours on weekends. Demand remains unrivalled, with lunch waitlists topping 3,000 and consistent attendance of around 5,000 guests every Saturday and Sunday. The multi-diverse offer of lunch and dinner to beach to sunset partying takes Dubai beach hospitality to a new level. Sirene has introduced the World to a lifestyle concept that is a lifestyle in itself – a place where, as soon as you step inside, you feel like you're no longer in Dubai. Sirene has shown itself to be the world's most successful beach club, surpassing all expectations and visited by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, superstar Jennifer Lopez, and sports icons Jannick Sinner, Roger Federer and Anthony Joshua. Evgeny Kuzin, Chairman, Fundamental Hospitality, said: 'The surge in footfall and enthusiasm we've witnessed in 2025 is unlike anything I have experienced in my two decades in Dubai. Sirene by GAIA has elevated beach-club culture worldwide, while every one of our concepts—from fine dining to casual eateries—has exceeded expectations. This momentum reinforces our commitment to create dynamic, 'Made-in-Dubai' experiences that resonate globally.' Dubai's Tourism Boom fuelled demand for unique and elevated culinary experiences and in turn welcomed 5.18 million international visitors in Q1 2025, figures from Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) show, a 17 % y-o-y jump, amplifying demand for differentiated F&B experiences. Fundamental Hospitality's expansion strategy readily positions the Group to capture this growing market segment. Fundamental Hospitality's diverse range of brands captured this demand and have all outperformed expectations in the first 5 months of the year. The launch of INA represents another major milestone in what has been an exceptional start to the year for Fundamental Hospitality. Under Kuzin's leadership, the group has dedicated itself to taking experience-driven lifestyle concepts from Dubai to the World. With an ever-growing portfolio of venues and new Made-in-Dubai concepts at its core, Fundamental Hospitality is on track to solidify its position as a world leader in luxury hospitality, bringing the innovation and dynamism of Dubai to the global stage. Fundamental's Expansion plan continues throughout 2025 Shanghai Me London – Opening in July 2025 at The Hilton Park Lane Situated on the 28th floor of the iconic building, this venue will offer unrivalled views of Buckingham Palace, cementing it as London's most exclusive viewpoint restaurant. KIGO Dubai – a 'Made in Dubai' premium authentic Japanese omakase concept exploring centuries of culinary tradition, will open in Four Seasons DIFC, opening in September La Maison Ani Monaco - an elegant eatery and boulangerie that will offer a casual all-day dining experience with signature dishes highlighting both the rustic charm of the French countryside and the elegance of Parisian bistros is set to open this year. La Maison Ani Doha – The renowned Dubai brand begins it's GCC Expansion in Q4 this year Cipriani Dolci Riyadh – After the success of Cipriani Dolci Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Abu Dhabi Marina Mall, Riyadh will welcome Cipriani Dolci in Q3 this year GAIA Abu Dhabi - The Dubai dining institution expands its UAE presence into the countries capital
Arabian Business
19-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai's Fundamental Hospitality reports record AED1 million visitors as tourism surges 17%
UAE-born Fundamental Hospitality has recorded more than 1 million visitors across its global venues in the first four months of 2025, driven by Dubai's tourism boom which saw international arrivals jump 17 per cent year-on-year, the company said on Monday. The city welcomed 5.31 million international visitors in the first quarter of 2025, according to official tourism figures cited by the group, fuelling demand for the company's portfolio of restaurants and entertainment venues. The hospitality company, which operates brands including GAIA, Shanghai Me and La Maison Ani, reported particularly strong performance at Sirene by GAIA, its luxury beach club at J1 Beach, which attracted 210,000 visitors since opening earlier this year – averaging 1,750 guests daily. 'The surge in footfall and enthusiasm we've witnessed in 2025 is unlike anything I have experienced in my two decades in Dubai,' said Evgeny Kuzin, Chairman of Fundamental Hospitality. Sirene by GAIA has become one of the city's most exclusive venues, with lunch waitlists reportedly exceeding 3,000 people and weekend attendance reaching around 5,000 guests, the company said. Notable visitors have included Dubai's Ruler Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid, singer Jennifer Lopez, and sports stars Jannik Sinner, Roger Federer and Anthony Joshua. The group also highlighted the successful April launch of INA, its newest 'Made in Dubai' concept, which it says has 'cemented itself as a culinary hotspot' since opening. Fundamental Hospitality announced an ambitious expansion programme for 2025, with plans to open several new venues including Shanghai Me in London, KIGO in Dubai, La Maison Ani in Monaco and Doha, Cipriani Dolci in Riyadh, and new GAIA restaurants in Miami, Abu Dhabi and Bahrain.
Grazia USA
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Grazia USA
The GRAZIA Guide To Dubai's Most Indulgent Brunches
Photo: Instagram @joudadi Dubai takes brunch to a whole new level—think lavish spreads, free-flowing bubbles, and settings so stunning they belong on your Instagram feed. Whether you're in the mood for a chic Parisian affair, a beachfront escape, or a high-energy feast with live entertainment, we've rounded up the most indulgent brunches in town. Get ready to sip, savor, and soak up the weekend in style. Chouchou – A Taste of the French Riviera Photo: Chouchou If your idea of a perfect Saturday includes lounging by the beach with amazing food and even better vibes, then Chouchou at J1 Beach is calling. This laid-back yet sophisticated brunch brings a touch of the French Riviera to Dubai, with a spread that starts with eggs and starters, followed by indulgent mains and an epic dessert buffet. Oh, and did we mention the live music? With packages starting at Dhs290 for a non-alcoholic experience, Dhs490 for flowing wine, and Dhs790 for champagne and more, this is your weekend escape sorted. Jumeirah Al Qasr – The Brunch of Dreams Photo: Al Qasr Love a little bit of everything? Al Qasr's legendary brunch is a dream come true for food lovers, serving up a mix of European, Asian, and smoky grilled specialities at live cooking stations. All this deliciousness unfolds on the gorgeous Madinat-facing terrace, where the views are just as good as the food. Prices start at Dhs475 for soft drinks, Dhs595 for house beverages, Dhs695 for sparkling, and Dhs795 for the premium experience. Kids between 4 and 11 can join in for Dhs350. The feast runs every Saturday from 1pm to 4pm—come hungry! Nuska Beach – Rosé, Sun & Stunning Views Photo: Supplied Beachside brunching doesn't get much better than this. Over at Nuska Beach, it's all about soaking up the sun, sipping on unlimited rosé, and diving into a family-style feast. For Dhs495 per person, you'll enjoy a cold seafood platter, signature grilled baby chicken, and a selection of decadent desserts—all while taking in stunning Burj Al Arab views. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back afternoon or a long lunch with friends, this is the perfect spot. Available on both Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 3pm. Netsu – Fire, Flavour & Free-Flowing Drinks If you love your brunch with a side of high-energy vibes and bold flavours, Netsu's Saturday brunch is for you. Expect Warayaki Tuna Tataki, Korean Fried Chicken, Salmon Tacos, and premium Australian Wagyu Ribeye, all cooked over an open flame and served in a lively setting with free-flowing drinks. Whether you're a Japanese cuisine connoisseur or just in the mood for something different, this is a brunch worth savouring. The package is Dhs450 per person, including both soft and alcoholic beverages, available every Saturday from 12:30pm to 3:30pm. Josette – Parisian Chic on a Plate Photo: Josette Brunch, but make it fashion. Josette's Saturday brunch is all about Parisian elegance, with a sharing-style menu of freshly baked viennoiseries, decadent breakfast favourites, indulgent entrees, and mouthwatering desserts. With live entertainment and DJs spinning dreamy beats, this is brunch done right. Packages start at Dhs 395 for non-alcoholic, Dhs550 for house beverages, and Dhs750 if you're in the mood for Champagne. Join the fun every Saturday from 12pm to 5pm. Zuma – The Iconic Brunch Experience Photo: Zuma Zuma Dubai's world-famous brunch is the ultimate way to kick off your weekend. From 12pm to 4pm, dive into an epic spread featuring live sushi and robata stations, plus a mouthwatering selection of hot and cold dishes. Think premium sushi, sashimi, and maki rolls, alongside expertly grilled robatayaki favourites—all served up in Zuma's signature buzzing atmosphere. Go for the soft drinks package at Dhs595, keep the drinks flowing with house beverages for Dhs695, or go all out with free-flowing bubbly for Dhs795. Clap – Brunch with a Side of Party Photo: nstagram @clapdxb Clap Dubai is bringing the energy with its Buranchi Brunch, in partnership with Veuve Clicquot. Every Saturday, from 12.30pm to 4pm, Ongaku—the secret music room—turns into a lively Japanese-inspired party with killer food, live entertainment, and endless drinks. Sip on a Premium Champagne & Sake Package (Dhs798) or keep it classic with the Non-Alcoholic & House Package (Dhs598). Not ready to call it a day? Brunch After-Party Packages keep the fun going until 5.30pm. Sucre – A Mediterranean Feast to Remember Photo: Instagram @sucredubai Sucre is bringing all the weekend vibes with its laid-back yet luxe Mediterranean brunch. Every Saturday from 1pm to 4.30pm, indulge in Yellowtail Carpaccio, Braised Beef Tacos, and a Parillada Platter with chimichurri, all paired with perfectly crafted drinks. With live entertainment setting the scene, whether you're soaking up the chic dining hall energy or sipping cocktails at Alma bar, this is where stylish brunch lovers come to eat, drink, and unwind. Go for the non-alcoholic package at Dhs370, enjoy spirits, cocktails, wine, beer, and prosecco for Dhs490, or make it a Champagne moment for Dhs690.
