Latest news with #Nicoise
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Tacoma cocktail bar known for gin has closed for good. ‘Just time to move on'
Gilman House Room 428, a gin-focused cocktail bar that moved into a smaller speakeasy-style space last year, closed permanently after service on May 24. Its sister bar, tiki haven Devil's Reef, isn't going anywhere, confirmed co-owner Jason Alexander in a phone call on Tuesday. In fact, they just renewed that lease, he said. The story was different at Room 428 in the Stadium District. He and his wife Robyn Alexander originally took over the corner storefront at 12 N. Tacoma Ave. in early 2020. That first edition of Gilman House, which opened later that year amid pandemic limitations, garnered a positive reputation for its veg-friendly fare, top-notch cocktails and, somewhat inadvertently, as a brunch hot spot. In a sense, it became more of a restaurant than the bar-with-food they had intended to offer. Eventually, the now-owners of The Powder Room Champagne Bar approached them about taking over the space. They arranged a sub-lease agreement with the Alexanders and a kitchen-sharing setup, allowing Gilman House to downsize into the more intimate cocktail lounge through a separate entrance. But as the lease came up for renewal this year, said Alexander, they decided it was 'just time to move on.' 'It ran its five-year course,' he continued. 'We were happy. We had a good time there, learned a lot about building out, running two different spots in one space. It was a really good learning opportunity.' Business was decent, he said, but the neighborhood often seemed sleepier than a cocktail bar needs to really thrive. Their staff of about five people were informed prior to the closure and left on good terms, according to Alexander. Some had personal pursuits while others had a job lined up. The closure won't impact The Powder Room, confirmed co-owner Cameron Gilmore in an email this week. 'I am in the process of negotiating my own lease agreement for the space now,' she said Thursday. 'We plan to stay put.' That's a silver lining for the Stadium District, which in May lost daytime stalwart Art House Cafe and Moshi Ramen Bar, where new owners are planning another concept. Technically with the address of 8 N. Tacoma Ave., Gilman House Room 428 debuted in June 2024. Alexander described it as 'a dark, shadow-filled experience with no windows and no doors and maybe you'll escape and maybe you won't,' in a nod to the H.P. Lovecraft stories that inspired both this bar and Devil's Reef in Opera Alley. (That description defies the original corner space, which has lots of windows.) Like all of the Alexanders' bars over 15-plus years in Tacoma, the new one was built from the ground up, featuring custom booths adorned with pillows and furs, dim lighting and a sensation that you had tucked into a discrete haunt down a dark alley in an 18th-century port town. They shared a kitchen with The Powder Room, serving drink-friendly food with a vegetarian bent: roasted veggies with housemade hummus, salade Nicoise, a portobello burger and pudding pots. Cocktails have long been the focus for Alexander, though, and Room 428 was no exception. Some, such as the Serranian Sling (gin, cassis, spices and citrus), can still be relished at Devil's Reef. ▪ 706 Opera Alley (Court C), Tacoma, ▪ Wednesday-Thursday 5-10 p.m., Friday-Saturday 5 p.m.-12 a.m. ▪ Details: tiki bar open since 2018 serves some Gilman House cocktails but focuses on carefully concocted rum drinks
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Ludo Lefebvre Names His Top L.A. Mexican Haunts
Classically-trained French chef Lefebvre started a pop-up craze in L.A. in 2010, when he launched his fried chicken concept, 'LudoTruck' — which became his first brick-and-mortar location, LudoBird at the Staples Center. In 2013, he debuted the 24-seat tasting menu hot spot Trois Mec in Hollywood with Vinny Dotolo and John Shook; and in 2014, he opened popular French bistro, Petit Trois, next door. A Michelin star and James Beard Award nom followed — as did a second location of Petit Trois, in Sherman Oaks, in 2018. Last summer, the famed chef and TV personality partnered with the Delphine Day Club at Costa Palmas in Los Cabos ( where he serves his Nicoise cuisine to beachgoers over lively DJ beats. In honor of the club's second summer season, chef Ludo names his favorite Mexican dishes in Los Angeles. Table-Side Guacamole Casa Vega 'Casa Vega is a neighborhood icon in the Valley and it's right down the street from Petit Trois in Sherman Oaks. A true classic spot loved by all. It's always busy, the energy is amazing and it's just really fun. It's a MUST to start with the tableside guacamole, and they have one of the best margaritas in town.' $19, 13301 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, MoleGuelaguetza 'Guelaguetza is another classic. Bricia and her family have owned the restaurant, located in the middle of Koreatown, for over 30 years. They focus on Oaxacan food. I always get one of their moles. Sometimes I add chapulines [grasshoppers] to my tacos for a little extra protein. Don't forget to order one of the famous micheladas [cocktails]. Moles start at $22, 3014 W. Olympic Blvd., Harvard Heights, Prawns a la Parrilla Damian 'Damian is from Michelin-starred chef Enrique Olvera, who is really talented. The food here is a modern, refined take on Mexican. It combines ingredients and traditions from Mexico as well as California. Prawns a la Parrilla is one of my favorite dishes: [It's] fresh, light and full of flavor, with perfectly grilled prawns finished with flaky sea salt. $60, 2132 E. 7th St., DTLA,
Khaleej Times
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Sample a starlit Ramadan feast at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection
Ramadan in Dubai is synonymous with grand feasts, warm gatherings, and enchanting settings, and Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection delivers all of that and more with its Grand Starlit Iftar at the Grand Garden Lawn. Nestled in a lush outdoor setting under a twinkling sky, this iftar is a sensory experience that blends authentic Arabian flavours with a touch of elegance. A feast for the senses From the moment you arrive, the ambiance sets the tone, rows of fairy lights, soft traditional music, and the inviting aroma of slow-cooked meats and freshly baked bread. Live cooking stations add an interactive element, allowing guests to watch chefs in action as they prepare fresh dishes on the spot. The appetiser selection is a perfect mix of hot and cold bites. Crisp fattoush, golden kibba akras, and fresh Greek and Nicoise salads offer a refreshing start before the real indulgence begins. An authentic culinary journey The main course lineup is a masterclass in Arabian flavours. The malfouf mahshi, a delicately rolled cabbage stuffed with seasoned rice and meat, is packed with rich spices and slow-cooked to perfection. The kibbeh blaban, simmered in a creamy yogurt sauce, is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with fragrant rice. And, of course, no Ramadan table is complete without ouzi; tender, slow-roasted lamb served on a bed of spiced rice, with crispy nuts adding just the right amount of crunch. For drinks, the selection features traditional Ramadan favourites like jallab and kamar al dein, both of which offer a sweet and refreshing contrast to the meal's bold flavours. A sweet ending under the stars The dessert station is a haven for those with a sweet tooth. From crispy, syrupy baklawa to soft, cheese-filled kunafa and delicate katayef, each bite is a nod to classic Middle Eastern sweets. Served fresh and warm, these desserts are the perfect way to end the meal on a high note. An experience worth indulging in At Dh230 on weekdays and Dh190 on weekends, this iftar is a well-rounded experience that balances quality, ambiance, and tradition. Whether you're gathering with family, reconnecting with friends, or looking for an immersive Ramadan night out, the Grand Starlit Iftar at Habtoor Grand Resort, Autograph Collection is an excellent choice.
Emirates Woman
18-02-2025
- Emirates Woman
30 lavish iftars in Dubai for Ramadan 2025
The Holy Month of Ramadan is only weeks away, with the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar set to begin on or around Saturday March 1. And once Ramadan begins in Dubai, iftar is a lovely opportunity to get together with loved ones for an evening meal, whether you're fasting or not. Here are 30 of the best iftars in Dubai for Ramadan 2025. Enjoy a curated iftar at this gorgeous restaurant from the French Riviera, now found in Dubai at J1 Beach. The meal begins with dates and dried apricots, then sweet potato hummus and Nicoise salad, before opting for an a la carte choice of main, with options including lasagne, African curry, or lemon veal scaloppini. Private cabana dining options are also available from Dhs3,500. J1 Beach, sunset to 9pm, AED350. Tel: (0)4 570 5546. Offering food and hospitality true to its folklore, Al Nafoorah takes guests on a gastronomic journey through the culturally rich Lebanon with a traditional iftar set menu at Jumeirah Al Qasr. The intricate Middle Eastern design accents add to the allure. Jumeirah Al Qasr, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, AED299, AED150 children five to 12 years. Tel: (800) 323 232. Putting an elevated take on the traditional iftar, enjoy a five- or six-course iftar menu at Alizée. At the warm, contemporary restaurant, a five-course menu features a lentil soup, array of starters like stuffed vine leaves and smoky moutabal, then a mixed grill platter and a selection of desserts then an assortment of dates. If you dine by the beach, a six-course menu includes options like Arabic mezze, oriental roasted chicken or seared salmon, followed by desserts like croissant pudding infused with pistachios. Alizée, Banyan Tree Dubai, Bluewaters, sunset to 8pm, AED225 for five-course menu at the restaurant, AED295 for the six-course menu at the pool and beach. Tel: (0)4 556 6466. @alizeedubai Amelia Found at Address Sky View, Amelia's set menu leans into Nikkei cuisine in a unique way during Ramadan. On the culinary front, guests enjoy a menu of sharing starters, a choice of main, and then a choice of two desserts. Meanwhile, Amelia's signature sounds, a mix of melodic and afro house, play throughout the evening. Address Sky View, Downtown Dubai, sunset to 9pm, AED295. Tel: (0)4 328 2805. @ Atlantis, The Palm The quintessential iftar event returns to Atlantis, The Palm's renowned Asateer Tent, this year welcoming a whopping 1,730 guests each night. In addition to the elegant yet modern look and feel of the ambience and décor, diners can enjoy a fusion buffet featuring various theme nights, including international, Arabesque, Khaleeji, Persian, and Turkish cuisine. There are a variety of seating arrangements, including a Royal Majlis, four VIP Majlis areas, as well as booth seating and 120 dining tables. Atlantis, The Palm, sunset to 8.30pm, AED285 (Mon to Thur), AED310 (Fri to Sun). Tel: (0)4 426 0800. @atlantisthepalm Bab Al Shams Desert Resort Arguably one of the most captivating ways to spend Ramadan is with iftar at Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams. Guests experience an authentic Arabian feast alongside mesmerising live performances inspired by the region's rich heritage. As the night unfolds, visitors can meander through a colourful souk, before a very special show commences, which features dancers, musicians, falconers, camel and horse riders to bring the soul of Arabian heritage alive. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, 7pm to 11pm, AED399. Tel: (0)4 809 6194. @babalshamshotel Barfly by Buddha-Bar With its rooftop terrace overlooking Dubai Marina and the stretching JBR skyline, Barfly by Buddha Bar is a scenic spot for iftar. The menu promises dishes that lace Middle Eastern influences into the pan-Asian menu, featuring options like prawn tempura, lamb tsukune skewers, josper seabass and slow-cooked lamb leg. For dessert, choose either date pudding or Um Ali. Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Palm West Beach, sunset to 10pm, AED250. Tel: (0)4 230 0073. @barflydubai CÉ LA VI Designed exclusively for groups of 30 and above, CÉ LA VI puts its pan-Asian cuisine into a menu of sharing-style plates perfect for sharing with colleagues and friends. Begin with date and roasted mushroom soup, a choice of burrata or shrimp tempura, then main course options of baby chicken or the restaurant's signature black truffle risotto with sushi rice. The set menu concludes with Persian delight or mango basil tart. CÉ LA VI, Address Sky View, sunset onwards, AED290, groups of 30 and above. Tel: (0)4 582 6111. COYA Dubai Peruvian hotspot COYA Dubai hosts a delectable four-course meal for iftar 2025, which includes dates and guacamole, soups, a selection of appetisers, one main course (it has to be the Chilean sea bass for us), and a pistachio baklava for dessert. Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort, Jumeirah Beach Rd, sunset to 9pm, AED245. Tel: (0)4 316 9600.@coyadubai CQ French Brasserie Formerly Couqley, this cosy French brasserie in JLT serves up a two-course menu for a great value AED169. The menu features a selection of starters, from onion soup gratinée to Harisa cauliflower, alongside mains like steak frites, wild mushroom risotto, and more, paired with dates and a bottle of water for two. Guests can complete their meal with a dessert for an additional Dhs30, choosing from crème brûlée, pain perdu, and more. Mövenpick Hotel, Cluster A, JLT, from sunset, AED169. Tel: (0)4 514 9339. @cqbrasserie Drift Dubai This chic ode to the French Riviera unveils its first Ramadan Majlis at the beautiful Sea Lounge. Set against the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf, this Majlis by the sea is ornate lanterns and plush seating, creating a warm and inviting space for a sharing-style iftar. Expect Arabic twists on traditional French dishes. One&Only Royal Mirage, Al Sufouh, from sunset, AED245. Tel: (0)4 315 2200. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Numâ at FIVE Palm Jumeirah invites you to a luxurious iftar experience, where classic Arabic flavours meet bold international twists. Under a beautifully adorned pergola, savour a lavish buffet of mezze, live cooking stations and indulgent desserts. Guests can also enjoy shisha in a relaxed lounge setting, with a modern Arabic soundtrack enhancing the ambience. FIVE Palm Jumeirah, 6.30pm to 10.30pm, AED215, AED125 children aged six to 12 (Sun to Thurs) AED255 adults, AED165 children aged six to 12 (Fri and Sat). Tel: (0)4 455 9989. @fivepalmjumeirah Four Seasons Resort Dubai Recreating the grandeur of historic gatherings that defined Islamic culture through time, The Majlis at Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is a beautiful Ramadan pop-up that will serve iftar and suhoor daily in the resort's event garden. Laced with a contemporary touch, dine under the warm lights of this grand open-air majlis, on a buffet featuring dishes like lentil soup, crispy kibbeh and smoky baba ghanoush to start, followed by options like lamb ouzi and the barbecue mixed grill. For dessert, an indulgent spread concludes the evening on a sweet note. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, sunset to 9pm, AED410. Tel: (0)4 270 7777. @fsdubai The Guild In the grand dining room of this elegant DIFC brasserie, the elevated European menu you know and love The Guild for gets a Middle Eastern twist for iftar. Beginning with Medjool dates, it follows up with a choice of slow-cooked lamb shoulder, braised beef chuck or chicken rotisserie, and ends with a saffron milk cake or sticky toffee date pudding. ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, sunset to 9pm, AED295. Tel: (0)4 321 9142. Hai Ramadan Expo City's Ramadan experience is one of the city's most memorable, complete with vibrant markets and cultural activities that really immerse visitors in the meaning of this special month. For iftar, dine under the dome's beautiful projections on communal tables that encourage social moments, or book an exclusive iftar cabin for up to 10 for an additional AED250 booking fee. Expo City Dubai, open 5pm to 1am, iftar served sunset to 9pm, AED260, AED190 children aged four to 11. @expocitydubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel Returning this year is the stunning Ramadan Garden at Jumeirah Beach Hotel overlooking scenic views of the Arabian Gulf and iconic Burj Al Arab. Discover an array of live stations serving up mouth-watering dishes inspired by the traditions of the Middle East, further elevated with traditional tunes from the live qanun and oud player. There's a dedicated kids' area too. Jumeirah Beach Hotel, 6.30pm to 8.30pm, AED310, AED155 children aged four to 11. Tel: (800) 323 232. La Petite Maison Dubai For a most luxurious iftar experience, make your way to the home of French Mediterranean cuisine, La Petite Maison Dubai. The menu begins with dates and a weekly changing soup, then continues with plates designed to share, like signature dishes of crispy squid, kale salad and quinoa salad. For mains, opt for your own or share options like the ricotta ravioli or stone sea bass with grilled fennel and tomatoes. To conclude, try LPM's new desserts for the season, including the coffee éclair or pistachio cake. Alongside iftar, LPM has curated a menu of non-alcoholic cocktails with Lyre's, for a refreshing Ramadan sip. Gate Village 8, DIFC, 6pm to 8pm, AED270. Tel: (0)4 439 0505. @lpmdubai The Lighthouse Break your fast with a three-course iftar menu. It features starters such as lentil salad with pickled vegetables and baked feta with Cretan honey, mains including harissa crusted seabass or pistachio pesto linguini, and desserts like logaimat with brown butter ice cream. Dubai Hills Business Park, sunset to 12am, AED190. Tel: (0)4 557 6731. The Majlis at DWTC A grand Ramadan Majlis popular with corporate bookings, The Majlist at DWTC provides a traditional setting with lots of seating options for one of the city's most opulent and extensive iftar buffets. While much of the spread pays homage to Middle Eastern classics, you'll also find an Oriental corner and an Indian corner. Soft oriental melodies from live oud players add to the authentic ambience. Dubai World Trade Centre, sunset to 8.30pm, AED235, AED115 children aged six to 12. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai The Majlis by Mandarin Oriental promises a refined and elevated ambience with warm interiors and a terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf. As dusk falls, guests can enjoy an exceptional Iftar featuring Middle Eastern favourites and signature dishes from Netsu and Tasca, accompanied by live oud and qanun melodies. Whether indoors or by the sea, it's a perfect setting to embrace the spirit of Ramadan with loved ones. Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai, sunset to 9pm, AED385, AED198 children aged four to 11. Tel: (0)4 777 2223. Mimi Kakushi The iftar set menu at Mimi Kakushi is an invitation to discover a curated set menu of Japanese flavours with a modern twist. Think edamame hummus with grilled kiri mocha, a chef's selection of nigiri, chicken wings with citrus salt, and beef short ribs with baby gem. For dessert, a date Mont Blanc is a seasonally-influenced sweet note. Four Seasons Restaurant Village, Jumeirah, 6pm to 8pm, AED290. Tel: (0)4 379 4811. @mimikakushi MiMi Mei Fair Chic and feminine interiors, upscale Chinese cuisine, and a lovely alfresco terrace on the boulevard. That's what you can expect from the first iftar at MiMi Mei Fair. The menu promises options like dim sum platters of vegetarian and seafood options, bao buns, wontons, and a choice of main, then a banana toffee dessert. Address Residences, Opera District, Downtown Dubai, 6pm to 8pm, AED218. Tel: (0)4 570 0825. @ Nara The sand-hued and oh-so-aesthetic Nara Desert Camp takes on a special 'Ramadan Nights' theme for the Holy Month. The camp transforms into an ode to a traditional Arabian spice market, with guests treated to live food stations serving Middle Eastern classics as well as some international dishes. Plus, all the best bits of the desert camp remain, including camel rides, a falcon show, and live music. After iftar, relax in the lounge with Arabic coffee, and order shisha a la carte. Shuttles to and from Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve are also included. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, sunset to 9pm, AED590, AED250 children aged six to 12. Tel: (0)50 336 7909. The Nice Guy LA Hotspot The Nice Guy's Emirates Towers location serves up a daily iftar through Ramadan. It starts with sharing starters, mains of beef sujuk pizza and roasted salmon, and a pistachio cheesecake for dessert. Ramadan beverages include jallab, Arabic coffee, and vimto. Jumeirah Emirates Towers, DIFC, sunset to 8pm, AED250. Tel: (0)4 276 9888. @theniceguydubai One&Only One Za'abeel Putting a fashionable spin on the traditional Ramadan tent is One&Only One Za'abeel, partnering with Moroccan-French designer Selma Benomar for Dubai's first haute couture-inspired Ramadan experience. Promising an immersion of craftsmanship, culture and connection, this is one Ramadan tent fans of the finer things won't want to miss. One&Only One Za'abeel, Trade Center, 6pm to 9pm, AED295, AED150 children four to 11. Tel: (0)4 666 1617. @ooonezaabeel Raffles The Palm Head to the luxurious Le Jardin in Raffles The Palm for an authentic iftar feast, with indoor seating in the opulent restaurant and tables dotting the terrace by the picturesque gardens. Expect live entertainment from a qanun player elevating the authentic Arabian atmosphere. Raffles The Palm, sunset to 10pm, AED295, AED147.50 children six to 11 years. Tel: (0)4 248 8888. @rafflespalmdubai Ristorante Loren One of the most beautiful Italian restaurants in the city, this first floor culinary hotspot at The Club is a stunning spot where you can dine after sunset while admiring the twinkling skyline views. For iftar, the restaurant presents two four-course set menus, one designed for a single person, and one designed as a sharing menu for two. The Club, Palm West Beach, from sunset, AED300 for one, AED600 for sharing menu for two. Tel: (0)4 557 8293. ROKA Enjoy a Japanese iftar at this buzzy Japanese restaurant at ME Dubai. A sophisticated dining room and leafy alfresco terrace provide the backdrop for a set menu of starters like king crab miso soup, rolls and salad. For mains, choose from sea bream, braised Wagyu cheek or roasted baby chicken, then end with the ever-popular ROKA dessert platter. Prefer to enjoy iftar at home? Order on Deliveroo. ME Dubai, The Opus, Business Bay, 6pm to 9pm, AED195. Tel: (0)4 439 7171. @rokadubaiofficial Rüya Dubai Taking guests on an Anatolian journey this Ramadan, Rüya Dubai serves a sharing style menu by head chef Gökhan Çökelez. Starters include tomato salad with spiced walnuts and cacik, (a refreshing combination of yoghurt, cucumber and mint), while mains offer the opportunity to try Rüya Dubai's signatures, like grilled seabass and lamb cutlets. St Regis Dubai, The Palm, sunset to 8.30pm, AED295. Tel: (0)4 218 0065. @ruyadubai Signor Sassi Enjoy an Italian set menu served family sharing-style at this elevated Italian. It begins with starters of burrata, aubergine parmigiana and Margherita pizzettas, followed by a choice of beef meatballs in tomato sauce or salmon fillet with vegetables caponata, and then a selection of desserts, including the quintessential tiramisu. St Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah, sunset to 7.30pm, AED275. Tel: (0)4 278 4848.
