Latest news with #Prohibition-era
What's On
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- What's On
8 places to experience your favourite travel destinations in the UAE
Jet set, stay put… No flights? No problem. From a Santorini escape to a Broadway night out, we've found global getaways hiding in plain sight for you – right here in the UAE. Here are 8 places to experience your favourite travel destinations in the UAE this summer. Chicago, USA: The Butcher and Still, Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Hotel A Chicago steakhouse in Abu Dhabi? That's exactly what The Butcher & Still delivers – but with the finesse you'd expect from the Four Seasons. As you descend into this Prohibition-era venue, the transformation is instant with a roaring Twenties soundtrack that would make Al Capone nod in approval. The menu is pure Windy City energy – dry-aged beef, Kansas City strip loins, and a wedge salad you'll need two hands to tackle. What really makes the place sing, though, is The Hideaway – a secret underground dining room accessible via a private elevator, that feels like you're entering a gangster's vault. Dimly lit, richly detailed, and effortlessly cool, it's a dining experience that plays the nostalgia card hard – and wins . Dress sharp, order a Manhattan, and let the immersive magic do the rest. @butcherandstill Lima, Peru: COYA Abu Dhabi COYA is what happens when Peruvian soul food, high-end hospitality, and serious swagger converge. This Abu Dhabi outpost of the global COYA brand is one of the city's most vibrant destinations, and it's got the awards to prove it. As soon as you enter, it's a Latin American explosion – colour, sound, spice. The menu includes ceviches, charred anticuchos, perfectly-grilled meats, and cocktails that balance fire and flair (hello, pisco sour). Artworks line the walls, live DJ sets pulse through the evenings, and there's a bar culture here that deserves its own passport. They even have their own playlist – just try not to Shazam everything between bites (we tried – and failed). It's the kind of place you start with dinner and end with dancing, all while feeling like you've stumbled into a chic Lima lounge party. If you can't fly to South America, this might be the next best thing. @coyaabudhabi Cape Town, South Africa: Flamingo Room by tashas Flamingo Room doesn't whisper luxury – it roars it. Located at Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai and The Galleria Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, it's the ultimate ode to African elegance with just the right splash of maximalism. From the oversized animal sculptures to the pink velvet chairs and the gold-leaf finishes, the space is meticulously curated – every surface has a story, every detail a wink to the wild. The menu blends global chic with South African roots. Think king crab tagliatelle, burrata with heirloom tomatoes, and seriously good cocktails that come dressed to impress. And then there's Collective Africa, the in-house concept store that offers everything from curated fashion to décor pieces that make a statement. Come for the Instagram shots, stay for the details, and leave with a shopping bag full of 'souvenirs'. @flamingoroomae New York, USA: Broadway Brasserie & Bar, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental What if Manhattan's theatre district met Middle Eastern opulence? That's exactly the mash-up on offer at Broadway Brasserie & Bar, the glittering, jazz-hands-worthy venue inside the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. From exposed brick and dramatic lighting to actual stage performances in the private dining theatre, it's a place where your dinner comes with a spotlight. The menu fuses classic American and European brasserie favourites, from seared scallops and short ribs to truffled mac and cheese. It's comfort food – but make it couture. The bar plays with cocktail classics (with a Broadway twist, of course), and live entertainment fills the air with Broadway bops and classy cabaret. Whether you're here for a romantic date, a night out, or just to feel a little fabulous, the energy is infectious. Dress up, grab a cocktail called 'The Curtain Call,' and prepare to be entertained from appetiser to encore. @ Santorini, Greece: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat Think you need a Schengen visa for a Greek island fix? Think again. Less than an hour outside Abu Dhabi, off Exit 399, sits one of the most jaw-dropping resort properties in the country: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat. With its blinding white architecture, infinity pools, and Aegean-style serenity, it's the Greek escape you didn't know was just a road trip away. This boutique, adults-only haven has just 22 rooms, each one designed with minimalistic luxury and beach-facing tranquility. Many suites open directly onto the sand, giving you that barefoot-luxury vibe with Arabian Gulf views. The restaurants, Oia and Thalassa, serve Mediterranean fine dining with a UAE twist, while Anantara Spa offers everything from Thai massages to Greek olive oil facials. Time slows down, emails can wait, and sunset comes with a side of serenity. Bucket list-worthy? 100 per cent. @anantarasantorini Bangkok, Thailand: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Hotel A grand hotel with Thai soul, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi delivers a staycation with depth – and a whole lot of décor. From the moment you arrive, a wave of calm rolls over you: orchids everywhere, soothing music, and a signature scent wafting through the lobby that could make even your most stressful day melt away. Rooms are plush, spacious, and drenched in Thai design, but the real reason to visit is Benjarong – their fine-dining Thai restaurant that's a favourite with in-the-know locals. Expect intricately-presented dishes, ingredients flown in from Bangkok, and service that feels like a gentle art form. You'll also want to carve out time for the Namm Spa, which pairs Thai wellness traditions with modern treatments (don't skip the Thai herbal compress massage or the Hammam). It's a tranquil temple to Thai hospitality – no jet lag, just jasmine tea and good vibes. @dusitthaniabudhabi Polynesia: Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts What is Polynesia, anyway? Wikipedia tells us it is 'a subregion of Oceania, made up of over 1,000 islands scattered over the central and southern Pacific Ocean.' And that sounds about right. Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection makes you want to stop and stare the second you get there. Then, you're inclined to hop on a golf cart and take a tour of the sprawling resort, while you take in all of its Polynesian grandeur that's reflected in everything from motifs and design like wooden carvings and lava stone, to natural wood and bamboo materials, as well as an open, almost garden-like layout that will have you flagging down buggies for the fun of it. The theme continues in their restaurants Kalea and Hikina, and ingredients like coconut, pineapple and oceanic fare really up the islander factor here. Great for weddings. @lapitahoteldubai Giza, Egypt: Wafi City, Dubai You can't miss Wafi City – literally. The pyramid-shaped structure looms over the Al Jadaf area of Dubai like a beacon of ancient Egyptian grandeur, complete with towering obelisks, temple-style facades, and wall carvings that pay homage to the dynasties of old. Inside, Wafi City is a bustling hybrid of a shopping centre, hospitality hub, and cultural playground. From fashion boutiques and Egyptian-themed restaurants to the recently-revamped Wafi Gourmet, there's something here for every pharaoh wannabe. There's even a spa offering ancient Egyptian-inspired treatments, because why shouldn't you feel like Cleopatra on a Tuesday? @waficitydubai Provence, France: French Village, Riverland Dubai Tucked inside Riverland Dubai is a whimsical pocket of France that looks like it's been lifted straight out of a storybook. The French Village is designed to mirror 16th century Dijon – cobblestoned paths, crooked alleyways, rustic stone buildings, and all. There's a river running through it, and the entire area is peppered with charming cafes, street performers, boutique shops, and accordion music that feels straight out of a Parisian rom-com. It's ridiculously photogenic, especially during golden hour, and perfect for a slow meander, or a cheese platter. On cooler nights, the whole place comes alive with live acts, markets, and even themed festivals. It's charming, theatrical, and delightfully French – minus the airport queues and exchange rates. It's basically Provence with parking. @riverlanddubai Images: What's On archive With contributions from Laura Coughlin
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
RED PHONE BOOTH'S IMMERSIVE PROHIBITION EXPERIENCE COMING TO DOWNTOWN DURHAM, NC
Luxury 1920s Speakeasy-Style Cocktail Lounge Slated to Open by End of 2025 'With a mayor who's already experienced our concept and a vibrant mix of universities, culture, and tech, Durham offers the ideal backdrop for our immersive Prohibition-era experience.'— Stephen de Haan, founder of Red Phone Booth DURHAM, NC, UNITED STATES, May 28, 2025 / / -- Red Phone Booth, an award-winning 1920s Prohibition Experience, is proud to announce their expansion location coming to Downtown Durham, North Carolina by the end of 2025. This marks the seventh location nationwide, the first in North Carolina, for the exclusive cocktail and cigar lounge brand. Known for its sophisticated ambiance, rare spirits, and speakeasy-style entry through a restored London red phone booth, Red Phone Booth offers an unforgettable escape into a bygone era of the 1920s. The Durham location will be locally owned and operated by entrepreneurs Dr. Ralph Mensah and Dr. Michael Thomas, who will bring the refined vision to the community. With existing locations in Atlanta (Downtown and Buckhead), Nashville, Dallas, Miami and the upcoming Tampa venue, Red Phone Booth — under the guidance of its parent company Roaring Franchises — continues its national expansion with a reputation for delivering unmatched guest experiences. Franchisees are supported by a world-class operations team and a proven hospitality model tailored to upscale nightlife. 'Durham's creative energy, walkable downtown and spirit of innovation make it a natural fit for Red Phone Booth,' said Stephen de Haan, founder of Red Phone Booth Hospitality and Roaring Franchises. 'With a mayor who's already experienced our concept and a vibrant mix of universities, culture, and tech, Durham offers the ideal backdrop for our immersive Prohibition-era experience. We're excited to partner with Ralph and Michael, who exemplify our commitment to excellence.' Dr. Ralph Mensah, a biological dentist and managing partner of Premier Holistic Services, brings a hospitality-driven approach shaped by years of business leadership and community engagement. Passionate about wellness and elevated guest experiences, he aims to make Red Phone Booth Durham a refined retreat for connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Dr. Michael Thomas, a holistic dentist and seasoned entrepreneur, offers a discerning palate and appreciation for rare spirits. His commitment to detail, ambiance, and authenticity ensures every guest enjoys a curated, memorable experience steeped in old-world charm. Red Phone Booth raises the bar in luxury nightlife and hospitality, setting the gold standard for craft cocktails, featuring a menu of 400+ premium spirits, including rare bourbon, whiskey, tequila and Japanese whisky. Each drink is crafted using 100% fresh-squeezed juices, double reverse-osmosis ice, made-to-order garnishes, and over a dozen house tinctures and bitters. The venue also hosts exclusive tasting events, offering members the opportunity to explore rare spirits and meet industry experts. Guests will also enjoy a menu of Italian-inspired small plates and freshly made Neapolitan pizzas, perfect for pairing with their cocktails and over 200+ Red Phone Booth locations feature a stunning interior reminiscent of a clandestine hideaway, exquisite design elements, including vintage-inspired décor, plush seating, and dimly lit surroundings, creating an atmosphere that exudes timeless elegance. Each venue features a honey onyx bar, intimate fireplaces, custom Italian leather couches, and a Mafia Room for private events. In addition, you'll find hand-painted ceilings with back lighting by renowned artist Christian Waggoner (Star Wars / Lucas Arts) as well as his fine art throughout the venues. From handcrafted cocktails and VIP experience to vintage décor and discreet entry, Red Phone Booth Durham promises an extraordinary destination for professionals, enthusiasts and anyone seeking an elevated, one-of-a-kind experience. ABOUT RED PHONE BOOTH: Red Phone Booth is an award-winning luxury speakeasy concept that transports guests to the elegance and intrigue of the 1920s Prohibition era. With a hidden entrance through a restored London red phone booth, each location invites members and their guests into a meticulously curated environment featuring vintage-inspired décor, plush leather seating, intimate lighting, and an atmosphere of timeless sophistication. The venue also hosts exclusive tasting events led by top industry experts, offering members unique access to rare spirits and curated pairings. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, Red Phone Booth delivers more than just a night out, it offers an immersive, elevated experience defined by exceptional service, refined ambiance and meticulous attention to detail. Whether relaxing with colleagues or celebrating a special occasion, Red Phone Booth sets the gold standard for modern luxury nightlife. For more information, visit Tresa Halbrooks LEGACY PR [email protected] Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
Yahoo
17-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Fox News Cites Urban Dictionary as Evidence of Comey's Killer Intent
A Fox News host invoked an eyebrow-raising source in making the case that former FBI Director James Comey called for the assassination of President Donald Trump. After Comey posted a photo that showed seashells arranged in the shape of '86 47,' Trump—and many of his supporters—said that the post called for the 47th president's assassination. To bolster the claim, Fox News host Kayleigh McEnany cited an entry for '86″ in an infamous online slang dictionary to which anyone can contribute. 'It's defined in the Urban Dictionary this way,' McEnany said on Friday's edition of Outnumbered, proceeding to read the entry, which says the term means 'to get rid of, originally for killing someone.' '86 is frequently used as a callsign for murdering or getting rid of someone,' concluded McEnany, who served as Trump's press secretary during his first term. 'And you would think the FBI director would know that.' The Urban Dictionary entry—one of more than a dozen definitions for the term on the site—was written by a user under the name Carlos Diaz in 2007. 'The phrase '80 miles out and 6 feet under' was reserved for someone who had to dig their own grave 80 miles from civilization and then get shot execution-style,' it says. 'All terms for 86'd originated from this, be it alcohol or eliminating.' After the outcry, Comey took down the image later on Thursday. 'I posted earlier a picture of some shells I saw today on a beach walk, which I assumed were a political message,' he explained. 'I didn't realize some folks associate those numbers with violence. It never occurred to me but l oppose violence of any kind so I took the post down.' According to Trump, however, the message was obvious. 'He knew what that meant. A child knows what that meant,' Trump said Friday. 'If you're FBI director and don't know what that meant, that meant assassination, and it says it loud and clear.' McEnany agreed with the president, quoting an FBI source who said, 'The former director not knowing what that meant is the least believable thing he has ever said—and that is a low bar.' Merriam Webster defines 86 as 'to throw out,' 'to get rid of,' or 'to refuse service to.' In contrast to Diaz's etymology, it says that the term originated as 1930s food service slang for an item that was out of stock. The dictionary explains that it does not include 'to kill' among its definitions for the term due, in part, to the 'sparseness of use.' Diaz's definition for 86 isn't even the most popular one on Urban Dictionary. The top entry, written in 2005 by a user named Baz, defines the word as 'to remove, end usage, or take something out or away.' It says that the slang originated at Chumley's, a Prohibition-era New York City speakeasy. This origin of the term earned the sign-off of The New Yorker's notoriously fastidious fact-checkers, appearing in a 2016 profile of Chumley's, which was resuscitated that year as a chic restaurant. Comey is reportedly under investigation by the Secret Service for his post. He was originally appointed as FBI director by former President Barack Obama in 2013, remaining in the role until he was fired by Trump in May 2017.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
As Comey social media post triggers a row, what does '86' mean?
Republicans in the US are accusing former FBI director James Comey of calling for violence against President Donald Trump by posting a photo online of sea shells assembled to draw out the numbers 8-6-4-7 on a beach. Trump is the 47th American president, and the phrase "to 86" is a commonly-used restaurant industry term in American-English, meaning "to remove or eject". It is thought to have existed since the 1930s. More recently, the term has taken on another lesser-known meaning - "to kill", according to Merriam-Webster, the oldest publisher of dictionaries in the US. Comey deleted his post, and says he was unaware of the violent interpretation. Trump has disputed that, alleging that Comey was calling for his assassination "loud and clear". Ex-FBI boss Comey investigated over seashell photo The shifting explanations of Comey's 2017 FBI dismissal The term's etymology is not certain, according to Merriam-Webster, but it is widely believed to have originated from soda counter servers in the early 20th Century who would say it to mean that an item had sold out. The most common theory is that the term is rhythming slang for "nix" - meaning "to refuse or reject" - although countless other ideas have been proposed. The term later came to be used as a verb. For example, restaurant workers might tell each other to remove something from the menu by "86ing" it. By the 1950s, it was being used to refer to customers too. Unruly or drunk customers might be thrown out or refused more drinks if they've been "86'ed" by staff. In military or law enforcement jargon, it has also come to mean to eliminate or kill, according to a blog entry by Merriam-Webster. However, the dictionary does not include that meaning in its entry for 86, explaining that this omission is "due to its relative recency and sparseness of use". There are countless other suggestions of how the "86" phrase originated - some of which hint at violence. One legend suggests the phrase began at a Prohibition-era bar in New York where unruly patrons were evicted through the door at 86 Barrow Street. But as St Louis magazine pointed out in 2019, there are at least 86 theories for where the term came from. The US Secret Service and the FBI say they are investigating the post by Comey, who Trump famously fired in 2017. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, the highest-ranking spymaster in the US, called for Comey to be jailed for "issuing a hit" on Trump while he was travelling in the Middle East. Supporters of the former FBI director say his post is probably protected by the First Amendment to the US Constitution - which ensures freedom of speech. For that reason, Comey's post "neither constitutes a true threat nor merits federal investigation", according to a statement by campaign group the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). It has also been pointed out by Democrats that 8646 was also frequently used by critics of former Joe Biden, who was the 46th president. On Amazon, items can be found for sale with imagery displaying both the numbers 8646 and 8647. Also for sale are 8645 items - which could refer to Trump's first term in the White House, when he was the 45th American president.
Associated Press
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Actor Michael Cudlitz to Host Fireside Chats at Luxury Speakeasy, Red Phone Booth, in Atlanta, Dallas and Miami
Exclusive Three-Night Event Series Featuring Rare Meet-and-Greets, Craft Cocktails and Curated Cigars with Star of The Walking Dead and Band of Brothers 'I'm thrilled to share stories, cigars and memorable moments at these special events.'— Michael Cudlitz ATLANTA, GA, UNITED STATES, May 14, 2025 / / -- Red Phone Booth, the acclaimed Prohibition-era speakeasy renowned globally for exceptional craft cocktails and premium experiences, proudly announces an exclusive three-night VIP series with actor, director, and producer Michael Cudlitz, May 20 - 22, 2025. Best known for unforgettable roles in The Walking Dead, Band of Brothers, Southland and Superman & Lois, Cudlitz will personally host intimate fireside chat evenings at three select Red Phone Booth locations: • Tuesday, May 20: Buckhead (Atlanta, GA) • Wednesday, May 21: Brickell (Miami, FL) • Thursday, May 22: The Colony (Dallas, TX) These exclusive, members-only evenings begin with private fireside chats featuring curated cocktails paired with personal behind-the-scenes stories from his remarkable film and television career. At 8:00 p.m. each evening, doors open to the public for rare meet-and-greet opportunities with the acclaimed actor, allowing fans a unique chance to connect with Cudlitz in one of America's most sophisticated speakeasy atmospheres. A longtime patron and enthusiast, Michael Cudlitz became an investor after Red Phone Booth emerged as one of his favorite destinations while filming in Atlanta. He will also appear on the upcoming cover of Cigar Aficionado Magazine. 'Red Phone Booth quickly became one of my favorite places during my time filming The Walking Dead in Atlanta — fantastic people, exceptional cocktails, and an unmatched atmosphere,' said Michael Cudlitz. 'I'm thrilled to share stories, cigars and memorable moments at these special events.' Red Phone Booth sets the industry standard for elegant ambiance, expertly handcrafted cocktails and premium hospitality. Known for exclusive, memorable experiences, these intimate VIP evenings underscore Red Phone Booth's commitment to delivering extraordinary guest experiences in sophisticated settings. 'This is more than a celebrity appearance — it's an intimate, unforgettable evening that offers guests unparalleled access to one of television and film's most respected talents,' said Stephen de Haan, Founder of Red Phone Booth. 'Michael's passion and appreciation for our unique venues create a perfect synergy that elevates these exclusive events.' Red Phone Booth continually strives to exceed guest expectations, focusing on meticulous details from seating comfort and staff expertise to premium air quality, creating a truly exceptional luxury experience. NOTE: This is a 21 and over event. Appropriate dress code will be in effect. Public password at the door for this event will be 'Aficionado.' ABOUT RED PHONE BOOTH: Red Phone Booth is a luxury speakeasy concept featuring an interior reminiscent of an exclusive, clandestine hideaway, with vintage-inspired décor, plush seating, and dimly lit ambiance, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Known for its world-class mixology program curated by expert bartenders, Red Phone Booth boasts an extensive selection of 400+ spirits, including rare bourbon, whiskey, scotch, tequila, and premium Japanese whisky. Exceptional cocktails crafted from 100% fresh-squeezed juices — including lemon, lime, orange, pineapple, and cranberry — complement an extensive collection of 200+ products maintained in a temperature and humidity-controlled walk-in humidor. Access to this unique Prohibition-inspired lounge is through a restored antique London red phone booth, requiring a secret phone number obtained via membership or hotel concierges, offering an unparalleled, memorable experience. For more information about the event and Red Phone Booth's dress code, please visit See full press release here: Tresa Halbrooks LEGACY PR [email protected] Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
