Latest news with #SofitelDubaiDowntown
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
First look review: Brasserie Lutetia does hospitality the French way
Food is comfort. And that's exactly what the bites at the newly-opened Brasserie Lutetia at Sofitel Dubai Downtown serves up. The restaurant, as you enter, is a jovial mix of oranges, greens, and white hugged by counters that are the perfect spot for grand buffets and office meetings (surprisingly). It has three distinct zones, each with its own personality – the central room is lined by monochrome paintings, lending the room the vibe of the outside. And the third area is a swatch of greys and browns, shining with quiet elegance. Attentive wait staff wait in nearby corners, ready to swoop in at a glance and offer the hospitality of a warm French home. Our three-course spread is an ode to the Tyrrhenian Sea, explains chef Sameer Kapoor, who has spent his 30-odd years exploring the flavours of the world only to find that one magic trick: how to make the flavours of a dish sing. It does help that there's an in-house hydroponics farm that allows him the pick of local micro greens but rave about the food – and you will, for even the starter course with its homemade sourdough bread and homemade butter; beef carpaccio; 10-hour cured Hamachi that lies sprawled on a bed of yuzu and passion fruit tea and has differently treated baby beetroot and date hummus; and salted salmon with avocado, cucumber, and dressing, which is a bite of freshness – and the chef just grins. 'It's so simple,' he explains the evening before the official opening of the restaurant (May 2). And so the plan behind it – to bring together a community. We are sitting in the cozy room on one side of the huge restaurant, which is draped in green and smoky glass and gives us a good view of the cars streaking by as we laze and enjoy our meal. The mains are a cacophony of flavours that somehow make sense. There's a chicken with tarragon and a beautiful Bœuf Bourguignon served over a bed of mashed potatoes and cheese. Stay a while and you can dig into dessert: our favourite is a baked Alaska where stiff peaks peek out of a melted chocolate drape with crunchy buttons of what tastes like biscuit. The portions are generous and made to share, the vibe laid back and inviting you to breathe, take it easy and be wrapped up in conversation. It is a place for comfort food, and that's exactly what it provides.
What's On
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
8 new restaurants in Dubai you'll want to try this May
Dubai's always got something new cooking, and May is no exception. This month, there's an exciting lineup of new restaurants in Dubai to explore. From classic French dining to innovative plant-based cuisine, here are 8 new restaurants in Dubai to check out this May. Click through the gallery 3 of 12 The much-loved cafe from Al Quoz has just dropped its second location, this time in the middle of the lush, green oasis that is Al Barari. Think matcha in the garden, French-Japanese flavours with a twist, and a vibe that makes you want to stay way past lunch. Expect the same creativity that made the original a cult favourite, now served with a side of nature. The all-day menu is stacked with hits like the Katsu Beef Burger, Okonomiyaki Omelette, and French Onion Ramen (yes, that's a thing, and yes, you need to try it). There's also a fresh drop of NETTE merch in-store, so you can take a piece of the cafe home with you. Between the breezy garden seating, good coffee, and slow-living energy, this one' definitely worth the drive. NETTE, Al Barari. Tel: (0)4 329 4800. @nettedxb Set inside the gleaming new Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Bombay Club brings a modern twist to Indian dining in Dubai. The space is playful yet polished, with pops of green and orange, rattan textures and bold animal prints setting the tone. Behind the kitchen are chefs Manav Tuli and Kumaran Balaji, drawing on their experience from India to Hong Kong to create a menu that celebrates the vibrant flavours of Western India. Think baked guinea fowl samosas instead of the usual deep-fried triangles, tender Wagyu beef cheeks with mint and cinnamon, and tandoori red snapper that's a standout. It's the kind of place where ordering a little bit of everything feels just right, especially when naan arrives fresh and puffy and the masala basmati rice keeps getting refilled. Outside, the open-air terrace overlooking the marina makes it a strong contender for date nights or laid-back evenings with friends, especially when the weather is playing nice. Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Jumeira St, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai Brasserie Lutetia, now open on the second floor of Sofitel Dubai Downtown, brings a taste of Paris to the city's core. Putting a modern spin on the traditional French brasserie, the space is both stylish and relaxed, serving classic French and Mediterranean dishes with a sustainable twist, thanks to its use of hydroponic farming. From morning croissants to leisurely lunches and evening drinks, Brasserie Lutetia delivers great food, a vibrant vibe, and plenty of charm. Brasserie Lutetia, 2nd Floor, Sofitel Dubai Downtown, breakfast from 6.30am to 10.30am, lunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. INA is here, the highly-anticipated fire-cooking concept at J1 Beach just touched down, and it's bringing the renowned Chef Glen Ballis to Dubai to bring the venue to life. INA will complete the circle of 13 restaurants at J1, a beachfront destination unlike any other in the city. This is the perfect time to open the venture, as guests will be able to enjoy the full potential of the restaurant with outdoor seating built for the winter months, with an open-air retractable roof, from where they will be able to view the industrial-style grill directly, located off of the main dining space. INA, J1 Beach. @ This one's for the pizza lovers. Moon Slice, the cult-favourite pizzeria, just landed in Dubai Mall's new District wing, bringing its signature pizzas with it. Cool, low-key and all about quality. Expect authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, fresh pastas, and more. The District, Dubai Mall. @moonslicepizza Music Loves Company is a cafe by day, bar by night, and a live entertainment hotspot all in one. Expect everything from chilled coffee catch-ups to late-night comedy and gigs, with great food and drinks to match. The vibe is a laid-back, social space where music lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and comedy fans can hang out. Whether you're here for a relaxed afternoon or to catch a live show, the vibe is always lively. The menu features coffee, fresh juices, hearty wraps, colourful salads, and sweet treats like stuffed cookies and banana bread. The cocktail list is fun, with drinks inspired by classic song lyrics. Music Loves Company, Expo City. @wearemlc_ Now open at Dubai Creek Harbour, Kiyoshi brings a sleek yet welcoming spin on contemporary Japanese dining to one of the city's most scenic spots. It's the first homegrown concept by Fuse Holding, blending artisanal touches with bold flavours and a space that shifts effortlessly from day to night. Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai. @ kiyoshidubai Located inside the Al Safa Park Art & Design Library, FORMA is a homegrown concept in Jumeirah that's all about food, design, and culture in one space. the space flows between indoor and outdoor seating, ideal for casual meet-ups or low-key dining. the menu features creative options from bacon pistachio and miso corn pizzas to fried burrata with honey and crispy prawn with samyang dip. Drinks are just as playful, with options like coffee popcorn, hisbiscus watermelon, and a solid matcha lineup. Al Safa Art & Design Library, Jumeirah. @formauae > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time Out Dubai
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Dubai's newest French restaurant is now open – say hello to Brasserie Lutetia
Craving a little slice of Paris right here in Dubai? We surely don't mind some baguettes, cosy wooden chairs and that irresistible je ne sais quoi vibe for our next dinner plan. Brasserie Lutetia, the city's newest – and possibly French-est – dining destination, is now open at Sofitel Dubai Downtown. It's the kind of place you'll want to pencil into your plans immediately. Expect Mediterranean-meets-French dishes, served in a setting so charming you might just linger longer than you meant to. A look inside The space marries the rustic polish of Paris and the cosmopolitan sophistication of Dubai, bringing you one unique dining experience. It's got that lived-in loveliness, with mosaic-tiled floors, vintage mirrors, soft lighting and lush greenery. But probably our favourite part is that the restaurant is segmented by spaces that boast a different vibe. Stop at the sleek bar for a pour. Find a seat at the brasserie-style living setting, which boasts a hydroponic farm within. And then, explore La Terrasse, an outdoor seating area on the fourth-floor terrace featuring a vertical garden, and yes, it smells like Paris in spring. With the air filling up with the scents of fresh herbs and the silver skyline gleaming in the background, it's like Paris and Dubai get along rather well. But for long dinners, we'll suggest settling into the warm main dining room. What's on the menu? No wheel is being reinvented here, but that's the point. The kitchen focuses on fresh, high-quality seasonal ingredients, letting the produce speak for itself. The menu is made of dishes inspired by classic French meals while embracing Mediterranean flavours. By growing greens and herbs on-site in a controlled environment, the farm ensures peak flavour, nutrition and zero food miles. Start with something bright like the yellowtail Tiradito with passion fruit and pickled beetroot, and maybe follow that up with a tender Boeuf Bourguignon or the Josper-roasted carrots dressed up in tahina and Ras el Hanout. If you're leaning indulgent, the Lobster Linguine or the Angus burger with bacon jam should do the trick. Drinks? There's a playful mixed drinks menu inspired by different French regions. The range of desserts tempts you into staying longer (if the interiors don't already do). Don't miss the light-as-air Nuage with coconut ice cream, the rosy elegance of Terre, or the satisfyingly nutty Rocher. They're each quietly brilliant in their own right. Brasserie Lutetia is now open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bon appetit. Ready to be a Parisian for one day only? Make a booking now. Reserve now: Open daily 6.30am-10.30am (breakfast), 12.30pm-3.30pm (lunch), 6.30pm-10.30pm (dinner). Sofitel Dubai Downtown, , (04 503 6122/ 056 996 0582).
What's On
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Why Brasserie Lutetia is Downtown Dubai's new must-visit restaurant
Sponsored: From Paris, with love… Brasserie Lutetia, located on the second floor of Sofitel Dubai Downtown, has arrived, bringing a taste of Paris to the heart of the city. A contemporary spin on the classic French brasserie, this stylish yet laid-back venue serves up timeless French and Mediterranean dishes, all while keeping sustainability at the forefront with its hydroponic farming. Whether you're here for a morning croissant, a midday meal, or evening drinks, Brasserie Lutetia offers a space to enjoy great food, drinks, and a buzzing atmosphere. The setting With sleek interiors and a vibrant central bar, Brasserie Lutetia is the perfect spot for both daytime relaxation and evening energy. The decor channels a modern Parisian brasserie feel, but with a dash of Dubai flair. It's where classic elegance meets urban cool. Hydroponic farm to table What makes Brasserie Lutetia stand out is its commitment to freshness. Thanks to the in-house hydroponic farm, every dish is crafted with ultra-fresh, pesticide-free produce, ensuring your meal is both delicious and sustainable. French-Mediterranean menu Expect French staples like Bœuf Bourguignon, alongside Mediterranean dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients. Each plate is crafted to celebrate the best of both worlds – rich, comforting flavours with a modern edge. The menu is simple, yet thoughtfully curated, and full of character. From breakfast to late-night drinks The venue shifts throughout the day, starting with a calm breakfast service and transitioning into a lively spot for after-work drinks. The central bar is a focal point, inviting you to pull up a seat and stay awhile – whether for a casual drink or an intimate dinner with friends. Live entertainment Brasserie Lutetia's curated entertainment is the cherry on top. As the evening unfolds, live performances bring an added layer of enjoyment, making it more than just a meal out. It's an experience that combines great food with cultural flair. Brasserie Lutetia, 2nd Floor, Sofitel Dubai Downtown, breakfast from 6.30am to 10.30am, lunch from 12.30pm to 3.30pm, dinner from 6.30pm to 10.30pm. Tel: (0)4 503 6122. To book, contact or Book here. Images: Supplied > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time Out Dubai
30-04-2025
- Time Out Dubai
8 spots to kick start your day with a breakfast by the pool
Dreaming of lazy breakfasts by the pool or the beach? With this weather, anything by the water sounds just right. Luckily, in Dubai, there are plenty of ways to kick off your morning. Breakfast floating on the pool, served sky-high at 293 metres, or even following a paddle session. Safe to say, mornings in the city have never looked better. So, we've rounded up the top spots in the city where you can tuck into a delicious breakfast and enjoy pool or beach access. Time to get these on your calendar. Time Out tip: Do book them well in advance as most of these spots do not accept walk-ins. 8 ways to enjoy breakfast by the pool or the beach in Dubai Paramount Hotel Midtown Here, you can breakfast in full glam, like you're in Hollywood. Paramount Hotel Midtown brings out a lovely floating breakfast at Malibu Sky Lounge and Bar on the 64th floor. The panoramic skyline views that feature the Burj Khalifa are Insta-worthy. Available daily between 9am and noon, it's Dhs450 per tray for two people with five menu choices to pick from. Dhs450 (per tray for two). Daily 9am-noon. Paramount Hotel Midtown, Business Bay, (058 826 5729). ZETA Seventy Seven Head all the way up to the Address Beach Resort's Level 77, home to the world's highest outdoor infinity pool and enjoy breakfast in the pool overlooking Dubai's majestic views. You can enjoy a floating breakfast here while soaking up views of Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island, and Palm Jumeirah. Check out the seasonal floating brekkies too (the Valentine's offer is a dream). Continental and vegan options are available, and if you fancy a bit of luxury, you can add a glass of something chilled too. Dhs698. Daily 9am-noon. Address Beach Resort, JBR, (048798866). Sofitel Dubai Downtown Enjoy a slice of island life in the city with a floating breakfast that doesn't burn a hole in your pocket. You'll enjoy views of the Burj Khalifa while tucking into breakfast, with packages starting from Dhs199 with soft drinks or Dhs350 with a bottle of grape. The spread is classic with an array of cereals, seasonal fruits, a tempting selection of pastries and breads and all the waffle-and-pancake goodness you could wish for. There's a proper charcuterie board, eggs made just the way you like them, plus all the usual sides – hash browns, juicy roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, sausage, the works. And to wash it all down? Freshly pressed juices, a selection of teas, and all your favourite hot drinks. Dhs199 (soft drinks), Dhs350 (grape). Daily, 9am-6pm Sofitel Dubai Downtown, (04 503 6115). Taj Exotica Resort and Spa What better way to begin the day than with a buffet breakfast? You'll tuck into pancakes, hashbrowns, sausages and more delectable dishes at Palm Kitchen before wading into the pool or exploring the sea. For Dhs300 for one or Dhs550 for two, enjoy a buffet breakfast at Palm Kitchen, followed by full access to the pool and private beach. For children aged six to twelve, it's Dhs149. The pool's open from 7am to 8pm and the beach access lasts until sunset, giving you plenty of time to unwind. Dhs300 (for one person), Dhs550 (for two people). Daily 7am-11am (breakfast), 7am-8m (pool) . Taj Exotica Resort and Spa, The Palm, (04 275 4444). Drift Beach Dubai Credit: DRIFT Beach Next Wednesday, make a beeline to Drift Beach Dubai to enjoy the Chic Wednesday deal. From 9am to 11am, tuck into breakfast at the DRIFT Restaurant and enjoy a full day's pool and beach access. One of the city's chicest beach destination, thanks to its low-key vibe and more laid-back crowd, this spot at the upmarket One&Only Royal Mirage in Al Sufouh is the place you come to relax, unwind and show off to visitors. A little midweek break from the usual routine doesn't sound too bad now, does it? Dhs180. Daily 9am-11am. One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina, (04 315 2200). The Byron Bathers Club 10 best family restaurants in Dubai. (Credit: The Byron Bathers Club) If you're feeling a bit more energetic, The Byron Bathers Club has paired up paddleboarding with breakfast. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can spend 40 minutes out on the water from 10am, then enjoy breakfast and a choice of tea or coffee for Dhs139 plus tax. Breakfast wraps up at 11.15am, so there's just enough time to work up an appetite. From Dhs139. Wed-Sun 9am-11.15am. The Byron Bathers Club & Bar, Palm Jumeirah, (04 323 7378). DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Jumeirah Beach Prefer a classic breakfast buffet without the extra splashing? Gastro Kitchen has you sorted. Head to the pool for a lap or two and when you're thoroughly famished, graze your way through an omelette station and a traditional breakfast spread. Go for the Dhs340 package that comes with sparkling grape along with pool and beach access. Dhs340 (with grape, pool and beach access). Daily 7am-11am. DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Jumeirah Beach, JBR (055 166 8092) Peaches and Cream This isn't a typical breakfast offer, it's more of a laid-back, beachy workaround for those who prefer sun and sliders over a hotel's aesthetics. Peaches and Cream's all-day pool package kicks off from 9am, Monday to Friday, and for Dhs250, you're all set with a sunbed, a tasty food platter (of quesadillas and beef sliders), three house drinks and your pick between an ice bath session or a quick paddle with Kite N Surf. There's no floating tray, but it's a vibe we can get after. Dhs250. Mon-Fri, from 9am-7pm. Clubhouse Al Nafura, Palm Jumeirah, (052 947 4552). 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