Latest news with #StudioFrantzén
Time Out Dubai
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Why Studio Frantzén should be your next night out on the Palm
Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary dining experience? We know just the place to head to. With a playlist personally curated by the founder himself, a menu of bold French-Asian flavours, and a whole lot of personality, this modern European bistro from one of the most iconic chefs in the world, Björn Frantzén, the only chef alive with three restaurants awarded three MICHELIN stars, redefines what dining out should feel like. Tucked away on The Palm, Studio Frantzén channels the spirit of a refined bistro with a playful edge. A glittering chandelier steals the spotlight, red chairs pop against crisp white tablecloths and every corner reveals a playful surprise. Here, dining moves to its own rhythm, making it just right for casual meet-ups, late night drinks with friends or a date night to remember. Look inside This spot is made for those who like to linger, with an exclusive bar and lounge, intimate booths, a chef's counter overlooking the open kitchen and a private dining room for moments that call for a bit more ceremony. And can we talk about the playlist? Featuring 300 handpicked songs by Björn himself, the music offers a mix of genres, from classic rock hits like Guns N' Roses to timeless tracks from The Smiths, creating the perfect background for an unforgettable evening. What's on the menu? The menu showcases bold French-Asian flavours and refined techniques that highlight pure ingredients, reflecting Björn Frantzén's culinary philosophy. Expect dishes that make the best of natural ingredients but with unexpected touches. Think baby chicken with miso beurre blanc and burnt hay oil, or a Caesar salad that swaps the usual chicken for guinea fowl, adds pine nuts, and throws in a little miso togarashi to keep things interesting. Even the sides come from the fireplace, so there's warmth in every bite. Want a grape to pair your decadent meal with? Let the sommelier select the perfect match from a cellar boasting over 1,800 labels. Whereas, the mixed drinks bring bold character for those seeking something different. Weekend lunches And if you're in the mood for a proper weekend wind-down (or wind-up, depending on your energy), their Luncheon happens every Saturday and Sunday from 12.30pm to 4pm. It's Dhs195 for the set menu of two courses and a side. If you fancy pairing it with two hours of free-flowing beverages, simply top up for Dhs225. Click here to peruse the menu. You'll be choosing between dishes like grilled prawns with lacto fermented red curry dressing and ginger aioli or a summery artichoke and grilled green asparagus plate with pea miso and pistachios. Grape lovers, take note Experience The Hidden Cellar, where head sommelier Ognjen Samardzic hosts an intimate monthly dinner in the private dining room, featuring a curated selection from over 1,800 labels and a thoughtfully prepared menu for just fourteen guests. The event is usually announced during the first week of each month. This intimate grape dinner experience is Dhs1,200 per person and the latest one is happening on Wednesday May 28, from 7.30pm. We'll see you there? Make a reservation now: Open Mon-Fri 6pm-1am; Sat-Sun noon-4pm, 6pm-1am. Weekend lunch: 12.30pm-4pm. Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah
What's On
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Review: The Luncheon at Studio Frantzén
Now this is a worthwhile reason to leave your bed on a Saturday… Studio Frantzén landed in Dubai last year with all the hooha-hoopla of a celebrity chef-backed brand, laden with shiny Michelin stars and endless praise in tow. The brains and the brawn behind this operation, Chef Björn Frantzén, is a man of many accolades, helming a pair of three-Michelin-starred restaurants and most recently, making a standout debut in Dubai's culinary honeycomb. The people have spoken, and they have loved what the spot has to offer. Having had a couple of months to warm up the grills and dust off the cushions, the restaurant has now forayed into the world of the set menu. The Luncheon is the bear's take on the lunchtime deal, a somewhat commercial proposition that does well to attract a certain demographic of diners. Usually, we have the corporate world convening to close deals over steaming hot plates, but The Luncheon is a weekend affair, which means no suits and boots – only hungry holidayers. The deal… Two courses for Dhs195, with a starter, a main and a side. Curated beverage package featuring wine, cocktails, champagne, and mocktail options for an additional Dhs225. What's On the menu? We dine on a quiet Saturday, seated in a small, cosy booth with a direct view of the open kitchen. Upon first glance at the menu, one can tell it has been designed to be a crowd pleaser, with classical choices and lunchtime favourites, like the seabass ceviche, four different variations of oysters, roasted cauliflower, striploin, salmon and a hearty beef burger, to name a few of the options. It's a bit of a global amalgamation, staying true to the Modern European bistro label, but it's good and safe, and everyone is sure to be fed. We go for the hamachi crudo and the grilled tiger prawn to start. The crudo, served with radishes, ume kosho and fermented strawberry, is a fitting entrant, almost a palate cleanser, with a bright tang and a chilled, bodied bite, while still staying light. The tiger prawn comes with a fermented red curry dressing and a ginger aoli, and is the clear winner between the two – the curry packs a punch and the aoli only adds, but none of them are overpowering. It's a simmering, savoury delight. For the mains, we opt for Angus beef striploin and the Wagyu beef burger. The meat in both the dishes is cooked to perfection, but that's hardly a surprise. The striploin comes with a fermented kampot pepper cream sauce, salty, with a subtle kick, which cuts the fat of the meat beautifully. The burger, almost oversized and topped high with condiments like crispy onion, pickled shiitake, Japanese mustard emulsion and cheddar cheese, is a weekend lunch meal through and through. It's big, it's messy, with so much texture and flavour – a nutty umami from the mushroom, crispy sweetness from the onion and a herby kick from the mustard. This is what you have when you've got nothing to be responsible for after. By now, our warm, watchful server has brought us some sweet treats from the Candy Room, Easter-themed cookies and sour candy – a fitting end to a menu like The Luncheon. It's easy, it's fun and it delivers on the expectation of the quality you attach to big-name restaurants, without any of the fuss, frills and gold leaf. Just plain, good food. What's On Verdict: Highly inoffensive and delicious – we recommend. Studio Frantzén, Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Sat and Sun, 12pm to 4pm, Dhs195, Tel: (0) 54 584 3105, @studiofrantzendubai Images: Supplied
Emirates Woman
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates Woman
10 private dining rooms in Dubai for a special occasion
Life by Sarah Joseph 9 mins ago When it comes to an exceptional dining experience, Dubai always knows how to deliver. However, to add an aura of intimacy and opulence to your next special occasion, why not opt for a private dining room? With five-star cuisine and service, these Dubai restaurants offer an outstanding experience with their decadent private dining rooms. From plush interiors to a bespoke menu, Emirates Woman has curated a list of all the luxe Dubai-based venues with a secluded space tailored to your needs. Studio Frantzén Marking Björn Frantzén's debut in the Middle East, Studio Frantzén offers the Swedish chef's critically acclaimed French-Asian gastronomy with Nordic influences, all set within a modern Scandinavian environment of effortless luxury. Echoing the aesthetic of FZN by Björn Frantzén, every detail has been meticulously curated – from bespoke tableware to hand-painted murals, complemented by an eclectic music mix that creates the perfect upbeat energy. While the restaurant embraces a relaxed à la carte menu, it is characterised by distinctive flavours and preparations, highlighting the refined cooking techniques that Björn is celebrated for. The restaurant boasts an atrium adorned with chandeliers and a dining room featuring cozy booths, as well as a private dining room that accommodates up to 14 guests. Amazonico This jungle-inspired venue gives guests a chance to dine in their private dining room for all types of special occasions. For larger groups, the restaurant offers a completely secluded dining space, where semi-private areas for smaller groups are also available upon request. Up to 20 guests can dine together in an intimate setting with access to the luxe rooftop and views of Dubai's scintillating skyline. With Latin-American cuisine, diners can be taken on a sensory journey along the Amazon river with some eclectic tunes. For more information visit Shanghai Me Inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, this haven encapsulates a rich heritage through a fusion of cocktails and dishes. This 1930s-inspired restaurant has a hidden luxe private dining area for bespoke events to meet any given requirements. For more information visit Le Guépard View this post on Instagram A post shared by @le_guepard_dubai Designed as a dedicated private dining space in the heart of Alserkal Avenue, this experiential venue can be tailored according to anyone's personal preference. By cooking up a bespoke culinary menu, Chef Yanis Yahou takes guests on an unforgettable journey with each bite. Inspired by the French Riviera, guests can host birthday celebrations or corporate events with vintage décor, that's sure to impress. For more information visit Cé La Vi View this post on Instagram A post shared by CÉ LA VI Dubai (@celavidubai) With out-of-this-world Burj Khalifa views and a fusion of fragrant ingredients, CÉ LA VI is the culinary hotspot is one that everyone needs to visit. The contemporary Asian menu curated by executive chef Howard Ko is second to none and the entire restaurant experience will leave you wanting to go back for more. For an event to remember, guests can host special occasions or corporate events that create a lasting impression. The private dining room, enclosed within a bamboo forest-themed interior, can host up to 10 guests and is ideal for gatherings, meetings to tastings. For more information visit ROKA If there's one Japanese Robatayaki restaurant that you need to try is ROKA. Featuring a prominent red 3D brick wall, the restaurant offers a hidden dining space perfect for intimate gatherings. With dishes from the restaurant's main menu and a long banquet hall, it's surely a luxe option to add to your list. For more information visit GAIA This award-winning Greek-Mediterranean restaurant is designed with a modern palate and a delectable menu created by Chef Izu Ani. With its captivating charm, there's something for everyone to sit and dine for hours. With a private Chef's Table situated on the outskirts of the kitchen at the lower level, guests can enjoy a 12-seater dining experience. Surrounded by white stone walls and intricate details with copper pans, the table and journey are designed for an intimate gathering. For more information visit In the world's tallest building, this exquisite restaurant awaits. For a premium dining experience with a seating capacity of up to 16 guests, the restaurant's culinary team brings the most meticulous creations to life while you dine sky-high. For more information visit Zuma View this post on Instagram A post shared by Zuma • Dubai (@zumadubai) By adding a sophisticated twist to the Japanese Izakaya style of cooking, Zuma offers authentic dishes that make people come back for more. The restaurant's private dining area is the ideal place to host a social luncheon, brunch or corporate dinner in its unique space with a solid oak wood dining table that can seat up to 20 guests. Alternatively, the room can be divided into two separate spaces to accommodate 10 guests each. For more information visit Il Borro Tuscan Bistro Il Borro is the go-to restaurant in Dubai for five-star Italian cuisine. The fine-dining hotspot's private dining area is the perfect place for an intimate gathering of 10 to 15 guests. Guests can experience a bespoke menu of three to four courses according to their dietary requirements. For more information visit – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram Images: Supplied & Feature image: @Indochinedxb
What's On
15-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
38 foodie deals to check out over Easter weekend in Dubai
Celebrating Easter in Dubai? Hop on over to these spots… Easter Sunday is just around the corner, and if you're looking for some great foodie deals to celebrate this special weekend, look no further. This list has something for everyone, whether you're celebrating with family, friends or the lonesome. Take your pick – and Happy Easter! Jamavar Dubai Spend an Indian-themed Easter this year with Jamavar Dubai. Indulge in an exquisite spread featuring signature classics and limited-edition Easter specials. Dhs395 for the alcoholic package and Dhs295 for the non-alcoholic package. Jamavar Dubai, Address Residences Opera District, Downtown Dubai, Apr 20, 12.30pm to 4pm, Tel: (0) 4 553 7852, @jamavardubai CQ French Brasserie Sunday Lunchday at CQ French Brasserie is getting the Easter makeover – sample a two-course meal with a choice of starter and main from the Sunday Lunchday menu and choose from Couqley signatures like steak frites, steak tartare, spinach ravioli, and more. CQ French Brasserie, Mövenpick Hotel, Cluster A, Jumeirah Lake Towers, Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs218, Tel: (0) 4 514 9339, @cqbrasserie Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Head over to Dinner by Heston Blumenthal to celebrate the joy of Easter with a specially curated menu which draws inspiration from the tastes and tales of Britain dating back as far as the 13th century. Featuring a four-course tasting menu with iconic favourites and special desserts. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Atlantis The Royal, Fri to Mon, Apr 18 to 21, Dhs850 per person, Tel: (0) 4 426 2444, @dinnerbyhdubai Studio Frantzén For the very first time, Studio Frantzén is offering limited-edition three-course Easter menu, seasonal dishes such as artichoke with grilled asparagus and pea miso, succulent lamb rack with mint raita and charred broccolini. Studio Frantzén, Atlantis The Palm, Thurs to Sun, Apr 17 to 20, Dhs395, Tel: (0) 54 584 3105, @studiofrantzendubai Arrogante Arrogante invites guests to indulge in its Pasqua Brunch, a festive celebration of traditional flavors, live music, and family-friendly entertainment. Celebrate Easter the Italian way with handmade pastas, wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal Italian specialties. Arrogante, Downtown Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 12am to 4pm, starting at Dhs275, Tel: (0) 4 570 3653, @arrogantedubai Roberto's The iconic PERLA Brunch is getting a special Easter edition, featuring all the classics enjoyed during Italian Easter, such as baked ricotta and spinach pie, Neapolitan Easter bread with eggs and veal prosciutto and more. Roberto's DIFC Gate Village, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs295, Tel: (0) 4 386 0066, @robertosdubai DRIFT Dubai Celebrate Easter at DRIFT Dubai with an indoor brunch experience, featuring a French-inspired menu curated especially for occasion. Sample dishes such as truffle pizza, eggs mimosa with salmon gravlax and more. DRIFT Dubai, One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina, Sun, Apr 20, 12pm to 5pm, starts at Dhs380, @driftbeachdubai La Niña Step into La Niña's spectacular Easter brunch, showcasing the very best of Latin Iberian rich flavours and culinary traditions. Tuck into a selection of specially crafted dishes bearing the signature sophistication of La Niña. La Niña Dubai, ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC, Sun, Apr 20, 12.30pm to 4pm, Tel: (0) 4 395 1300, @laninadubai Boardwalk Celebrate Easter Sunday at Boardwalk, where guests can enjoy a lively afternoon of sunshine, laughter, and Mediterranean delights. With sweeping views of the Creek, families can enjoy an array of exciting Easter -themed activities, including face painting, Easter egg painting, and arts & crafts. Boardwalk, Dubai Creek Resort, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs295, Tel: (0) 4 602 1583, @boardwalkdubai Papas The Papas Family Easter Brunch invites you to a table inspired by the traditions of Italy's long, lazy lunches. Gather your family and friends for a table of laughter, great food and Italian traditions. Papas, InterContinental Dubai Marina, Sun, Apr 20, 2pm to 5pm, Dhs295, Tel: (0) 4 423 8321, @papasdubai SexyFish Celebrate at SexyFish with a Sakura-inspired Family Easter Brunch, complete with a handcrafted Valrhona chocolate Easter egg. You can enjoy the eggs at the brunch or even take it home as a luxurious treat. SexyFish, Innovation One, DIFC, Apr 20, Sun, Tel: (0) 4 381 9000, @sexyfishdxb Almayass By The Sea Celebrate Easter with a seaside feast at Almayass By The Sea. Enjoy a vibrant spread of Lebanese-Armenian favourites, from tabbouleh and kebbeh nayeh to batata harra, manti and more. The Yerevan Set Menu is priced at Dhs275 per person for groups of 15 or more, while smaller parties can enjoy the à la carte menu. Almayass By The Sea, J1 Beach, Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 12pm to 1am, Tel: (0)4 547 6444, @almayass_dubai Carna Dubai Darrio Cecchini will celebrate 50 legendary years of butchery with a one-of-a-kind Easter Sunday Roast. Savour a special roast menu featuring premium lamb and beef cuts, alongside traditional Italian Easter treats such as Colomba cake and chocolate desserts. Carna Dubai, SLS Hotel, Sun, Apr 20, Dhs350, Tel: (0) 4 607 0737, @carnadubai Armani/Ristorante Sample a five-course set menu curated especially for the occasion, featuring dishes like carota, capasanta, ravioli in verde, coniglio, uovo in rosa and more. Dine in true Armani fashion with your friends and family this Easter. Armani/Ristorante, Armani Hotel, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, Sat to Mon, Apr 19 to 21, 6.30pm to 11.30pm, Dhs650, Tel: (0) 4 888 3010, @armanihoteldxb Nuska Beach Have a beachside Easter at Nuska Beach, with a three-course sharing-style menu with Easter -inspired dishes, paired with free-flowing rosé wine. A live saxophonist and DJ will keep you entertained. Nuska Beach, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Sat to Sun, Apr 19 to 20, 12pm to 3pm, Dhs545, Tel: (800) 323232, @nuskadubai Dhow & Anchor Dhow & Anchor is offering a traditional Easter brunch featuring a hearty honey glazed roast lamb, accompanied by crispy herb potatoes, parsnips, carrots, brussels sprouts, potato gratin, and gravy. Dhow & Anchor, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Fri to Sun, Apr 18 to 20, 12pm to 10pm, Dhs170, Tel: (800) 323232, @dhowandanchor Bastion Bastion is offering an exclusive evening Easter menu paired with exceptional curated wines, starting with sharing-style platters, delectable mains and dessert to end. Sample dishes like veal and potato casserole, roast lamb leg and more. Bastion, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Fri to Sun, Apr 18 to 20, 6pm to 10.30pm, Dhs395, Tel: (800) 323232, @bastiondubai Piatti by the Beach Enjoy the Pasqua brunch at Piatti by the Beach, featuring a family-style menu boasting traditional Italian dishes with picturesque beachfront views. Celebrate a beachfront Easter in Dubai with your family and friends. Piatti by the Beach, Raffles The Palm Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs490, Tel: (0) 4 248 8889, @pitattibythebeach Le Jardin Head over to this family-friendly Easter brunch, where you can dine outdoors or outdoors, and enjoy a lavish feast of international cuisines and traditional Easter sweets. There will also be live entertainment and fun-filled activities for kids. Le Jardin, Raffles The Palm Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs495, Tel: (0) 4 248 8888, @rafflesthepalmdubai Dunes Café Dunes Café in the lobby of Shangri-La Dubai is inviting guests to feast on an impressive brunch spread featuring signature dishes from the hotel's renowned restaurants, including p ho soup, d im sum, s ushi, as well as a wide selection of international cuisine, all perfectly paired with refreshing Easter -themed cocktails and mocktails. Dunes Café, Shangri-La Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 12.30pm to 4pm, Dhs250, Tel: (0) 4 405 2703, @shangrila_dubai Luigia Luigia is hosting a whole series of celebrations for Easter in Dubai from Thursday till Monday, including an aperitivo, a special Easter dessert, an Easter Sunday lunch and Pasquetta on Monday, or Easter Monday. Luigia, Rixos Premium – Jumeirah Beach Residences, Dubai, Thurs to Mon, Apr 17 to 21, Tel: (0) 4 349 6950, @luigiadubai Social Social is hosting not just an Easter brunch but also an Easter dinner, both offering a taste of Nonna Maria's best. Both are three-course menus featuring authentic Italian dishes and that signature Italian hospitality. Social, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sun to Mon, Apr 20 to 21, Tel: (0) 4 818 2155, @social_dubai Mezzerie Find the perfect family-friendly Easter brunch at Mezzerie, with the 'Once Upon a Brunch', an immersive family experience with fairy-tale characters, themed play zones, and live entertainment while indulging in a spectacular festive spread. Mezzerie, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4.30pm, starts at Dhs450, Tel: (0) 4 818 2153, @waldorfdubai Bull & Bear Celebrate Easter Sunday with a traditional Sunday Roast at Bull & Bear, featuring an array of signature traditional British roast dishes such as the dry age beef striploin, sage and onion stuffed roast maize fed chicken, the 24hr cooked shoulder of lamb with Baharat spices and pomegranates molasses with all the trimmings and much more. Bul & Bear, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, Dhs275, Tel: (0) 4 515 9888, @ Kaspia Dubai Kaspia invites guests to savour the carefully curated selection of signature dishes featuring a fusion of Russian and French flavours, with a touch of Easter. The brunch will also feature live entertainment and dancers. Kaspia Dubai, DIFC, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 6pm, starts at Dhs400, Tel: (0) 4 243 5633, @ African Queen Spend a weekend of celebration at African Queen, with festive flavours and family fun, enjoy heartwarming traditions, an exciting egg hunt, chocolate bunny painting, and face painting for kids. African Queen, J1 Beach, Sat and Sun, Apr 19 to 20, Tel: (0) 4 570 5546, @africanqueen_dubai The Roast by Bubbalicious Mina's Kitchen, home of the iconic The Roast by Bubbalicious is hosting a special Easter edition with a hearty roast and all the trimmings. Enjoy a full British roast and tuck into an array of dishes and a dedicated corner showcasing traditional Orthodox Easter treat. Mina's Kitchen, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs450, Tel: (0) 4 511 7373, @minaskitchen_dxb Bussola Bussola is hosting an Easter Sunday lunch that combines the best of Italian cuisine, featuring traditional dishes like torta pasqualina spinach and ricotta pie, fresh pasta with seasonal vegetables and fresh cheese Bussola, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm or 2pm to 5pm, Dhs475, Tel: (0) 4 511 7373, @bussoladubai CÉ LA VI The Sky High Easter brunch experience at CÉ LA VI invites all to indulge in a set menu featuring all the beloved CÉ LA VI signatures and specially curated Easter desserts and pastries. Bring together your family and friends for a special day. CÉ LA VI, Level 54, Address Sky View Hotel, Downtown Dubai, Sun, Apr 20, starts at Dhs390, Tel: (0) 4 582 6111, @celavidubai STAY by Yannick Alléno Celebrate Easter in Dubai with a set menu showcasing the finest French cuisine at STAY by Yannick Alléno. The Michelin-starred chef and his team have created an indulgent seasonal menu, highlighting the best of Spring produce. STAY by Yannick Alléno, One&Only The Palm, Sun, Apr 20, 12.30 – 2.30pm, 6.30pm to 12am, starts at Dhs950, Tel: (0) 4 440 1010, @stay_dubai World Cut Steakhouse Celebrate Easter in Dubai in style with a luxurious Sunday brunch at World Cut Steakhouse. This indulgent four-course set menu is a dream for meat lovers, featuring premium cuts, fresh seafood, and spring-inspired dishes. The afternoon is elevated with a live performance by resident pianist David Pragmo and ends with a sweet surprise. World Cut Steakhouse, Al Habtoor Palace, Sun, Apr 20, 12.30pm to 4pm, Tel: (0) 4 435 5577, @worldcutsteakhouse The Market Flow Kitchen Hop into Easter with a festive brunch at Flow Kitchen, Fairmont The Palm, featuring a lavish buffet spread, from fermented delights and cold mezzeh to fresh seafood and holiday favourites. Kids can enjoy a bubble show, face painting, balloon art, and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Flow Kitchen, Fairmont The Palm, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs350, Tel: (0)4 457 3457, @fairmontthepalm Envy Restaurant Celebrate Orthodox Easter in Dubai beachside at Envy Restaurant, Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, featuring fresh seafood, live cooking stations, and decadent desserts—all with stunning sea views. Envy, Th8 Palm Dubai Beach Resort, Apr 20, 1pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs299, Tel: (0) 52 508 1424, @th8palm Rodina From April 18 to 20, Rodina invites guests to indulge in a soulful Easter set menu for two, blending comfort and elegance. The experience includes holiday specials like creamy pumpkin soup, Magadan shrimp salad, duck confit, slow-cooked beef rib, and a decadent signature Easter cake with condensed milk sauce. Rodina, District 8, Dubai, Sun, Apr 18 to 20, Dhs795, Tel: (0)4 385 5100, @rodinadubaimarina Emirates Golf Club Step into a whimsical world of chocolate and cheer at the Wonka-themed Easter Family Brunch at Emirates Golf Club. Families can enjoy live performances by Oompa Loompas, a magician dressed as Willy Wonka, and activities like arts and crafts, a petting zoo, and a golden ticket egg hunt. Emirates Golf Club, Sun, Apr 20, 12.30pm to 4pm, starts at Dhs445, Tel: (0)4 417 9999, @emiratesgc Images: Supplied/Unsplash
FACT
18-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
Studio Frantzén Review: A Neo-Nordic surprise at Atlantis, The Palm
Björn Frantzén is a name that resonates with culinary gravitas, a whisper of Nordic brilliance that has conquered palates from Stockholm to Singapore. Now, the acclaimed chef has opened a restaurant in Dubai, bringing his lauded Studio Frantzén concept to the space previously occupied by Nobu on the ground floor of Atlantis, The Palm. The transformation from a dark and dingy dining room into a vibrant Scandi-chic space is impressive. Studio Frantzén boasts a design ethos that mirrors its culinary philosophy: luxurious yet restrained. A striking bear sculpture at the entrance sets the tone for a restaurant that forgoes Scandinavian chic in favour of stylish booths, a dramatic atrium, warm woods, and a chandelier featuring upturned candles. If you love to watch the chefs at work, there are 20 front-row seats by the kitchen counter. Plus, a private dining room for 14 guests. Ikea, this is not. Frantzén's culinary philosophy, honed through years at the helm of MICHELIN-starred establishments, celebrates seasonal ingredients, meticulous technique, and a harmonious blend of Nordic and Asian influences. The bar offers a specially curated Nordic cocktail menu, which is designed to complement the dining experience. As does the Björn's curated playlist, which blasts tracks from Guns N' Roses, Prince and The Smiths. Studio Frantzén's combination of neo-Nordic and Asian influences comes to the fore with the Hamachi Crudo (AED 105), which was a revelation. Here, silky yellowtail is adorned with delicate slivers of radish, while ume kosho (a fermented citrus-chilli paste) introduces a measured heat that lingers on the palate. The fermented strawberry lends a whisper of sweetness, ensuring that every bite oscillates between freshness and umami. Next came the Artichoke (AED 95), a dish that champions seasonality, where grilled green asparagus provides a verdant counterpoint to the earthy artichoke, while pea miso adds a layer of savoury depth. The crunch of pistachios offers textural intrigue, elevating the dish beyond its humble components. The Wagyu Nigiri (AED 65) is a study in contrasts. The A5 Wagyu, its richness tamed by the earthy notes of mushroom miso, rests atop seasoned rice. The addition of enoki mushrooms provides a delicate crunch, adding another dimension to a bite that feels both decadent and disciplined. A lighter interlude followed with the Salmon Tataki Salad (AED 185). The fish, kissed by the flame, its heart still beautifully rare, retains its natural silkiness, while the supporting elements—avocado, cabbage salad, spring onion, and ponzu—add layers of texture and brightness. It's a dish that feels light, yet profoundly satisfying. Inspired by Frantzén's renowned open-flame kitchen in Stockholm, the main courses at Studio Frantzén Dubai celebrate dishes cooked 'from the fireplace'. The Japanese Saroma A5 Wagyu beef (AED 345) boasts an impressive marbling and a sublime texture. The accompanying oxtail ponzu provides a rich, savoury depth and is paired perfectly with a side of Japanese-seasoned French fries (AED 45) topped with Parmesan cheese. Studio Frantzén's walk-in Candy Room offers an interactive dessert experience, where guests enter a sweet-shop-of-sorts stacked with jars of Scandinavian confectionary, homemade ice cream and gleaming glass counters stocked with sweet treats ranging from Chilled Charentais Melon to Citrus Lemon Thyme Pavlova. We succumbed to the allure of the Chamomile & Ghaf Honey Cheesecake (AED 65). The delicate floral notes of chamomile infused the creamy cheesecake, while the local ghaf honey added a touch of sweetness. The buckwheat crumble provided a tempting texture, while the yuzu curd added a burst of citrus that cut through the richness of the dessert. It's a thoughtful, nuanced finale to a meal where every dish is a careful study of contrast and balance. Björn Frantzén is known for his restaurants across the world, including the three MICHELIN-starred Frantzén in Stockholm and the three MICHELIN-starred Zén in Singapore. Now, the former footballer turned chef has joined the culinary roster at Atlantis, The Palm, alongside heavy hitters such as Gordon Ramsay, Heston Blumenthal, and Nobu Matsuhisa. Service is prompt and genial, albeit slow at times. However, the experience feels both intimate and indulgent resulting in a dazzling Dubai debut for the champion chef. Hej, Studio Frantzén. GO: Visit for more information.
