Katsuya by Starck
From the over-the-top and unusual, to the extremely casual, people living in or visiting Dubai are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing where to go for an Iftar. In fact, there are so many options that it can be quite daunting to pick a spot where you can unwind with family or friends for that special, sumptuous meal that starts just as the sun has set. Impelled by the generous spirit of Ramadan that’s surrounding us, we thought we would help you out by cherry-picking these three restaurants that offer delicious food and breathtaking interiors.
Demoiselle By Galvin
Demoiselle by Galvin, an award-winning stylish bistro in City Walk, has an ambrosial set menu featuring an array of Middle Eastern inspired courses that reflects the essence of Ramadan. As well as the cosy home-away-from-home atmosphere, family and friends can enjoy a rich and wholesome feast.
For Cold Mezze appetizers, the restaurant, which is run by the internationally acclaimed Galvin brothers who own a collection of eateries, has refreshing dishes like Shrimps Tahini Cocktail. Highlights from the Hot Mezze section include Baked Halloumi & Provençale Salsa, a trendy favourite, and Mushrooms Arancini & Tarragon Mayo. An Iftar wouldn’t be complete without a broth, and the Lentils & Carrot Soup, which comes with sour cream and toasted cumin, is truly flavourful. Then, there’s the main event, the Mixed Platter, which includes an Indian spiced chicken stew. Seafood lovers will be happy to know a pave of salmon, which comes with Provençale garden vegetables and a Romesco sauce, is incorporated, while there’s a treat for pasta fans too. For the ultimate finish, guests can indulge in sweets such as Rice Pudding, which comes with a mango coulis, or something with the traditional dates like Date Chocolate Fondant or the Stuffed Date & Baklawa.
Khyber
Royal Indian brasserie Khyber’s Mughal inspired food will ensure you leave with a truly memorable Ramadan experience. As well as classic and contemporary Indian delicacies included in the four-course Iftar menu, diners can enjoy a spectacular 180-degree view of the Dubai Marina from the 15th floor. The eatery, located in the DUKES Dubai Hotel on the Palm Jumeirah, also boasts a vibrant and authentic setting.
After being served dates, fresh fruit, fig and dry apricot to break their fast, guest are presented a wide variety of masterpieces. Tender meats, seafood and mouth-watering vegetarian options, made in the hot embers of the tandoor, are accompanied by fresh naans and rotis.
The mains, which include Murgh Chaap, chicken thighs marinated in traditional flavours of yogurt and cardamom, are served in traditional Indian thali style. Rara Gosht, a mutton delicacy served in a rich almond cream gravy, is another highlight as it’s the specialty of the flagship in Mumbai. Khyber chefs have also reinvigorated traditional Indian desserts by giving them a fresh kick, with Gajar Ka Halwa and comforting Rabri offering a sweet conclusion.
Katsuya By Starck
While Katsuya by Starck’s Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel branch remains open throughout the day, those observing Ramadan can break their fast at the stylish restaurant’s Dubai Mall branch. Master Sushi Chef Katsuya Uechi has a fresh take on Japanese classics, which he merges with Californian cuisine, while design impresario Philippe Starck’s sleek and sultry interiors make the picture-perfect setting.
Guests eating at the Dubai Mall are offered complimentary dates, laban (yogurt) and Katsuya’s special Miso soup before indulging in some favourites from the menu. The menu includes starters like Edamame Hummus, Katsuya’s Japanese take on the local favourite that comes with organic edamame, olives and tomato, and Crispy Brussel Sprouts, served with balsamic soy and toasted almonds. For the main course, you can enjoy the classic Braised Short Rib, served with wasabi mashed potatoes and roasted, candied carrots or Grilled Lamb Chops. Seafood aficionados will love the restaurant’s signature Seared Tuna with Japanese Salsa or the must-try Miso-Marinated Black Cod that combines sweet miso with delicious baked black cod, as well as many sushi options. Sweet pleasures include Katsuya Napoleon, Yuzu Tart or refreshing iced treats.
