Where to go to eat, drink and be merry in the Middle East this year.

The ultimate places to celebrate Christmas in the UAE and Bahrain

To ring in the season of feasting, we’re counting down a few of our favourite spots for tucking into delicious festive food. From a ski lodge-inspired setting to the ultimate festive brunch and a family-friendly buffet, these are the definitive restaurants for a Christmas meal to remember across the region.

Après

Après overlooks a winter wonderland in Mall of the Emirates

Hot pots of cheese fondue, views of snowy slopes and chalet-chic – we’re not daydreaming of the Swiss Mountains but thinking of Après, an Alpine-themed restaurant overlooking Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates. Expect comfortable chalet-like interiors, festive bites and crowd-pleasing beats to get you in the Christmas spirit.

Baharat

Baharat restaurant offers one of the best buffets in Bahrain  

One of the most popular restaurants in Bahrain, Baharat is well-loved in the city thanks to its sprawling buffet spread of both Arabic and international favourites. Located inside Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain, the sleek open-plan dining area and good cooking stations will make for a memorable meal with family and friends this year.

Medley

Medley restaurant at Hotel Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre offers a brilliant brunch deal

Anyone who has visited Medley restaurant will know that the venue hosts an epic Friday brunch, and their Christmas Day extravaganza is not to be missed if you’re a serious foodie. Go with a serious appetite and tuck into the vast array of indulgent dishes on offer.

Try these sizzling sliders at the best restaurants in Dubai  

A definitive guide to the UAE’s best burgers

We try to follow a ‘clean’ diet most of the time, but after a week of low-calorie lunches, post-workout green juices and energy ball snacks, we’re craving a good ol’ juicy burger once the weekend hits. Well, life is all about balance, right? 
The real question is, where can one find the ultimate cheat day meal? While we’re all for feasting at classic fast food joints, we’ve recently stumbled across a few alternatives that offer a fresh take on our favourite indulgences. 
From loaded double patties to extra cheesy creations, our round-up of tasty stacked buns will satisfy all your carnivore cravings. We’ve also tracked down the best veggie burger the region has to offer for our plant-based diet pals.
Word of warning – this list will leave you feeling very hungry…


Brunswick Eastery.Bar.Terrace

Brunswick Eatery.Bar.Terrace in Dubai

Tucked away inside the Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates, this crowd-pleasing spot ticks all the right boxes for a casual feast with family or friends. 
The industrial-chic setting, seasonal fuss-free menu and live streaming of the biggest sports games have helped make this one of the most popular spots in town. After a recent revamp, there are now three different dynamics within the space – a cocktail bar, a main dining area and a pretty plant-filled terrace. 
We highly recommend ordering one of their delicious burgers, made using organic Australian minced beef. The Shopshire blue burger is guaranteed to impress, but our personal bun of choice is the excellent triple cream brie burger. 
Veggies are also catered for with a crispy grain burger that comes with a mix of Puy lentils, quinoa, mushrooms and buckwheat, topped with purple cabbage and vegan mayo – yum. 

Gourmet Burger Kitchen

Gourmet Burger Kitchen in Dubai

Located inside City Centre Mirdif, GBK is a long-standing favourite among die-hard burger fans. 
The perfect pitstop for a speedy pre- or post-cinema bite, the grub is cooked and served quickly but is by no means fast food as you may know it. All dishes are crafted using top-notch ingredients, including 100% prime Australian Angus beef and farm fresh veggies. 
A few must-try buns include the hot smoked BBQ, the wagyu cheese with beef bacon (those with an appetite can make it a double-patty) or the trio of mini burgers if you fancy sampling three different varieties. Other menu highlights include the tasty Cajun chicken and lamb burgers.


T.G.I. Fridays

T.G.I. Fridays is a delicious choice for the whole family   

One of the best places to eat out with kids, T.G.I. Fridays is a top pick for a family-friendly feast. The relaxed eatery has several outposts located across the region, including Mall of the Emirates, Mall of Egypt, City Centre Deira and City Centre Bahrain.
The cowboy triple meat is the real deal when it comes to big burgers, and will arrive to your table topped with tender pieces of BBQ beef rib meat, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, melted cheddar cheese, roasted beef bacon, horseradish sauce and crispy frizzled onions. It’s well worth the meat sweats you’ll experience after munching your way through this colossal bun!

If you can’t decide between a plate of eggs or a bun, go for a dish that combines the two – the hangover burger. As the name suggests, it’s the ideal meal after a big one the night before.

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/discover-the-uaes-best-burgers

Win major brownie points by booking one of these romantic spots.

The most romantic restaurants in the Middle East

From rooftop cocktails to a Parisian-boudoir inspired lounge, these standout venues will set the tone for a truly memorable date night with that someone special. 


Vantage Lounge 

Rooftop views at Vantage Lounge in Dubai 

Vantage is an all-round winner if you’re looking to seriously impress the loved one in your life. Found on the 5th floor of Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates, the lounge and restaurant is the ideal spot to unwind under the stars with your other half. 

A night here includes hand-shaken specialty cocktails, gastropub bites and rooftop views of Dubai’s skyline.


Boudoir

Cocktails in a glamorous setting at Boudoir bar and lounge in Bahrain 

Tucked away inside The Westin Bahrain City Centre, one of the leading hotels in Bahrain, Boudoir is an intimate venue serving up expert cocktails along with the finest cigars. The opulent interiors lend a Parisian vibe to the intimate space, with Art Deco-inspired curved ceilings, velvet banquet booths, black mirrored walls and ornate chandeliers. 

Once you’ve wet your whistle, head for a bite at Furn Bistro & Bakery next door for an authentic taste of Khaleeji cuisine. If you fancy something sweet to cap off the night, we can vouch for the mouthwatering pistachio katayef. 



Medley Restaurant

One of the best buffets in Dubai at Medley Restaurant

With its sprawling buffet selection of delicious dishes, Medley Restaurant caters for even the fussiest eaters (so you can avoid any awkward menu moments).

Situated inside Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, the relaxed eatery serves up an international selection of pasta, meats, seafood platters, salads, sandwiches and so much more, whipped up at live cooking stations where you can pile your plate high with whatever your heart desires. 

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/the-best-restaurants-in-the-middle-east-for-a-date-night

Must-try feasts to break your fast during Ramadan this year.

The best Iftars for Ramadan 2018

With Ramadan in full swing, we’ve scoped out the best restaurants in Dubai and across the Middle East to find the perfect place to break your fast. 
A particular time for prayer, reflection and family, fasting is an essential part of the Holy Month and one of the five pillars of Islam. 
Here, we round up the ultimate spots to feast with family and friends during Ramadan. 

Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates

Olea Restaurant in Dubai 

Come sunset and Olea Restaurant puts on an elaborate buffet filled with a wide selection of Levantine classics, such as lamb okra, chicken maqlooba and shrimp mutaffa, plus plenty of delicious mezze favourites. 
Those dining with a big family or group can book a private Iftar experience held in one of the luxurious Aspen chalets with a chef, for AED650 per person.
Olea also hosts a daily Suhoor from 10 pm, which includes a set menu of Arabic salads, hummus, mezze and other tasty bites, along with live tunes from an oud player and shisha on the terrace. 

The details: Olea Restaurant, Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, daily Iftar, from sunset to 9 pm, AED210; Suhoor from 10 pm to 2.30 am, AED90 per person. For reservations call +971 4341 0000.


The Westin Bahrain City Centre 

Furn Bistro & Bakery in Bahrain

Looking for a family-friendly Iftar in Bahrain to suit all taste buds? Furn Bistro & Bakery is guaranteed to satisfy all of your culinary cravings. Located inside The Westin Bahrain City Centre, one of the leading hotels in Bahrain, the generous buffet spread includes a massive offering of Arabian dishes (think mezzes, mixed grills, salads and much more), in addition to a selection of international cooking stations serving pasta and seafood. 

The details: Furn Bistro & Bakery, The Westin Bahrain City Centre, daily Iftar, from sunset to 8.30 pm, 18BHD per adult and 9BHD for children. For reservations call +973 1717 1000


Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre 

Medley restaurant in Dubai

Head to Medley restaurant after sunset where Iftar features a sprawling Arabic and Moroccan-themed buffet with live cooking stations whipping up a never- ending array of fresh mezzes, chicken tagine, shawarmas, couscous, kebabs and so much more. 
The restaurant’s Suhoor is ideal for night owls with a light buffet spread and refreshments on offer late into the night. 

The details: Medley restaurant, Pullman Dubai Creek City Centre, daily Iftar, from sunset to 11 pm, 189AED for adults and AED49 for children; Suhoor from 1 am to 3 am, AED79 per person. For reservations call +971 4603 8201.

Article Source: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/blog/dining/the-top-iftars-and-suhoors-to-try-in-dubai-malls-and-bahrain

Build up an appetite to feast at these delicious foodie favourites.

You will love these top restaurants in Bahrain

Bahrain is fast becoming one of the Arab region’s most popular tourist hubs. The ever-evolving city is not only home to bazaars, national museums and must-see archaeological sites; it also boasts some of the region’s top foodie spots. 

We uncover the three essential restaurants in Bahrain you need to add to your weekend plans, all conveniently located inside the leading mall in the Kingdom, City Centre Bahrain.


Shake Shack Bahrain

Shake Shack Bahrain serves up one of the best burgers in town 

Shake Shack Bahrain is the ultimate spot to indulge in a cheat day meal – it is indeed a step up from other burger joints we have tried. 

The New York import’s emphasis is on super fresh and high-quality ingredients, which includes 100% all-natural Angus beef, vegetarian fed, humanely raised and source verified. With simple yet oh so delicious dishes ranging from juicy burgers to their famous crinkle cut fries and the sinfully delicious frozen custard for dessert, the casual setting is suited to the whole family. 

Asha’s 

Asha’s serves some of the best Indian food in Bahrain

The brainchild of iconic singer and actress Asha Bhosle, this restaurant serves up timeless Indian-inspired dishes with a contemporary spin.

The restaurant chain (which is now in eight countries across the globe) uses sustainably farmed salmon, farm-sourced game and seasonally organic products in every dish, along with an innovative mix of spices from Asha’s traditional family masala.

In addition to a generous selection of tasty vegetarian items, highlights on the broad menu at Asha’s include the slow-cooked lamb, chicken tikka masala and ginger crème brûlée for something sweet. 


Wafi Gourmet 

Enjoy delicious Arabic food at Wafi Gourmet in Bahrain 

This much-loved restaurant has quite a reputation in the Middle East. It first opened in Dubai (under the name of Goodie’s), back when the restaurant scene was much more limited and has since expanded across numerous locations, including City Centre Bahrain.

One of the most popular spots in town to grab an authentic taste of Arabia, Wafi Gourmet serves up crowd-pleasing Lebanese classics including hot and cold mezzes (the hummus is some of the best we have ever sampled), meaty mixed grills, kebabs, shawarmas and seafood. 

Do not leave without picking up a selection of nibbles from the grocery section, which includes mounds of the finest olives, herbs, nuts and homemade Arabic sweets. 

Bahrain is famous for its heritage. However, it also has a cuisine that’s as multi-layered as its history. As a major port and trading hub since ancient times, this nation is home to many expat communities, and Arabic, Persian, Indian, African, European and East Asian cultures, influences the food.

So which are the places to get a taste of Bahrain? Check out our list of some of the best restaurants in Bahrain, divided by category.

Fast Food Category:

Shake Shack

From its humble beginnings as a hot dog cart outside the Madison Square Park in Manhattan, Shake Shack has become one of the fastest growing fast food joints today.  Styled like a “roadside” burger stand, the menu offers deliciously juicy burgers like their classic Shack Burger, Cheeseburger, hot dogs, frozen custards, shakes and more.  

The Shake Shack favourites – The ShackBurger and Flattop hotdog

Location: 2nd Floor, City Centre Bahrain, Manama
Phone: +973 1 757 101
Website:  shakeshack.com/location/city-centre-bahrain-bahrain


Wagamama

Wagamama resembles Japanese ramen bars and displays an Asian inspired cuisine. The extensive menu features classic Japanese dishes like Donburi, a big bowl of rice stir fried with chicken, beef or prawn and vegetables, steaming bowls of fresh ramen topped with your choice of meat, vegetables and other garnishes and sushi, sashimi and lots more. You should not miss the chef special omkase of grilled teriyaki lamb with mushrooms, asparagus, kale and mangetout served on a bed of soba noodles in a pea, herb and wasabi dressing.

The chef’s special – Omkase at Wagamama

Location:  Shop #2216, Bldg. 2758, Road 4650, Manama Seafront
Phone:  +973 1 650 5051
Cuisine: Asian

Jasmi’s

Coffee with muffin, Jasmi’s Daily Offer

Bahrain’s answer to McDonald’s, Jasmi’s has some of the best burgers and fries in town. Their breakfast meals are a hit with locals and expats: sausage muffins, bagels with eggs and cheese, and a variety of coffees including the toffee frappe and the caramel de leche frappe. Do try out their Good Morning Breakfast: a power combo of sausage, baked beans, egg, jam, butter and brown bread with Jasmi’s signature coffee or tea.

Location: Level 2, City Centre Bahrain, Road 4650, Sheikh Khalifa Highway, Manama
Phone: +973 17179000
Website: https://www.jasmiscoffee.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasmisbh
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasmis_bh

Vapiano

The upscale Italian restaurant, Vapiano brings a modern twist to fast food dining in Bahrain. Order your favourite pizza, pasta, soup or salad with a chip card and have your dish delivered at your table within 3 minutes. If you are a lover of Italian cuisine, visit Vapiano for their scrumptious made-to-order hand tossed pizzas, fresh, house-made pasta and hand tossed gourmet salads.

Fresh salad of roasted butternut squash cubes and avocado on a bed of mixed lettuce, cucumber, carrots and cherry tomatoes, tossed in a homemade lime-chili-dressing

Location: Level 1, City Centre Bahrain, Sheikh Khalifa Highway, Manama
Phone:  +973 1 749 1391
Cuisine: Italian
Facebook: facebook.com/VapianoBH/


Family Restaurants Category:

Baan Saeng Thai

Baan Saeng Thai authentic Thai cuisine in Bahrain

This restaurant is best known for serving authentic Thai cuisine in Bahrain. Chefs flew in from southern Thailand to prepare the food. We highly recommend the seafood dishes at Baan Saeng Thai. Seafood fanatics will especially enjoy their grilled items, as well as their Thai Seafood Buffet, served on every Saturday, Tuesday, and Thursday. The restaurant has ample parking space, so it’s ideal for families.

Location: Road No. 2629, Manama, Bahrain
Phone: + 973 1771 0467
Cuisine: Thai
Website: https://www.hotelseashell.com


Beit El Dar

Beit El Dar Cafe & Restaurant reinvents the Oriental parlour with its warm, spacious ambience and breezy atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for casual dining as well as special occasions and their appetizers, grills and salads are some of the best in town.

Location: Entrance 649, Road 1509, Al Shamali, Riffa
Phone: + 973 1362 0330
Cuisine: Mediterranean and International Food

Website: https://thewalk-bh.com/outlets/beit-el-dar
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beiteldar_bh


Asha’s



At Asha’s in City Centre Bahrain

Founded by the iconic singer Asha Bhonsle, Asha’s is a unique Indian restaurant that serves up a combination of dishes from northwest India, home-style cooking, and fusion recipes. The restaurant has cozy seating is in private booths and is great for families out for a weekend dinner out.

Location: Level 2, City Centre Bahrain, Road 4650, Sheikh Khalifa Highway, Manama
Phone: +973 17179751
Cuisine: Indian
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Website: https://ashasrestaurants.com/bahrain
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshasOriginal
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ashasmiddleeast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashasrestaurant
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/WAFIRestaurants


Veranda

Open Buffet, Veranda

Veranda in Bahrain

Enjoy the simple pleasures of life at one of the few Wi-Fi-enabled cafes in Bahrain. Veranda offers a variety of fusion dishes in a soothing ambience and has special areas for families. Take the opportunity to sample items from their specialty fruit juice bar, bakery and ice cream delicatessen.

Location: 66 Avenue 206, Manama, Bahrain
Phone: +973 17715868
Website: https://www.verandabahrain.com
Facebook: Facebook.com/VerandaBahrain1


Fine Dining Category:

Nasmat- Poolbar

View of the poolside, Nasmat

Located in the Westin Hotel at City Centre Bahrain, Nasmat Lounge and Restaurant provides a chilled out dining experience away from the hustle and bustle of Manama. Enjoy Mediterranean delicacies, refreshing beverages and a variety of light snacks by the poolside, as well as traditional shisha service.

Location: Ground floor, City Centre Bahrain, Road 4650, Sheikh Khalifa Highway, Manama
Phone: +973 17171000
Cuisine: International

Website: https://www.westinbahraincitycentre.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westincitycentrebahrain
Twitter: https://twitter.com/westinbahrain
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westinbahrain



Masso by Chef Susy Massetti

Enjoy the farm to table dining concept at Masso in Bahrain

Located inside The Palace Boutique Hotel, Masso serves healthy and organic European cuisine. Masso is influenced by southern European culinary trends and has a seasonal menu based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Location: Shaikh Isa Avenue, Manama
Phone: +973 1772 1061
Cuisine: South-European

Website: https://massorestaurant.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Masso-by-Chef-Susy-Massetti-257547000956665
Twitter: https://twitter.com/massorestaurant
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/massorestaurant

Enjoy the best food and service while dining out in Bahrain. Bon appetite!