There’s a myriad of Iftars taking place across Dubai and this year, like last, I’m fasting. As well as this I’m also helping with FillingTheBlues so have few opportunities to enjoy hotel Iftars this year. I’ve chosen four different types of Iftar to attend so that I get a variety of different experiences and here’s the first.
Breaking Fast With : Dates, water and thick slightly salty laban. There’s also a good selection of fresh fruit juice available.
Food : A platter of dates are on the table, along with a tagine of lentil soup, lemon wedges and crispy fried bread to start with, I don’t try the soup the speed at which it is consumed by my dining partner tells me it’s good (he’s fasting too).
Iftar is mostly buffet style with hot and cold platters set around the dining room. There are plenty of salads, a great selection of different dates and dried fruits and a dessert station. The Food is mainly arabic and levantine inspired with grilled options including fish and chicken. There was also a traditional Ouzi and a live shawarma cooking station which was very popular. Desserts were a mixture of international and arabic sweets.
On my plate : Salad, Chicken in a sauce and mashed potatoes. Followed by a small platter of desserts.
Favourite Dish : The mango kunefa was an unexpected find and a real treat. The Ishta cream was particularly good and whilst this dessert was rich and indulgent it wasn’t too heavy.
Ambiance : The decor is traditional arabic/moroccan and the crowd are a mix of families, couples and small groups of friends. The terrace is open for outdoor dining offering plenty of choice. Live music adds to the overall Iftar experience and we leave feeling that we’ve enjoyed an Arabian experience.
Downside – we were seated in a quiet corner which was peaceful and away from families, but as a result service was a little off and it was difficult to get attention from the staff. It can get a bit frantic at the Shawarma station which is located behind the main serving area for grills – be persistent and you will be served.
Bonus : Great location for taking a stroll along JBR afterwards and not having to worry about parking etc.
[AOC Brasserie, Third Floor, Sofitel Hotel, The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence – Dubai. Phone:04 448 4848 Price : 140/AED per person includes Ramadan Beverages, soft drinks & water]
