On The Table - 8th November 2024

With one of the best food scenes, we're spoilt for choice with weekly launches and openings. 'On The Table' is our weekly round up of the best food and beverage news and things happening out and about in the UAE.

Here's our top picks this week:

• Birds Dubai Introduces the Sunset Series

Birds Dubai’s launch a new Sunset Series – a culinary journey that combines signature flavours, scenic sunset views, and live performances right in the heart of Dubai. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and eclectic menu, Birds Dubai has crafted this evening concept to offer a refined escape as the sun dips below the skyline. Each evening from 4pm to 7pm, guests will be treated to a carefully curated selection of dishes, blending fresh seafood, Japanese inspirations, and irresistible desserts. The menu includes highlights like: Seabass Tartare Roll – a delicate dish that celebrates the ocean’s flavors, Sushi Salmon Aburi – lightly torched salmon with a perfect smoky finish, Shrimp Tempura – golden and crispy, delivering the ideal bite every time, Shrimp Tuna Tartare – a unique fusion of shrimp and fresh tuna tartare and Yogurt Mochi – a creamy, chewy dessert to end on a refreshing note. Each dish is paired with Birds’ exclusive beverage list, featuring signature cocktails like the sweet and playful Caramel Sparrow and the tropical Tanager’s Essence, alongside classic Prosecco and wine options to complement the meal.

For reservations: +971 50 275 4844 | reservations@birdsdxb.com | www.birdsdubai.com

• Luigia Launches Hops & Pizza in Collaboration with Peroni

Luigia, the award-winning Italian restaurant located at The Rixos JBR, introduces Hops & Pizza, a new weekly activation in collaboration with Peroni. Every Wednesday (5.30-11.30pm), guests can enjoy a Gambero Rosso award-winning pizza of their choice from the a la carte menu, paired with two Peroni draught beers for AED 149. Selections include the classic Margherita, the indulgent Truffaiola topped with burrata stracciata, shiitake mushrooms, and fresh seasonal black truffle, and the Burratina featuring red pacchetelle tomato and basil pesto. This midweek offer is a treat for pizza and beer lovers, blending authentic Italian flavours with refreshing brews.

For reservations, please contact +971 43496950 or reach the team on WhatsApp at +971 554287540.

• TÊTE-À-TÊTE brings taste of South of France to FIVE LUXE JBR

Rendez-vous in this swanky bistro, where French indulgence meets Dubai glamour. Located on level 9 of the luxurious beachfront resort, FIVE LUXE, celebrate la joie de vivrewith French Riviera-inspired dishes, where every dish bursts with decadent freshness and embodies the rich culinary traditions of the sun-kissed coast from foie gras terrine, provençale chicken to decadent crème brûlée. Savour the allure of South of France in an elegant lavender-themed dining area or while enjoying cocktails in a chic, jewel-box bar set against an ocean-view terrace and a live DJ. Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated, midday lunch, a vibrant evening soirée, an electrifying night of revelry or a hot dinner date, Tête-à-Tête  offers the perfect ambiance for both, intimate gatherings and spirited celebrations. 

For reservations: +971 275 9999 or Email flh.dining@fivehotelsandresorts.com

• RASPOUTINE Launches Chef's Menu & Live Music

RASPOUTINE Dubai will transform midweek and weekend nights with an elevated dining and musical experience. Known for its enigmatic charm and intimate ambiance, RASPOUTINE invites guests to indulge in an elegant menu, with Wednesdays and Thursdays featuring a curated selection of dishes at AED 450, including a starter, main, side, and dessert, with the option to add a bottle of champagne for AED 500.Friday and Saturday will offer an exclusive A La Carte menu, allowing diners to explore RASPOUTINE’s culinary delights. Celebrated pianist and singer Louis Middleton will perform live from 9 PM until midnight, inviting guests to sing along in an interactive experience unique to RASPOUTINE, after which the evening flows seamlessly into a lively club atmosphere.

For reservations:  reservations@raspoutine-dubai.com or call / WhatsApp +971 4 272 5373

• ONGAKU by CLAP reopen its doors in DIFC

Feel the beats and follow the rhythm to Ongaku, CLAP DIFC’s hidden Japanese nightlife gem, now open for the 2024 season! Bringing people together through the power of music, Ongaku returns with a fresh lineup, setting the stage for unforgettable late-night gatherings in the heart of DIFC’s largest rooftop terrace, every week from Wednesday to Saturday. Nestled discreetly within CLAP Dubai, Ongaku offers an exclusive and high-energy atmosphere inspired by Tokyo’s electric nightlife.

Wednesdays: DJ Charlelie, playing Mainstream Hits.

Thursdays: Alex Twin & friends, bringing Timeless Music.

Fridays: Frederick Stone, spinning Afro Melodic Rhythms.

Saturdays: DJ RAAH, delivering Tribal Electric Beats.

For reservations: +971 4 569 3820

• Skafos’ Creekside Mediterranean Brunch Experience

Get ready to dive into the ultimate al fresco waterfront brunch at Skafos, every Saturday between 1pm – 4pm. Set against stunning Creekside views and perfect for families and friends, this Mediterranean-inspired feast elevates your weekends with an indulgent array of gastronomic delights, refreshing beverages, and a vibrant atmosphere. Embark on a tantalizing culinary journey with the vibrant, zesty Greek burrata salad that will have you exclaiming "Opa!" in delight. Savor the Cheesy Arancini, lovingly served with a rich, spiced arrabbiata sauce and a drizzle of truffle pesto. As you venture further, make your way to the sizzling live cooking stations and indulge in mouthwatering BBQ specialties that will captivate your senses.

With picturesque Creekside views, a lively DJ spinning tunes, and packages for every preference—AED 195 for soft drinks, AED 295 for house beverages, and a kids’ package at AED 70—Skafos serves up an unforgettable brunch that combines Mediterranean flavours with a relaxed ambiance ideal for families, groups, and all who seek a lively yet laid-back Saturday escape.

For reservations: Call or WhatsApp 058 200 5850

• Dubai’s New Café Homebrew Revives 90s Nostalgia with Modern Flavours

Dubai now has a new coffee shop—Homebrew, an independent café that’s set to become the city’s newest hotspot. Founded by Ania Kubow, a Dubai-based YouTube coding sensation and the most subscribed female full-stack coding channel in the world, Homebrew pays homage to Dubai’s 90s nostalgia. The café combines iconic local flavours with a laid-back, modern vibe. Located in Azizi Riviera, this unique spot is a tribute to the city’s culinary past, offering a menu full of dishes that bring back memories of old Dubai.

With a menu carefully crafted by Dubai native and Head Chef, Saba, Homebrew delivers dishes that are both familiar and fresh. Inspired by iconic local favorites like Al Reef Lebanese Bakery, Chef Saba has reimagined classic dishes with a modern flair. Standouts include the Al Reef Labneh Sourdough Bagel, a tribute to Dubai’s beloved bakery, featuring creamy labneh, fresh mint, and locally sourced vegetables. Another highlight is the Smoked Turkey Sourdough Sandwich, a nostalgic take on the BLT that harks back to days spent at Dubai’s Water Ski Club.

For more information, visit @homebrew.ae

• Effortless Italian Cuisine at BELLINI CAFÉ

Conceptualised by Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, Bellini Café showcases the renowned Cipriani family’s legacy of excellence in dining and hospitality, presenting a blend of Old-World charm and modern luxury, exclusively at Mr. C Residences Jumeirah. Bellini Café offers a delectable range of traditional Italian dishes across breakfast, lunch, dinner, and indulgent desserts alongside Jazz nights, making it the perfect oasis to escape the city’s bustle.

For reservations: +971 4 296 4729 or info@bellinicafe.com

• Discover the all-new Mr Toad’s at Dubai Silicon Oasis 

Mr Toad’s at Dubai Silicon Oasis has reopened following a huge transformation into an all-new community dining and entertainment destination.  The makeover has doubled the size of the existing venue and brought a host of new features, including an outdoor terrace, enhanced entertainment programme and exciting new menus.  The refurbishment, includes a complete redesign in terms of layout, décor and branding, creating a bigger, better and bolder Mr Toad’s than ever before.  The new venue spans almost 4,000 sq ft, with indoor and outdoor seating.