Your UAE Weekend Guide: 6 to 8 January
9 top dining and nightlife deals to enjoy in Abu Dhabi and Dubai this weekend.
The first weekend of 2023 is upon us, and we’re excited about the live performances, new brunches and dining destinations that await.
Friday 6 January 2023
Get back to business
Hayal – Flavours of Istanbul at The St. Regis Downtown Dubai has fast gained a reputation for its unique blend of Turkish flavours and artistic flair. The vibrant venue now offers a weekday business lunch featuring three fantastic courses. Dishes on offer include baked eggplant, lamb meatballs, Urfa kebap, Beyti kebap, and sea bass fillet. For dessert, diners can indulge in baklava, künefe or raw cacao mousse. Available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 4pm. AED 130 per person.
GO: Email reservations@hayaldubai.com or call 045 125 533 for reservations and more information.
Listen to Kuwaiti jazz
The FACT Award-winning Hidden Bar at Rosewood Abu Dhabi is hosting a bi-monthly jazz night featuring live performances from the Boom.Diwan jazz band. The band’s rhythms are inspired by the ancient sea shanties sung by Kuwaiti pearl divers on their voyages across the Indian Ocean, and guests at the event can enjoy the unique sounds while trying out the bar’s collection of over 200 bespoke gin infusions and sharing-style snacks. Available on the first and third Friday of the month, from 8pm.
GO: Email abudhabi.hiddenbar@rosewoodhotels.com or call 02 813 5550 for reservations and more information.
See Tom Jones live
Sir Tom Jones is set to perform at a special outdoor show in the Burj Al Arab’s Marina Garden this weekend. The Welsh baritone, known for hits “It’s Not Unusual,” “She’s A Lady,” and “Delilah,” will headline the launch of the Great Gala Night series at the luxurious hotel. This marks Sir Tom’s return to Dubai after a five-year absence, and he will take to a specially built outdoor stage to serenade his fans against the backdrop of the iconic Burj Al Arab. The evening will begin with a red carpet cocktail reception, followed by a four-course dinner.
GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.
Saturday 7 January 2023
Hit the beach for brunch
The new Taverna Brunch at Laguna Beach Taverna & Lounge is perfect for those living a hedonistic lifestyle and seeking an epicurean brunch experience. The Greek-Mediterranean sharing menu features Dibba Bay oysters, beef tartare, arancini tartufo and greek salad. Each guest can then choose one main for the table, including seafood paella, chicken and lamb gyros, and whole local fish. Brunch culminates with Laguna’s indulgent and highly Instagrammable dessert platter. Saturdays, from 1pm to 4pm. AED 299 (soft beverages), AED 399 (house beverages), and 499 (sparkling).
GO: Call 052 925 0736 for reservations and more information.
Escape to the Hidden Island Brunch
Sink your toes into the sand and enjoy picturesque views of the mangroves at Pura Eco Retreat’s Hidden Island Brunch. Expect beautifully plated dishes prepared with fresh ingredients, smoked BBQ meats and seafood served a la carte. The adults-only soirée features dancers, a DJ, picturesque views, and delectable cuisine. Saturdays, from 4pm to 8pm. Packages from AED 350.
GO: Visit staypura.com or call 050 383 7878 for reservations and more information.
Participate in Veganuary with a new brunch
The Abu Dhabi EDITION’s healthy eating restaurant, Market at EDITION, will be hosting the city’s only vegan brunch every day throughout January. Diners can enjoy a three-course vegan-friendly meal crafted by acclaimed Chef Tom Aikens, including King Kale Salad, Cauliflower Tabbouleh, Charred Aubergine Steak, Chia Base Pizza, and Black Rice Pudding. Available daily until 31 January, from 1pm to 5pm. AED 155 (soft beverages) and AED 255 (house beverages).
GO: Call 02 208 0000 for reservations and more information.
Sunday 8 January 2023
Enjoy unlimited sushi
Mamazonia, the colourful restaurant in Dubai Marina that takes inspiration from the Amazonian jungle, now offers an unlimited dining deal on Sundays. Diners at the chic, foliage-filled restaurant can savour as much food as they like for up to two hours. The offer includes unlimited miso soup, hot starters, a sushi platter for two people, and a bottle of Prosecco to share. Sundays from 12pm to 11pm. AED 479.
GO: Call 04 240 474 for reservations and more information.
Get your toes tapping
Lucia’s, the FACT Award-winning Italian restaurant in Address Sky Views, will host singer Mark Zitti every Sunday evening. Known for his high-energy and upbeat performances, Zitti is a fan favourite on the UAE circuit and is sure to add excitement to Lucia’s weekly entertainment roster. With a flair for jazz and swing classics, Zitti’s exuberant shows are the perfect way to end the weekend, paired with a delicious meal at the Capri-inspired restaurant.
GO: Email reservations@luciasdubai.com or call 04 422 4321 for reservations and more information.
Spend your Sunday eating superfoods
The FACT Award-winning Amazónico in DIFC is the perfect place to start the new year with a menu filled with superfoods. Ideal for those participating in Veganuary or looking for a nutritious start to the year, highlights include the Ensalada Amazónica (mango, avocado, confit tomato, and kalamansi), the Beterraga Solterito (beetroot, edamame and mascarpone), Quinoa Salteada (pumpkin, green mole, smoked eggplant, and shiitake teriyaki sauce) and FACT editor-in-chief’s personal favourite, the Amazónico Maki (mango, avocado, coconut, and cacao nibs). Other dishes from Executive Chef Diego Fernando Sanchez Vargas showcasing the best of South American fruit and vegetables include the Padrón y Maíz (padrón peppers, sweetcorn cake, and panka) and the Poblano Patacones (crispy plantain, burrata, corn, and kimchi).
GO: Visit https://amazonicorestaurant.com for reservations and more information.
