Sara Aqel’s stint at La Table Dubai has begun

The chef’s beach-inspired takeover is aptly themed ‘La Plage’.

A new season has commenced at La Table, bringing with it beach vibes and Mediterranean flavours aplenty. That’s right — while pitmaster Hattem Mattar’s stint at the pop-up concept in DIFC was a real hit with meat enthusiasts, chef Sara Aqel of Fi’lia fame is now at the helm, just in time for summer.

Her three-month residence is themed ‘La Plage’ (The Beach) and will showcase both her culinary and creative prowess. The philosophy at La Table is to create a new atmosphere and menu around each chef and their vision. And every chosen chef is a brand in their own right, with their signature style infusing each dish with the essence of their character during their three-month stint at La Table.

Dubbed by many as “the people’s chef” and recognised for her sunny disposition and love of creation, Aqel is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of flavours to new heights. “I find immense joy when I cook for others, and feel gratitude that they allow me to create something for them. An ingredient is not just an ingredient, but a promise,” she says.

Incidentally, La Table is a team effort and a team execution — the new beach theme was shared by all, and the staff took part in the creation of the decor, adding a personal touch by hand-painting all the restaurant’s plates and glassware. Now launched, La Plage with Chef Sara Aqel includes an array of classic Italian favourites with a Palestinian touch. For starters, the Palestinian Stracciatella Sandwich features stracciatella, arugula, pickled onion and bresaola with wild za’atar on olive oil bread. The Eggplant Strawberry Salad adds a delicious twist with yoghurt tahini sauce, while the Local Honey Baked Feta is a savoury dream with thyme and salted and caramelised pecan served with sourdough bread.

From the simple yet flavourful Caccio E Peppe (with Parmigiano, pecorino and black pepper) to the Spicy Rigatoni (with confit heirloom tomatoes and chilli) and the tender Slow Cooked Short Ribs (served with saffron risotto and asparagus), the main dishes come highly recommended. Come dessert, it’s back to the basics, thanks to the beloved Tiramisu Chocolate Cup and plump Pistachoux with vanilla, caramel, and chocolate choux.

Guests can also enjoy house spirits and grapes for AED 30 and hops and special cocktails for AED 39 during the pop-up’s happy hour from 5pm to 8pm. With the relaxed atmosphere exuding easy, breezy vibes, La Table is a street food concept with a new menu that’s equally easy and uncomplicated — just what summer calls for.

GO: Call 052 627 3976 for reservations and more information.