The Lana Dorchester collection is one of the biggest hotel launches of the year. Not just for its impressive architecture or views overlooking the marina (and the Burj Khalifa beyond). What really sets it apart is Riviera by Jean Imbert, a restaurant that brings a touch of celerity chef craftsmanship to the table.
Jean Imbert, often referred to as the ‘enfant terrible’ of French cooking, has made waves since his early twenties by challenging the norms of Parisian fine dining. His innovative approach has won him pretty much every award there is, establishing him as a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world. Now, Imbert has brought that flair to the Dubai, aiming to give the region a dose of laid-back French savoir-faire.
The restaurant itself is a marvel of design, capturing the essence of the French Riviera with its bright, airy interior during the day and a more intimate, mood-lit ambiance by night, complete with a smooth, vibe-setting soundtrack. This atmosphere sets the stage for the main attraction: the food.
Imbert’s menu at Riviera reflects the same level of innovation and quality that brought him fame. It features a blend of Mediterranean freshness with playful twists, signature to Imbert’s style. Noteworthy dishes include the avocado with caponata and baby spinach, and the sea bream with confit lemon – both of which elevate simple ingredients to new heights. The gnocchi a la vodka and the cote de boeuf also stand out for their inventiveness and flavour.
However, the highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the ratatouille tart. This dish is a reimagined classic, featuring a thin crust, a layer of savory tomato sauce, and finely sliced zucchini, all topped with a perfectly browned parmesan. It’s a testament to Imbert’s ability to transform the traditional into something extraordinary.
The Lana Dorchester plans to open up to eight restaurants, but Riviera by Jean Imbert is the first – setting a high bar for those that follow. It combines the sophistication of a French bistro with the unique flair of Imbert’s culinary vision, making it a must-visit for anyone looking for fantastic food.