An insider tip for seasoned Dubai residents is how good the end of year festive season is in city. The weather is perfect, the crowds are gone and the quality of options on offer is exemplary. None more so that the Mandarin Oriental Jumeira.
Ever since its pre-summer opening, the region’s first Mandarin Oriental has been making some serious waves, quickly becoming a staple for the culinary connoisseur. Rolling into its first festive season, the Jumeira Beach-based resort is loading up an elite line-up of dining options throughout the month.
While their festive programme begins on December 5, the pick of the resort’s offers will be happening at its flagship restaurant, Tasca by José Avillez. Helmed by the Michelin-approved chef, the relaxed, family-friendly venue that will recreate a traditional Portuguese feast for guests on December 24 and 25, taking away all of the logistics and stresses that this time of the year can bring.
The restaurant will have a feel a Christmas market, and will offer a sharing-style menu featuring roast turkey, desserts and other seasonal dishes. The atmosphere will be definitely merry as the diners can sway to some fado and enjoy a variety of seasonal drinks as well.
At Tasca by José Avillez, a celebratory menu will be available on New Year’s eve, with views over the sparkling Dubai skyline and Japanese steakhouse Netsu by Ross Shonhan, will get guests firmly into the Omisoka spirit where diners can indulge in a five-course sharing menu followed by live music.
It doesn’t end there, however, as the most stunning celebrations are being saved for New Year’s Eve, where guests will be able to ring in 2020 with gorgeous views of the Arabian Gulf and fireworks at the hotel’s At the Bay soiree.
For afternoon tea you’ll be able to visit Noor Lounge, and for more pastries and desserts there’s the Mandarin Cake Shop.
The elegant, waterfront spot makes an impressive venue to take vising guests or spend the day relaxing – and enjoying good company and better food – amidst the incredible canopy of frost-white lights that shine across the venue.
Given the uniqueness of the venue, the stellar food and the upcoming festive season – only one question remains: why wait?
For restaurant reservations or more information, visit mandarinoriental.com/dubaifestive