HAKKASAN DUBAI, UAE
This Chinese New Year, the one MICHELIN- starred Hakkasan Dubai in the iconic Atlantis, The Palm, invites guests to welcome the Year of the Horse with a specially curated festive menu and celebratory experiences inspired by tradition and prosperity. The journey begins with the ‘fortune money bag’, a symbol of wealth and abundance, filled with tender King Crab, scallops, spicy chilli sauce and fresh water chestnuts – whose name directly references the horse, which is why they are featured throughout the menu, symbolizing momentum and success. This is followed by the ‘octopus yusheng salad’, a Chinese New Year staple traditionally associated with prosperity. Reimagined with octopus and seven vibrant vegetables, this dish invites diners to toss the salad high, with the belief that the higher the toss, the greater the fortune. This is followed by the must-have Hakkasan Dubai signature Peking duck, featuring the traditional elements of pancakes, cucumber and spring onion, but with the additional option of 30g of caviar for that touch of extra luxury to the dish.
KOO MADAME DOHA, QATAR
Koo Madame is an ode to timeless Chinese elegance, inspired by the life and legacy of Madame Wellington Koo. Within its artful interiors, the restaurant blends the refinement of a grand Shanghai dining room with the spirit of a modern Doha gathering place. Every detail-from the lacquered screens to the glint of porcelain-sets the stage for a culinary journey that celebrates craft, culture, and connection. Koo Madame reflects the grace of its namesake, Madame Wellington Koo, a woman who bridged East and West. Honoring Chinese tradition with modern refinement, the signature wood-roasted Beijing duck with caviar embodies this balance perfectly. At Koo Madame, the Gongfu Cha ceremony unfolds as a quiet ritual of precision and poise. Each gesture, from heating the clay pot to the final pour, honors centuries of Chinese tradition and the art of slowing down through tea. In Koo Madame’s kitchen, noodles are pulled by hand with practiced rhythm. Each strand transforms simple dough into silky ribbons that hold the depth of rich broths and the spice of wok-tossed dishes, a craft perfected through generations.
STRAWFIRE ABU DHABI, UAE
Strawfire, the groundbreaking dining destination at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, introduces an extraordinary culinary concept that blends ancient Japanese cooking techniques with a stunning contemporary setting. At the heart of this innovative experience lies the artistry of Warayaki cooking, brought to life by celebrated chef Ross Shonhan. Chef Shonhan’s vision for Strawfire was inspired by his travels across Japan, where he discovered the ancient Warayaki technique in the Kochi prefecture. This centuriesold method of cooking over straw-fired flames is both dramatic and theatrical, creating a sensory experience that is unique and unforgettable. Each dish on the menu is carefully curated to highlight the freshest ingredients, enhanced by the distinct smokiness and depth of flavor imparted by the straw-fire flames. Strawfire offers more than just exquisite cuisine; it delivers a complete sensory experience. The restaurant’s contemporary design pairs seamlessly with an innovative and immersive musical journey. Guests are treated to the soulful grooves of Jazz House intertwined with the nostalgic energy of Nu-Disco, celebrating rhythm, dance, and musical artistry. This distinctive atmosphere perfectly complements the rich heritage and drama of Warayaki cooking, creating a setting that promises unforgettable evenings.
SUSHISAMBA MANAMA, BAHRAIN
Located on the 25th floor of the Conrad Bahrain Financial Harbour, SUSHISAMBA Bahrain boasts sweeping panoramic views of Bahrain’s skyline creating a dramatic backdrop from day to night. As the sun sets and the city lights come alive below, the venue transforms into one of the Kingdom’s most dynamic dining destinations. At the heart of the concept is a celebration of culture and creativity. The menu showcases innovative dishes crafted with premium ingredients, where Japanese precision meets Brazilian warmth and the vibrant sharpness of Peruvian flavors. From expertly prepared sushi and ceviche to signature robata-grilled selections, each dish is designed to surprise and delight. Beyond its culinary offering, SUSHISAMBA Bahrain is renowned for its immersive entertainment and electric social energy. Lively brunches come to life with samba dancers and live performances, turning daytime dining into a festive celebration of music, movement and flavor. Signature events such as Casa de Samba further elevate the experience, blending rhythmic beats, curated entertainment and an atmosphere inspired by Brazil’s legendary nightlife.
