magazine - The Address

July / September 2014
MAGAZINE
From opulent fashion to the finest dining, enjoy
a life of luxury at the address hotels + resorts
Breguet, the innovator.
Invention of the Tourbillon , 1801
The Classique Grande Complication Tourbillon 5317 provides the perfect
setting for Breguet’s most spectacular invention and undeniably the most
beautiful of all horological complications, developed over 210 years ago
to compensate for the effects of gravity. On the back, the “B-shaped”
oscillating weight reveals the beauty of the meticulously hand-engraved
movement. History is still being written...
B R E G U E T B O U T I Q U E S – D U B A I M A L L , M A L L O F T H E E M I R A T E S D U B A I & E T I H A D T O W E R A B U D H A B I – W W W. B R E G U E T. C O M
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MAGAZINE is published quarterly and copies
are distributed entirely free of charge throughout
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EDITORIAL
Editorial Director Kathryn Roberts,
[email protected]
Contributors Zoe Rawlins, Layla Crocker,
Lisa Crowther
DESIGN
Creative Director Carl Bergman
Art Director Mohammad Marei
W
elcome to the summer edition of
, the official publication
of The Address Hotels + Resorts.
Across our five, award-winning properties, we
have created a template for luxury hospitality,
providing high-end accommodation with fine
dining, designer shopping and the very best in
integrated entertainment. Our iconic flagship
hotel, The Address Downtown Dubai, combines
contemporary-styled rooms with views over Burj
Khalifa and direct access to The Dubai Mall. It
also provides first-class and individual service,
reinforcing our belief that one size fits one, not all.
All our properties embrace great change
and continually deliver new trends to guests.
Committed to innovation, we have launched
an interactive ‘eLifestye’ room service and
installed iPads in every room to allow visitors to
research and organise restaurants and recreation
independently. From spa searching to dining
reservations, concierge to housekeeping, the
city’s top facilities are only a fingertip away.
Our hotels also respect the thriving, local
culture. Recognising Dubai as a unique location,
we celebrate the emirate as an international hub, brimming with different nationalities, but also
its own distinct charm. This theme of tradition is apparent across all our properties, in particular
The Palace Downtown Dubai, which stands as a proud reminder of Emirati heritage.
Outstanding cuisine, coupled with stylish bars and restaurants are among our key strengths and,
by adding to our excellent food and beverage repertoire, and responding to the modern needs of
today’s guests, we are confident of our standing, not only in the UAE, but in each and every country
in which we’re due to open.
Looking ahead, The Address Masai Mara in Kenya, The Address Marassi Golf Resort & Spa in Egypt
and The Address Residence Emaar Square in Turkey will all throw open their doors to the world in
the very near future and are welcome additions to our ever-increasing, contemporary portfolio.
Visit them and, in turn, discover the unrivalled collection of groundbreaking properties that is
The Address Hotels + Resorts.
Best wishes,
Philippe Zuber
Chief Operating Officer
Emaar Hospitality Group
Advertising
Advertising Sales
[email protected]
COMMERCIAL
Director Brian Scudder
Finance Manager Tim Fulton
Administration Manager Rhoshelle Tabbay
MAGAZINE
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Contents
News
The latest news from
12 CHECK-IN
Downtown Dubai and beyond
Culture
18 JURASSIC GIANT
P
re-historic dinosaur fossil takes
centre stage at The Dubai Mall
22 TREASURE TRAIL
D
iscover the history of saffron,
the world’s most valuable spice
26 Hitting the right note
12
T
hrowing the spotlight on the melodic, stringed qanun
Contents
38
Style
30 Naturally Neutral
arthy shades set the tone for E
Salvatore Ferragamo’s summer collection
38 EMPIRE STATE
onna Karan harnesses the D
international pulse of New York City
42 SUN SALUTATION
46
hine this season in dazzling,
S
summer-inspired jewellery
Life
46 PURE RELAXATION
W
e unearth the most indulgent
natural spa treatments
52 KEEPING YOUR COOL
58
S
tep inside and enjoy the city’s
premier heat-beating activities
Cuisine
58 setting the scene
here to enjoy fine dining W
accompanied by memorable views
62 LIGHT BITES
Gourmet summertime salads to refresh the palate
64 CUT ABOVE THE REST
64
W
hy Wolfgang Puck’s new steakhouse is a carnivore’s paradise
Plan the perfect stay with the latest events, offers and attractions
P
ower and
freedom
ersace delivers its trademark vava-voom with its autumn/winter
2014 campaign, representing the
power, seduction, freedom and glamour
at the heart of the brand. Shot by Mert
& Marcus under the creative direction
of Donatella Versace, here supermodel
Anna Ewers strikes a dramatic pose.
Available at Versace, Ground Floor, The
Dubai Mall
Leading ladies
Quintessentially British retailer Marks & Spencer has unveiled its elegant
spring/summer ’14 collection. Fronted by influential British women such
as actress and screenwriter, Emma Thompson and singer/songwriter
Annie Lennox OBE, the campaign was shot by iconic fashion photographer,
Annie Leibovitz.
Available at Mark & Spencer, Level 1, The Dubai Mall
Make a statement
True to form, Aigner’s summer collection of men’s bags
feature superior Italian craftsmanship using the world’s
finest cowhide leather. Highlights include briefcases, versatile
Cabral bags and the essential Columbus carrier.
Available at Aigner, Level 1, The Dubai Mall
right at your fingertips
Check-in
Wedded bliss at The Address Hotels + Resorts
The journey to ‘I do’
Bold bags
Fusing vibrant colour, primitive shapes and graphic forms, the spring/summer 2014
collection of clutch bags from Alexander McQueen make a bold fashion statement. The
designer’s signature craftsmanship is apparent in the use of plexi glass, ostrich feathers, gold
studwork, snakeskin, leather and 3D beaded mesh embroidery. This is the first time the label
has introduced new clutch shapes since the launch of the iconic Skull Box Clutch in 2007.
Available at Alexander McQueen, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
For brides seeking the latest couture gowns,
floral arrangements, cake designs and more,
The Address Hotels + Resorts Wedding Fair
is the one-stop destination for all things
fashionable in the world of weddings. Held
at The Address Downtown Dubai on the 20th
September, the event is a must for anyone
involved in planning a big day.
For more details, please call 04 436 8809
The Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience
Twice in Vogue
Spray of sunshine
Terracotta Le Parfum is the captivating summer scent from Guerlain, conceived to
celebrate the 30th anniversary of its best-selling bronzing cosmetics. Described by
Guerlain’s in-house perfumer, Thierry Wasser, as “the allure of the sun in a bottle”, it
incorporates notes of bergamot with underlying tones of ylang ylang.
Available at beauty counters throughout The Dubai Mall
Fashion aficionados will be thrilled to hear the
Vogue Fashion Dubai Experience will return
to The Dubai Mall from 30th October to 1st
November. After its successful debut last year,
the show has been extended to three days.
Showcasing both emerging and established
fashion designers from across the Middle
East, the gathering is expected to attract some
of the world’s finest talent. This year’s edition
promises to be even more exciting, with
celebrities and style gurus in attendance.
For details, visit www.thedubaimall.com
MAGAZINE 13
Plan the perfect stay with the latest events, offers and attractions
R
ecognising
excellence
Dubai Marina Yacht Club has been awarded the prestigious 5 Gold
Anchor status, the highest ranking for marinas around the globe.
Established by The Yacht Harbour Association, the Gold Anchor ranking
system recognises quality, facilities and service to berth holders.
For more information, please call 04 362 7900
Back in full swing
Python pair
Following an extensive 12-month upgrade, Arabian Ranches Golf Club
is fully operational and open to local and international golfers looking
to play the city’s only desert links course. As well as installing a hi-tech
drainage system, the enhancement project has turned a tough and
intimidating course into one that can be enjoyed by players of all abilities.
For more details or to book a round, please call 04 366 4700
Loewe’s handcrafted python espadrilles launch exclusively
in the Middle East this season. The snakeskin flats, in a
range of glazed earthy colours, team comfort with luxury.
Since 1846, the Spanish designers have produced bespoke
designs and these edgy espadrilles are no exception.
Available at Loewe, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
Check-in
life
right at your fingertips
| Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Reel Cinemas, The Beach
Keeping it Reel
The scent of success
Iconic British motoring brand, Bentley, has scored yet another success with its first
fragrance, Bentley for Men Azure. The sophisticated scent blends fresh, green citrus top
notes with woody base notes. Design devotees will appreciate how the elegant curves of
the Bentley limousine have been translated into the rounded silhouette of the bottle.
Available at beauty counters throughout The Dubai Mall
For all the latest movies shown in a spectacular
waterfront location, head to Reel Cinemas, The
Beach, which is now open along Dubai Marina’s
shoreline. Managed by Emaar Retail, the new
cineplex features seven standard screens and
three platinum movie suites. For the ultimate
in cinema luxury, there’s a platinum lounge
with magnificent views of the Arabian Gulf and
a dedicated kitchen to serve movie-goers.
For more details, please visit www.reelcinemas.ae
Boutiq Ultra Lounge,
The Address Dubai Mall
Chic soiree
Breaking barriers
Leading watchmaker Breitling has launched the super-sleek Superocean Chronograph
Steelfish. The robust watch remains true to the brand, promising breakthrough
technology and hallmark precision. A screw-locked crown guarantees protection
against the elements and, when submerged, it is water resistant to 500 metres.
Available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
Dubai’s hottest new club, Boutiq Ultra
Lounge, is the hippest place to go for afterhours glitz and glamour. Chic interiors and a
state-of-the-art sound system make this one
of the most fashionable spots in the city, with
themed nights including local art, music and
fashion events attracting the city’s elite partygoers. The coolest cats might just gain entry
to the exclusive VVIP balcony overlooking the
main stage and DJ booth.
Located on the Lobby Level, The Address Dubai
Mall. Please call 052 680 1855 for details.
MAGAZINE 15
Culture
life
| Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Elegant and majestic, Dubai’s
racing dhows pay homage
to the region’s rich seafaring
past. With lateen sails, they
can often be seen plying the
emirate’s crystal-clear waters.
MAGAZINE 17
Giant
of the past
Visitors to The Dubai Mall can now
uncover some of the secrets of our
ancient planet thanks to a unique
and enthralling exhibition
he’s 155 million years old, 24.4 metres long, stands over
seven metres tall, and is currently residing in The Dubai
Mall’s Great Atrium. Meet Diplodocus longus, a pre-historic
dinosaur and one of the largest creatures ever to walk Earth.
Dating back to the late Jurassic period, the incredible life-size
reconstruction of this female sauropod was assembled by expert
palaeontologists and forms a permanent exhibition within the mall,
and is open to the public for free viewing.
A dedicated team of on-site staff provide visitors with insights into
the display, including information on how the fossil was found and the
painstaking process that went into its careful reconstruction.
Discovered in 2008 at Dana Quarry, near the town of Ten Sleep in
Wyoming, USA, this fascinating specimen is unique in that almost 90
per cent of the fossil’s bones are original. Furthermore, all the pieces
come from the same dinosaur, giving it an unmatched completeness.
Indeed it is believed there are no comparable specimens of this
quality in any museum or private collection. The result is a stunningly
well-preserved specimen, which is rated high in scientific integrity.
There is even the chance for visitors to enjoy a closer look at the
fossil’s make-up thanks to a one metre-long original bone that is on
display alongside the overall structure.
culture
| Dinosaurs
At 24.4 metres long, the Diplodocus longus
at The Dubai Mall is one of the largest
creatures ever to walk Earth
MAGAZINE 19
Unearthing history
The renowned German palaeontologist and geologist,
Raimund Albersdoerfer, unearthed the remains of this
fascinating Diplodocus longus during an excavation.
“Discovering a dinosaur is not a one moment event, but
takes some time,” he explains.
“When we found the diplodocus, my team had actually
discovered several bone elements in the days before.
“But I also found a lot of bones in one single day, all
of which had perfect, hard, black surfaces, and all their
skeletal elements perfectly articulated. Suddenly the
bones made sense and we realised we had discovered the
most unique long-neck dinosaur skeleton ever,” he adds.
Sourced through Khalid Seddiq, founder of Etihad
Modern Art Gallery in Abu Dhabi, Albersdoerfer’s dinosaur
had previously only ever been displayed at the Houston
Museum of Natural Science in the USA.
When it came to moving the skeleton from Houston to
Dubai, Albersdoerfer admits the process was challenging.
“Each bone needs special protection. Some, like the
pelvis, are extremely heavy and only movable by a forklift.”
To ensure safe transportation of the fossil, special crates
were constructed, the bottoms of which were filled with
hot polyurethane foam, then covered by a sheet of plastic.
The bones were laid on the foam which, upon cooling,
hardened to act as a shock-absorbing cushion. The crates
were then flown from Houston to the UAE.
Once safely in situ at The Dubai Mall, experts began the
careful process of re-assembling the structure.
Above (L to R): Khalid Seddiq and Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Emaar
Below: Raimund Albersdoerfer
culture
| Dinosaurs
The dinosaur stands over seven metres tall
Unique insights
Not only does the exhibition enhance Dubai’s status as a
world-class visitor destination, it is also an important way
to educate people, explains Albersdoerfer.
“Children get lost in a world that gets more ‘virtual’
almost every day. It is essential that they don’t lose their
connection with reality, with nature and our real world.
“To spark interest we need to create excitement. And
the most profound way to do so is not with computers and
plastic models, but the real thing.”
Senior director of Business Development & Operations,
at Emaar Malls Group, Natalie Bogdanova, agrees: “Visitors
to The Dubai Mall have the opportunity to witness the
mind-blowing magnificence of a life-size dinosaur exhibit,
which is the only one of its kind in the world.”
Finally, Albersdoerfer admits would-be palaeontologists
are unlikely to find anything comparable to the fossils in
the emirate. “At the time of dinosaurs, Dubai was covered
by sea and dinosaurs only lived on land.”
He doubts anyone here would be too disappointed about
a lack of dinosaur remains, however. When dinosaurs
roamed the planet, oil, the catalyst for the UAE’s modernday prosperity, was being formed in the ancient sea that
once covered much of the Arabian Peninsula.
The dinosaur exhibition is currently open to the public in the
Great Atrium, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall.
‘Visitors to The Dubai Mall,
have the opportunity to witness
the mind-blowing magnificence
of a life-size dinosaur exhibit’
Fossil facts
Featuring a sweeping tail and a long, slender neck, this Diplodocus
longus measures 7.6 metres high – and dwarfs the nearby shops
and boutiques.
Visitors can enjoy a closer look at the fossil’s structure by examining a
one metre-long original bone that is also on display.
Palaeontologists believe that this dinosaur’s tail bones were injured
during its lifetime, perhaps due to a predator’s bite or from trauma
resulting from a fight.
The name Diplodocus longus is derived from the Greek diplos
(double) and dokos (beam), in reference to the anatomy of the bone
formation in the dinosaur’s tail.
21
MAGAZINE 21
P
rized
ickings
Widely used throughout the Middle
East, saffron is one of the world’s
most expensive commodities by weight.
takes you on a spice odyssey…
H
eadache remedy, tobacco mix, fragrance,
fabric dye, babies’ teething preparation,
insomnia cure – saffron has been, and still is,
used in countless ways across the world .
One of its best-known uses today, however, is as a cooking
ingredient. Sometimes referred to as ‘the prima donna of the
spice cupboard’, saffron’s rich, golden colour and elegant flavour
is highly sought after, despite its price tag.
In the Mediterranean, saffron is an indispensible ingredient
in dishes such as paella in Spain, risotto Milanese in Italy and
bouillabaisse fish soup in the south of France. Elsewhere, saffron
is found in Indian spice mixes such as garam masala, and in
many South Asian biryani rice dishes. It is also used in tagineprepared food in Morocco, and is an essential ingredient in Iran’s
chelow kabab.
The saffron crocus was widely
planted in parts of the East of
England in the 16th and 17th
centuries. One town even
changed its name from Chipping
Walden to Saffron Walden to pay
homage to the crop’s importance.
culture
| saffron
In Sweden, 13th December, a
national holiday, is traditionally
celebrated by baking saffron buns
known as lussekatter.
In 14th century Europe, plague victims
believed saffron held medicinal
properties, and imports of the spice
soared. After a large consignment was
stolen en route to Basel, Switzerland,
a ‘Saffron War’ erupted. Basel then
became a safer and closer saffronproducing centre for Europe.
Safranbolu in northern Turkey derives its
name from ‘saffron’ and the Greek word
‘polis’, meaning city. The town was once
a lucrative trading place and a centre for
growing fine-quality saffron.
Saffron is believed to have first been
cultivated in the Bronze Age in or near
to Greece. Today, it is grown in notable
quantities in Spain, Italy, Morocco and
Afghanistan, as well as in Kashmir, the
disputed northwestern region of the
Indian subcontinent.
Saffron-based pigments have been
discovered in 50,000 year-old cave
paintings in modern-day Iraq.
Cleopatra of Egypt reportedly
bathed in saffron-infused water
for its cosmetic properties.
Saffron tea has long been a popular
and refreshing beverage in Arabic
culture; while in Saudi Arabia,
traditional coffee is often made by
adding saffron and cardamom.
MAGAZINE 23
In traditional Chinese medicine,
saffron is believed to invigorate the
blood and help release toxins.
Approximately 90% of the saffron
produced today comes from Iran.
The colourful Kashmir Saffron Festival
is held in the town of Pampore each
year, to celebrate the saffron harvesting
season which commences in autumn.
The therapeutic properties of saffron
are referred to in ancient Chinese
medical texts such as the Pun Tsao
pharmacopoeia, which is believed to
date from around 200-300 BC.
The colour of the top panel of
the Indian national flag is officially
known as India saffron (kesari).
Saffron was historically used to
dye the robes as worn by Buddhist
monks across South-East Asia.
‘The saffron crocus flower produces
three stigmas and it is these which yield
the prized aroma, flavour and colour
synonymous with the spice’
culture
| saffron
In Japan, saffron is used
to hand-paint kimonos.
Decadent desserts
Saffron is often used as a cooking ingredient, transforming not
only savoury dishes but sweet ones, too. It comes into its own
in milk-based desserts where its delicate flavour and distinct
colour are known to lend an understated elegance.
Countless sweets, many of which originate from the Middle
East and South Asia, are enlivened by the addition of the spice.
Sholeh-Zard, the traditional Persian rice pudding, is infused
with a subtle combination of saffron and rose water; while
kheer, a creamy milk-based dessert famous throughout India, is
flavoured with saffron, cardamom and raisins.
The dumpling-style dish gulab jamun is eaten across the South
Asian Subcontinent during festivals and important celebrations,
and is often served in saffron syrup. Adding strands to kulfi,
meanwhile, imparts an exotic taste and colour to this traditional,
frozen milk-based treat from the Indian subcontinent. Saffron
can even be used to give an extra dimension to the luxurious and
silky-smooth Italian dessert, panna cotta.
The perfect present
In many cultures, saffron is given as a gift on special occasions
such as religious festivals and weddings.
When buying saffron, look for strands with a deep, crimson
colour. They should feel slightly moist, but not sticky, to
the touch, and show elasticity. Dry, brittle and dull marooncoloured strands indicate old stock. The threads should be fine
and evenly sized, and measure between 2 and 4cm long. Never
buy powdered saffron; it may be mixed with turmeric or paprika.
Despite its high price tag a little saffron goes a long way.
When used in cooking, just a tiny pinch is all that’s needed to
impart a depth of flavour and a flourish of colour.
The reason why saffron is so expensive lies in the anatomy of
the crocus itself. The crocus (crocus sativus) flower produces
three stigmas, and it is only these tiny and delicate parts
which yield the prized aroma, flavour and colour synonymous
with the spice. Each stigma must be painstakingly plucked
by hand, therefore the harvesting process is labour intensive.
Once plucked, the stigmas must be dried quickly.
According to some estimates it takes two football pitchsized crops of crocuses (around 500,000 stigmas) to yield one
solitary kilo of saffron – and that one kilo could be worth in
the region of AED 36,000.
MAGAZINE 25
A performer gently plucks the
strings of a traditional qanun
M
culture
| instruments
usic to
the ear
As beautiful to the ear as it is to the eye,
the traditional Arabic qanun is loved
across the Middle East
A
descendant of the old Egyptian
harp, the melodic qanun evokes
visions of mystical Arabian nights.
Effectively a zither with a narrow trapezoidal
soundboard, the traditional string instrument
is often played after sunset during the Holy
Month of Ramadan, either in hotel lobbies or
at lavish, sprawling iftars.
The word qanun means 'law' in Arabic, an
apt name considering the instrument lays
down the law of pitch for other instruments
and singers. Combine the qanun with an oud,
a violin, a flute and percussion and you've got
a takht, the classic Arabic chamber ensemble.
The instrument rests in the performer's
lap, with a bright tone and high pitch that
help produce harmonious lines. Musicians
have profound knowledge and passion for
the instrument as it demands great skill
and dexterity from the performer. Walnut or
maple wood forms its base, with experienced
crafters preferring smooth and even pieces
with straight grains to give a flawless sound.
Wooden tuning pegs known as urabs or
mandals were added in the 20th century and
are fixed on the left side. These support the
multiple strings, which vary between 63 and
84 in number, depending on the model, and
are stretched over a bridge, which in itself is
supported by dried fish-skin, tightly stretched
to amplify the four-octave sound range.
The nylon or PVC strings are plucked with
the fingers or a plectrum attached to finger
rings. Traditionally, the strings were made
of animal gut or horsehair, but have been
replaced over time by more durable materials.
Similarly, the original plectrum now made of
plastic, used to be made from cow's horn or
turtle shell and thinned out with sandpaper.
To get some perspective on the qanun’s
superior position amongst other instruments
in Middle Eastern culture, it can be compared
to the more commonly found oud. Even
modest qanun’s can set a buyer back tens
of thousands of dirhams, whereas the oud
is often found in Arab households and is
inexpensive by comparison. Venture into
many souks and you will spot an oud almost
immediately, but the rare qanun is difficult to
source due to its intricate craftsmanship.
According to legend, the qanun was created by
Ibn Al Farabi, a philosopher born in Turkistan
in 870. The instrument has undergone several
changes over the course of its long history,
however, its basic structural features are the
same in all countries in which it is played today.
These include Turkey, North Africa, Greece and
nations across the Middle East.
MAGAZINE 27
LOS ANGELES | NEW YORK | LONDON | HONG KONG | DUBAI
L I M I T E D E D I T I O N I T E M S E X C L U S I V E LY AVA I L A B L E AT
For private viewings or jewellery consultations. T 04 3460022 | M 055 832 5915 | E [email protected]
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa, Jumeriah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
tejori.com
Style
life
| Xxxxxxxxxxxx
For dramatic style, look
no further than Alexander
McQueen’s latest collection of
show-stopping, floor-length
gowns. Find them on the
Ground Floor at The Dubai Mall
MAGAZINE 29
N
eutral
uances
natural beauty and classic tailoring
set the tone in salvatore ferragamo’s chic
yet understated summer collection
style
| FASHION
Pleated dress and ankle-strapped
snakeskin heels, Salvatore Ferragamo
MAGAZINE 31
Chequered two-piece suit and leather brogues, Salvatore Ferragamo
OPPOSITE: Collared dress with snakeskin stilettos, Salvatore Ferragamo
Sleeveless dress with handbag, Salvatore Ferragamo
OPPOSITE: Casual jacket, Salvatore Ferragamo
Casual suit and leather shoes, Salvatore Ferragamo
OPPOSITE: Belted dress with collared neckline and white sandals, Salvatore Ferragamo
T
he pulse
of New York
Luxurious, creative and highly expressive, DKNY’s designs embody
the independent, contemporary woman. A Magazine unveils
the face behind the brand, the ever-inimitable Donna Karan
style
| Profile
British singer Rita Ora poses for
DKNY’s Resort 2014 campaign
MAGAZINE 39
ften referred to as the
Autumn/
city of dreams, New York
winter 2014
is also the city of cuttingcollection
edge fashion. And it was in this
great style capital that Donna
Karan was born in 1948.
Not only was her late father a
respected tailor and her mother
a catwalk model, her stepfather
also happened to be a clothes
designer. To use her own words,
Donna Karen grew up “eating,
sleeping and dreaming fashion”.
After designing for Anne Klein
in the 1970s, Karan launched her
first collection in 1984. Paying
homage to the Big Apple, she
says: “New York means the world to me. I feed off
the city’s energy – the lights, the movement, the
constant excitement. Creatively, it fuels everything
I do.” The designer achieved immediate fame
for her women’s collections built around seven
simple, interchangeable pieces.
“As fast as fast food” is how she
describes this system of dressing.
The ‘super seven’ aimed to enable
women to dress in comfort and to
liberate them from the confines
of boxy Eighties power suits.
Quickly establishing herself as
the unequivocal master of on-thego style, Karan established DKNY
in 1989 as a more contemporary
cousin to the high-end Collection
line – “the pizza to Collection’s
caviar,” as she playfully puts it.
Encapsulating New York’s raw
energy and edgy spirit, DKNY
was eclectic, fun, fast and urban.
Over time, Karan created spinoff labels, diversifying into beauty,
womenswear, menswear, accessories and home
furnishings. And her success didn’t go unnoticed.
The Council of Fashion Designers of America
saluted her six times and she received Fashion
Group International’s Superstar Award, the first
time the title was given to an American designer.
Such accolades afforded the design doyenne,
who describes herself as “passionate, creative and
a problem-solver”, the visibility and resources
to make a difference beyond the industry.
Dubbed ‘fashion’s Mother Teresa’, she famously
Open-toe shoe, black.
Tote, burgundy
Saffiano handbag, orange;
Lidia pump, wave
stated: “Social consciousness
is really what drives me. I can’t
imagine dressing people without
addressing the issues.”
Karan is a pioneer in pairing
philanthropy with retail, slowly
changing how the style industry
does business. In the process,
she has raised millions of dollars
for AIDS awareness, education
and countless cancer charities.
The Urban Zen Initiative, which
Autumn/winter
she founded in 2007, is the
2014 collection
culmination of these altruistic
efforts and the American has
now set her humanitarian sights
on earthquake-ravaged Haiti. “Giving back is the
most rewarding thing I do and the more you give,
the more you get back in return,” she says.
Looking back over the icon’s 65 years, there
isn’t much she hasn’t achieved, and 30 years after
her eponymous label set the global fashion scene
ablaze, the brand is still going
strong. High-profile celebrities
including Hugh Jackman, Katie
Holmes and Rita Ora gathered on
the front row at the Donna Karan
Fall 2014 Ready To Wear show,
held to celebrate the label’s 30th
anniversary, in the vibrant city
that has inspired her for so long.
“I wanted it to be a celebration
of where we’ve been and where
we’re going,” she explains.
“New York City and the creative
women it nurtures were the sole
inspiration. We used accents to
Katie Holmes, Rita Ora and Trudie
reflect the city’s windows and
Styler at the autumn 2014 show
lights, like cutwork and sequins.”
The last three decades have
brought Karan plenty of success
but what’s next for the woman
once described by good friend
Anna Wintour as an “unstoppable
force of nature”?
“I never know – and try to keep
it that way,” muses Karan. “It’s
what I haven’t done that excites
me the most.”
Donna Karan
‘Katie Holmes and Rita
Ora gathered at the Donna
Karan 2014 show, held in the
vibrant city that has inspired
the designer for so long’
style
| Profile
Rita Ora channels
the latest DKNY look
MAGAZINE 41
ay of
light
This delicate, 18-carat Trinity ring from Cartier is
captivatingly beautiful. Its rare pearl resembles a
drop of golden sunshine with its lustrous sheen.
Cartier, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
With summer upon us, we pay homage to
the sun with sparkling jewels from yellow
diamonds to flame-red spessartites
This sun-inspired Dior timepiece is encrusted
with dazzling lemon-hued diamonds and
sparkles with unparalleled intensity.
Dior, Ground Floor The Dubai Mall
The stunning rubies and white diamonds in these
Cupula Sol earrings, from Magerit’s Versailles collection,
feature the head of Apollo shrouded in bright flames.
Damas, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
These Roberto Coin citrine- and browndiamond drop earrings remind us of the warm,
copper glow on the beach as day falls into night.
Damas, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
Impossibly elegant, Cartier’s yellow sapphire
and diamond earrings promise a glimmer of
sunshine all year round.
Cartier, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
This stunning ring from Tiffany & Co., with its
fire opal, and red and yellow diamonds, conjures
images of a fiery sunset over the Arabian Gulf.
Tiffany & Co., Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
The oval yellow diamond in this Tiffany & Co.
ring is mounted to enable abundant light to
penetrate, exuding a dazzling sparkle.
Tiffany & Co., Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
style
Keep the sunshine close to hand with the 64
baguette-cut diamonds and yellow sapphires
whirling around the dial of this Piaget watch.
Piaget, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
| jewellery
When these understated Cher Dior diamond
earrings catch the light they resemble brilliant
shards of light piercing through the clouds.
Dior, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
Tiffany & Co.’s famed fancy yellow diamonds
adorn this striking platinum necklace. Wear it
with style at this summer’s hottest soirées.
Tiffany & Co., Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
Dior’s statement-making, yellow-diamond
Cygne ring reminds us of shimmering rays
emerging from behind a cloudy sky.
Dior, Ground Floor The Dubai Mall
Set in 18-carat gold with round pink sapphires and
fire-orange spessartites, this Tiffany & Co. gold
languette bracelet is reminiscent of the sky at dusk.
Tiffany & Co., Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
The brown diamonds of this delicate ring
from Pomellato are set into 18-carat rose
gold and evoke a glittering sheen.
Pomellato, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
for him...
Think of fiery Middle Eastern sunsets with
Pomellato’s honey-coloured amber ring,
embraced by a rose-gold base.
Pomellato, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
For a touch of style, adorn your hand with this striking
hexagonal ring from Versace. Featuring the brand’s
iconic Medusa logo, it radiates a rich golden glow.
Versace, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
This Master Ultra Thin Moon watch by JaegerLeCoultre features pure lines and an aesthetically
refined dial with rose gold, the perfect hue for summer.
Jaeger-LeCoultre, Ground Floor, The Dubai Mall
43
Life
life
| Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Imposing and iconic,
The Address Downtown Dubai
is a sight to behold. Nestled in front
of The Dubai Fountain, it offers
spectacular photo opportunities to
visitors from around the world
MAGAZINE 43
M
iracle
inerals
Purify mind, body and soul with one of these
luxury spa treatments that draw upon Earth’s
natural healing power, from diamonds to
frankincense and everything in between
Shine on
If you’re searching for a spa treatment to leave you feeling,
and looking, a million dollars, the Ultimate Diamond
Experience at The Address Downtown Dubai will not
disappoint. Embark on a three-hour journey of pure
indulgence, infused with sparkling gems for a touch of
pure glamour. The experience begins with a full-body
scrub using real crushed diamonds before special magnets
remove the minerals and unlock energies that revitalise
the body. Next, enjoy a relaxing massage using Diamond
Body, a silky, hydrating and firming cream designed to
soothe each and every muscle and leave you feeling in tip
top condition. The ritual culminates with a pampering
facial that gently lifts and contours the skin.
Ultimate Diamond Experience
Duration: 180 minutes
Cost: AED 1,800
For more information, please call 04 436 8755
life
| spas
The Spa at The Address
Downtown Dubai
MAGAZINE 47
The Spa at
The Address Dubai Marina
Eastern promise
Visit The Address Dubai Marina and transport yourself to
a sanctuary of Middle Eastern charm with Arabian Oasis,
an exotic treatment blending the region’s most treasured
ingredients. Start with an energising, full-body exfoliation
using fine grains, chamomile and frankincense. One of
the most precious natural products throughout history,
frankincense has long been incorporated into beauty
regimes, the aromatic resin is particularly revered for its
anti-ageing properties and its ability to revive skin and
diminish wrinkles. The warming, traditional Boreh wrap
which follows is designed to soothe away muscular aches
thanks to its special blend of spices, including clove, ginger,
cinnamon and nutmeg. Finish with an indulgent facial
using premium rose-based products before submitting to
an exotic, spiced oil massage designed to boost circulation
and leave you positively radiant.
Arabian Oasis
Duration: 110 minutes
Cost: AED 650
For more information, please call 04 436 7424
life
| spas
Hidden treasure
Head to The Address Dubai Mall and discover the potent
beauty secrets of ghassoul, a natural clay sourced from
deep beneath Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. Ghassoul has
long been renowned for its gentle yet powerful detox
properties and has been coveted as a nourishing shampoo,
conditioner and skin cleansing treatment for more than
1,000 years. Feel its benefits with The Ultimate Ghassoul
and Aromatherapy Experience, a top-to-toe treatment that
incorporates the soothing, nutrient-laden clay into an allover mask, formulated to revive hair, face and body.
After an invigorating shower, the treatment’s second
stage begins. Using your chosen oil, an intense massage
using the finest eastern and western techniques enables
your therapist to work on your body to calm your mind.
The Ultimate Ghassoul and Aromatherapy Experience
Duration: 120 minutes
Cost: AED 775
For more information, please call 04 438 8025
The Spa at
The Address Dubai Mall
MAGAZINE 49
Delights of the desert
The Palace Downtown Dubai’s signature spa ritual
features an aromatic blend of ingredients designed to
take you on a magical voyage of discovery, invoking the
ancient trade routes across the mystical sands of Arabia.
The finest essences of jasmine, amber, musk, orange
blossom and Moroccan verbena are combined with a
stimulating desert sand and salt body scrub to create a
truly authentic experience. Expert therapists work their
magic using traditional massage tools, such as the oussada
cushion, which is infused with uplifting coriander, and
the energising khemoussa pouch, which contains three
varieties of refreshing Moroccan mint. The end result is
blissfully relaxed joints and muscles, and skin tone and
texture that feels restored and renewed. At the end you’re
presented a phial of desert sand – a fitting souvenir.
One Desert Journey
Duration: 105 minutes
Cost: AED 825
For more information, please call 04 428 7805
The Spa at
The Palace Downtown Dubai
life | Xxxxxxxxxxxx
life | spas
Beauty secrets from the past
Throughout history, Mother
Nature has provided the raw
ingredients for all manner of
creams, lotions and potions.
Legendary beauty Cleopatra
of Egypt, who was renowned for
her flawless skin, is believed to
have bathed in milk and honey.
The ancient Egyptians were also
fond of rose water, which they
used as a skin cleanser, while the
Aztecs incorporated avocado
in their beauty regimes as a
moisturiser and pore minimiser.
It seems Marie Antoinette
understood that blemishes on the
backs of the hands can be a sign
of ageing and she is said to have
worn wax- and rosewater-lined
gloves every evening to bed.
Finally, the humble egg is the
star ingredient in one of the
earliest-recorded skincare recipes
dating back to 600BC: renowned
beauty and imperial consort in
China’s Chen dynasty, Zhang
Lihua, is believed to have applied
egg whites to her face and neck
to tighten the skin, thus creating
one of the first natural face lifts.
MAGAZINE 51
C
hild’s
play
Beat the heat this summer with some of the city’s
best indoor family activities
KidZania
Aimed at four to 16 year olds, KidZania is an ingenious
‘edutainment’ centre where children are encouraged to
mimic their favourite jobs from more than 80 careers in an
amazing and realistic make-believe city. Once inside, they
adopt the role of anything from a fireman, police officer and
journalist to chef, beautician and surgeon.
Aside from KidZania’s impressive concept, the 80,000 square
foot zone has been especially designed to recreate a real city
complete with replica buildings, corporate companies, paved
streets, hospitals, supermarkets and banks. Youngsters
even have the opportunity to earn ‘kidZo’ currency for their
endeavours. Although your child must be accompanied by
an adult, ‘Zupervisors’ are onsite to help the little workers
climb their first career ladders. Undoubtedly, capturing the
imagination of both parent and child, KidZania is a unique
experience that will keep little ones occupied and out of the
sun for hours. KidZania is located on Level 2 of The Dubai Mall.
For more details, please visit www.kidzania.ae.
life
| indoor activities
KidZania, The Dubai Mall
53
Dubai Ice Rink,
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Ice Rink
Sheer ice is an appealing option for families keen to fend
off Dubai’s intense heat. Located in The Dubai Mall, the
Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink welcomes people of all ages
and abilities. Perfect your techniques, practise your turns
or glide in circles to a background of popular music.
Visit the nearby cafés and kiosks for a well-earned rest or
to admire the skills of expert skaters. Lessons are available
for beginners and staff are ready to help if you do slip up.
Ice skating sessions are available for two-hour stretches
throughout the day, allowing visitors ample time to browse
the extensive range of shops within The Dubai Mall itself.
To store your shopping bags and other personal effects,
Dubai Ice Rink also provides lockers. For a welcome
contrast to the extreme temperatures outside, this is an
ideal way to keep your cool all summer long.
Please visit www.dubaiicerink.com for more information.
SEGA Republic
SEGA Republic,
The Dubai Mall
Thrilling and fun for everyone, SEGA Republic
has more than 170 high-tech games and all the
latest arcade action, across Level 2 of The Dubai
Mall. Whether you’re seeking a rush of adrenaline
or something more sedate, this giant amusement
park offers all-day entertainment.
The Family Fun zone is filled with classic games
for visitors of all ages. Cool little ones down with
the Whopper Water pistols or experience an
unforgettable adventure as you walk through the
Wild Jungle. Speed freaks, meanwhile, will love
the burning rubber in a daring drift-race.
Stay on-guard in After Burner Climax or meet
your match riding the Spin Gear rollercoaster.
For challenging games to test your strengths,
skills and sporting capabilities, try Rev-Up Your
Reflexes. Whatever your fancy, these fairground
favourites will definitely hold your attention while
the temperature outside soars.
Please visit www.segarepublic.com for further
details on Sega Republic.
life
| indoor activities
Afternoon tea
Afternoon tea served in the splendour of one of
The Address Hotels + Resorts’ air-conditioned
lounges is a treat not to be missed. At Karat in
The Address Dubai Mall’s chic lobby, a steaming
infusion is accompanied by delicious homemade savouries and desserts.
Children will enjoy the Alice in Wonderlandthemed tea party complete with a tempting
selection of sandwiches and cakes. In Risala
at The Address Downtown Dubai, visitors can
enjoy a reviving brew with an enticing choice of
cakes, pastries and light snacks.
Kambaa in The Address Dubai Marina serves
up the delightful Tea Two Ways, a selection of
delicious scones and clotted cream teamed with
sumptuous fruit preserves. Meanwhile at The
Palace Downtown Dubai, tea at Al Bayt combines
timeless traditions with Arabian customs.
Sample the finest Western brews alongside sweet
treats and regional, handmade delicacies for an
experience not to be forgotten.
For more details on afternoon tea at any one of
The Address Hotels + Resorts, please visit www.
theaddress.com.
Al Bayt, The Palace
Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
At The Top, Burj Khalifa
Stay cool, calm and collected at the world’s
highest observation deck, At The Top. The viewing platform is located in the tallest building
on the planet, the 829 metre-high Burj Khalifa,
famed for its panoramic views of Dubai.
Your visit begins on the Lower Ground Level
of The Dubai Mall. Following an informative
walk-through exhibition that outlines the
emirate’s truly fascinating history, enter the
high-speed double-decker lift and travel at 10
metres per second to the 124th floor.
From here, admire renowned international
landmarks including Dubai Creek, the Arabian
Gulf and the city’s arterial route, Sheikh Zayed
Road. On a clear day, admire the skyscrapers of
neighbouring emirate, Sharjah.
For some retail relief there is a souvenir shop,
while the Sky Café is worth experiencing. This
educational and insightful family excursion is
ideal for a relaxing day in Dubai.
Please visit www.burjkhalifa.ae.
At The Top, Burj Khalifa
55
CUT, the highly anticipated
mo der n A mer ic an s teak
restaurant by celebrity chef
Wolfgang Puck, is now open at
The Address Downtown Dubai.
Expect inspiring interiors by
renowned designer Tony Chi as
well as culinary flair that is a
class apart and a cut above.
For more information, call +9714 888 3444 or email [email protected]
Cuisine
life
| Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Wonderfully refreshing,
Moroccan mint tea is
enjoyed across the region
and is an invigorating
drink during Dubai’s hot
summer months
MAGAZINE 57
V
eritable
istas
Head to The Address Hotels +
Resorts and pair the finest dining
with breathtaking views
Aquara
For elegant waterfront dining, visit Aquara at Dubai Marina Yacht Club.
“When a guest walks in, their reaction is usually ‘Wow!’”, comments
Chef Vishal Marday. “Diners can watch boats sailing in and out; there’s
always something to see. The evening view with all the lights is particularly
amazing – it really adds to the dining experience here,” he adds.
And when the weather is too hot to comfortably eat outside, the incredible
views can be enjoyed from inside thanks to the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling
windows. When it comes to food, the restaurant serves modern, Europeanstyle dishes with a focus on seafood.
“The menu is not complicated. By keeping it simple we can concentrate
specifically on the freshness of the food and on the finer details,” explains
Chef Marday. “We focus on perfection.”
His pan-fried baby sea bass served on crabmeat couscous, with sautéed
spinach and tomato velouté, has been a highlight for more than three years.
Don’t miss Aquara’s Friday evening brunch which promises delicacies such
as Alaskan crab legs, scallops, mussels, baby octopus and lobster.
For more information, please call 04 4 362 7900
Aquara, Dubai Marina Yacht Club
cuisine
| restaurants with a view
Overlooking Dubai Marina
on the terrace at Aquara
MAGAZINE 59
Dulce de leche pancakes at Asado,
The Palace Downtown Dubai
Asado
The mouthwatering menu at Asado promises a
truly unforgettable Argentinean feast. Located on
the lower ground floor at The Palace Downtown
Dubai this is a carnivore’s paradise focusing on
juicy, tender cuts sourced from the great plains
of the South American pampas.
Fantastic food is not the only reason to visit
Asado; the vista from the restaurant is just
as impressive, too. From the terrace, enjoy a
sweeping view of The Dubai Fountain where
every 30 minutes, between 6pm and 11pm,
water jettisons 150 metres into the air. The real
action, however, takes place inside where diners
have ringside seats to the lively culinary theatre
of the parrilla, an open grill in the centre of the
restaurant, upon which expert chefs prepare
dishes to your exact requirements. Order the
Parrillada Argentina, a delicious mixed grill
of baby goat, lamb T-bone, sirloin, tenderloin,
lamb sweet bread and homemade chorizo.
For outstanding food served in an energetic
environment, Asado wins hands down.
For more information, please call 04 428 7806
Asado,
The Palace Downtown Dubai
Links
Links,
The Address Montgomerie Dubai
You don’t need to be a golfing enthusiast to
appreciate the outlook from Links at The Address
Montgomerie Dubai. Set amidst the manicured
greenery of Emirates Hills, this laid-back, all-daydining restaurant offers glorious views beyond the
Montgomerie’s driving range and par-three course
towards the impressive skyline of Jumeirah Lakes
Towers. At nighttime, diners can enjoy the yearround panorama across the floodlit fairway.
“Links is a relaxed, family-orientated venue with
a great atmosphere,” says Sous Chef Alvaro Aunay.
Brimming with a wide selection of European bistrostyle dishes, the à la carte menu offers something
to suit every taste. The restaurant is particularly
popular with British guests and some of the bestselling menu items include shepherd’s pie and fish
and chips, the latter made with haddock sourced
directly from the UK.
“Our Sunday roast is another firm favourite and
is served with traditional Yorkshire puddings,”
adds Chef Aunay. Other highlights include Links’
curry night, which is held every Monday.
For more information, please call 04 363 1220
cuisine
| restaurants with a view
Mazina
Elegant views are firmly on the menu at The
Address Dubai Marina’s family friendly Mazina.
Ideal for city slickers who enjoy the hustle and
bustle, this all-day restaurant boasts a panoramic
vista of one of Dubai’s most fashionable districts.
By night, the twinkling lights that flicker on the
marina’s waterways add to Mazina’s fun and
inviting ambience.
“At Mazina we pride ourselves on offering the
personal touch, and our live cooking stations
ensure we have plenty of interaction with our
guests,” explains Chef de Cuisine Trevor Greene.
Boasting five showcase kitchens, this is an
ideal place to sample a range of cuisines from
around the world. The Asian open kitchen
features different dishes every day; there is an
impressive Indian selection, as well as a daily
carvery offering the finest cuts of meat.
“Wednesday is our popular Mongolian
barbecue night,” reveals Chef Greene. “Choose
your ingredients, select one of 12 sauces, then
watch as our chefs cook everything to perfection
on a sizzling flat grill in front of your eyes.”
For more information, please call 04 436 7777
Mazina, The Address Dubai Marina
Nineteen
Overlooking the expertly manicured 18th hole,
you’ll find Nineteen, The Address Montgomerie
Dubai’s signature grill restaurant and lounge.
This is one of the best places to escape from
the flurry of the city and indulge in exceptional
dishes away from the crowds. Set amidst the
verdant surroundings of one of Dubai’s finest
championship golf courses, Nineteen promises
refined views accompanied by sophisticated
cuisine. Book a table at sundown for an
unforgettably romantic atmosphere.
Food-wise, Nineteen is in a league of its own,
especially where meat-lovers are concerned. “We
are renowned for our French-themed cuisine,
and in particular our famous steaks,” says Chef
Adil Shaikh. Other specialties include short
ribs, which are cooked for 36 hours at a low
temperature to render them soft and tender.
On Friday and Saturday the restaurant hosts a
celebrated daytime brunch during which diners
can feast upon moist cuts of lamb, chicken and
much more. The pièce de resistance is Nineteen’s
bustling open kitchen allowing diners to marvel
at the chefs’ handiwork as they lovingly create
your culinary masterpiece.
For more information, please call 04 363 1275
Nineteen,
The Address Montgomerie Dubai
MAGAZINE 61
S
alad
days
At Na3na3, authentic salads are an
organic and summery affair
A
light and refreshing salad is
popular around the world, but
especially so during summer.
At The Address Dubai Mall, the elegant
NA3NA3 creates a range of more than 30
delicious, bespoke salads weekly, and hosts an
Arabic-themed night on Fridays.
At the kitchen’s helm sits Syrian chef,
Hanna Dib, who not only conjures up his
own imaginative creations but understands
why the dish is in such high demand during
the hottest months: “Salads are made from
vegetables which are invigorating. They are
also smaller meals and mainly vegetarian
without oil or ghee, and with natural dressings
of olive oil and lemon juice,” he continues.
NA3NA3 uses only the freshest ingredients,
which are all locally sourced.
“I always use organic produce. All of our
vegetables, fruit and herbs are handpicked
from farms in Al Ain or come from suppliers.
Everything is prepared on site,” he adds.
For an authentic salad with a unique edge,
guests can escape the sun to the restaurant’s
cool interior and sample Chef Dib's signature
salads, each one passionately put together
with a delicate but defining Syrian touch. A
favourite is charcoal-grilled halloumi.
“The cheese is cooked in a simple fashion
without oil to produce just the right colour
and texture,” Chef Dib explains.
“Then after grilling, I add some fresh slices
of cucumber, tomatoes, mint and Romaine
lettuce and a splash of olive oil and lemon.
I also add just a pinch of salt as the cheese
is naturally salty and a final touch of paprika
enhances its presentation with some colour.”
The beetroot and rocca salad is also worth
trying. The tangy taste of the rocca delivers a
sharp contrast to the sweet beetroot, which is
boiled for an hour beforehand. White goat’s
cheese stands out against the deep green
rocca leaves, and a little drizzle of olive oil
serves as a traditional dressing.
One of the Middle East's oldest dishes,
meanwhile, is baba ganouj with pomegranate
syrup. The salad is as authentic a mezze plate
as houmous, tabbouleh and fattoush. Known
in some parts of the region as moutabel,
baba ganouj does not contain tahini or
sesame paste.
Chef Dib says: “Rather than roast them, I
grill the aubergines on charcoal for 20 minutes
to create a smoky flavour. I make holes inside
them to allow the steam and water to escape
before being puréed and mixed with chopped
tomato, spring or white onion, a hint of
parsley, lemon, olive oil and garlic.”
A sprinkling of pomegranate seeds is then
added and, for a sweet taste, caramelised
pomegranate syrup is poured over the top.
In the know
L unch: daily from 12.30pm to 3.30pm
Dinner: daily from 7pm to 11pm
NA3NA3 is located at The Address Dubai Mall.
For more information, or to make a booking,
please call 04 438 8888.
cuisine
| salads
Halloumi salad
MAGAZINE 63
estaurant review
with branches in los angeles, las vegas, london and singapore,
cut by wolfgang puck is chic, fashionable and, as of this summer,
now also in dubai. food critic gary gourmand samples its finest wares
F
or a restaurant that opened only a
few weeks ago, CUT by Wolfgang
Puck feels like it has been nestling on
the 4th floor of The Address Downtown Dubai
forever. It’s full, for a start; an enviable feat
for any restaurateur, and buzzing with the
excitement of a well-known but exclusive club.
We entered to the strains of Freddie
Mercury singing ‘We are the Champions’, an
auspicious start to the evening. No sooner
had we settled into our seats than the sheer
depth and breadth of CUT’s offering hit us
like a 400-gram piece of prime beef: this place
takes steak consumption into fine-dining
territory like nowhere we have visited before.
We began with the Parmesan Gougeres
hors d'oeuvres, tiny tuna tartare ‘sandwiches’
with wasabi and Japanese chilli pepper
‘toast’; sirloin steak tartare with aioli; and
wildly succulent mini burgers, with aged
cheddar beautifully offsetting the tomato.
So good were these snacks that we rather
foolishly forgot the main menu.
This was a mistake. For CUT has turned
the humble steakhouse into contemporary
art. It is honestly difficult to know how to
describe the main course. And saying, ‘it
comes from South Dakota, Rangers Valley in
Queensland or the Shiga Prefecture of Japan’
simply doesn’t do it justice.
It’s partly the cooking method. Grilled over
hard wood and charcoal, then finished under
a 1,200ºC broiler, the meat has a slightly
smokey flavour that is a foil to many of the
ingredients used to accompany the food, as
well as the condiments.
Then there is the diversity. When you start
discussing the relative merits of 300-day cornfed against 500-day corn-fed Australian Wagyu
beef, you know you have come to the right
place. Alex Resnik, the director of operations
and partner in the business, explains: “It
is very difficult to replicate the quality of
the steaks and the way we season them; the
quality of the service; the experience."
But for Mr Resnik, this goes beyond the
food. The beverage menu has to be the singly
most complete list in the Emirates, with a
Tuna tartare at CUT by Wolfgang Puck,
The Address Downtown Dubai
‘No sooner had we settled into our seats than the
sheer depth and breadth of CUT's offering hit us:
this place takes steak consumption into fine-dining
territory like nowhere we have visited before'
staggering 445 labels represented when we
were there, soon to become 590.
Overall it's hard to fault CUT. The service
is spectacular and the food amazing. And the
venue has been carefully thought through as
a place to dine with friends just as easily as
one might with colleagues.
Congratulations must go to executive chef
Raymond Weber and the team for creating
an eatery that has already joined the city's
small but elite group of restaurants.
In the know
Dinner: Daily 7pm to midnight
Lunch: Monday to Thursday midday
to 3pm
CUT by Wolfgang Puck is located at
The Address Downtown Dubai. For more
information or to make a booking, call
04 888 3444. Reservations required.
www.dubaidiamondcompany.com
Dubai’s best
personal shopping
service for diamonds
and gemstones
Direct: +971 55 832 5915 Email: [email protected]