Documente Academic
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+ WIN!
• A Motorola
Milestone
smartphone
• A weekend
at Aloft
• A helicopter Now with
tour added
• Harry Connick Catboy!
Jr tickets Che ck out o
new column ur
ist
inside
Your total
body tune
up
from fitness and facials
to the city’s best dentist
your guide to well-being in abu dhabi
REFINED DINING
A place where rich interiors merge with a lavishly conceived menu and a casually
laid back atmosphere gives way to magnificent views… it could only be hawksbill,
the restaurant at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. Come mingle, come relax, come eat.
All at hawksbill – simply a cut above.
CM
MY
CY
CMY
"&%(FOFSBM"ENJTTJPO"&%$IJMESFOCFMPXN
It’s Ladies Night in Stills Bar at Crowne Plaza
Abu Dhabi Yas Island every Thursday with
FREE bubbly and selected cocktails from 8pm till
midnight and we have no work on Friday!
35
Culture club
Break out your inner
p88
drama king or queen
at the region’s theatres
and performance
groups
p76
p30
MAY 2010 WHAT’S ON 11
The round-up
16 about clubland this
Salaam month
All you need to know
about the month of 93
May, plus fighter Travel
Marcos Oliveira This month is brought
answers five questions to you by the letter K,
with Kuwait and Kuala
46 Lumpur
Films
City Of Life, Nightmare 105
On Elm Street, Date Hot list
Night and more rated What’s on fire this
and slated month?
49 114
Eating Out Back chat
Culinary treats put New What's On scribe
to the test, the best Catboy gets a few
European restaurants things off his chest
and the new menu at
Thai Kitchen
63
Arts
It’s all change at
the B21 gallery, plus
May’s four must-see
exhibitions
71
Shopping
Fitness gear keeps up
our healthy theme,
plus diamonds and the
newest stores to open
p97 p63
in the region
79
Mind & Body
De-stressing at The
Address Dubai Mall
and dieting with
Health Factory
86
Sport & Outdoor
Our very own Mr
Fitness answers your
burning questions
88
Music
We meet The Subways
for a chinwag about
sandwiches
90
Nightlife
All you need to know
p46
12 WHAT’S ON MAY 2010
This month we've been...
Editor-in-Chief
Obaid Humaid Al Tayer
Group Editor & Managing Partner
lan Fairservice
Group Senior Editor
Gina Johnson | gina@motivate.ae
Editor
Mark Evans | marke@motivate.ae
Deputy Editor
Helen Spearman | helen@motivate.ae
Senior Designer
Sheila Lyn Carino | sheila@motivate.ae
Contributing Editor
Hugo Berger | hugo@motivate.ae Drinking milk, p58
Features Editor
Gareth Rees | gareth@motivate.ae
Editorial Assistant
Karen Sequeira | karen@motivate.ae
Chief Sub Editor
Iain Smith | iains@motivate.ae
Contributors
Victor Besa, James Brennan, Anthony
Broadhurst, Louise Browne, Jola Chudy,
Vikram Gawde, James Houghton, Catherine
Jarvie, Richard Luck, Joseph Maher, Conor
Purcell, Matt Ross, Farooq Salik, Simon Smedley Shopping at the UAE’s Testing our
markets, p30 health, p20
General Manager
Production and Circulation
S Sasidharan | sasidharan@motivate.ae
Production Manager
Sudhakar Chandran | sudhakar@motivate.ae
Production Supervisor
Contributors
Sunita Cordeiro | sunita@motivate.ae
Group Publisher
Jason Leavy | jason@motivate.ae
Publisher
Joe Marrit | joe@motivate.ae
Group Advertisement Manager
Saffron Goodyear | saffron@motivate.ae
Senior Advertisement Manager
Brian Cordeiro | brian@motivate.ae
Advertisement Manager
Varsha Bhatia | varsha@motivate.ae
Advertisement Manager, Abu Dhabi
Darryl Wiley | darryl@motivate.ae
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We're officially part of the Twitterati.
Salaam!
Follow us at WhatsOnMag for
exclusive updates on nightlife,
restaurants and more around
the UAE. Tweet yourself.
Arabian music 6
24
The age Harry Connick Jr gave his
The ten-day Sounds Of Arabia music first public performance. Some 36
festival in Abu Dhabi is worth checking out years later and there’s no stopping
if you want to learn more about Middle Percentage of people living in the the crooner, who hits Abu Dhabi this
Eastern culture. UAE who suffer from diabetes. month. Read our exclusive interview,
Discover more health facts and what
May 6 to 16, Abu Dhabi Cultural Founda- p38
to do about them with our body
88
tion, Al Hosn Fort, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) tune-up, p20
6215300. www.adach.ae
Floors of the Petronas Twin Towers
Hive in Kuala Lumpur. We climbed them
The chic Souk Al Bahar bar, which closed all on our visit to the Malaysian
its doors unexpectedly last month, has capital, p95
reopened. We’re delighted – as we were
beginning to miss the Saturday roasts and
the cool cocktails.
4 58
What’s not km², the size of San Juan De Dios
Market in Mexico, the largest market
in the world. The UAE has its fair
Years the Agatha Christie play The
Mousetrap has been running in
London’s West End. Read about the
Snow Patrol UAE’s thriving theatre scene, p35
share of markets, albeit somewhat
Once again rumours of an upcoming appear- smaller ones, p30
ance by the Northern Irish rockers sweep the
UAE – this time they were said to be playing Abu
Dhabi – and once again they turn out to be not
true. Seriously, lads, are you coming or what?
This month we’re going to…
Petrol price increases
GETTY/GALLO IMAGES, ISTOCK AND NAVEED AHMED
OK, we know it’s only an increase of 11 per cent, Pure Fridays at Media One London College of Fashion
and that we get a pretty sweet deal even then, DJ Snezana from Miami’s Nikki Beach may LCF is bringing a selection of its popular
but still – it’s the Middle East for crying out loud!
just be our new best friend. We’ll be joining short courses to the UAE, including classes
What next – Eskimos paying for snow? her on Fridays at the Media One for drinks, in personal styling, fashion marketing, visual
poolside dancing and general mayhem – merchandising and luxury brand management.
Hygiene standards but next time the camera should stay at The courses range from one to five days, and
A recent investigation by Abu Dhabi Food home. Get involved in the Mediterranean are taught by European experts in everything
Control Authority found that only one in ten evening brunch (7pm to 10pm) for a from journalism to image consulting. Expect
restaurants it visited in capital’s Tourist Club wallet-friendly Dhs175. Bargain. waiting lists, so sharpen those elbows if you
Area met their hygiene standards. One in ten! Media One, Dubai Media City, Dubai, noon want join your fellow fashionistas at the
One restaurant apparently failed on 20 different to 3am, free for ladies, Dhs50 for men Kempinski, Mall of the Emirates.
accounts. Gross. after 8pm. Tel: (04) 4271000 www.fashion.arts.ac.uk
60%
bloodlust, there’s more to
come with the Abu Dhabi
Fighting Championship. The David Haye
event will see 20 rock hard The flamboyant British heavy-
fighters slug it out for a Dhs1 weight WBA boxing champ has
claimed Abu Dhabi was his first choice of
million prize. UAE-based venue to stage a unification bout against
Brazilian Marcos is the 2009 either of the colossal Klitschko brothers. The
biggest heavyweight boxing match in years
Western World Champion right here on these shores? Yes please.
and a firm favourite to win
50%
the event
Are you the toughest man in the UAE?
Yeah, probably. I mean, I’ve had so much
experience fighting over the years and I was Noel Gallagher
Western World Champion in 2009. Maybe A little bird told us that
there is a better MMA fighter in the UAE. But be in the UFC. I could compete in the UFC, ex-Oasis star Noel has been
I haven’t met him yet. but at the moment I don’t want to. invited to partake in some
You versus Mike Tyson in his prime. Who’s It’s a rough game, this MMA lark. You ever five-star hospitality at October’s
the winner? take a serious beating? Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The welcome
If it were boxing rules, then he’d beat me Seriously no, nothing worse than a few cuts, mat is out, so it’s up to Noel now if he fan-
easily. He was better trained than me. But in bruises and strains. We’re all such skilled cies a cushy trip.
a straight fight, with all disciplines allowed? fighters; we know how to take punches.
30%
Yes, I could beat him. I know so many There’s Dhs1 million up for grabs. Nice
martial arts and he only knows boxing. I new yacht if you win?
could grapple him into submission. No, definitely not. I want to make money,
How’s this different from last month’s but it’s not everything for me. Having a new
UFC event? yacht or a car will not make me happy. I’m Leona Lewis
It’s exactly the same sport. The UFC and just happy if I can spend every day in the The golden-voiced X Factor
ADFC are just different organisations. The gym, training hard and staying healthy. winner has just embarked on
levels of the fighters are pretty much the May 14, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition a two–year long world tour. And,
same. Three of the guys fighting this month Centre, Khaleej Al Arabi Street, 6.30pm, according to our insider, the UAE is vying to
have fought in the UFC, and in my last fight Dhs180 to Dhs2,650. Tel: (02) 6810989. be one of her stop-offs.
I beat a guy called Gary Jordan who used to www.abudhabifc.com
.DIABETES.
The UAE has the second highest rate of
Type Two Diabetes in the world. Only the
native island of Narau, in the South Pacific,
is injecting more insulin. Amongst the adult
citizens of the UAE, 24 per cent of people
are affected, while 17.4 per cent of expats
suffer. Grim reading. What’s worse is that if
untreated, Type Two Diabetes can cause heart
attacks, blindness, strokes, loss of limbs, poor
circulation and death. So much so, that last
year Type Two Diabetes was the biggest killer
of people in the UAE.
WHAT TO LOOK OUT FOR
Constant thirst, passing large amounts of
urine, tiredness and weight loss. In some
people vision is affected. WHAT’S ON SAYS .STRESS.
TREATMENT Get yourself down to Boot Camp twice a Life in the 21st century UAE is fast-paced.
ILLUSTRATIONS: LOUISE BROWNE
Type Two Diabetes is associated with obesity week – it’s one of the easiest ways to get and As we try to fit in family, work, social life,
and an unhealthy lifestyle. In severe cases stay fit and combat an unhealthy lifestyle. fitness and hobbies, stress can become an
medical help, in the form of monitoring and Supplement that with a healthy diet – www. increasingly prevalent danger. Add in the
managing glucose levels, may be required ediet.ae provide everything you need, and type of daily commute that’s enough to
but it can be controlled by maintaining a deliver to your doorstep. take anyone to the point of boiling, and
healthy and balanced diet and by exercising www.originalfitnessco.com it’s not hard to see why many people in
regularly. www.ediet.ae the Emirates are affected by stress. Stress
Takeaways After smoking and drinking coffee for 15 years my teeth aren’t
exactly sparkling. I’ve heard whitening can be damaging to the
enamel – what can I do?
That’s actually not true. Bleaching simply changes the structure of
We asked Dubai London Clinic’s enamel to reflect more light making teeth appear brighter. Done in
nutritionist Stephanie Karl for her moderation, it’s completely harmless to the teeth. It is the simplest
way to attempt to gain a better smile. However, most people need
advice on healthy eating when more than bleaching to really achieve that great smile.
ordering in
I need a total mouth makeover but I’m concerned about how
long the veneers last. Are they really permanent and will I get
.Indian. my money’s worth over a lifetime? How long does the process
Chicken tikka masala is a popular choice, but it also has an average take and what’s the recovery time like?
of 700 calories per portion. Unfortunately, it’s Western influences Nothing in dentistry, or that’s put in the human body, is permanent.
that have added the calories to Indian meals that were traditionally Veneers, however, are the longest lasting restoration in the mouth.
quite low in fat. Avoid creamy curries, like korma and masala, and The average life span is about 15 to 20 years, but you have to take
go instead for the tandoori, which has 350 calories per portion. care of them. Taking care of them means regular hygiene visits and
This hardly makes it a healthy option, but it’s considerably better by check ups with the dentist. I have two offices, one in New York and
comparison. Stay away from deep fried bhajis and samosas. Keep it one in Dubai. When I come to Dubai, I bring my ceramist, Jason
simple with plain boiled rice and avoid naan bread, which is high in Kim, and we finish the entire process in less than a week – about five
fat and just one half contains 269 calories. days, actually. The process consists of two main visits and two check
visits. There is no recovery time, from the time the process starts you
.Pizza. will look great (even while in temporary phase, or trial smile) and
All that cheese is not good news. Then many of us add any number of will be able to go to social events and work.
toppings that are high in fat. Just eating half a plain margherita pizza
from Pizza Express gives you 263 calories. A single slice of Domino’s I’m 27 and my wisdom teeth have been threatening to come
Deluxe has 171 calories. If you can’t resist the occasional pizza, try through for a few years. What happens if they do and there’s no
going for the lower fat toppings such as vegetables and prawns. Don’t room? Will my smile be ruined? I can’t face braces at my age.
ask for extra cheese and avoid garlic dips or garlic bread. Contrary It’s not true that wisdom teeth crowd your teeth if they grow in
to what you might think, the deep pan pizza is actually a healthier impacted… however, it’s not good if they are impacted – they
option than the thin crust as it contains less fat. should be removed. If not, they can ruin the second molar that
is in front of them and they can become infected causing severe
.Chinese. pain and swelling. Braces, however, in today’s dentistry aren’t like
Chinese food is hugely popular, but not a wise choice for dieters. If they used to be. There are now clear braces called
you can’t resist the temptation, at least try to avoid the deep fried invisalign or ceramic braces that are tooth
dishes. This includes starters like prawn crackers and spring rolls. Just coloured that can actually be placed on
one serving of crispy duck contains over 30g of fat. Instead, try fish the backs of the teeth. Many actors and
and steamed vegetables. Other dishes that are higher in vegetables and actresses are using this option today to
therefore lower in fat include beef in black bean sauce. Still, a typical obtain a better smile.
serving contains 432 calories, whereas chicken and cashew nuts has Dr Michael Apa, Villa 1016, Al Wasl Road,
311 calories. Stir-fries aren’t as bad as you might think, as the amount Umm Suqiem, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3949433.
of oil used is generally not high. Go for the plain (preferable brown) E-mail: doctorapa@yahoo.com
rice rather than the egg fried which contains more fat. Better still,
order Thai food instead which is much lighter.
ten markets
ARTE
PHOTOS: Naveed Ahmed
Dubai Designer Market
Culture club
Two decades ago it was Fast-forward a couple of decades and, popular across the board, with all areas of
while it’s hardly a scene to rival the West End the performing arts enjoying a keen boost in
practically non-existent. These or Broadway, the city now offers a regular interest and quality. Just look at the ongoing
days the UAE’s theatre scene programme of theatre that caters to an ever success of the Abu Dhabi Festival, which in
is thriving, with new theatres wider selection of tastes, be that all-singing, March once again brought world-class opera,
all-dancing successes of the likes of High School ballet and classical music performances
filled with ever-increasing Musical (both 1 and 2) or ‘straight’ plays such as – from highbrow Chopin recitals to chart-
numbers of productions thriller The Woman In Black and tragic-comedy topping populists Il Divo – to the capital.
by both professional and Stones In His Pocket. Better yet, however, is Back in Dubai, venues such as DUCTAC,
that this interest is growing at all levels: for the Madinat and the recently-opened
community companies. every Blood Brothers – the hit West End show Palladium stage an increasingly sophisticated
So how did we become a brought to the Madinat Theatre by UK-based selection of professional shows that are, says
production company Popular Productions that Calderbank “raising the bar of what’s been
nation of theatre lovers? enjoyed a two-week sell-out run in February here before and by doing that it raises other
– there are several more staged by local, non- people’s aspirations – they’re encouraged to
Ask Damian Calderbank about the history of profit community theatre troupes. go to theatre groups and get involved.
theatre in the UAE and he’ll take you back to a Which is not to say that there has never “There are more people willing to go and see
time that, to current residents, sounds like another been any other kind of middle ground – a wider variety of theatre,” he continues. “Dubai
world. “[Veteran British actor] Derek Nimmo neighbouring emirate Sharjah last month Drama Group put on Guards! Guards! by Terry
used to come over with his drama group and celebrated the 19th edition of Sharjah Theatre Pratchett last year, which isn’t to everyone’s taste
they would play in the little theatre at the Crowne Week, while members of that very same but shows how things have changed.”
Plaza on Sheikh Zayed Road,” recalls the theatre expat audience that was guffawing to Alan All well and good, but there’s no time to
consultant who has worked on such high-profile Ayckbourn-style bedroom farces back in rest on our collective laurels just yet. The
Dubai-based ventures from DUCTAC to the the day went on to form Dubai Community success of Blood Brothers may mean that
Palladium. “All the expat community would go Theatre, better known now as DUCTAC. Popular Productions is bringing another
and see those shows – real ‘how’s Along the way, something that was once award-winning musical – Fame – to Dubai
your father’ type of things, you considered slightly ‘other’, the province of an in the coming months (marking its 20th
know, all the old farces.” imagined cultural elite, has become hugely production in the UAE) and a “Hollywood
season” later in the year but, as co-founder
Lucy Blakeman explains, the high cost of
staging theatre in the limited number of
venues currently available in Dubai means
that “the UAE is not yet ready for open-ended
runs of big shows like those you will see in
London, New York or Las Vegas.”
Blakeman suggests that support is needed
“at governmental level” to help take things
on to the next stage. Visit London or New
York and one of the first things you see when
you land is “a presentation wall showing you
what’s on and how to get tickets for the West
End or Broadway. The authorities need to
help the entertainment companies, like us,
to develop bigger audiences by supporting
increased marketing and advertising
campaigns at the airport, hotels and
throughout the city,” she suggests. “That way,
we can take more of a chance on much longer
runs and bigger productions.”
And if the sky was the limit? Popular
Productions has “always wanted to stage
outdoor theatre in the colder months in the
UAE and it’s perhaps something that might
happen in the future. How about Treasure
Island on the tip of the Palm Jumeirah?”
ISTOCK
Get involved
Abu Dhabi Sharjah Dubai
Better known for its classical and musical Theatre Week DUCTAC remains the
performing arts programme, may be over for emirate’s leading venue for
Abu Dhabi’s theatre another year, all manner of theatre-related
commission promises but the Al Qasba workshops and classes. If your passion
workshops and a complex offers visitors lies more directly with treading the boards,
performance in art and culture – including Dubai Drama Group has been presenting plays
2010. a regular theatre programme and various in the emirate for the past 25 years.
www.adach.ae workshops and classes – throughout the year. www.ductac.org
www.qaq.ae www.dubaidramagroup.com
Harry Con
Win!
HARRY CON
NIC
TICKETS K JR
If you’re a fan
jazz stylings en of Harry C’s
We have an am ter this compesmooth
of tickets to gi azingly genero tition now.
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CORBIS/GRAPHEAST
nick Jr
It’s fair to say Harry Connick Jr is what you’d
call naturally gifted. The iconic New Orleans-
And from there I just kept on going, using
all the opportunities I had around me
Toussaint and The Meters’ stuff that came
around in the late 1960s and 1970s. And so
born singer/pianist/arranger first learnt to from just being in New Orleans.” with that coinciding with the time I myself was
play keyboards at the tender age of three, coming around, I grew up hearing a lot of it and
played publicly at six, and had recorded The famous story that, at just it became a huge influence on me. You know,
with a local jazz band by the time he was six-years-old, Harry was James Booker, Professor Longhair, Dr John, The
ten-years-old. He’s since gone on to enjoy a playing jazz to drug addicts Neville Brothers… A lot of that stuff was real big,
career that has seen him ranked among the and prostitutes on New Orleans’ and it was just everywhere. And, with me being
Top 60 best-selling male artists in the USA legendary Bourbon Street in The Musicians Union as local piano player, I’d
since 1952, selling more than 25 million “That’s sort of true. You know, The French end up playing every style that was happening in
records worldwide, winning three Grammy Quarter is the centre of New Orleans. There the city at the time. For one gig they might say,
Awards, plus one Emmy Award just for good is a lot of activity going on down there. There “Wear a suit and be at this place for eight o’clock
measure. are prostitutes, there are drug dealers, and on Thursday night” – and I’d go and be playing
Meanwhile, his simultaneously successful there are people involved in different activities. with a jazz trio. Then the next night I’d go, and
career in acting has found him gracing the So, when I was down there playing as a child it would be a funk group with a guitarist, bass
big screen via roles in such significant films musician, a lot of that stuff was going on. But, player and drummer. Then another night I might
as 1990’s Memphis Belle; 1996’s Independence while there may have been drug dealers and be playing classical music in a hotel lobby. So
Day (with Will Smith); and, most recently, prostitutes around and they may have been in yeah, I played funk along with everything else.
2009’s New In Town, in which he stars the room, at that age I was totally unaware of And to me, it was a lot more groove-based, and
alongside Renee Zellweger. We caught up it. And even when I was old enough to know, harmonically much more contained, than jazz.
with Harry before his upcoming Abu Dhabi they were still just there as part of general Which made it much easier to play, but at the
gig later this month. society. So, while it may sound dramatic and same time a lot of fun. You know, while one of
wonderful to think of this little kid going into them is like going to Nobu, the other one is like
HARRY ON... these clubs with people using drugs all around going to McDonald’s. But I like doing both.”
and turning tricks in the back room, in truth it
HIS early background, with wasn’t anything like that extreme.” The backlash he suffered from
his father being District Attorney jazz purists after recording,
of New Orleans and his mother What first attracted him to and touring, his funk albums
(who sadly diEd when he was 13) playing jazz “I don’t know exactly who these ‘jazz purists’
a judge “Jazz music is hard to play and you have to are. There are some people out there who
“I grew up in a predominantly white, know a lot to play it. And so it was the quest absolutely cannot stand anything I do, and then
straight-up middle-class environment. for that knowledge and experience that first there are other people out there who love what
Yeah, the story that my parents did attracted me to it. You know, it was a challenge. I do. And I can’t spend too much time thinking
also own a record store is true – but Because, just like there are certain types of about either. With the funk albums there was
that was ten years before I was born. music where you don’t need to know much and some backlash in terms of bad reviews and stuff.
You know, they loved music, and that was you can play whatever you want, there are also And also there was a lot of confusion amongst
their source of income to put themselves those where you do need to have knowledge. the public in that people would come to my
through law school. So they were constantly And, with jazz being one of those, for me it was shows expecting a jazz crooner, and I’d show
playing music around the house. A lot of a big mountain to climb. And I was interested in up playing this New Orleans funk – which was
Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, classical music… doing that.” unfortunate. That’s because when you’re around
Plus I have an older sister who loved 25-years-old – which I was at the time – you
rock’n’roll and The Beatles. And, The early history behind HIS just don’t think about stuff like that. So while
of course, growing up in New Orleans brief mid-1990s flirtation with I definitely would make another funk album,
we had immediate access to all the New Orleans funk, via his 1994 LP next time I’d also make sure people do know
traditional jazz, which was an immense She plus its 1996 follow-up what to expect. Because you don’t want people
influence on me. I basically started playing Star Turtle spending money on something they don’t want.
just because we had a piano in the house. “What we call New Orleans funk is that Allen You don’t want to manipulate people like that.”
Art Space
Italian label Marni brings some colour to Fresh from Las Vegas and shooting to the
the linear grey of the DIFC. With typical top of our bars Hot List this month (p104)
Mediterranean flair, you’ll find offbeat prints, The grand dame of British fashion has hit is Caramel. This new addition to Dubai’s
feminine cuts and interesting textures within. our sandy shores with this modern store, nightlife scene is filled with the beautiful
Tel: (04) 3825120 filled with her saucy signature dresses and people who flock for the upmarket US-style
perilously high heels. menu, outdoor patio and chic décor. Ideal for
Tel: (04) 3825140 pretending you’re in NYC for the night, we’ll
be found outside, mini lobster taco and glass
With a glass-cube store as stylish as the pieces of bubbly in hand.
it sells, Villa Moda is a veritable emporium of Tel: (04) 4256677 or 800 CARAMEL
covetable clothing. DIFC has both men’s and A good dentist is hard to find, so when we
women’s stores, boasting labels from local heard whispers of Dr Karin Fekih being ‘the
designers to international big hitters like Yves most charming man in a white coat since
Saint-Laurent, Proenza Schouler and Gucci. George Clooney’ we had to investigate. Not At the heart of the post-work drinks action,
Tel: (04) 3825150 only are Dr Fekih and his team thoroughly Zuma is a sophisticated spot packed with a
nice people and excellent dentists, they (usually) well-behaved crowd. It’s also the
even have posters of JFK on the clinic walls. prime place to bag a banker – if there are any
And it’s open until 8pm and offers free valet left. We, however, go there for the winning
parking. Japanese food, Friday brunch and Asian-
Tel: (04) 3230900. www.theclinic.ae inspired drinks. Try the three-course tasting
menu, 7pm to 8pm, (Dhs195 including carafe
of sake or glass of wine), which features the
signature miso marinated black cod.
Tel: (04) 4255660. www.zumarestaurant.com
Zuma Caramel
E n j o y t h e t h r i l l a n d f u n o f
DESERT SAFARI
Programme Includes:
Dune Bashing
Sand Boarding & Camel Riding
BBQ Dinner - Arabic Tea & Coffee
Soft Drinks & Refreshments
Photograph in Local Dress
Henna Painting & Tattoos Dhs. 200/- Per Person
Enchanting Belly Dancing Show Timing: Pick up: 3:00 - 3:30pm - Drop off: 9:00 - 9:30pm
Pick-up & drop-back facility included
Sheesha (Hubbly-Bubbly)
& lots more entertainment throughout the evening
SPECIALIZED IN ORGANIZING SOCIAL & CORPORATE GET TOGETHERS, BIRTHDAYS & ANNIVERSARIES.
24 Hrs. Reservation
Who? Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, Mat- Jackie Earle Haley, Katie Cassidy, Alexandra Maria Lara, Sonu
thew Macfadyen, Danny Huston, Kyle Gallner, Rooney Mara,Thomas Sood, Jason Flemyng, Saoud
Mark Strong, Ridley Scott (director) Deeker, Clancy Brown, Samuel Al Kabbi, Susan George, Ali F
Bayer (director) Mostafa (director)
Tagline ‘From Ridley Scott, director of ‘Welcome to your new Nightmare’ ‘Every day you can change another
Gladiator’ person’s life without ever knowing it’
Once upon a time... Nottingham’s finest (Crowe) banded to- Freddy Kruger (Earle Haley), the The lives of three complete stran-
gether with Little John (Kevin Durand), man with the deadly manicure, re- gers collided in the midst of the
Friar Tuck (The Full Monty’s Mark turned to terminate the slumbering complex modern city that is Dubai.
Addy) and his better half Maid Marian teens of Elm Street.
(Blanchett) to do battle with the city’s
villainous sheriff (Macfadyen).
Ideal if you’re in the Forget Ridley Scott and Russell Remember the cycle of films that See the city you live in from every
mood to... Crowe’s recent run of so-so films made Wes Craven a millionaire possible perspective.
and remember what happens when while turning Robert Englund’s
they ‘unleash hell’. on-screen alter-ego into a horror
phenomenon to rival Jason Voor-
hees and Michael Myers.
Watch this if you Previous winning takes on the The earlier Freddy films, in par- The vast ensemble dramas of
like... legend such as The Adventures Of ticular episode one and the hugely the late, great Robert Altman
Robin Hood and the peerless British entertaining post-modern slash-fest (M*A*S*H, Gosford Park) and the
TV series Robin Of Sherwood. Wes Craven’s New Nightmare. perpetually underrated John Sayles
(Eight Men Out, Lone Star).
Top trivia Bryan Singer (X-Men) and Sam Before they signed up Jackie Earle Jason Flemyng’s father, Gordon,
Raimi (Spider-Man) were both in Haley (Watchmen’s Rorschach), the directed the big-screen Dr Who
the running to direct Robin Hood. producers toyed with casting Billy adventures Dr Who And The
Bob Thornton as Freddy Krueger. Daleks and Daleks’ Invasion Earth:
2150 AD.
What’s On ten word If Scott and Crowe rekindle Gladia- A so-so remake is elevated by Earle Serious film fans will
review tor’s glory, this’ll be awesome. Haley’s spirited performance. be salivating over
City Of Life.
‘The tooth hurts’ ‘From the director of Night At The ‘An Oliver Stone film’ ‘What if you had a second
Museum’ chance to find love?’
Misbehavin’ ice hockey player Phil and Claire Foster (Carell and Reformed corporate raider Gordon Young Sophie
Derek Thompson (Johnson) was Fey) decided to spice things up a bit Gecko (Douglas) leaves jail and (Seyfried) found
sentenced to spend one week as by impersonating another couple teams up with rookie trader Jacob a letter that
the tooth fairy. With hilarious – a couple who have fallen foul of Moore (LaBeouf) in order to alert took her on the
consequences. the Mob. the world to imminent financial romantic voyage of
catastrophe. a lifetime.
Watch Mr Johnson flex his comedy Watch two people do the sort of See the moneymen get what they Watch the sort of film Sandra Bul-
muscles or erase memories of thing you might try were you not deserve. And, no, we don’t mean a lock might have starred in when she
the rotten Tooth, a British family convinced it would end disas- great fat bonus. was i) younger, and ii) just as clueless
‘comedy’ featuring career-low per- trously. about picking decent scripts.
formances from Harry Enfield and
Richard E Grant.
See the erstwhile WWE superstar Second tier Steve Carell pictures Superior Oliver Stone movies such Anything from Amanda Seyfried’s
make something very difficult (film such as Get Smart and Evan as Platoon, JFK, Nixon and the CV, be it the bafflingly successful
acting) look remarkably simple. Almighty. cruelly underrated George Bush Mamma Mia! or the thematically
biopic W. similar and equally disappointing
Dear John.
This is the first time Dwayne Director Shawn Levy is a Yale Martin and Charlie Sheen, who The supporting cast includes
Johnson has been billed as The graduate. A Yale graduate who co-starred with Michael Douglas in Franco Nero and Vanessa Red-
Rock since he made 2007’s The thought it would be a good idea the original Wall Street, each make grave who, when they’re not busy
Game Plan. to revive the Pink Panther series a cameo appearance. being movie legends, live together
without Peter Sellers. as man and wife.
The Rock’s solid, but elsewhere Even with Carell and Fey, this is Stone savours a steaming bowl of Hollywood’s convinced Seyfried’s
there are signs of decay. merely OK. credit crunch. the next big thing. We aren’t.
blue grill
Rococo A taste of
At Sofitel’s new things to
signature restaurant
chef de cuisine Enzo come
Neri is determined This month tastes
to broaden your good thanks to
perception of Italian some exciting new
food restaurants
pa
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m the chefs at
Want cooking les
Abu Dhabi's best
sses for
sons fro
European restau
the new cooker
l, just log onto ww
rant?
y classes
w.
European
for you and a pa m/ competitions
blishi ng .co
motivatepu ion...
following quest
and answer the is a
Which of these
h dish?
popular Frenc
a) Newt’s legs
b) Toad’s legs
c) Frog’s legs
HOT
EUROPEAN
Our pick of the UAE’s European eateries
LIST
ATMOSPHERE One word. Romantic. Fine dining demands It’s extremely busy and Formal without being Refined,
The design is chic, the stiff white tablecloths, extremely bright. With stuffy. Busy without elegant,
lighting just right, the but Verre is very lots of helpful waiters being boisterous. sophisticated,
food is French and much alive. Mainly zipping about the thanks to an equally
fabulous. Love is in the thanks to eager and place. It’s the kind of refined, elegant and
air, mon cheri. knowledgeable place you should iron sophisticated clientele.
head sommelier and a shirt or pop on a nice
restaurant manager frock for.
Luca Gagliardi.
INTERIOR High ceilings and a It's very 2010 after a There’s a lot of white – a Purple, pink, Parisian Compact, with an
distinctive, modern recent refurb, with a lot. It gleams like an and, of course, stylish. authentically French
design. There isn’t private dining room, A-lister’s gnashers, with look, including marble
another restaurant like chef’s table and mirrors. a splash of neon thrown walls, oil paintings and
it in the UAE. in for good measure. linen tablecloths.
FOOD Welcome to Chef New chef Scott Price As Gary himself told us, Exactly what you’d Ingredients are flown
Franck Detrait’s has upped Verre’s the food is, “British with expect from a kitchen in direct from Europe
authentic French game. Something a French influence”. It team trained by a for an authentic taste,
brassiere menu. All the we didn’t think was is all superb, but the French chef of three- and it shows. The
classics are there, from possible from a kitchen white tomato soup is star Michelin calibre celeriac and fois gras
onion soup to steak that never fails to legendary. with a reputation for soup is to die for.
tartare. And it’s all of impress. Order the experimentation. The
the highest quality. beef Wellington daily courses never stop.
special.
LOCATION Who isn’t a fan of Park It’s at the old end of Grosvenor House is The InterContinental The Between The
Hyatt Dubai? It offers town, but it’s a journey a primo hotel, in a DFC. A stylish hotel for Bridges area is a bit
so much and demands you won't regret, no primo location. Perfect a stylish chef. out on a limb for
only that you eat, matter where you for a primo chef’s city-based folk, but
drink and, well, pay reside. restaurant. there’s plenty going
(naturally). Take a seat on to make your visit
outside with a view of worthwhile.
the creek.
PRICE Around Dhs615 for two. We paid Dhs925 for Dhs760 for two. Not Steep, but it’s a place You won’t see much
two but it was worth it. bad, Gary, not bad. for a special occasion. change from Dhs800.
WHAT'S ON Nous aimons le traiteur. Scott Price has given If Gary is in Dubai, he's Lunch for Dhs230 Head chef Jean Hurstel
SAYS (That’s ‘we love Traiteur’, Verre a new lease of in the kitchen. Thumbs on Wednesdays and was trained in France by
by the way.) life. up, Mr Rhodes. Thursdays is a must. the three-Michelin Star-
owning Alain Passard.
INFO Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Hilton Dubai Creek, Grosvenor House, InterContinental Dubai Shangri-La Qaryat
Dubai, Sun to Fri 7pm Deira, Dubai, Sun to Fri Dubai Marina, Dubai, Festival City, Dubai, Al Beri, Between The
to midnight. Tel: (04) 7pm to 11.30pm. Tel: Sun to Thurs 7pm 7pm to 1am. Tel: Bridges, Abu Dhabi,
3172222. www.dubai. (04) 2277550. www. to 11pm. Tel: (04) (04) 7011128. www. 6.30pm to 11.30pm.
park.hyatt.com gordonramsay.com 3176000. www. ichotelsgroup.com Tel: (02) 5098888.
garyrhodes.com www.shangri-la.com
Blue Grill
It’s prime cuts all the
way at Yas Island
Rotana’s steakhouse
dubai marine beach resort & spa po box 5182, jumeirah dubai, u.a.e. tel: +9714 346111 fax: +9714 3541023 www.sho-cho.com
souk qaryat al beri (shangri la hotel) po box 95150 between the bridges abu dhabi, uae tel:+9712 5581117 fax: +9712 5581119
EATING OUT
take five
What’s the best choice if you’re intolerant to cows' milk?
We tasted (and retched) in the name of research
Pure Harvest Oat Delamere Dairy So Natural Rice Waitrose Organic Eden
Milk UHT Goats' Milk Milk Unsweetened Soya Blend Rice & Soy
Dhs8.50 Dhs11.50 Dhs9.75 Dhs9.75 Dhs14
Taste Unsurprisingly, it’s pretty Good grief – get it away! It looks like river water, We should have gone Darker than cows’ milk,
oaty. A bit like milk after Absolutely rank, unless smells like cooked rice for the sweetened but was really rather
you’ve dunked a few you like drinking liquid and should never be option – this was fairly good. We even had an
HobNobs. 6/10 goat’s cheese. 0/10 ingested on its own. 1/10 unpleasant. 2/10 extra sip. 7/10
Tea It tastes like tea post- The rural, farmy flavour The dark colour didn’t The soya worked really By far the best choice,
biscuit dunk. No bad was far too strong in tea. make the tea any less well in tea, resulting in with a normal colour
thing in our book. Earl Grey himself would brown and it wasn’t a normal colour and and flavour. 8/10
7/10 be quaking in his boots. creamy enough to make almost no difference in
1/10 a taste difference. 5/10 taste to cow’s milk. 8/10
Coffee Doesn’t work so well Not too bad, actually. Not bad at all, with the It wasn’t strong or As a creamier option,
with coffee, and there It is the colour of cows’ coffee strong enough creamy enough to with a subtle tang, it
was a bit of curdling. milk and pretty creamy to overpower the rice compete with the was grand. 8/10
Never nice. 4/10 so works well. As long taste. 6/10 coffee. Weak effort.
as you like your coffee 4/10
seriously strong to
disguise the taste. 5/10
Cereal It slightly altered the No. Just no. It tastes like It's too savoury for Far from pleasurable, Pretty ruddy good and
taste of our cornflakes, animals – and not in a cereal, but we weren’t but we didn’t turn as inoffensive as it gets.
but it wasn’t vile. 5/10 good way. 2/10 sick in our mouth. 3/10 green. 5/10 7/10
Milkshake The oaty taste slightly We like cheese. We Worked pretty darn well Again, not creamy Great taste and suitably
overpowered the like chocolate. Just not with our chocolate milk enough to create a creamy. The best.
chocolately goodness – together. Ever. 0/10 powder. 6/10 pleasing milky treat, but 8/10
and we don’t mess with the flavour had a nice
the milkshake. 4/10 nutty aftertaste. 6/10
what's on says It is quite sweet but far It loses points on a) poor The dark colour is We’ll be giving the Thumbs up. We’ll be
from unpleasant. The grammar on the carton pretty off-putting and sweetened option a drinking this with wild
slight curdling in tea b) Anthony Worrall we’re shallow, shallow try, which will probably abandon. It just needs
and coffee lost it a few Thompson’s saccharine people. Make it prettier fare better with our to look a bit more
points, nevertheless, a tale of his runny-nosed and we’d think about cornflakes. normal…
strong contender. daughter’s miracle cure, drinking it again.
again on the carton and
c) the vile aftertaste that
stayed with us for hours. WINNE
R
all you
can eat
Moonlight Sushi
Nights
Oriental Hammam,
Health & Beauty Institute
Escape from the stresses of modern life by stepping back in time.
Where? One&Only Royal Mirage traditional Oriental Hammam offers an
Every Wednesday night Fazaris keeps the Japanese chefs busy oasis of retreat, a place where expert masseurs attend your
with a sushi buffet, in addition to its a la carte menu. Book a every need; rejuvenating your skin and invigorating tired muscles.
table under the stars and by the water for the full experience.
Located by the Residence & Spa at One&Only Royal Mirage,
What?
Dubai’s most stylish beach resort.
Unlimited sushi and free-flowing sake you say? Sign us up.
You’ll find a buffet with traditional and fusion sushi, freshly
made sashimi tornado rolls (they’re massive) and a live cooking Oriental Hammam is open daily 9.30am - 10pm
station for Okonomiyaki. These Japanese-style pancakes are (Ladies only 9.30am - 2pm, Gentlemen only 7pm - 10pm)
made from cabbage with toppings like squid and egg – much
tastier than it sounds – then smothered in a special Worcester- One&Only Royal Mirage, Telephone +971 4 399 99 99
shire sauce and mayonnaise. Finish with sweet fruit sushi and a oneandonlyroyalmirage.com
very lovely ginger crème brulee from the dessert table.
Why?
All you can eat sushi is one of the UAE’s greatest inventions, of-
fering the chance to try things you wouldn’t normally have the
bravado, or budget, to order. Expand your Japanese horizons,
The Palace
wash it all down with warm sake and enjoy dining alfresco *
Residence & Spa
before it’s so hot that the evening air cooks your sashimi.
Fazaris, The Address Downtown Burj Dubai, Old Town, Dubai, Wed, Arabian Court
6.30pm to midnight, Dhs210. Tel: (04) 4368888. www.theaddress.com
EATING OUT
Angar
The Yas Hotel’s
Indian restaurant
mixes contemporary
style with traditional
flavours for an
out-of-this-world
experience
All change!
Leading Dubai gallery B21
has undergone a major
transformation. With a new
name and a brand new
space in Al Quoz. We caught
up with the eponymous
owner of what will henceforth
be known as Gallery Isabelle
van den Eynde to get the
lowdown
Ayyam Gallery
The first big-name
gallery to move in,
Ayyam specialises
in contemporary
Syrian art (it is an
off-shoot of the
highly-respected
gallery of the same
name in Damascus). Combining its roster
of high-quality artist with a flexible,
multi-functional space that covers two
floors of a vast warehouse, where Ayyam
has led, others have followed.
www.ayyamgallery.com
Carbon 12 Gallery
Offering an overview
of the art scene
from Tehran to INTRODUCTORY AED 299
OFFER
Lisbon via New Single or
York, Carbon double room
including breakfast
12 is perhaps
one of the most
international
galleries in the UAE
today. Shifting to Al Quoz late last
year from its first space in the Marina
has proved to be a canny move, as its
growing reputation and increasing
presence on the scene will attest to. 214 Rooms | 56 Suites
www.carbon12dubai.com 103 Apartments | Al Nakhla Restaurant
Tides Pool Bar & Grill | Flamingo Bar
Mojo Gallery Beryozka Russian club | Oxygen Gym
A more commercial O-Zone Spa | Business Centre
approach from Meeting Rooms
– to explore notions of subjectivity and the a gallery that is
continuity of life in the face of death. After also a working
that we have a new Gallery IVDE artist, studio, Mojo gets
Zoulikha Bouabdellah, who was a winner the balance right
of the Abraaj Capital Art Prize in 2008. She with interesting
has created a whole collection of installa- exhibitions from
tion works that take the words of [Egyptian international artists
singer] Umm Kulthoum as their centre and working across all media, from painting
evoke the human body through Arabic let- to photography to sculpture. Added where business is pleasure
tering. We’re really excited about this new value comes in the form of its series of
addition to the gallery stable. fine art workshops ranging from graphics T: 971 7 243 4421
Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde, Al Serkel Ave, to photography. www.acaciahotelrak.com
Al Quoz 1, Dubai. Sat to Thurs, 10am to 7pm. www.themojogallery.com Managed by Al Hamra Hotels and Resorts Group
Tel: (04) 3403965. www.ivde.net
ARTS
Mega Man
What is it about adult toys? No, nothing saucy – we’re talking about
the fashion for those knitted ones with crosses for eyes and a tale
to tell (if only teddies could talk) and designer dolls fashioned by
the likes of Christian Lacroix. Things have moved on a whole stage
further, however, with the launch of the Mega. Megans are time-
travellers, don’t you know, with “an affinity for metamorphosis”.
Handy, since local UAE artists have customised 100 of the cheeky
little critters, all of which are on display at DIFC from May 26 under
the banner of Project Mega.
The brainchild of young Emirati Mohammed Abedin, whose
peripatetic lifestyle saw him becoming hooked on comic books and
designer toys during a misspent youth in south-east Asia. It’s paid
off, with self-proclaimed ‘toy nerds’ (wouldn’t you want to keep that
to yourself?) whipping themselves into a pre-launch cyber frenzy,
apparently. What’s On is rather more intrigued by the serious artistic
collaboration that Project Mega affords our local urban artists.
Though now we’ve had the chance to spend some time with one,
the Mega is rather growing on us. OK, we want one. Now!
From May 26, DIFC, off Zabeel Road, Dubai, free. www.foo-dog.com
Four to see
Calligraphy
Biennial
Sharjah Calligraphy
Museum – the only
museum in the Arab
world dedicated to this
craft – is a must-visit for
anyone interested in the
ancient script and never
more so than now, during
its biennial. What’s On’s
highlight is the selection of
beautifully spare paintings
by Iranian artist Golnaz
Fathi. Inspiring stuff.
Until Jun 7, Sharjah
Calligraphy Museum,
Heritage & Arts Area, Sharjah,
free. Tel: (06) 5694561. www.
sharjahmuseums.ae
COnnecting Heavens
Lebanon has to be one of the most
interesting places for contemporary
art in the Middle East and this show,
which promises to showcase some
of the most exciting young artists
working in the country today, will
confirm that this is the case. From
Oussama Baalbaki’s images of war
A Story of Islamic Embroidery in to Tagreed Darghouth’s meditations
Nomadic and Urban Traditions on her fellow citizens’ passion for
The rather lengthy title may give you the nuts and bolts of what this plastic surgery, it offers a fascinating
exhibition’s about, but you have to see it for yourself to really get glimpse into this fascinatingly
a sense of the wonder and the levels of skill involved in this most complex society.
ancient of Islamic crafts. Get thee to the Emirates Palace forthwith. 8 May to 15 Jun. Green Art Gallery, Villa
Until Jul 28, Gallery One, Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi, free. Tel: (02) 23, 51st Street, Jumeirah, Dubai, free. Tel:
6908207. www.artsabudhabi.ae (04) 3449888. www.gagallery.com
Bring on the
There are few places in the world as
associated with all things gold and glittering
than the Middle East – but where are the
best spots to buy gems and jewellery?
Glittering gifts
Want to get in your wife’s letting the gems themselves be
good books? Then make her an inspiration for the design.
next birthday present one to “Each stone has its own
remember and splash out on character and feel,” says Ivana.
some gemstones. “Throughout history, gemstones
“Many people associate have been linked to moods
particular gemstones with and have been thought to have
specific calendar months of the healing powers and energies
year,” explains Ivana Okereke, co- that can affect the wearer
owner of Dubai-based jewellers in some way. They emanate
Gemme Couture. different vibes and have varied
“In the West, people believe effects on the individual.”
that the stone that correlates But how can you spot a
with the month of our birth is top-notch gem? “Assessing
symbolic in our lives. In India, the quality of a stone can be
the tradition is even stronger. a technical job,” explains Sara
“Often, an astrological chart Ashraf, of Bond Street Jewellers
is made at birth when two to in Dubai. “But a novice should
four important gemstones are bear in mind that the clearer
identified as being beneficial for the stone and the more light
the person’s health. They are passing through it, the better
then encouraged to wear these the quality. If the stone is milky
stones in such a way that they or cloudy, the quality might not
are touching the person’s skin.” be superior. In diamonds some
A great place to buy these good standards to look out for
stones at budget prices is Cara are GIA, HRD and IGI, which all
Jewellers. They have a ready- certify the stone’s quality.”
made selection of birthstone Cara Jewellers, Gold & Diamond
pendants from Dhs300, and will Park, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai.
also make your own design to Tel: (04) 3478089
order. If you decide to create Gemme Couture, S*uce, Dubai
ISTOCK
bling
Labels at
Studio 8
Beach Road
boutique Studio
8 is adding
a dedicated
section of its
store exclusively for
Pakistani designers this month.
Expect bejewelled and embellished
pieces from the likes of Ayesha
Farook, Nickie Nina, Elan by Khadijah
Shah and Zahra Saeed in the new
section of the luxury designer store,
which stocks a range of clothing,
handbags and jewellery.
Lables at Studio 8, Beach Road,
Opposite Mercato, Dubai, Sat to
Thurs, 10am to 10pm. Tel: (04)
3443934
Papermoon
Wrapping presents can be pretty
annoying. What with all the hunting
for scissors, sticky tape and paper,
then wrestling the thing into some
sort of reasonable shape – no, it’s not
for us. Our advice is let the experts
at this new shop do it for you. They
have hundreds of different wrapping
papers to choose from and the staff
can wrap even the most awkwardly
shaped gift.
Abu Dhabi Mall, Tourist Club Area, Abu
Dhabi, Sat to Thurs, 10am to 11pm,
Fri, 3.30pm to 11pm. Tel: (02) 6454788.
www.abudhabi-mall.com
Furla
Mirdif City Centre just keeps on
adding the brands. Shoppers can
now pick up Italian leather goods
from long-time favourite Furla at
the new mall, opting for either
traditional handbags or trying
something from the Furla Talent Hub.
This design initiative encourages
up-and-coming designers to take
inspiration from unusual
sources to create
Soboho
fresh, contemporary This vintage-style boutique may have opened its Marina Mall doors a few months back, but May sees its official
collections. launch and the shelves are fully stocked. Boasting a mix of LA brands and local designers, this little pocket of cool
Furla, Mirdif City in mall mayhem is the answer to your gift-giving prayers. Check out the baby shower and bridal presents, fashion,
Centre, Mirdif, Dubai. accessories and hip homewares for the perfect antidotes to the faceless mega-brands that are oh so ubiquitous in
Tel: (04) 2843388
the Emirates.
Soboho, Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai, Sat to Wed, 10am to 10pm, Thurs and Fri, 10am to midnight. Tel: (04) 434 2535
Garmin
Forerunner
310XT
Dhs1,765
www.garmin.com
This waterproof, GPS-
enabled fitness monitor
measures speed, heart
rate and calories burned.
Camelbak Classic
Dhs165
www.camelbak.com
Stay hydrated and boost performance
with this two-litre capacity Camelbak.
Predator X
Dhs895
www.adidas.com
Get football fit before
the World Cup kicks
off. These Adidas boots
mean business.
Speedo Biofuse
Power Paddle
Dhs110
www.speedo.com
Improve your training for a
bargain price. See you in the pool
at the 2012 Olympics.
Puma top
Cyber-shot DSC-TX5 Dhs259
Dhs1,499 www.puma.com
www.sony.com Ideal for after your
Capture aquatic action with Sony's cool down, we love
slimline waterproof camera. this colourful hoodie.
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MIND & BODY
p81 His ‘n’ hers
p83 Slim with us!
p84 Face facts
His‘n’hers
What can The Address Dubai Mall do for two stressed out Dubai dwellers?
His Hers
De-Stress – Focus
& Clarity
Jet Lag by
Aromatherapy
Talk us through it…
Associates
An hour in a hydro-pool (think
bathtub with bubbles), before
a relaxing all-over rub down, with new ones, saving a drafty
followed by a soothing face and embarrassing stroll down to Talk us through it…
massage. Chilled with a capital C. the next room. You begin by inhaling eucalyptus
to clear the airways before some
The best bit? How were the disposable rigorous body brushing to boost
Having arrived still nursing the pants? circulation. The therapist chooses
morning after pains of a heavy Black, nylon, and the briefest of one of 12 massage oils, based on
night out, the face and head briefs. If I ever wanted to know a short questionnaire to suit on
massage couldn’t have come at what my bum would look like as a your mood, and you can then opt
a better time. Sure, the word bank robber, I now have the answer. for a reviving or relaxing rub-
soothing is often bandied about down, depending on whether you
in these situations (look, I even Sleep factor? want to spring into life or have a
did it myself, just up there), Amazing – out like a light. little snooze.
but soothed I was. Goodbye
headache. Who should get involved? The best bit?
I wasn’t jet lagged but had a fairly
Tired and stressed executives. And
Any awkward moments? heavy weekend, so was chuffed
you won’t feel out of place if it’s the
On jumping out of the hydro- morning after the night before. when the combination of a nap
pool I was told to leave my and awakening scents meant I
disposable pants on the side. So I How much and how long? left the spa relaxed, but ready for
did. Erm, what about some more Dhs1,050 for three hours – a action.
to put on? Five minutes frantic of finer dirham you’ll never spend
searching, and I found a drawer in spa land. Any awkward moments?
The knots in my shoulders were
so bad that they made an audible
‘pop’ when therapist Grace got rid
of them. She tactfully pretended
not to hear. Bless.
Who should get
How were the disposable involved?
pants? If you’ve stepped off a long-haul
Black, stretchy and skimpy. flight or just missed some sleep,
Totally adequate, but nothing to then this is for you.
write home about.
How much and how
Sleep factor? long?
Despite opting for the reviving Dhs625 for 80 minutes of high
massage, the face stroking quality massage-induced slumber.
and super-soft massage table
conspired to create a few The Spa, The Address Dubai Mall,
moments of zzzzz. Old Town, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4388888
Spa Deals
Scrub off the barnacles and get shipshape
this May with these bargain beauty
treatments
Face facts
Harvey Nichols’ Profile ing services, including the oxygen
facial. One of several new Natura
Men’s Grooming Bisse treatments available at the
Salon offers men the salon, the oxygen facial promises
to infuse your tired mug with
chance to revive their pure oxygen, eliminating those
skin.That’s right, men dreaded toxins.
That’s the science.
Men – you might not know it (or The reality is that behind an
want to admit you know it), but inconspicuous door at the back of
your skin’s not what it used to be. the third level men’s department
Living here in the Middle East at the Mall of the Emirates store
means your poor epidermis – and there is a small salon, offering
beyond – suffers the slings and ar- haircuts, shaving, waxing, mas-
rows of outrageous climate condi- sages and a very fine facial.
tions every single day. Dirt, sweat, There, your face will be smeared
UV rays, it sits there and takes a with various lotions and potions
beating from the whole gamut. for a good 45 minutes, and then,
As a result, you skin can if you have blackheads, the steam
become dry, greasy, wrinkly, will come out, shortly followed by
dirty and a breeding ground for a metal instrument that causes a
brutish blackheads. Mucky, in fair bit of eye watering pain. After
other words. an hour, you’re done.
This despite the use of that Sure, it’s probably not the sort
expensive exfoliating wash and of thing you’ll brag about in the
a fluffy flannel you bought/had locker room with the boys, but at
thrust on you by your better half. least you’ll be the one with good
The answer, however, could skin.
lie in that bastion of all things Profile Men’s Grooming Salon,
stylish, Harvey Nics, and their Level 3, Harvey Nichols, Mall of the
Profile Men’s Grooming Salon, Emirates, Dubai, Dhs450. Tel: (04)
which offers a range of skin-sav- 4098989
www.rmalhospitality.com • info@rmalhospitality.ae
86 WHAT’S ON MAY 2010
SPORT & OUTDOOR
Sports shorts
The month's sports in bitesize pieces
Getty/Gallo Images
OK. I was about 12 and
remember hearing Oasis’
Supersonic on the radio and knew
I had to play guitar. I started by The Subways
looking at posters of guitarists,
checking out the shapes of their
fingers, and teaching myself they couldn’t afford the £200 stand up. Thankfully, they did. Erm... not really. The break up
the chords. Meanwhile Josh (Dhs1,130) fee for the local After that we organised our was amicable and I think we both
[Morgan, drummer and Billy’s recording studio. I asked one first tour of the UK. It basically love the music way too much to
brother – despite the difference in band what they were going just kicked off. In 2004, in let it get in the way.
surname] taught himself to play to do with the CD I helped November, we signed a record We’re not in touch with any of
drums and I started going out them make and they told me deal with Warner to record our our exes.
with Charlotte [Cooper – bassist] that [Glastonbury organiser] first album, Young For Eternity, Well, we were forced to stay
when I was 15 and so she joined Michael Eavis was running and released it in 2005. in touch. We broke up while
us. Finally we started writing a competition in which the And now you’re writing your making the second record and
our own songs and playing some winner would play Glasto that third album. When’s it out? because we were forced into
shows. We played our first gig year. So we thought, we should Fingers crossed, early next year. that environment, forced into
and were terrible, I felt like crying enter. We won! We went from Are you killing each other in the studio, we just focused on
during the first song – but shortly playing for 130 people to about the studio? writing great songs. And we
after that we started thinking 10,000 people at the drop of All the time, but we’re so close got over it.
about playing in London. a hat. that we get over it. Josh and I are You must hate all the
Eventually, after a couple of years How nervous were you on brothers so we’ve always fought boyfriends that come in and
of doing that, we started getting the day? and Charlotte and I went out for out of her life.
good. We started getting noticed. Not bad until I was walking on eight years so we’ve had our share Oh no, not at all.
Then Glastonbury? stage and realised the gravity of disagreements. Lies.
Then Glastonbury. It was 2004. of the situation. That thrashing Is that eight year relationship No, honestly. She’s getting
I used to record local bands in around won’t cut it anymore thing not, you know, married soon, he’s the funniest
my parent’s front room because and that the songs needed to problematic? guy I’ve ever met and totally cool.
6
c) I See You Pensioner
WEEKLY
Step On @ Home
Dubai’s only weekly indie night serves up
a dose of guitar-based fun.
WHAT’S ON PICK Chi @ The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland,
Bill Patrick @ Ill Communications Dubai, 8pm to 3am, Dhs100, free before
The New York tech house master has filled 11pm, ladies free before midnight. Tel: (04)
floors at London’s Fabric and Ibiza’s Space. 3379470
Expect him to do the same at Dubai’s best
alfresco club. WEEKLY
The Rooftop, Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai, Native @ Sanctuary
10pm to 3am, Dhs100, ladies and Face Card Sanctuary residents Rod Lee Winters and
free until 100pm. Tel: (050) 7258277 Aaron Bryan drop commercial house.
Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 9pm
David Craig @ Relax@12 to 3am, free. Tel: (04) 4260561. www.
Funky house and electro beats at the cool sanctuarydubai.com
rooftop bar.
11
20
Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to late, free.
Tel: (02) 6545138. www.aloftabudhabi.com
7
Acos Coolkas @ Audio Tonic
The Russian deep house and nu disco ace
WEEKLY
Simon B @ Bewitched
Chart R&B and house from the Radio 1
regular.
leads the line at the ever-popular Dubai Relax@12, Aloft, Abu Dhabi, 8pm to late,
hangout. free. Tel: (02) 6545138. www.aloftabudhabi.
360˚, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, 4pm com Groove Armada @ Chi
to 2am, free. Tel: (04) 4068769. www.
platinumlist.ae
19
together, it’s a surprisingly amicable
partnership.
OK, so exactly what kind of name is
Prok ‘N Fitch?
Ha! Well, they’ve just been our
nicknames since we were kids. People DJ Ravin @ Yacht Club
often think we’re German though, The founder of the Buddha Bar pays Abu
because Ben has a Polish surname. Dhabi’s marina-side haunt a flying visit for
They’re surprised when we tell them a set of deep house.
we’re from England. InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen, 8pm
Tell us something about Prok 'N to 2am, free entry. Tel: (02) 6666888
20
Fitch that we wouldn’t know.
We’re both keen golfers. Ben’s played
for ages, but I’ve only recently taken
up the sport but I’ve been told I’m a
natural. But you’d be surprised, there
are more DJs and producers who are WHAT’S ON PICK
into golf than you would think. Groove Armada @ Chi
Oh. We did not know that. Plenty This one will be HUGE. The inordinately
of great golf courses in the UAE – is tall Andy Cato (he’s pushing 7ft) and
that why you wanted to come? partner Tom Findlay (he’s not so tall) were
We’ve actually been to the UAE a the darlings of the UK’s big beat scene
couple of times – we love it. We before going on to win even more fans
played Sanctuary last year and it was with their synth-pop directions. Their DJs
amazing. The crowd were really up for sets are wildly eclectic, but we’re sure
UK-based duo Ben Prokopowicz and as running their own Floorplay Music it and totally responsive. You know, they’ll find room for mega-hits Superstylin’
James Fitchett first teamed up three record label. They make a welcome return we didn’t have to play the commercial and I See You Baby.
years ago to produce their own brand to Sanctuary this month stuff as they were familiar with our Chi @ The Lodge, Al Nasr Leisureland, Dubai,
of upfront house, and it’s been all go more underground tunes. 8pm to 3am, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 3379470
ever since. They’ve since gone on to Prok ‘N Fitch. Sum it up in one Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, 9pm
remix for such house heavyweights as sentence. to 3am, Dhs150. Tel: (04) 4260561. www.
Laidback Luke and Gregor Salto, as well Two laid-back guys who produce good sanctuarydubai.com
21
Moonlight Dance Party @ Escape
Lounge
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ISO 9001:2008 Certified
T R AV E L S & T O U R I S M
9001:2008 Certified
TRAVEL
p95 Kuala Lumpur
p101 Kuwait
WORLD
TRAVEL
Kuala Lumpur
Juxtaposition Rubber plantations dominate the
and adventure in countryside and until 157 years
ago, Kuala Lumpur was nothing
Malaysia’s capital more than a tin mine, chopped
out of the jungle by Chinese
Malaysia’s capital Kuala Lumpur prospectors. That the city known
is something of an anomaly. as KL by almost everyone has
While a resolutely Muslim undergone something of a trans-
state, with some of the harshest formation is clear as the spec-
capital punishment in the world, tacular Petronas Towers emerge
it also lays claim to some of Asia’s from the horizon. As you drive
best nightlife parties, not to men- further towards the city centre,
tion a thriving cultural scene. It KL’s British influence becomes
mixes Chinese, Malay and Indian obvious – the tree-lined avenues,
influences and yet retains a very the crumbling town houses, even
particular Malaysian sensibility. It the white-gloved old women on
has all the trappings of a modern their way to afternoon tea.
Asian capital yet has the prices – Yet the centre of KL is typi-
food and hotels particularly – of a cally Asian: modern, and with a
third world country. chaotic charm only Asia’s biggest
The long drive from Kuala Urban scene: cities can pull off. For evidence
Lumpur International Airport Downtown KL of this make your first stop Little
ISTOCK
gives some hint of the city’s past. India, a slice of Mumbai that is
looking for something with a bit to get in touch with nature is the
Things To See
and Do
l Climb up the Petronas Twin Towers for
spectacular city views.
l Check out mystical Chinatown, and then stuff
your face with authentic Chinese food.
l Visit the spectacular Batu Caves in northern
Kuala Lumpur.
l Mix with the city’s beautiful people and enjoy
the amazing views from the Sky Bar KL.
l Get one of the best foot massages in Asia in
Bukit Bintang.
Serene spot:
Amazing views:
Sin Sze Si Ya Temple
Sky Bar
Exotic species:
KL Bird Park
Need to
know
How to Get There
Qatar Airways flies via Qatar starting at
Dhs1,800.
Getting Around
Traffic is a nightmare in Kuala Lumpur,
so where possible use the three light
transit lines that cross the city. There
are numerous tour buses that can be
arranged from your hotel, but again,
the traffic can make that option rather
frustrating. Luckily KL is a great walking
city, well signposted and for many visitors
it’s the easiest way to get around.
Accommodation
KL has the full range of accommodation
from Dhs35 a night youth hostels
Street food:
to surprisingly cheap five-star
ISTOCK
Jalan Alor
accommodation. The Ritz-Carlton is
central, great value for money and will
KL Bird Park, which houses what ruined by the concrete plus is that the temperatures organise a complimentary airport pick up.
more than 200 species of bird. steps and the metal banisters. are considerably lower than
The noise can be deafening, And watch out for the ag- in KL. Far more interesting Currency
but the birds, which are as gressive monkeys who line is Kuala Selangor, a former Malaysia’s official currency is the Malaysia
unpronounceable as they are the steps of the caves looking Dutch town that retains all Ringgit (MYR). 1MYR is equal to Dhs1.13
beautiful, are tame and can for food. the charm Genting seems to so calculating the exchange rate is pretty
be fed by visitors – the perfect There is plenty to do fur- have lost. There are hiking simple.
photo opportunity. ther from KL, but not too far and trekking options outside
Even more spectacular are to make a day trip unworka- the town and at night the sur- Visas
the Batu Caves at the north of ble. Forty minutes east of the rounding forests are lit up by Malaysia has one of the most open visa
the city. The caves are stun- city is the Genting Highlands, fireflies – a truly spectacular systems in the world and tourist visas
ning, dropping hundreds of a blueprint for how not to experience. The town itself are available on arrival for virtually all
feet below ground, and the build a theme park. Cheap, is beautiful and has been nationalities for 100MYR valid for one to
atmosphere at the bottom is tacky and filled with low- well preserved, although one three months.
almost monastic, albeit some- grade attractions, the only night here should be enough.
Kuwait
For a relaxing
weekend with a hint
of the surreal, Kuwait
is one of the Middle
East’s hidden, if
occasionally ignored,
treasures. Bring an
open mind (and a
large wallet) and
you will be rewarded
with a break with a
difference
Key
*
–
New entry
Non-mover
Up
Down
p106 Brunches
p108 Bars
p110 Restaurants
p112 Spas
friendly. behaved crowd. carving up chunks of meat onto to unwind after a week in the sure you book ahead.
punters’ plates. office.
All the international cuisine Truly superb food, such as Meat, meat, meat and more International. The Moroccan The emphasis is on seafood.
bases are covered – including chilled lobster tails, oysters and meat. Mountains of Brazilian- tagines are sublime and make Don’t miss the oysters and
FOOD
Arabic, Japanese, roast meats royal strawberry cheesecake. All style barbecued lamb, beef and sure you order something from lobster tails.
and Indian. And the dessert of it is first-rate. chicken. the live cooking station.
section is truly amazing.
The restaurant’s a few strides Marble coated walls, chande- You’re no distance from two Bag yourself a table on the You’re 31 stories up, so best to
from the classy Chameleon bar, liers and fine linen tablecloths. great bars, the Yacht Club and terrace and you’ll have some ace avoid if you don’t have a head
LOCATION
where you should head to for a Plus the terrace has stunning Belgian Café, and after all that views of the Grand Mosque. for heights. But it’s just an eleva-
cheeky post-brunch cocktail. views of the Emirates Palace’s meat you’ll need a calming tor ride from Sax nightclub and
gardens. drink. Oceans bar.
BEST FOR
A lively brunch to mark a special Taking visiting friends to im- A relaxed family gathering or a The spacious restaurant has Revellers and party people.
occasion. press them with Middle Eastern fun, but not rowdy, afternoon room for party people and
luxury. with a group of mates. families to mix.
Dhs399 with alcohol, Dhs222 Dhs565 including bubbly, wines Dhs165 with one cocktail is Dhs220 for unlimited wine and Dhs220 with wine. It’s in the
PRICE
without. Expensive, but it does and beers or Dhs340 without good value, but if you want to soft drinks. About average for middle of Abu Dhabi’s brunch
include Moet et Chandon. alcohol. But quality costs. down drinks you could notch Abu Dhabi’s brunching scene. price graph.
up a hefty tab.
Its ever-rising popularity and A truly amazing brunch, com- There’s no better brunch for A hugely reliable brunching op- Great views and good food. But
WHAT’S ON
the fact that Moet et Chandon plete with a party vibe. And we meat lovers. And on Friday, tion. We’re regulars and haven’t be prepared to party hard.
champers is part of the deal can’t resist a good party. they add seafood to the menu. been let down yet.
means Elements tops the list
SAYS...
this month.
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Be- Emirates Palace, West Cor- InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Le Royal Méridien, Khalifah
tween The Bridges, Abu Dha bi niche, Abu Dhabi Al Bateen Between The Bridges, Abu Street, Abu Dhabi
11.30am to 3pm 12.30pm to 3.30pm 1pm to 3pm Dhabi 12.30pm to 3pm
Tel: (02) 6543000 Tel: (02) 6907999 Tel: (02) 6666888 noon to 4pm Tel: (02) 6742020
www.fairmont.com www.emiratespalace.com www.ichotelsgroup.com Tel: (02) 5098888 www.starwoodhotels.com
www.shangri-la.com
Its a la carte options are from the A trio of cuisines – Oriental from The tapas comes in small portions, A vast selection of cuisines, from All the food ticks the right boxes,
Pan-Pacific menu, so it’s hardly a Wokcano, steaks from 180z and but the stream of dishes will soon pasta to steak to seafood to ome- but especially the seafood and
mountain of food. But there’s some international from Resto – mean a fill you up. lette. We could go on. salads.
top sushi and noodles for you to try. variety of tastes are catered for.
Lounge back on one of the sofas One To One’s home to The Village, Al Raha Beach Hotel’s a fair drive Just yards from German-themed The huge yacht sets sail from
on the terrace and watch the shiny a huge outdoor drinking area’s that’s from the city, but the Black Pearl Brauhaus and Polynesian-themed Marina Mall and then peacefully
yachts bobbing in the marina. perfect for a post-brunch tipple. pub is a nice spot to carry on the Trader Vic’s, two of the capital’s floats around the bay.
brunch party. best bars.
A lazy afternoon with your pals, Groups of friends who want a party People who live off the main Abu Keeping the children entertained. Taking visiting friends and
sipping cocktails and eating Orien- brunch without breaking the bank. Dhabi island, where there’s a lack of There’s a face painter and a clown families.
tal cuisine. hotels and restaurants. to keep them amused
Dhs165 for the normal brunch Dhs200 with alcohol and Dhs140 At Dhs350 it’s one of the more Dhs174, which includes one glass of Dhs185 includes a two-hour
menu with free-flowing cocktails, without. Pleasantly affordable. expensive, but with free-flowing wine or beer. cruise, wine and food. Good
or Dhs295 with caviar thrown in. sparkling wine and sangria you value in our books.
won’t feel short-changed.
We love Yacht Club and we love Make sure you book early. One To The only brunch in the capital Just because you have children A brunch and a boat cruise com-
this brunch. One is generally sold out days in where Spanish tapas is served. doesn’t mean brunches should be bined in one. So if your family’s
advance. out of bounds. Rosebuds is totally visiting, that’s two items ticked off
family friendly. your must-do list.
InterContinental Abu Dhabi, One To One Hotel, Al Nahyan, Al Raha Beach Hotel, Abu Dhabi Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Organised by Le Royal Méri-
Al Bateen Abu Dhabi 12.30pm to 4pm Club Area, Abu Dhabi dien, departs from Marina Mall
noon to 3pm noon to 3pm Tel: (02) 6742020 12.30pm to 4pm Fri and Sat, 1pm to 3pm.
Tel: (02) 6666888 Tel: (02) 4952000 www.alrahabeach.com Tel: (02) 6979000 Tel: (02) 6742020
www.ichotelsgroup.com www.onetoonehotels.com www.rotana.com
Lively and friendly. Pearls & Caviar is generally With its laid-back funk and hip Busy, with the aromas of hops Sophisticated with a touch of
empty before midnight but hop soundtrack, Left Bank has a and garlic in the air and a queue Tokyo cool.
then becomes a hive of activity chilled vibe. at the bar.
towards the end of the night.
The outdoor terrace overlooks Just a golf buggy ride from the When you’re at the Souk Qaryat It’s in a prime location with We’ve said it before and we’ll
Location
the hotel’s private marina. It’s Souk Qaryat Al Beri, which is Al Beri you’re in the middle of Chamas and Yacht Club just a say it again, the Souk Qaryat Al
the capital’s coolest drinking rammed full of great bars and the city’s best entertainment few yards away. Beri’s the best entertainment
location. restaurants. hub. complex in the city.
Proving to visitors that Abu People looking for a great bar There’s a party inside, while A few after-work drinks that There’s no finer place to enjoy
BEST FOR
Dhabi does have some cool that’s out of the traffic-ridden outside, on the terrace, it’s very could easily turn into a meal some sushi and a cocktail.
nightspots. downtown Abu Dhabi. relaxed. and a night out.
Don’t expect a cheap night out A round of drinks will cost you Not too expensive for Abu Expensive, but worth it for the The drinks aren’t cheap, but
Price
at Yacht Club, but it’s money a tidy sum. Dhabi. unusual Belgian beers on offer. they’re balanced out by the
well spent. reasonably priced food.
It’s heating up out there, so The best out-of-town bar in the As far as bar food goes, Left Seafood fans should order one Want a quality Oriental meal
enjoy the terrace while you can. capital. Bank has the best menu in of the huge bowls of mussels in without the hassle of eating in
WHAT’S ON
town. It’s all delicious and authentic Belgian sauces. Our a formal restaurant? Sho Cho’s
affordable. favourite is the white wine and your man.
SAYS...
cream.
InterContinental, Al Bateen Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Be- InterContinental Al Bateen Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Be-
12.30pm to 3pm and 7pm Between The Bridges, tween The Bridges, Abu Dhabi 6.30pm to 12.30pm tween The Bridges, Abu Dhabi
to 1am, Thurs and Fri, 7pm to Abu Dhabi Sat to Wed, 7pm to 1am, Tel: (02) 6666888 6pm to 1am
2.30am 7.30pm to 1.30pm Thurs and Fri, 7pm to 2am www.ichotelsgroup.com Tel: (02) 5581117
Tel: (04) 4368888 Tel: (02) 5098888 Tel: (02) 5581680 www.sho-cho.com
www.ichotelsgroup.com www.shangri-la.com www.emiratesleisureretail.com
WHAT’SON
108 WHAT’S ON MAY
MARCH
20102010
THE HOT LIST BARS
ARTS
Cheery people enjoying large As word gets out, Relax@12 is get- It’s chic, small and intimate, with A city pub feel, with a massive bar Minimalist design, low-level
cocktails to the Samba beats of a ting busier by the day. low-level lighting and cosy alcoves. and black leather sofas. It’s not lighting and great views over the
Cuban band. empty, but you’re not going to face Yas Marina Circuit track.
extended queues at the lengthy bar.
The Beach Rotana’s home to On top of the massive Aloft Hotel, At the heart of the Between The The Crowne Plaza Yas Island is sur- The Yas Hotel’s some distance
numerous superb bars and restau- the modern, sleek alfresco bar has Bridges area, home to the city’s best rounded by other hotels, giving you from the city centre, but the new
rants, such as Brauhaus and Prego’s. commanding views over the whole bars and restaurants. plenty of other choices for drinks. highway to Yas Island makes for a
island. pleasant, fast drive.
Fans of refreshing, fruity cocktails. A first date. The bar has the best If you like champagne head here. A pint and a pie. Groups of friends looking for a
views of the capital bar none. Chameleon has the widest selec- change of venue.
tion in the city – 15 in total.
The food is cooked in a wood- Reasonably cheap and cheerful. Beers are cheap, champagnes and The food and drink is very reason- Relatively cheap for a designer
smoked oven and is cheap and cocktails aren’t. ably priced. bar.
delicious. The cocktails, however,
will set you back some.
Order a Mai Tai. It’s the cocktail With such a great location and a We love the Chameleon Club If you like beer, you can’t fail to During week nights, it can be all
that made Trader Vic’s famous. growing reputation, we can only see cocktail. The zesty, lemony drink be impressed by the whopping 14 but empty. But come weekends,
Relax@12 climbing the chart. is up there with the best we’ve ever draught beers on tap at Stills. And the place comes alive and is
sipped. the steak pies are the best in the city. packed with party people.
Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Aloft Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Between Crowne Plaza Yas Island, Abu The Yas Hotel, Yas Island, Abu
Club Area, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Khaleej The Bridges, Abu Dhabi Dhabi Dhabi
12.30pm to 3.30pm and 7pm to Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi 6pm to 3am noon to 12.30am 6pm to 3am
11.30pm 5pm to 2am Tel: (02) 6543333 Tel: (02) 6563000 Tel: (02) 6560700
Tel: (02) 6979000 Tel: (02) 6545000 www.fairmont.com www.ichotelsgroup.com www.theyashotel.com
www.rotana.com www.starwoodhotels.com
Marco Pierre White’s restaurant Typical French elegance, with It’s absolutely packed with Cool and sophisticated, but Our favourite Japanese restau-
is always full of life – it’s rare to smartly dressed diners tucking satisifed meat lovers. definitely Indian. rant in the capital is always busy
ATMOSPHERE
find an empty table any night of into haute cuisine. and buzzing.
the week.
Sophisticated and intimate, with Think Parisian boutique Modern and spacious, with Sleek, colourful and modern, The culinary machine is
INTERIOR
leather armchairs, dim lighting restaurant, complete with the smell of meat sizzling over with comfortable furniture and powered by the open sushi bar
and dark-stained walls. chandeliers, oil paintings and charcoal. warm lighting. in the corner. It’s modern and
linen tablecloths. stylish, but definitely Japanese.
The menu’s packed with Chef Jean Hurstel’s menu is You’re handed a card. Turn to The best Indian food in Abu A huge selection of amazing
unpretentious dishes that are full of faultless French cuisine. the green side to keep the beef, Dhabi and, given the amount of sushi dishes. But make sure
screaming out to be eaten. From We’re particularly partial to the lamb and chicken coming, Indian restaurants in the emir- you order the sublime shrimp
FOOD
fish and chips and steaks to the truffled mashed potatoes. turn to red when you’re ready ate, that is saying something. tempura popcorn.
bread and butter pudding, it’s to burst.
the best of British cooking.
LOCATION
Between the Bridges area is The Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri They’ve just opened a new You’ll be spoilt for choice for The Hilton Abu Dhabi is a bit
rammed full of great bars and has an excellent selection of bars terrace at Chamas, meaning you stylish and sophisticated bars dated, but parking is easy and Jazz
superb restaurants. and restaurants, plus some superb can now enjoy the meat feast and restaurants at the Souk Bar and Hemmingway’s are good
views of the Grand Mosque. alfresco until summer kicks in. Qaryat Al Beri. spots for a post-meal drink.
A three-course meal for two will Dhs600 for two. Reasonable for Dhs600 for two people to eat Dhs500 for two people is worth You’ll pay about Dhs200 per
PRICE
probably run into four figures, such amazing food. a truckload of meat is a real every fil in our book. person, sans lubrication. Still
but it’s worth it. bargain. good value for money.
Marco Pierre White still holds The best French brasserie in Do you like meat? So do we, Ushna is the most innovative For overall experience, we think
WHAT’S ON
off the opposition as the best Abu Dhabi. and so does Chamas. But it also Indian restaurant in town. Toki’s modern vibe puts it ahead
restaurant in the capital. A has a great salad bar if vegetar- Make sure you try the brilliant of Wasabi, its main rival in the
deserved number one and long ians insist on coming along. murgh mankini tandoori Japanese restaurant stakes.
SAYS...
Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Be- Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, InterContinental Abu Dhabi, Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Be- Hilton Abu Dhabi, Corniche
tween the Bridges, Abu Dhabi Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi Al Bateen tween the Bridges, Abu Dhabi 7pm to 11pm
7pm to 1am 6.30pm to 11.30pm 7pm to midnight 12.30pm to 11.45pm Tel: (02) 6814151
Tel: (02) 6543333 Tel: (02) 5098888 Tel: (02) 6666888 Tel: (02) 5581769 www.hilton.com
www.fairmont.com www.shangri-la.com www.ichotelsgroup.com www.cplmg.com
WHAT’SON
110 WHAT’S ON MAY
MARCH
20102010
THE HOT LIST RESTAURANTS
ARTS
HOT ON
THE HacEh E LS Chamas
Rotana
11 Finz, Be na,
12 Mezzalu
lace
Emirates Pa
Shangri-La
13 Hoi An, ri
Qaryat Al Be otel
, Yas H
14 Nautilus h Rotana
Beac
15 Prego’s,
Mombasa Grill
Not too busy, not too quiet. The open kitchen brings the Don’t bother getting here after It’s a temple of high gastronomy Always full with a cosy environ-
restaurant to life, creating a bustling 10.30pm if you’re after an intimate and its worshippers are Abu ment in which to savour the fine
atmosphere in the cosy diner. meal, as that’s when the nightclub Dhabi’s wealthy elite. food on offer.
vibe kicks in.
Decorated with spears, masks and The bamboo shack has a rustic feel, Like everywhere in the Emirates A grandiose interior with Ba- Warm lighting, chic furniture and
all things Lion King, Mombasa with fish tanks lining the walls and a Palace, it’s the height of luxury, roque vases and ornaments lining a huge water feature. A fine mix of
Grill does a great job in creating an huge ice display of fishes. decked with marble walls and the walls. modern and traditional.
African atmosphere. chandeliers.
The menu’s influenced by African, Fill the shopping basket with Generous portions of top-quality Think the molecular gastronomy Indian super-chefs, the Qureshi
Arabian and Indian dishes, so shrimps, lobsters and fish and let European cuisine. of Heston Blumenthal or Ferran brothers, drew up the menu and
expect a blend of meaty meals from the chefs turn it into a mouth- Adria, with a touch less scientific their expertise in blending spices
these regions. watering Thai-themed feast. craziness. is reflected in the fine curries.
You can’t go wrong with the Souk Sit on the terrace overlooking the There are few places in the world At the Abu Dhabi Country Club Don’t let the roadworks in the
Qaryat Al Beri. It’s packed with great InterCon’s private beach and listen to that are more luxurious than the sports centre on 19th street. Can area put you off visiting the
shops, bars and restaurants. the waves lapping the shore. It’s a per- Emirates Palace. be a bit tricky to find if you don’t Beach Rotana. It’s packed with
fect place for a romantic rendezvous. know where you’re going. quality bars and restaurants.
Very reasonable at Dhs450 for a Dhs700 for two is a good average, but One word you can’t level at Etoiles If you don’t spend Dhs1,000 The Dhs500 is a lot more than
cracking three-course meal for two. fill your shopping basket too much is ‘overpriced’. A mere Dhs500 you’re not doing it right. Sar- your average backstreet curry,
and your bill will hit the grand mark. will get two people a hearty three- dinia’s a once every two months but you pay extra for the quality
course meal. kind of place. of the food.
From pasta to curries, there’s some- Fishmarket is still our favourite Order the Angus beefsteak with The only restaurant in the capital A table for two at 8pm, please!
thing on the menu for everyone. seafood restaurant in the capital. seared fois gras. One of the best that uses molecular gastronomy
Our advice is to go for the ostrich meals we’ve ever eaten in the in its kitchens. Sardinia is an
steak. It’s amazing. capital. experience you won’t forget.
Souk Qaryat Al Beri, Between InterContinental, Al Bateen Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Country Club, 19th Beach Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi
The Bridges, Abu Dhabi 12.30pm to 3pm and 7pm to noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11.30pm Street 12.30pm to 3pm and 8.30pm
7pm to midnight 11pm Tel: (02) 6907999 noon to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm to 11.30pm
Tel: (02) 5581868 Tel: (02) 6666888 www.emiratespalace.com Tel: (02) 4465455 Tel: (02) 6979000
www.ichotelsgroups.com www.adhfc.com www.rotana.com
HOT ON
THE HOT LIST SPAS THEulH
11 Body &
So
EELS& Spa,
Health Club
Al Raha Be
ach Hotel
s,
ub H ealth & Fitnes
12 Le Cl
The daddies of the health and leisure scene Millenni um H otel Abu Dhabi
s, Al Bateen
Spa & Fitnes habi
13 Oriental Sp a, Abu D
14 Sisley
Ladies Club ne To
ge Club, O
15 The Villa otel
One H
Zen Spa
hotel, hence the staff are the trained but ask for Fe. She’s comfort. They’ll ask your therapists from Nepal. They’re ers, masseurs and hammam
best in town. They’re geniuses at worked here for 15 years and is opinion of the temperature of a quiet bunch who don’t let idle steam room workers. They’re all
kneading your knotted muscles a veteran in dealing with knot- the room and the music being chitchat distract them. friendly and polite.
back into shape. ted muscles. played.
A huge range of massages and With a spa, hamman and hair Each month an innovative new Tons of choices for men and We recommend the Moroccan
facials. And with names like salon, it’s extensive to say the treatment is added to the menu. women. The caviar facial rejuve- hammam steam massage. It’s
Menu
diamond ritual and gold facial, least. This month, an olive scrub with nated our tired skin no end. rigorous and effective.
they’re as decadent as you aromatherapy – where you’re
can get. scrubbed with olive pitts – is the
latest addition.
A luxurious two-floored mar- It’s bright and airy, with plenty Modern, clean and spacious There are ten treatment rooms, A large villa, ideally located close
The Spa
ble-coated wing of the Emirates of natural light streaming in. with separate lounging areas for all decorated with dark wood to the city centre and with ample
Palace. Inside it’s covered in guys and girls. walls, giving a Tibetan Buddhist parking.
mosaics and gold leaf. temple vibe.
Luxury of this level doesn’t The Spa Prestige Moisturising Reasonable for a spa in a five- The Chi Spa isn’t cheap, but A full body massage will only
Price
come cheap and many of the Facial will set you back Dhs660. star hotel. The aromatherapy worth the extra expenditure in cost you a meagre Dhs240.
treatments will set you back About mid-range for the capital. massage costs Dhs348 for an our books. Great value for money in our
more than a grand. hour. books.
Try the caviar facial. It We had the Ultimate Pamper- Give yourself some time after Order the signature Chi Bal- The best all male-only spa in the
ance treatment, which is based
WHAT’S ON
will leave you feeling years ing Experience at the spa this your massage to chill out in capital, bar none.
younger. month, and it was one of the the great relaxation room. Lie on ancient Chinese healing
best treatments we’d ever had. back on a lounge and sip some techniques.
SAYS...
ginger tea.
Emirates Palace, West Cor- Le Méridien, Tourist Club Beach Rotana Hotel, Tourist Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Khaleej Al Arabi Street
niche, Abu Dhabi Area, Abu Dhabi Club Area, Abu Dhabi Between the Bridges, Abu Dhabi 11am to 10pm
10am to 10pm 9am to 11pm 10am to 10pm 10am to 10pm Tel: (02) 6677377
Tel: (02) 6909000 Tel: (02) 6446666 Tel: (02) 6979000 Tel: (02) 5098888 www.thelounge.ae
www.emiratespalace.com www.starwoodhotels.com www.rotana.com www.shangri-la.com
WHAT’SON
112 WHAT’S ON MAY
MARCH
20102010
THE HOT LIST ARTS
SPAS
Anantara Spa
Man/Age
A wide-ranging menu, includ- Lots of choices for men and They’re all about making you ladies A small, but well-selected menu A slew of treatments to make
ing waxing, manicures and women. And all the treatments look better. Waxings, blow-dries that includes Thai, Swedish and men look better, including
luxurious packages. use the exclusive Aromatherapy and luxurious all-day packages are Chinese massages. waxing, laser hair removal, mani-
range of products. on the menu. cures and haircuts.
Small and intimate and ideally Minimalist décor and dim light- It’s based in a huge villa in Khalifa There are some major roadworks Conveniently located at Marina
located at the traffic-free far end ing make for a functional vibe. A. It’s a fair distance from the city around the Al Diar Regency Hotel, Mall, so you can get some shop-
of the Corniche. centre, but worth the extra taxi fare. so best to get a taxi here. ping done afterwards.
Surprisingly affordable. The We’d say it was cheaper than Expect to pay slightly less than the If you’re after a quality massage, but Pretty cheap, plus if you’re a
Tropical Bliss massage costs average. We paid Dhs450 for a equivalent in a hotel spa. only have a limited budget, ZenZu’s regular customer you score some
Dhs695 and is great value as 90-minute purifying facial and the place for you. Dhs80 for a 30- great discounts.
two masseurs work you over. back massage. minute massage is dirt cheap.
A nice, friendly spa that ticks all Leave some time for a Jacuzzi, We’re confident that this is the best Book a massage before 2pm on Reasonable prices and cheery
the right boxes. Head here for a sauna or steam room after your ladies-only spa in the capital. Get Sunday, Monday or Tuesday and service make Man/Age a must-
quick lunchtime rubdown. spa treatment. the girls together for a fun day of you get an extra 15 minutes free. visit spot for stressed out guys.
pampering. Worth getting up early for.
Hiltonia Beach Club, Cor- Radisson Blu Hotel, Yas Island, Corner of 35th and 62nd Street, Al Diar Regency Hotel, Markazi- First Floor, Marina Mall,
niche, Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Khalifa A, Abu Dhabi yah, Abu Dhabi Breakwater Abu Dhabi
10am to 9pm 9am to 9pm 9am to 9pm 10am to midnight 10am to 10pm
Tel: (02) 6924324 Tel: (02) 6562000 Tel: (02) 5562601 Tel: (02) 6714411 Tel: (02) 6818837
www.hilton.com www.radissonblu.com www.sharanisspa.com www.aldiarhotels.com www.managespa.com