Archive for category: Road Tested

With the promise of great food and spectacular views, Team TMN couldn’t wait to head to Pier 7 to experience the newest arrival on Dubai’s nightlife scene…

What: Atelier M

Where: Pier 7, Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, Dubai

When: Open daily, 6pm – 2am

The promise: “From dinner to the old world luxury of the prohibition-esque bar, through to the ambient rooftop ultra-lounge which emerges from the venue’s impressive mirrored centrepiece, Atelier M caters to all aspects of your evening on the town in Dubai.”

Did it deliver? The restaurant’s décor was quintessentially French in style, elegant in its simplicity and oozing sophistication; equally ideal for an intimate meal or night out with friends. Our table had a perfect view of the open plan kitchen – the centrepiece of the restaurant – allowing us a taste of the action as the chefs cooked up a storm.

The menu boasted contemporary French–Asian fusion cuisine, and we opted to try out the sharing concept of courses encouraged by the restaurant, an interesting novelty. We started with the Pistachio Crusted Goat Cheese with Baby Beetroot, and Grilled Asparagus with Gruyere and Truffles. While simple choices, both were beautifully cooked, strong in flavour and perfectly portioned.

The main courses were nothing like the small portions that we’ve come to expect from typical French cuisine, and took away any doubts we might have had over the plate-sharing concept. The ample size didn’t detract from the quality of the Wagyu Rib Eye with Chimichurri, Garlic Puree, Shiitake Mushroom and Yazu Pickled Shallots, which was entirely succulent with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, and the Pan Seared Halibut with Buttered Leeks and Romesco Sauce, while a generous sized fish, was so delicious that it was reluctantly shared. The side of Soy and Honey Glazed Sweet Potato was definitely more of an acquired taste, though certainly worth a try.

Although dinner wouldn’t be complete without dessert, we were just too full to try. Instead we feasted our eyes over the menu that included Blueberry Cheesecake, Shortbread and Lychee, as well as a Roasted Spice Pineapple, Hazelnut and Coconut Crumble with Yogurt Sorbet.

To let dinner settle, we made our way up the spiral staircase to settle in the second floor lounge, where the distinct prohibition style and vintage feel of the bar wouldn’t be out of place on the set of Great Gatsby – complete with an art-deco centrepiece of mirrored glass which appeared to have exploded from the bar. A small lift at the rear of the lounge took us up to the rooftop bar, where we ended the evening taking in the panoramic skyline of Dubai Marina with a Devil’s Horn cocktail in hand, of course.

The verdict: Now that Pier 7 holds a license, Atelier M is a strong contender to become one of the hottest nights out in Dubai. Between the restaurant, lounge and rooftop bar, each level could easily be a success in its own right, and Team TMN will definitely be heading back soon – at the very least to indulge in dessert!

A healthy heart means a healthy mind, so when Team TMN got wind of drop-in ballet classes, conveniently located within the Dubai Media City vicinity, we couldn’t resist dusting off our tutus, leg-warmers and pumps to give it a try…

What: Drop-in ballet classes

Where: James & Alex Dance Studios, 813 & 814 Concord Tower, Dubai Media City, Dubai

When: Beginners/Improvers – Wednesday, 6-7pm, and Saturday, 10.30-11.30am, Intermediates – Wednesday 7-8pm

The promise: “James and Alex Dance Studios offer dance classes with some of the best instructors Dubai including drop-in ballet classes with expert ballet instructor, Aimée Després leading you every step of the way.”

Did it deliver? A quick taxi ride from TMN Towers, it wasn’t long before we were ready to unleash our dancing alter egos. With its exposed ceilings and minimalist décor, the studio immediately won us over with its effortlessly cool, yet unassuming interior, which wouldn’t seem out of place in London or New York. The staff were welcoming and informative, reminding us that we didn’t need to be the next Darcey Bussell in order to reap the full benefits of the class. While we opted for standard gym wear, leotards were aplenty and the studio’s dance shop offered an extensive selection of pro dance gear for budding ballerinas, so we were told.

The small, intimate class meant we instantly felt at ease, and the studio was perfectly sized for the participants to get the most out of the teacher’s dance know-how. Our instructor, Yat-Sen, wasted no time getting us straight to work with traditional barre exercises, talking us through each step of the way so there was no chance of getting lost. The class was lighthearted yet strenuous – if you have visions of a walk-in-the-park workout, think again. Prepare to perspire, lots, as Yat-Sen ensures you experience the full extent of a ballet-style workout.

The verdict: With muscles aching in the same way they would after a heavy duty gym session, Team TMN may have underestimated the power of the Plié. A great alternative if you want to disguise a work-out with something that seems less rigid, and as the studio offers a variety of dance styles, you get the freedom to mix it up as you feel fit. A bit of a hidden gem, we’ll definitely be returning – with our leotards at the ready!

With the temperate spring climate coaxing even the laziest of couch potatoes back into their beach shorts and bikinis, we thought, where better to spend a leisurely Friday afternoon than out at sea? But forget yachts and island parties, Team TMN set off to discover a more relaxing setting to appreciate the waves and wile away the weekend…

What: Pierchic brunch

Where: Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

When: Every Friday, 12.30pm – 3.30pm

The promise: “Gourmet dining served with spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah.”

Did it deliver? From the regal driveway and grand lobby of Al Qasr to the chauffeured buggy ride along the pier, enveloped within the glittering ocean, there couldn’t have been a more glamorous – or classy ­– way to commence Dubai’s newest brunch offering, Pierchic.

Exclusive, welcoming and picturesque were words that immediately sprang to mind as we were greeted on arrival with a glass of bubbly. It was immediately apparent this wasn’t just your run-of-the-mill Friday brunch, which was only to be expected from one of Dubai’s finest seafood restaurants.

The secluded and scenic location with panoramic views won us over instantly, and while we dined with friends, the elegant ambiance had a hint of intimacy ideal for couples and special celebrations. Al fresco dining on the terrace doesn’t get much better, although for windy days, the indoor setting provides the perfect retreat.

Of course, seafood was aplenty with small cooking stations serving up a selection of chilled shellfish and scallops, while a salad bar and fois gras station offered additional variety. The challenge was not to overindulge too early as a sumptuous à-la-carte menu lay in wait.

From the menu’s soup selection, pumpkin turned out to be a stellar choice – not only delicious, but it also offered a welcome touch of warmth from the slightly chilly sea breeze. For mains, the Australian lamb rack was a table favourite, and the pan-fried sea bass was everything you would expect from one of Dubai’s most revered seafood restaurants. While a little slight in portion size, the flavours and quality were fully charged.

With a free flowing selection of cocktails, bubbles, wine and beers to accompany the lavish lunch, there was little chance of disappointment. Similarly, the desserts proved just as tempting, and more than enough to satisfy any sweet tooth. The mini cake assortment was definitely a highlight, while the cheese board selection summed the brunch up perfectly – mature, rich and oh-so tasty.

The verdict: If you’re looking to add a certain ‘wow’ factor to your Friday brunch, Pierchic is an ideal choice. Albeit quite pricey at Dhs695 for the full package, it guarantees to make for an unforgettable experience whether you are a visitor or brunch veteran.

Would you like Team TMN to review your event, latest launch or product? E-mail roadtested@the-media-network.com with full details and we’ll be in touch to offer our verdict.

After the official opening of Sofitel The Palm Dubai this past weekend, Team TMN thought it only fair to swing by and check out what is rumoured to be one of Dubai’s hippest new hotels. But with the Polynesian themed resort boasting an enviable F&B line up, our first question was simply, where to start? And it wasn’t log before we found the perfect venue…

What: Moana seafood restaurant

Where: Sofitel, The Palm, Dubai

When: Open for lunch from 12.30pm – 3pm and for dinner from 7pm – 11:30pm

The promise: “A contemporary seafood restaurant creating stylish simplicity within a Polynesian façade. Moana expertly prepares only fresh and sustainable sea fare, with the finest ingredients in the market.”

Did it deliver? A feeling of calm enveloped us as we made our way through the tranquil yet tropical lobby en route to the garden, where nestled within the meanderings walkways we found Moana. A short walk through the restaurant to our table on the terrace gave us a glimpse into why Moana is fast gaining a reputation for all the right reasons.

Impeccable décor earned the venue an instant nod of approval with an elegant water feature, variety of seating options – including a sushi counter and ceviche bar – and low lighting giving a warm, intimate vibe. Dining under the stars, or under the vast traditional cabana to be exact, won us over.

The menu offered a varied international seafood selection with an Asian and European influence. We tried the Lobster Nachos and Salmon Degustation to start, which came generously portioned – if only we hadn’t overindulged in the seaweed breadbasket on arrival. While the grilled seabass was a thoroughly enjoyable option, the Thai Style Sea Bream Masala pot is where the chef’s culinary skills really shone through. A house specialty that all should try, there’s an abundance of pot options to satisfy the most varied of tastes.

Dinner wouldn’t be complete without dessert, and the Chocolate Spicy Fondant and tangy Passion Passion didn’t disappoint.

The Verdict: If you’re seeking that distinct holiday vibe without setting foot outside the emirates, an evening spent at Moana at Sofitel The Palm Dubai couldn’t be any more gratifying. Without a high-rise tower in sight and with a lush garden view, fresh seafood with rich and distinct flavors – not to mention impeccable service – we’re predicting this contemporary seafood restaurant to be a future classic.

Would you like Team TMN to review your event, latest launch or product? E-mail roadtested@the-media-network.com with full details and we’ll be in touch to offer our verdict.

With temperatures falling and not a hint of condensation in sight, it’s back to the beach for the masses. However the bikini and beach shorts shy Team TMN are resorting to emergency measures to shape-up after a summer of long working hours and less than no exercise. In a desperate bid to get body beautiful on the double, we fully embraced the invitation to trial some Pilates Reformer classes… and wondered, could this be the answer to our quick-fix body prayers?

What: Pilates Reformer

Where: Fitness 360, J3 Mall, Al Wasl Rd, Jumeirah 3, Dubai

When: Opening hours are from 6am to midnight, seven days a week

The promise: “With emphasis on correct postural alignment, Pilates Reformer sessions support the core while allowing the development of long, lean muscles without adding bulk. It enhances body and spatial awareness through mindful exercises.”

Did it deliver? Outfitted in the theme of the American film Grease, down to the sock-hop décor, the framed photographs of Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta, and the bright pink lipstick on reception, we were sold the minute we walked through the door. But don’t be fooled by welcoming décor; one glance at our energetic and intimidatingly fit instructor, Rica, told us stone thighs and firm buttocks means more work and less muscicals.

Tucked away behind the boxing ring, the warm lighting and oak floors of the pilates studio contrasted sharply to the six guillotines in the room. Fitness 360 uses metal reformers, and the first thing that Rica taught us was how to adjust the system to better fit our individual frames and resistance. Rica took us through the basics, using fun metaphors to keep us at ease and in form. “The proper way to do a crunch on the Reformer is to give a gorgeous man the eye,” she said. “Tilt your head up, and then to give him a nod, tucking in your chin. It’s also the proper way to play coy with a guy in a bar.”

The class continued to be lighthearted and fun, and Rica was attentive to our motions, providing insight about our individual bodily tendencies and the way that each motion worked on our muscles. She even allowed us some grunts and cries when we started to work those long neglected muscle groups.

The Verdict: With Team TMN aching from head-to-toe the following morning, the Pilates Reformer class at Fitness 360 certainly did its job – and reminded us that there is no quick-fix to getting body beautiful. It seems hard work coupled with a good instructor is key to getting in shape, and with the fun and lighthearted approach to fitness, we can definitely say we’ll be returning to Fitness 360 to reclaim our beach bodies.

Would you like Team TMN to review your event, latest launch or product? Email roadtested@the-media-network.com with full details, and we’ll be in touch to offer our verdict.