Sea and be scene

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.

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