Category: Food & Nutrition (Cuisine)

Sunlight, Spritzes, and Riviera Spirit

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L’Estate Chic Brunch at Chic Nonna – where Mediterranean glamour meets timeless Italian cuisine

Natasha Dury

In a city that thrives on elevated experiences, Chic Nonna has firmly secured its place as one of Dubai’s most refined dining destinations. Located in the heart of DIFC, this Italian gem combines classical culinary heritage with contemporary sophistication. And now, with the launch of L’Estate Chic, Chic Nonna delivers not just a meal, but a summer reverie worthy of the Riviera. As a foodie, I ventured there recently with a group of friends and can firmly say we had an memorable dining experience.

As soon as we stepped into the grand, yet warmly elegant interiors of Chic Nonna, we were greeted by an ambience that felt both exclusive and welcoming. The soaring ceilings, soft golden tones, and rich textures set the stage for a gastronomic experience that is as thoughtfully designed as the space itself. This is not your average brunch—it is a curated Italian journey brought to life by the precision and passion of Executive Chef Francesco Torcasio.

Chef Francesco, whose culinary story began in Calabria and has since spanned iconic kitchens across Italy, London, and Dubai, brings an unmistakable authenticity to every dish. As the creative force behind Chic Nonna’s kitchen, his style is rooted in Italian tradition but elevated through modern techniques and luxurious presentation.

At L’Estate Chic, this philosophy is in full bloom. The brunch menu unfolds like a love letter to Italian summer dining. Think delicately seasoned seafood dishes, handmade pasta that melts on the palate, and indulgent yet balanced main courses designed to be shared and savoured.

The atmosphere is a visual and sensory delight. Inspired by the Italian Riviera, the summer brunch offers a sun-kissed experience inside and out. Crisp white linens, cheerful parasols, and a Mediterranean playlist turn this DIFC venue into a seaside escape with refreshing signature drinks.

We felt the live music struck just the right balance between lively and luxurious, allowing conversation and indulgence to flow in harmony. Every detail, from the attentive service to the carefully paired drinks, reinforces Chic Nonna’s reputation for delivering excellence with ease.

Our verdict after three hours of pure indulgence made us realise we experienced so much more than just a brunch – L’Estate Chic gave us a chance to pause, indulge, and transport ourselves to the Italian coast without leaving Dubai. It was an afternoon of culinary storytelling, where every bite told a tale of heritage, every sip captured the joy of summer, and every moment felt like a celebration of la dolce vita.

Sakhalin Dubai: A Fusion of Culinary Excellence by Chef Vladimir Mukhin

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Natasha Dury

Nestled in the bustling heart of J1, Dubai’s dynamic dining scene, Sakhalin emerges as a testament to Chef Vladimir Mukhin’s renowned culinary prowess. Celebrated for his innovative approach and distinguished by prestigious accolades including a ranking in The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Sakhalin is a concept that marries the rich flavors of Mediterranean, Asian, and Russian cuisines.

Nestled by the sea, Sakhalin Dubai offers more than just a meal; it provides an experience while offering diners a stunning array of dishes where each bite is a discovery. The restaurant’s ambiance is perfectly poised for evening sunsets, making it an ideal spot for a drink before indulging in a sumptuous dinner.

During my visit, I particularly liked the tranquil yet sophisticated ambiance. Positioned directly on the beach, diners can enjoy a venue that is designed to enhance the natural beauty surrounding it. The venue is celebrated not only for its location but for its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients, showcased vividly in their live seafood tanks.

I went to Sakhalin Dubai in Ramadan, and the offerings were impeccable, aligning well with the season’s spirit while providing a gastronomic delight. The highlight of Sakhalin’s menu is undoubtedly its fresh seafood. The transparency with which they display their crabs and other marine delights in tanks for guests to view before selection speaks volumes about their commitment to freshness and quality.

From the vibrant starters to the sumptuous desserts, each dish is crafted from the finest ingredients. Sakhalin also enriches its dining experience with options for beachfront relaxation. Visitors can book a sunbed and spend the day soaking up the sun and sea, making it more than just a meal, but a day-long retreat.

This venue is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and richness of its influences, making every visit a unique exploration of flavors from around the world while offering diners the best of the sun, sea and sand option that Dubai is known for.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Revolutionizes Dining with a Tailored Experience this February

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Sumo Sushi & Bento is thrilled to announce an array of exciting promotions for February 2025, designed to enhance the dining experience for patrons across all locations. From innovative ordering solutions to special limited-time offers and the much-awaited seasonal menu, there is something for everyone this season.

Diners can embrace the convenience of technology with the Sumo Sushi & Bento mobile app. Dubbed ‘Appsolutely Yours,’ the app offers a seamless ordering process along with personalized offers and loyalty perks such as Kenji Coins, which diners can earn with every purchase. This program is designed to make every visit rewarding, transforming regular meals into special dining experiences with exclusive rewards and tailored offers.

Sumo Sushi & Bento also invites patrons to indulge in the Ultimate Wagyu Experience, exclusively available through the Sumo Sushi & Bento Mobile App. Featuring premium A5 Wagyu beef, the menu includes delicacies like A5 Wagyu Steak Roll, A5 Wagyu Donburi, A5 Wagyu Nigiri, and A5 Wagyu Gyoza, all designed to offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that showcases the rich Flavours of this esteemed beef.

The Ultimate Wagyu Experience joins a lineup of February’s special offers which include generous app and website discounts. Enjoy the Happy Hour on weekdays with a flat 30% off on the mobile app from 11 am to 5 pm on all items except platters, an offer designed to enhance midday meals. 

For website users, new customers receive a flat 30% off their first three orders, while all customers can enjoy up to 50% off, capped at AED 30, on orders meeting a minimum spend. 

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Sumo Sushi & Bento reveals exciting new flavours and exclusive offers this September

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Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to delight its loyal customers with a fresh array of innovative dishes this September, bringing unique flavours and exciting offers to its diners across the UAE. From delectable sushi rolls to indulgent donburi and refreshing beverages, September promises to be a feast for the senses.

This month’s highlights include the Salmon Shamrock and the Wagyu Beef Donburi, two new offerings that showcase Sumo’s commitment to combining fresh ingredients with bold flavours. The Salmon Shamrock is a sushi lover’s dream, with layers of seared salmon, creamy cheese, green tobiko, and spicy mayo, all wrapped in sushi rice and nori, creating a delightful balance of textures and flavours. 

For those looking for something heartier, the Wagyu Beef Donburi is a standout choice featuring tender Wagyu beef, mushrooms, asparagus, and scallions, all drizzled with rich steak sauce over a bed of rice.

For a refreshing finish, diners can cool off with the Pineapple Breeze, a tropical blend of pineapple, mint, lime, and soda, served chilled with ice—perfect for combating the lingering summer heat.

In celebration of its 24th anniversary, Sumo Sushi & Bento is also offering a special limited-edition Daimyo Box. Available from August 16 to September 30, this curated box showcases a selection of the brand’s best-selling rolls. The Daimyo Box features four signature options—Samurai, Gozen Samurai, Afuro Samurai, and Shimin Samurai, each carefully crafted to reflect Sumo’s rich history and dedication to quality. It’s a culinary tribute to 24 years of excellence, and a must-try for any fan of Japanese cuisine.

For those looking for even more value, Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Happy Hours Combooffers three of the restaurant’s best-selling meals for just AED 99. Available daily from 11 AM to 6 PM, this combo includes appetizers, rolls, and bento or noodle options, ensuring a satisfying meal for any craving. Diners can choose from favorites like Chicken Gyoza, Prawn Tempura, Dynamite Roll, and Chicken Katsu Bento Classic, among many others.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Sumo Sushi & Bento Unveils Irresistible Offers for a Flavorful Summer

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Sumo Sushi & Bento is delighted to announce a series of exciting offers that will elevate your dining experience throughout the month of August. Embrace the flavours of summer with our specially curated menu, featuring a selection of delectable dishes and refreshing drinks designed to tantalize your taste buds.

Monthly Special: Taste a Soulful Journey

Sumo Sushi & Bento highlights the Shimin Samurai, an elite, SAMURAI-inspired deep-fried roll featuring a medley of shrimp tempura, sweet pepper, and kani, topped with creamy avocado, succulent salmon, and the signature teriyaki sauce. Priced at 65 AED, this roll offers a perfect fusion of flavours, textures, and aromas.

The Crispy Prawns are a also must-try for seafood enthusiasts. Lightly coated with salt, pepper, and cornstarch, these golden-fried shrimp are served with honey wasabi mayo sauce and topped with Sakura mix, all for just 42 AED.

Refreshing Summer Drinks: Stay Cool, Stay Fresh

Beat the summer heat with refreshing signature drinks. Enjoy a wide selection, including Nyuto, Radiant Bliss, Sunshine Bliss, Murasaki, andMixed Tropical Berry, among others. For a limited time, purchase five drinks in a single transaction and receive a complimentary item which includes Tempura Combo, Calamari, or Karai Chicken.

This month, guests can also indulge in a Pinacolada, a tropical delight blending blue curacao, pineapple, and vanilla ice cream with ice and sugar syrup, available for only 22 AED. This refreshing treat is the perfect way to cool off this summer.

Triple Delight August Offer: A Feast for the Senses

Get ready for a taste sensation with our Triple Delight offer. Exclusively for Sumo Mobile App customers, buy any three rolls and get one Iced Tea for just 99 AED. Choose from a tempting array of rolls such as California, Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Crazy, and many more.

This exclusive offer is valid for dine-in, pick-up, and delivery from August 1st to 31st and cannot be combined with any other promotions. All promotions are valid while stocks last and cannot be combined with other offers.

Savour these extraordinary deals and immerse yourself in a feast of flavours this August at Sumo Sushi & Bento invites. Grab your chopsticks and join us for a culinary experience you won’t want to miss.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Stay Cool with Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Summer Refreshment Campaign!

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As the summer heat in Dubai reaches its peak, Sumo Sushi & Bento is excited to launch its Summer Refreshment Campaign, offering an array of delicious and trendy beverages to keep you cool.Until August 31st, 2024, diners can indulge in refreshing summer drinks and take advantage of special offers designed to quench their thirst and lift their spirits.

The campaign features five highlight drinks: Nyuto, a creamy blend with a hint of sweetness perfect for a refreshing break; Radiant Bliss, a vibrant, fruity drink that promises to delight your taste buds; Sunshine Bliss, capturing the essence of summer with its bright, citrus-infused flavor; Murasaki, a unique drink combining exotic flavors for a refreshing experience; and Mixed Tropical Berry, offering the taste of summer with a berry-packed refreshment. 

While these limited-time offerings are the stars of the campaign, all menu drinks are included, ensuring there’s something for everyone. To enhance customer engagement and provide added value, Sumo Sushi & Bento is launching two exclusive campaigns on its mobile app. The Bulk Purchase Campaign offers any five drinks for AED 100, with the added bonus of receiving a free item. This offer is perfect for groups or individuals looking to stock up on their favorite refreshments.

The Bounce Back Coupon Campaign rewards customers who purchase five summer drinks during the campaign period with a free item on their next purchase. Upon completing the purchase of five drinks, customers will automatically receive a free item credited to their account, redeemable with their next app purchase. Terms and conditions apply: the offer cannot be combined with any other offer and is available for dine-in and pickup only. To qualify, customers must complete the purchase of five drinks in one transaction.

The free items available for the Bounce Back Coupon Campaign include the Tempura Combo, Calamari, and Karai Chicken, providing delightful options to complement the refreshing summer drinks.

Known for its fresh, innovative, and delectable offerings, Sumo Sushi & Bento continues to delight customers with its diverse menu and exceptional service. This summer, join Sumo Sushi & Bento in celebrating the season with refreshing drinks and special offers, designed to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Blossom Up Your Taste at Sumo Sushi & Bento

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This April, Sumo Sushi & Bento is excited to introduce “Blossom Up Your Taste,” a culinary celebration that brings a bouquet of new flavors to your table. From the Hanabira Roll to Korean Chicken and the refreshing Murasaki drink, our special menu is designed to delight your senses and offer a unique dining experience.

Enjoy the Hanabira Roll at AED 59 as you experience the meticulous flavor of sushi with our Beetroot Rice, beautifully wrapped in gold salmon fillet shaped like a flower petal. This roll is a sensational combination of Nori, Unagi Kabayaki, asparagus, tamago, Takuan taro, and beetroot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Sumo Sushi & Bento diners can also try the crispy fried Korean chicken wings at AED 38, smothered in a savory Korean-inspired sauce. Each wing is sprinkled with sesame seeds and spring onions, garnished with parsley to add that extra touch of flavor.

This month, quench your thirst with Murasaki, a thrilling blend of soda fizz, yuzu juice, and lime, infused with the vibrant hue of butterfly pea flower. This drink is as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Diners at Sumo Sushi & Bento can indulge in the Triple Delights offer: Buy any three rolls and get an iced tea for just AED 99. This offer is exclusive to Sumo Mobile App customers and includes a tempting selection of rolls such as California, Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Crazy, and more.

These offers are available for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery from April 1st through April 30th at all Sumo Sushi & Bento branches. Please note that the Triple Delights offer is exclusively available through the Sumo Mobile App and cannot be combined with any other promotions.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to blossom up your taste this April with Sumo Sushi & Bento. Grab your chopsticks and prepare for a feast of flavors that promises to bring a smile to your face and satisfaction to your palate.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO) 

Dubai’s Famous Catch Seafood Grill Launches New Abu Dhabi Branch

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The Catch Seafood Grill, renowned for its exceptional seafood and meat offerings, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest branch in Abu Dhabi. The celebrated restaurant is set to become a premier dining and celebration destination for seafood and meat enthusiasts in the capital.

The restaurant’s grand opening was inaugurated by H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver, Philippine Ambassador to the UAE and Nikki Ann Nuneza and Roden Michael Nuneza, the visionary owners of the restaurant, in the presence of Mico Banua, well-renowned Filipino influencer in the UAE. 

H.E. Alfonso Ferdinand A. Ver expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating, “The Catch Seafood Grill’s expansion to Abu Dhabi is a testament to the growing culinary diversity in the UAE and the strong Filipino entrepreneurial spirit.”

Nikki Ann Nuneza, Owner and Founder shared her excitement, “Our dream was to create a unique space where food lovers can enjoy a wide variety of seafood and grilled meat dishes. We are thrilled to bring our passion and flavours to Abu Dhabi food lovers and connoisseurs. With a capacity of 120 people, our new branch is an ideal venue for birthdays, celebrations, and special occasions with catering menu offerings inspired from traditional global cuisines.”

Edwin Duria, Philippine Business Council Chairman, commended the restaurant’s commitment to quality and innovation, “The Catch Seafood Grill has set a high standard in the food industry with its exceptional seafood and grill offerings. Its presence in Abu Dhabi will undoubtedly enhance the city’s dining scene, bringing a fresh and exciting culinary experience to residents and visitors alike. We are proud to see Filipino entrepreneurs making such a significant impact in the UAE’s vibrant food and beverage sector.”

The restaurant’s menu boasts bestsellers like the Tomahawk, Seafood Feast, Barbecue Ribs, Chicken Barbecue Larsian, Grilled Tuna Jaw, Lamb Chops, Boneless Bangus (Milkfish) with Mango Salsa, and Dynamite Shrimp, along with unique breakfast options including the sumptuous Avocado Toast. 

For reservations and inquiries, contact The Catch Seafood Grill at 02 884 7724 or visit their location at https://maps.app.goo.gl/4Q1Yk6r7xVUapqJe6 

Ramadan in Japan and the UAE: A Culinary Fusion at Sumo Sushi & Bento

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Fostering Community Through Food for Mutual Respect and Understanding

In the Land of the Rising Sun, where Shintoism and Buddhism are the main spiritual guides, the Islamic holy month of Ramadan shines as a beacon of cultural harmony, observed by a vibrant Muslim community. This spirit of unity and tradition transcends continents, finding a home in the UAE through the innovative culinary offerings of Sumo Sushi & Bento. 

As a testament to the power of cultural exchange, Sumo Sushi & Bento embraces the unique blend of Islamic traditions and Japanese cuisine, crafting a Ramadan experience that resonates with both Japanese expatriates and the local population in the UAE.

Ramadan in Japan is characterized by a strong community spirit, despite the challenges of limited halal food access and fewer mosques. In the UAE, Sumo Sushi & Bento captures this essence by creating an inclusive atmosphere where Muslims can gather to break their fast with ‘Iftar’ parties. These gatherings are more than just meals; they are opportunities for Muslims to share experiences, strengthening bonds over dishes that marry Japanese culinary art with traditional Ramadan fare.

Sumo Sushi & Bento’s food selection for Ramadan is a celebration of this cultural fusion. The menu features “Sumo” inspired meals that integrate the Muslim culture of Japan with preferences prevalent in the UAE. Traditional Iftar ingredients like dates and Middle Eastern snacks are seamlessly blended with Japanese staples such as sushi, tempura, and miso soup. This harmonious blend not only caters to the tastes of Japanese Muslims but also appeals to the UAE’s diverse palate, striking the perfect balance between authenticity and innovation.

The respect for different cultures and religions that is deeply ingrained in Japanese society is mirrored in the operations of Sumo Sushi & Bento. The restaurant actively promotes a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Muslim faith during Ramadan by inviting non-Muslims to partake in Iftar meals. This initiative fosters a more inclusive and harmonious community, echoing the mutual respect and curiosity that pave the way for societal cohesion.

The celebration of Ramadan in Japan and its extension into the UAE through Sumo Sushi & Bento is a beautiful illustration of cultural exchange and mutual respect. The restaurant’s innovative approach to blending Japanese cuisine with traditional Ramadan dishes offers a unique dining experience that resonates with the values of community, understanding, and charity. As societies grow increasingly multicultural, Sumo Sushi & Bento stands as a reminder of the beauty of diversity and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where every meal shared is a step towards unity.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Reveals Exciting March Specials

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Sumo Sushi & Bento, the premier destination for Japanese cuisine, is thrilled to announce its March offers, including Happy Hours, Marvelous March Madness, and Triple Delight. These exclusive deals are available at all Sumo branches, providing an opportunity for guests to indulge in a variety of Japanese delicacies at fantastic prices. 

From March 1st to March 31st, Monday to Friday, guests can enjoy a flat 20% off on selected items during Happy Hours from 11 am to 5 pm. This offer is exclusively available for delivery via the SUMO Mobile App. The selected items include Teriyaki Chicken Bento, Sake Nigiri, Ika Nigiri, Neptune, Twister, Yaki Udon- Mix, Yakisoba- Mix, Rock N Roll Shrimp, Karai Chicken, Tempura Supreme Bento, and BBQ Beef Bento. The offer cannot be combined with any other offers and is available only on the Sumo Mobile App. 

Experience the Marvelous March Madness with the monthly special offer. Discover newest additions such as Passion Inari, Takonafa, and Sunshine Bliss, available from March 1st to 31st for dine-in, takeaway, and delivery. 

Guests can also get ready for a taste sensation with the Triple Delight offer. Buy 3 Rolls and get 1 Iced Tea for just AED 99, exclusively for Sumo Mobile App customers. Choose from the California, Sweet Potato Crunch, Crunchy Crazy, and more. The offer is available for dine-in, pick-up, and delivery from March 1st to March 31st and cannot be combined with any other offers. 

Don’t miss out on these fantastic opportunities to savor your favorite Japanese dishes at a discounted price! Visit Sumo Sushi & Bento and indulge in the delicious March offers.

For regular patrons, Sumo Mobile App is a most simple and convenient way to earn loyalty points. Collect Kenji Coins for every order and redeem them for FREE food and drinks (1 AED= 1 Kenji Coin). You can redeem the rewards without any minimum spend. Enjoy!

The special offers are available from 11am to 11pm at all Sumo Sushi & Bento outlets. For Booking, visit https://sumosushibento.com, download the Sumo Sushi App or call 800-7866(SUMO)