Category: Lifestyle features

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.

Etihad Airways and SKY express Join Forces to Unlock the Greek Islands

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New codeshare partnership opens up seamless travel to 24 breathtaking destinations across Greece and beyond

Natasha Dury

Etihad Airways has expanded its European footprint through a strategic new codeshare partnership with Greece’s regional carrier, SKY express. This partnership marks a significant leap forward in Mediterranean connectivity, granting travellers streamlined access to 24 stunning Greek island destinations, as well as three additional cities across the Eastern Mediterranean.

For discerning travellers flying from Abu Dhabi to Athens, the announcement offers more than a gateway, it opens the door to a collection of sun-kissed islands and historic cities that have long captured the imagination of luxury globetrotters. From the glamour of Mykonos to the volcanic beauty of Santorini, from the serenity of Paros to the grandeur of Crete, the collaboration is designed to enhance the travel experience by offering a single booking and seamless onward connections.

Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer at Etihad Airways, commented, “This partnership with SKY express opens exciting new possibilities for our customers to discover Greece beyond Athens. SKY express’s comprehensive island network perfectly complements our Athens service, giving travellers seamless access to some of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful destinations through a single booking.”

The codeshare agreement sees Etihad placing its EY code on SKY express flights departing from Athens to islands including Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, and Thessaloniki—turning the Greek capital into a key hub for onward Mediterranean travel. Whether one is seeking a tranquil escape in the Ionian Sea or an adventure through the Cycladic isles, the itinerary flexibility and convenience now offered is unparalleled.

SKY express, one of Europe’s most dynamic regional airlines and a member of IATA, boasts the youngest fleet in Greece with 29 modern aircraft. Its ever-growing domestic and international network covers 33 Greek and 26 foreign destinations.

Gerasimos Skaltsas, Chief Commercial Officer at SKY express, noted, “The collaboration with Etihad is a strong vote of confidence in SKY express, reinforcing our position as a reliable partner and significantly enhancing our connectivity. Passengers can now enjoy seamless access to the largest network of Greek destinations, served by the youngest fleet in Greece.”

This new offering is particularly appealing to travellers seeking comfort, efficiency, and a taste of Greece’s famed hospitality. From simplified check-in and baggage transfers to coordinated schedules, the customer journey has been thoughtfully curated for a smooth, stress-free experience. Whether you’re planning a bespoke honeymoon, a luxurious cultural tour, or a sun-soaked family holiday, the expanded route map now allows for endless possibilities—without the hassle.

In uniting their strengths, Etihad Airways and SKY express are not only enhancing regional access, but also reaffirming Athens’ strategic role as a bridge between the Gulf and Europe. For luxury travellers with an eye on the Aegean, the journey just became as rewarding as the destination.

Aromatic Elegance: Givenchy’s La Collection Particulière Unveils ‘Les Jardins Particuliers’

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Natasha Dury

Hubert de Givenchy, an icon of 20th-century fashion, was also a connoisseur of the French “art de vivre.” His residences, from his Parisian Hôtel Particulier to the Château du Jonchet in the Loire Valley, served as sanctuaries of exquisite decor and hubs of inspiration, frequented by a diverse group of muses, artists, and friends.

La Collection Particulière invites us into this exclusive world, offering scents that capture the essence of these charismatic personalities. It all began at the Hôtel Particulier, inspiring the perfumes of the collection, which now finds its latest expressions in the gardens of the Château du Jonchet. Here, the ‘Les Jardins Particuliers’ series emerges, epitomizing elegance and freshness through three new fragrances: L’Enfant Terrible, Tapageur, and Désobéissant.

Each fragrance draws on the principles of French-style gardens, which emphasize symmetry and harmony, creating a stunning visual and olfactory balance. These gardens are a tribute to Givenchy’s love for meticulously designed landscapes, where every element is perfectly placed, mirroring the careful composition of each scent.

The three new perfumes belong to the Intense Fresh olfactory family, renowned for their fresh yet potent signatures. A notable element uniting these fragrances is the SFE* black tea note, extracted from hand-harvested leaves from the mountains of Sri Lanka, lending an intense and sophisticated freshness.

  • L’Enfant Terrible echoes Givenchy’s own rebellious spirit, blending radiant Calabrian bergamot with upcycled cedar for a memorable, enveloping scent.
  • Tapageur stands out with its boisterous, exuberant character, combining sparkling green mandarin with creamy sandalwood and a unique fraction of orange blossom.
  • Désobéissant is defiantly bold, pairing bright citron with Scots pine and a striking cardamom essence, creating a chic, modern composition.

These fragrances are housed in vividly colored bottles, each representing its key ingredients, contained in Givenchy’s signature architectural bottle adorned with a lacquered black cap featuring a metallic 4G logo.

La Collection Particulière not only reflects Givenchy’s legacy in fashion but also his deep appreciation for art and beauty, making each fragrance a masterpiece of perfumery.

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.

Century Financial and Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Celebrate Grand Finale of UAE Polo Federation Cup 2025

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The UAE Polo Federation Cup, presented by Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club in partnership with Century Financial concluded with a spectacular final at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. The event, which was the biggest in its history, featured nine elite teams vying for the coveted championship title in an exhibition of world-class polo.

The final day tournament kicked off with four teams in action with El Basha Polo playing Bin Drai Polo in the 1st match. The second match was between AM Polo and Abu Dhabi Polo showing remarkable skillsfrom both sides. The final match saw an exciting clash between AM Polo emerging victorious with a score of 8/7 and Abu Dhabi Polo as Runners-up. The match showcased exceptional skills of the players, culminating in a thrilling display that captivated the audience. Polo lovers and guests also enjoyed a range of experiences, including exclusive VIP viewing areas, exclusive dining options, and social interactions with friends and family during the match.

Nayef Bou Hamdan, General Manager of Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club said, “This year’s UAE Polo Federation Cup exceeded expectations, delivering not only top-tier polo action but also a comprehensive experience that catered to all attendees. Our club has continuously been at the forefront of combining premier equestrian facilities with luxury lifestyle offerings, and this event was a testament to our commitment to excellence.”

Shaheen Akbari, Executive Director at Century Financial, expressed his satisfaction with the partnership: “It has been a privilege to partner with the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club for this prestigious event. The energy and elegance displayed during the finals were remarkable, and we are thrilled to have been part of an initiative that brings together the community through a shared passion for polo.”

Santiago Torreguitar, Director of Tournaments at Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, added, “The caliber of competition this year was truly exceptional. The tournament showcased a remarkable blend of seasoned veterans and promising new talent, each bringing their own unique strengths to the field. Witnessing such fierce matches and the diverse levels of skill displayed by all teams was not only a testament to the growth of polo in the region but also a promise of the sport’s bright future here. It was an honour to host such a vibrant celebration of polo at our club.”

The finals day was not just about the sport but also offered a variety of experiences for guests, including unparalleled networking opportunities, exclusive access to the VIP lounge, and the ‘Predict and Win’ contest, where spectators had a chance to win prizes by predicting the champion team.

As families, foodies, and sports enthusiasts came together, they enjoyed the Ultimate Polo Brunch, offering an array of exquisite food selections, alongside fun activities like pony rides and play stations, ensuring a grand family day out. The Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club continues to set the standard for exceptional equestrian events and remains dedicated to enhancing the polo community in Dubai and beyond.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Expands its Culinary Legacy back into Motor City

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Dubai, UAE: Sumo Sushi & Bento, a leading name in Japanese restaurants in the region and renowned for its commitment to delivering delectable Japanese fusion cuisine, is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest outlet in the vibrant community of Motor City. With a vision to bring the art of sushi and Japanese flavors to even more diners, this return marks an exciting milestone in the brand’s journey.

Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC. shares the excitement, stating, “At Sumo Sushi & Bento, our passion has always been to create a uniquely fun and approachable Japanese dining experience that combines tradition and innovation. We are delighted to open our doors in this new Motor City location inviting residents and visitors to experience Japanese dining that is unpretentious, casual and just downright fine eating.”

Sumo Sushi & Bento has gained a loyal following by staying true to its commitment to quality, freshness, and creativity in every dish. The restaurant’s menu showcases a tantalizing array of sushi, sashimi, bento boxes, and more, prepared with the finest ingredients and crafted with precision.

The new Motor City outlet promises to provide a unique ambiance, blending modern aesthetics with a touch of Japanese simplicity. The newly designed minimalistic approach highlights the Sushi chefs and creates a welcoming space for diners to enjoy their culinary journey.

At Sumo Sushi & Bento, every dish is a work of art, meticulously prepared to tantalize your taste buds. The new outlet in Motor City will continue this tradition, offering an extensive menu that includes signature sushi rolls, bento box combinations, fresh sashimi, and mouthwatering savory hot dishes.

From sushi connoisseurs to those new to Japanese cuisine, Sumo Sushi & Bento is committed to delighting guests with an unforgettable dining experience that combines tradition with innovation. The brand is celebrating the grand opening of Sumo Sushi & Bento in Motor City with guests and media who witnessed live food carving, enjoyed a sushi making competition as well as quiz competitions. Guests enjoyed a selection of dishes from the specially designed Itemai set up for the grand opening.

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)

CAPTION: – Guests join the Sumo Sushi & Bento management in celebrating the opening of the brands new outlet in Motor City.

Sumo Sushi & Bento Celebrates 23 Years of Excellence, Innovation, and Culinary Delights

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Brand launched the Sumo Anniversary Box “Sushi Paradise in one Box” which is inspired by Sumo Sushi & Bento’s Core values and brings together the best selections of sushi in one box

Sumo Sushi & Bento, a trailblazing name in the world of Japanese cuisine, proudly announces the celebration of its 23rd year in business. Since its inception, Sumo Sushi & Bento has remained committed to delivering an unforgettable dining experience, and this milestone marks another year of culinary excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Over the past 23 years, Sumo Sushi & Bento has become synonymous with delectable sushi creations, authentic bento boxes, and a menu that caters to the diverse palates of its valued customers. The restaurant’s unwavering dedication to quality ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and warm hospitality has won the hearts of countless patrons, making it a beloved culinary destination for patrons in UAE.

Reflecting on the remarkable journey of the past 23 years, Ms. Julianne Holt-Kailihiwa, CEO, Sumo International Inc. LLC expressed her gratitude to the customers, staff, and partners who have contributed to the success of Sumo Sushi & Bento. She stated, “We are humbled and honored to celebrate our 23rd anniversary. This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our patrons, the dedication of our talented team, and the trust of our partners. We remain committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences and further elevating the art of Japanese cuisine.”

To celebrate this special occasion, throughout the month of August, customers can enjoy the Sumo Anniversary box at AED 239.00 with four types of best selected sushi rolls reflecting the company’s core values of integrity, quality, simplicity, and creativity. It is a representation of beautifully selected roll caters “Sushi Paradise in one Box”.

As part of its commitment to making a positive impact beyond the dining table, the brand hopes to continue engaging with different stakeholders through events and CSR activities as they have done for 23 years as this anniversary celebration marks not only a reflection of Sumo Sushi & Bento’s illustrious past but also a promise of an even brighter future.

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 Presents this Week’s Special: Slammin Salmon

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Sumo Sushi & Bento, renowned for its delectable Japanese cuisine, is thrilled to announce its latest weekly special: Slammin Salmon. This extraordinary dish is one of the most sought-after items, meticulously crafted to satisfy even the most discerning sushi enthusiasts.

The Slammin Salmon roll features a delightful combination of flavors and textures, and comes with a delectable blend of fresh salmon, creamy avocado, and succulent crabstick, all elegantly nestled within a brown rice sushi roll. It’s an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

For a limited time, enjoy the Slammin Salmon at Sumo Sushi & Bento for an unbeatable price of only 60 AED. Whether you choose to dine in, opt for take away, or indulge in the convenience of delivery.

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 Listings July 2023

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Sumo Sushi & Bento, the originator of family-friendly sushi dining in the UAE and throughout the region, is thrilled to announce a series of special offers for the month of July. With a delectable selection of Japanese cuisine and exciting activities, Sumo Sushi & Bento aims to provide an unforgettable dining experience for its valued customers.

Sumo Epic Meals

Experience the ultimate culinary delight with our Sumo Epic Meals. For just 70 AED, you can choose any two items from our extensive menu, including classic Bentos like Teriyaki chicken, assorted tempura, garlic prawn, and BBQ Beef, along with a range of sushi rolls, such as crunchy California, spicy tuna, and sweet potato crunch roll. Vegetarian options are also available. This offer is exclusively available for delivery through our mobile app.

Triple Treat Offer

For a complete dining experience, don’t miss our Triple Treat offer. Priced at just 99 AED, this incredible value includes a selection of sushi rolls, such as California, crunchy California, crispy cream, crunchy philly, sweet potato, spicy tuna and spicy salmon, along with classic Bento options like assorted tempura, chicken katsu, garlic prawn and teriyaki chicken. To complement your meal, choose from our refreshing drink selection, including Ginger Cooler, Iced Tea Lemon, and Sumo-jito. The Triple Treat offer is available for dine-in and pickup through our mobile app. This offer is not available at Mirdiff Hills and DSO branches.

The offers are valid from July 1st to July 31st. Each offer is limited to one per transaction/person and cannot be combined with any other promotions.

Offer is available for dine-in delivery and pickup, one offer per transaction/per person and cannot be combined with any other offers.

Loyalty Offers

Sumo Mobile App is the most simple and convenient way to earn your loyalty points. You can collect the 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!

For Booking: Visit https://sumosushibento.com or call 800-7866(SUMO)

Layal Boulos to RepresentLebanon with Pride in Miss Europe Continental

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Talented in all aspects of her life and career, Layal Boulos announces her participation in the esteemed International Miss Europe Continental pageant set to take place in Italy this coming November by representing her ancestral homeland, Lebanon. The pageant will be broadcasted live on TV worldwide.

In the glamorous world of international pageantry, Layal Boulos shines as a beacon of strength and resilience. Born in the United States, she is half-American, half-Lebanese. A beauty with brains, her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, led her to teach kids with learning disabilities which also enhanced her interpersonal skills.

Layal is currently the executive assistant of the Bahamas Ambassador to the state of Qatar and UAE and speaks English, French and Arabic. She is also a freelance model when she is able to fit that in her schedule. Layal’s deep connection to Lebanon and her unwavering spirit make her the perfect ambassador for a nation that has triumphed over adversity time and time again.

According to Layal, Lebanon has a vibrant way of life and her passion for her heritage is deeply rooted in the generosity and love of the Lebanese people, as well as their rich culinary traditions, hospitality and natural beauty. She recognizes the strength of the Lebanese people, who have time and again risen from the ashes of adversity.

“Inspired by the resilience and unwavering spirit of Lebanon, I see myself as a symbol of hope and renewal, ready to showcase my country’s true potential to the world. Representing Lebanon in the Miss Europe Continental pageant gives me a platform to showcase the rich tapestry of my cultural heritage, foster a deeper understanding of our vibrant society, thus breaking stereotypes and promoting harmony,” said Layal.

“My journey in the pageant is not just about winning a crown; it is about amplifying the voice of Lebanon on an international stage. Through my participation, I hope to shed light on the immense potential of Lebanon and its people, encouraging global recognition and support for the nation’s ongoing recovery efforts. I want to inspire others by showing that like Lebanon, even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized, and hope can prevail.”

With her participation, Layal aims to elevate the global perception of Lebanon, proving that from the ashes of war, a nation and its people can rise to new heights of triumph, just like a phoenix can rise from the ashes.