This Iftar preview was indeed different, where we enjoyed traditional upscale and enthrall of Indian cuisine at Melia Dubai. Yes, we are talking about their famous and well known venue of celebrated Chef Signature by Sanjeev Kapoor. We were invited by JWD events for the iftar preview. We reached a bit late and by that time the starters were already been served, but have it all sorted thanks to our lovely host.
Welcome: As late we missed out on the cold mezzeh i-e tabouleh and mutabal. While being seated we noticed table décor which is so apt. to break your fast this Ramadan, with Arabic sweets, few dates and fresh fruits. We also ordered some juices which are very fresh. Then arrived their signature Pani Puri, literally the best I have had so far, the pani (green liguid shots composed of green coriander) was not at all sour and is so tasty to have it vanished in seconds with crunchy puris, very refreshing!
Starters: The most appealing things in whole menu was starters. Those Saffron scented prawns (zaafrani jhinga), Chicken Roulade (stuffed with olive and nuts, I simply love this middle eastern touch and fusion), the Suman spiked grilled fish & charcoal roast lamb chop were nothing less than a magical BBQ-grilled treat.
Mains: After long wait of 35 min and mentioning many mains on menu, they only serve us Lalla mussa daal, chicken biryani, veggie pot & assorted bread. Lalla Mussa Dal was so scrumptious and creamy that it left us craving for more! Later arrived Chicken Biryani with aromatic flavored rice and well cooked meat. I must say it was quite flavorsome. Our hopes were too high with mains hence I think they could have focused more on it to be more intricate.
Dessert: The round tray was so good looking, and is filled with 4 bites size items. Best was pherni which is surprisingly not too sweet. Another worth mentioning item on stand was Mahalabia. I scrupulously fell in love with this rich and silky cream topped with sliced dates. Other items were passable.
Ambiance was fine, with entrance is being given attention however once you enter it is not as regal and royal in each corner specially at the backside terrace. Since I was sitting outside which was a bit shady and dark, wasn’t smelling good when we arrived. Service was average. Location was a bit challenge to find if you are visiting first time as it’s tucked away in by lanes of Bur Dubai. The big hump before you actually go down in basement parking of hotel is sore too but we had no choice, as I guess that’s the only entrance to the hotel.
I missed hot mezzeh though which might have just completed the whole traditional aura while at the same time they could still bring some Indian twist to samosas and all. I heard they would be serving mezzeh in their actual iftar, so give it a try friends. All in all, Food is great and I loved the great evening with fellow bloggers and host. Ramadan menu over all includes some of the restaurant’s signature dishes along with their iftar meal they served some funky glowing sheeshas. They were amazing by the way.
Essentials:
This menu is available throughout Ramadan.
Timings: 7pm to midnight. Price: 149 per person
For reservations call: 04 386 8111
Special Thanks to Deepti who brought us together to the perfect foodies location and is been a great friend and host!