DUBAI: Eating out in Dubai can be one of the most daunting parts of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of healthy options in town these days and the latest addition to the ever burgeoning list is ICONS Coffee Couture.
Founded by German fashion model turned businesswoman Elena Weber, the trendy fashion and lifestyle concept store is a godsend for health-conscious people with an insatiable sweet tooth.
The coffee shop is located on the first floor of Souk Al Bahar in Dubai Mall but unlike most restaurants here it doesn’t overlook the Dubai Fountain. Thankfully, the guilt-free culinary delights and the impeccable service more than make up for the lack of good views outside.
My gastronomic journey started with a wholesome and utterly satisfying snow white frappe. Thick, creamy and sweetened with stevia (a naturally-sourced sugar substitute), it’s the perfect antidote to the blistering summer days ahead.
Next up was a power-packed veggie tofu protein boost. I bet those who give healthy food a bad rap for being bland and unpalatable will eat their words if they try this assorted seasonal salad consisting of lettuce, rucola, chick peas, roasted walnut tofu and corn.
“Low carb foods don’t have to be boring, and that’s precisely the message I want to convey. As a model I always had to watch my diet. For me scrumptious desserts and rich drinks were a strict no-no. It motivated me to introduce a concept that combines health with the goodness of sweet delights. A special ingredient in most of our beverages and desserts is stevia which is 300 times sweeter than sugar but is free from chemical enhancements,” said Weber as I tucked into another hearty offering – a fibre-rich wild rice salad mixed with kidney beans and peppers and served with a slightly salty soya mustard dressing.
It was followed by a tomato-mozzarella grilled ciabatta sandwich and a carrot hazelnut cake that is kind to both your wallet and waistline as it’s also sweetened with the wonder honey herb stevia.
Another hugely recommended thing here is the spicy chai chalette. A blend of organic black tea, local spices and a dash of cinnamom, it’s unlike anything I have had before.
Most dishes and drinks at ICONS range between Dh25 and Dh45. As Webner says, and perhaps quite rightfully, a small price for true joy, with no regrets.
Details
Meal for two: Dh100-Dh150
Location. Souk Al Bahar, Dubai Mall
Timings: 9am-10.30pm
Contact: 04-456 4978
We recommend: Veggie tofu protein boost, tomato mozzarella ciabatta sandwich and spicy chai
