Arriving early for iftar can work against you at Al Nafoorah. While settling into your seat at the busy restaurant, the aroma from the buffet can tease hungry diners into hopeless anticipation.
We got through those crucial minutes till the end of the fast, and then wasted no time in making our way to the buffet table.
Beginning with steaming lentil soup, we moved on to plump, warm circles of kuboos (Arabic bread) with creamy hummous and moutabbal. It set the tone for an evening of authentic Lebanese cuisine.
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A little bit of everything is my modus operandi when it comes to buffets, but the garlic chicken with lemon and vermicelli rice had me reaching for seconds.
We loved the mixed grill, especially the shish tawouk, which was not burnt to a crisp as one often finds.
The fried fish was just right, although I did spend some time looking for a dip or sauce to go with it. My guest declared the miniature shawarma a winner.
The best part, though, was dessert. Not too keen on the usual chocolate mousse and cheesecake, I decided to stick with the theme and try the Arabic variety.
Warm and sweet, the umm ali was perfect — probably the best I've eaten in Dubai, and definitely worth returning for.
Fast facts
Where: Al Nafoorah, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Dubai
Cost: Dh180; Dh90 for children between 5 and 12 years.
Call: 04-3198088
