Dubai: If you’ve had enough of the iftar tents and are keen to try something new, we bring you a list of unconventional offerings around town to enrich your Ramadan experience.
1. #GoodVibesMarket
In an attempt to spread the “Good vibes”, Al Serkal has introduced yet another nonchalant initiative, #goodvibesmarket. End your fast with food options from Meat & Co, Falafel Farm and Ka’ak Al Manara. Spread across the quintessential art space in Al Quoz 1, the market features two new local vendors each week. The space is bustling with music and theatre performances all evening. Free guided tours are available every Wednesday. Visitors can also play board games on Saturdays and Sundays with large groups.
Cost: Free
Contact: 050-556 9797
2. A Traditional Saga
For all those wondering what goes on in an Emirati household at iftar, this is where you can find the answers. To educate young Emiratis and expats in the city, the Shaikh Mohammad Centre for Cultural Understanding hosts daily iftars at a traditional house set up in Al Fahidi District every year. The food is spread in a straight line with visitors sitting on the floor. End your fast with dates and Arabic coffee and choose from a variety of Emirati options such as khameer, chebab, Machoos and saloona. A guide explains the significance of all practices followed during the meal.
Cost: Dh120 per person
Contact: www.cultures.ae
3. Pop-Up Style
How about a cosy garden environment, set in a Moroccan theme and candle-lit table to end your fast? Known as the “mysterious iftar”, the Ramadan Nights by Dish in Al Quoz serves healthy treats such as tarator-style salmon, charcoal chicken marinated in rose and pomegranate and salt-baked beetroot with zataar. The place is a treat to the eyes as well and a must-visit for those longing for a hassle-free dining experience.
Cost: Dh195 per person
Contact: 056-128 3247
4. An English tale
Experience an afternoon tea-style meal at Britain’s favourite speciality restaurant, Fortnum and Mason. The tea store will serve gourmet-style fresh and seasonal dinner and dessert options with a Middle Eastern twist. Try the twice-baked goat cheese souffle and lamb shank with thyme while you enjoy a laidback evening overlooking the Burj Khalifa.
Cost: Dh195 per person
Contact: 04--388 2627
5. DIY iftar
This doesn’t mean you will be doing all the work, but only deciding what you’d like to eat. JW Marriott Hotel Dubai in Deira is offering special Ramadan staycation experience to culinary enthusiasts. Book a room (available only on June 12) and join the tour of the Dubai Spice Souk or Fish Market with executive chef Debrup Mitra to pick up the freshest ingredients for a personalised iftar prepared in your room where you can assist the chef.
Cost: Starts from Dh6,000 for two
Conatct: experiencesmarketplace.com
