Shawarma by the sea

Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers, Dubai: Mouth-watering is the only way to describe iftar and sohour at the Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Towers.

The spirit of Ramadan is carefully captured with a truly memorable spread, an atmospheric tent overlooking the Arabian Sea, camels lazing on the beach as well as outdoor flames, flickering in the night sky.

The customary offerings of dates and juices to break the day's fast are followed by a wonderful spread of Arabic and international dishes accompanied by the soulful sounds of the ‘Oud', a traditional instrument played live by local musicians.

Ramadan is a time for fasting and spiritual introspection. It is also a time for renewing bonds with family and friends by getting together during the iftar meal. The Sheraton Jumeirah is definitely high up there on the family-friendly venues. With so much choice, I would argue that even the fussiest eaters would be able to find themselves at least a plate full!

A word of advice

If you have a sweet tooth then I'd advise you head straight for the dessert platter - mainly so you know just how much room to save.

With blackberry cheesecake, tiramisu, black forest gateau, strawberry cake, chocolate flan, cake, profiteroles, mousse, ice-cream and the usual tasty Arabic sweets you really do find yourself wishing you hadn't had that last plate of lamb.

Delicacies

But the main was probably worth it too. Live cooking, carving and grilling stations where delicacies like crispy falafels, warm shawarmas and fall-off-the-skewer kebabs served hot off the grill by the hotel's skilled chefs ensure that guests leave satiated and happy.

But it's not the just the food at the Sheraton.

This spacious and scenic setting is complemented by an adjoining majlis which offers guests a relaxing atmosphere to watch their favourite programmes on large plasma screens or enjoy a game of backgammon or dominoes with friends.

Head out onto the beach and the dining experience is complemented further. Seaside tents offer diners the chance to enjoy private dining while sheltered majlis areas have been set up with cushioned seating where one can relish a cup of Arabic coffee and a flavoured shisha, leaving guests with a true insight into the spirit of Ramadan.

Free camel rides should keep the young (or young at heart) happy toward the end of the evening.

For Ramadan tent reservations at the Sheraton Jumeirah call 04-315 3218.

Impressed

Lars Mantle, 36, and his wife, Patricia, said: "We are very impressed with the food here. The spread is never-ending and there is almost too much choice because you would never be able to have a taste of everything because you would burst.

"The desserts are particularly impressive with something from almost everywhere in the world. Very nice and reasonably-priced too at just Dh155 per person."

Abdul Rafiq, 40, was enjoying iftar with his family and friends. A sales manager from Dubai, he said: "We come to the Sheraton Jumeriah every year without fail and we have never been let down yet. There is something for everyone and we are always amazed at how they improved year on year.

Missing something

Michael Donald, 52, on holiday in Dubai with his wife Anne, 50, said the food was excellent but added they thought the tent lacked atmosphere.

He said: "In all honesty I'm not sure how you would create a better atmosphere but we felt it was missing something. Maybe it's the lack of music - which of course we understand is stopped because of Ramadan. But the food is certainly making up for it. It is wonderful and extremely varied. The chefs have also been on hand to explain exactly what each dish is and how they perfect it."

Checklist:
Getting there: In Dubai Marina.
Decor: Traditional with excellent air conditioning.
Timings: Iftar till late.
Dress Code: Smart casual
Recommended: Black forest gateau, without a doubt.