There’s no shortage of Asian restaurants in the city. We have Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Korean and Indian places opening up on every corner every single freakin’ day! But what about Filipino? Well, the other day we were cruising around Maadi when we saw a big sign that read “Pinoy: Filipino Restaurant” on Road 263 and we just had to stop and check out Cairo’s newest and first Filipino restaurant.

Upon entering, we were welcomed by their lovely staff who seated us at our black and white table (that matched everything else in the restaurant) and gave us the menu. In all honestly, we didn’t know what to order because everything was so strange and unfamiliar to us, so we had to ask one of the waiters for help.

“Siopao and chicken adobo are a must,” said Sarah, one of Pinoy’s waitresses with a big smile on her face. And that’s exactly what we ordered… plus a few other items!

The anticipation was killing us as we were getting ready to have our first bite into our first Filipino experience, starting with siopao. One bite in and we were so happy we took the waitress’s advice. It was a steamed bun filled with chicken, eggs and soy sauce and tasted delish.

Siopao (aka steamed buns) is a very popular street food in The Philippines which was influenced by the Chinese. Probably the only good thing we got from them…

A photo posted by Pinoy! (@pinoyegypt) on Sep 14, 2015 at 1:39am PDT

Next up was adobo chicken and adobo squid, which we ordered with pancit guisado and Filipino rice as we weren’t sure about which side we wanted to have with the main dishes. But let us tell you this, as peculiar as the adobo squid looked, it made up for it with its taste. It was the right amount of spicy and again, it tasted like nothing we had before, but in a great way, especially when you have it with the Filipino rice, which is drenched in fried garlic.

RELEASE THE KRAKEN! We’re joking, no krakens were involved in the making of this adobong pusit. Only squids.

A photo posted by Pinoy! (@pinoyegypt) on Sep 16, 2015 at 5:34am PDT

As for the adobo chicken, we were absolutely taken by surprise as the waitress told us it would contain vinegar, but it didn’t taste as vinegary as we thought it would. The meat itself was absolutely nomnomnom. We had to use our hands and eat it like savages and not care because that’s how much we couldn’t wait to have more.

We’re having adobo chicken for dinner tonight because why not? You should too! For our menu, head to our Facebook page in our bio.

A photo posted by Pinoy! (@pinoyegypt) on Sep 29, 2015 at 8:38am PDT

Last but not least, the pancit guisado, which cannot be described in any other way but Filipino noodles. We felt bad as we couldn’t finish it as the pancit by itself was a meal on its own, so be careful about the portion.

Is it just us or this pancit malabon has hypnotising powers? Look how gorgeous it looks.

A photo posted by Pinoy! (@pinoyegypt) on Oct 3, 2015 at 2:07am PDT

As we were about to ask for the check, the lovely waiter came to our table with two glasses of what seemed to be a dessert dish that we later found out was called buko pandan: a popular Filipino dessert that consists of baby coconut, condensed milk and green jelly, and it tasted like Christmas. All in all, we were very satisfied with losing our Filipino-ginity and are ecstatic to try more of Pinoy’s dishes.

We give you buko pandan, a type of dessert made out of young coconut strips, pandan jelly, sago pearl and nata de coco on a cream and condensed milk dressing. This desert from the Bohol province is considered one of the most popular Filipino desserts. #AnaPinoy

A photo posted by Pinoy! (@pinoyegypt) on Jan 18, 2016 at 3:02am PST

WE SAID THIS: Check out their Facebook page here for more info.

Scoop Team

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post Pinoy! Egypt’s First Filipino Restaurant Opens in Maadi appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Valentine’s Day is nearly upon us, and although some of you may not believe in it because you think the whole thing is annoying (you’re probably right) or that it’s a capitalisy holiday (you’re definitely right), its roots as a romantic holiday actually dates back to some nice guy from a long, long time ago called Geoffrey Chaucer, AKA the author of The Canterbury Tales and the father of English literature. He was truly, deeply into love and that kinda thing. If he was alive today, he would be the Nicholas Sparks of our generation.

Anyway, while we won’t even pretend to be capable of offering any lovey-dovey advice to save your relationship this Valentine’s Day, we’ve done something better! We’ve compiled a list of the most romantic restaurants in town where you and your special someone can wine and dine on Feb. 14. We’ve even provided you with all the restaurant’s telephone numbers so you can reserve now before it’s too late!

The Mermaid – Maadi

Home sweet home

A photo posted by Nadine H. Hafez (@nadinehhafez) on Jan 14, 2016 at 3:10am PST

It’s Italian, small, cute and totes looks like somewhere out of a Nicholas Sparks movie where you can see yourself dining with Zac Efron. Yum! The restaurant’s choice of music is also very on point! ~do you believe in life after love~

Telephone: 0223583964.

Le Deck – Zamalek

Le Deck may be closed, but we still have the incredible #NileView. Chef Laurent Peugeot has arrived to enrich your dining experience at the soon to be ‘Le Deck by Laurent Peugeot’. Stay tuned for our re-opening. #SofitelWorld

A photo posted by Sofitel Cairo El Gezirah (@sofitelcairoeg) on Jan 3, 2016 at 8:29am PST

Arguably one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Cairo, you can find Le Deck at the Sofitel Gezirah hotel. The restaurant will make you feel like you’re on the Nile because you’re literally on it. Their mixed grill should help all your love problems go away.

Telephone: 0227373737.

L’Asiatique – 6th of October

A little piece of Asia is now just around the corner at our newly opened L'Asiatique. Please call 01115554140 for reservations. #TheFarEastHeadsWest #LePachaWest #LePacha #Arkan #SheikhZayed

A photo posted by Le Pacha West (@lepachawest) on Feb 2, 2016 at 3:00am PST

The newly-opened Asian eatery has already become one of our favorites. Located inside Le Pacha West, this restaurant has the advantage of having Chinese, Japanese, Thai and Indian food all under one roof, so you and your other half don’t have to fight or compromise for each other no more.

Telephone: 0227350174.

Kamala – Boulaq

Keep warm from the snow, At Kamala with all you can eat dimsum and sparkling wine every Saturday from 12-6pm. #Snow #winter #warm #delicious #food #amazing #luxury #hotel #travel #Egypt

A photo posted by Conrad Cairo (@conradcairo) on Dec 13, 2013 at 3:36am PST

Located at Conrad Cairo hotel, this Asian restaurant boasts some of the best dim sum you could ever taste in Cairo. Kamala’s atmosphere itself is also intimate and cozy, making it perfect for you and your Valentine.

Telephone: 0225808000.

Loft 21 – Garden City

#TheLoftExperience #LOFT21 #afternoonattheloft #Dinner #Drinks

A photo posted by LOFT 21 (@loft21egypt) on Jan 16, 2016 at 5:26am PST

You’ll be soaring, flying 21 floors high, and there won’t be a star in heaven that you won’t be able to reach. Loft 21 provides traditional American cooking, fabulous cocktails and Instagrammable views.

Telephone: 01004986811.

Mirai – Zamalek

Have you tried our teppanyaki grill yet? #teppanyaki #grill #asian #zamalek #food #foodgasm #nile #deliciousness #friends #nightout #evening #dining #mirai #asian #panasian

A photo posted by Mirai (@miraionline) on Nov 19, 2014 at 7:23am PST

Mirai doesn’t get as much recognition as its brother and sister, Left Bank and Seqouia, and we are here to do something about that. The Far Eastern restaurant has some of the freshest sushi in town, and it’s quite sad that no one knows about that fact.

Telephone: 0227350014.

139 – Haram

Unwind this Valentine's with a few dry martinis by the pyramids at 139 Bar…

A photo posted by Mena House Hotel (@menahousehotel) on Feb 7, 2016 at 11:15am PST

Feast like kings and queens with the Pyramids of Giza lying there just in front of you at the Mena House.

Telephone: 0233773222.

Kazoku – First Settlement

We like to keep it natural. Join us for lunch 2:00PM to 6:00PM. For reservations +20 127 000 4877 #FollowTheBirds

A photo posted by @kazokuegypt on Jan 20, 2016 at 4:56am PST

Branded as the city’s new “it” place, Kazoku is located in Swan Lake and will make you feel like Japanese royalty upon entering. Forget about taking the love of your life to Tokyo because Kazoku is here.

Telephone: 01270004877.

Hayda – Dokki

شو كانت حلوة الليالي

A photo posted by haydaeg (@haydaeg) on Feb 1, 2016 at 4:59am PST

Lebanese restaurants have been opening up on every corner every single day in the city and we don’t know which ones are the worth going to anymore. Well, this Valentine’s Day, we are commanding you and your mozz(a) to go to Hayda if you want a Lebanese twist to your love story. Their shisha is A+.

Telephone: 01008513322.

Purple – Mohandessin

It’s cute, cozy and adorbz. And sometimes that’s all you really need from a date. Purple provides international cuisine, so whether you want some spring rolls, steaks or freakin’ vine leaves, you will find it.

Telephone: 0233361884.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss Creative Valentine’s Day Date Ideas.

Kurt Galalah

Found in a box of bananas from the Philippines on the River Nile at an early age, Kurt is born to a Filipino mother and an Egyptian father which means emotionally he is completely screwed. Kurt is a bubbling cauldron of masculinity aside from his girly hair, camp voice and passion for One Direction.

The post Eat Your Heart Out: 10 Romantic Cairo Restaurants Perfect for Valentine’s Day appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Going out in Egypt on Valentine’s Day is not a pretty sight. Everyone is dressed in red and carrying humongous teddy bears. So instead of sharing a special dinner with everyone else, why not make a romantic evening for yourselves at home and cook something special.

Before you start panicking about what to cook, we’ve put together a whole three-course meal for you and your loved one with an special extra something!

Start off with delicious Coconut Shrimp with Sweet Chili Sauce…

Get recipe

There’s nothing like a Honey-Soy Grilled Salmon to make your evening even more special…

Get recipe

And of course, these Heart-Shaped Roasted Potatoes will add the perfect touch…

Get recipe

And what better dessert than Chocolate Fondue Dip and Fruits for dessert

Get recipe 

And to make this night extra special, add a little bit of magic with these Fortune Cookies…

Get recipe

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss How to Celebrate Valentine’s Day if You’re Single

Nada Kabil

A kid at heart, Nada Kabil finds herself a little in all forms of art. As a kid her main dream was to be a writer. She studied product design and finds herself attracted to anything she can unleash her creativity in and express herself, be it, art, design or writing. Making her laugh or putting her up to a challenge is just one of the many ways of making her day.

The post Impress Your Valentine With This Simple Yet Special Three-Course Meal appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Experience an unforgettable special night with your “one” at these incredible restaurants in Dubai that are perfect for a date night:

1. Pierchic

The most romantic date spot in Dubai, Pierchic holds a record for the most proposals. This elegant seafood restaurants sits on the edge of a pier (hence the name) and looks like it’s floating in the middle of the azure sea. Soak up the sound of the ocean, the delectable food and mesmerizing view of the mighty Burj Al Arab and Dubai Skyline.

Address: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Al Sufouh, Dubai
Tel: (+971)(0)4 366 6730
Website: www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/madinat-jumeirah/restaurants–bars/pierchic/
Timings: 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM (as per request upon booking)
Price Range: AED 2,500 per couple

2. At.Mosphere

At.Mosphere is the world’s highest dining destination, located at the 122nd floor of the tallest building on earth, the Burj Khalifa. If you and your partner are not acrophobic, we recommend a window table so you can appreciate the enchanting view and twinkling sky of Dubai. Make sure you also notice “The Night Sky Over” art installations.

Address: Downtown Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Tel: (+971)(0)4 888 3828
Website: www.atmosphereburjkhalifa.com
Timings: 6 PM to 11 PM, Sunday to Saturday; Lounge 12pm to 2am, Sunday to Saturday
Price Range: AED 4,500 for a table by the window at the restaurant per couple (AED 4,000 per couple for a non-window table); AED 2,500 per couple for a table by the window at the lounge per couple (AED 2,200 per couple for a non-window table at the lounge)

3. Bateaux

One of the most unique dining experiences in Dubai is the top glass-walled cruiser, The Bateaux Dubai. Enjoy the 360-degree views of Dubai Creek as you sail up and down for almost three hours indulging in the best-prepared, five-star food on board. This sophisticated option is typically perfect for cruise lovers.

Address: Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai side
Tel: (+971)(0)4 814 5553
Website: www.jebelali-international.com/Properties/BateauxDubai
Timings: Boarding from 7:45 PM to 8:15 PM; departure 8:0 PM; return 11 PM
Price Range: AED 1,000 per couple

4. Boca

You can’t go wrong with this Catalonian eatery and its Mediterranean flavors. Boca’s cellar experience is a great choice for a first romantic encounter as it has that sense of privacy and is more laidback, which eases the pressure of a first date. It’s just the perfect spot to enjoy Spanish, Italian and French tapas. Finish off with the mascarpone crème brûlée.

Address: Gate Village 6, DIFC, Dubai International Finance Centre, Dubai
Tel: (+971)(0) 4 323 1833
Website: www.boca.ae
Timings: 8 PM – 10:30 PM from Feb. 10-20
Price Range: Sharing menu priced at AED 560 per couple, pairing menu priced at AED 760

5. Catch

Are you and your date into seafood? Here’s the place for you! Vibrant, lively, buzzy atmosphere and the food is great. This American seafood restaurant offers you the best, most delicious seafood in town, however, the menu also offers some other scrumptious options for carnivores and veggies. And don’t get me started on their five mini versions of sweet dishes for dessert.

Address: Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Tel: (+971)(0) 4 357 1755
Website: www.fairmont.com/dubai/dining/catch-dubai

6. Iris

With its gorgeous view of Dubai’s skyline, Iris occupies the 27th floor of the Oberoi hotel. With floor-to-ceiling windows and lots of greenery, Iris offers that urban vibe you’re looking for.

Address: 27/F, Oberoi Hotel, Business Bay, Dubai
Tel: (+971)(0) 56 951 1442
Website: www.irisdubai.com

7. Stay

Run by the three Michelin star chef Yannick Alleno, get ready to experience fine dining at its best with an appetizing traditional meal reinterpreted in contemporary fashion. At Stay, you’ll be surrounded by high timber walls and vaulted ceilings with black crystal chandeliers, creating that ambiance of refined elegance for a romantic date.

Address: One & Only The Palm, West Crescent, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Tel: (+971)(0) 4 440 1030
Website: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/one-and-only-the-palm-dubai/cuisine/stay-by-yannick-alleno
Timings: 7 PM to 11 PM
Price Range: AED 1,200 per couple

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss 11 Scenic Dubai Spots That Were Made for Instagram.

Scoop Team

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post The 7 Most Romantic Restaurants in Dubai appeared first on Scoop Empire.

You don’t have to get out of Cairo to find some seriously weird dishes. There are actually a number of bizarre culinary creations right here in the city! Some are completely novel ideas while others are new spins on old favorites, but all of them are mouth-wateringly delicious.

Ostrich Burger – La Vita, Zamalek

You just read that, yes! Ostrich meat tastes similar to beef, except it doesn’t have fat marbling in the meat.

Seaweed Wasabi Fries – Hardees

The popular Japanese Wasabi is used as a condiment and has an extremely strong pungency more akin to hot mustard, producing vapors that stimulate the nasal passages more than the tongue.

Spinach and Beetroot Bread – Zooba

Baladi bread but with a nomnomnom twist. Imagine dipping any of these breads in tehina or hummus.

Sushi Burger – Burger Factory, Zamalek

There’s beef, wasabi, pickled ginger and more. You’ll never look at burgers the same way again after you have a bite of this.

Bird’s Nest Soup – 8, Garden City

Located at the Four Seasons Nile Plaza, this soup is a delicacy in China that is basically made out of birds’ saliva that is dried and hardened.

Sugar Cane Juice with Vodka/Tequila – Abou El Sid

The popular Egyptian juice gets a modern remake as El Sid turns it into a cocktail and, oh my, thank you very much.

Pizza Cake – Vinny’s Pizzeria, Maadi

Who needs a boring cake when you can have a pizza cake. Make sure to order it a day in advance so it’s ready for you.

Terminator – Welatain 

There’s spicy, and then there’s the Terminator. This chicken sandwich that’s trapped between buns that are made out of chili will make you scream for water, but it’ll be worth it.

Carrot Hummus – Cairo Kitchen

You’d expect this dip to taste like carrot or hummus as it’s made out of only the both of them, but no, it tastes like something so much better. This might be the weirdest thing on Cairo Kitchen’s menu, but it’s by far our favorite!

 
WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss 10 Weird Fast Food Menu Items We Want in Egypt.

Kurt Galalah

Found in a box of bananas from the Philippines on the River Nile at an early age, Kurt is born to a Filipino mother and an Egyptian father which means emotionally he is completely screwed. Kurt is a bubbling cauldron of masculinity aside from his girly hair, camp voice and passion for One Direction.

The post 9 Bizarre Yet Absolutely Delicious Dishes You Can Get in Cairo appeared first on Scoop Empire.

I would love to write an article about how I am able to live healthy, brag about the fancy fitness class I attend in a fancy compound and post on Instagram a before and after photo of my physical transformation, alas, the only thing that has changed is my temper, haircut and the only photos I post are of my kid’s tantrums, coffee and glorious, delicious and permanently life-altering food.

I have been “dieting” for two years with zero progress on the horizon, of course, and it is time I stop blaming my poor metabolism and confess all the sinful reasons that make it impossible to diet in this country. You might think our food quality is sub-par, but check out these magnificent guilty pleasures that are worth every damn kilo. Please don’t judge me, I really love food.

The Kabout meal at Yokal

Take in a deep breath because life as you know it will change when these trio sandwiches (kofta, kebda and sogo2) come face-to-face with your tongue. Yet that’s not all, this insanity comes with a sakalans sandwich that will leave goosebumps all over your sinful soul.

Foul and Taameya at Bashandi and Arabiata

There’s something eternally glorious bout a good plate of foul and ta’ameya. My soul literally aches when I eat at Arabiata. The food is so damn good.

Hawawshi at La Fandi

Cry La Fandi a river after you try this hawawshi. It is cellulite in its true pre-digestion form and impossible to resist.

Koshary Tahrir

There are two types of people in Egypt, Koshary Hend or Koshary Tahrir eaters. I don’t care what Hend has to offer, but I would give up beach season and a healthy well-being for the sole smell of this koshary mini box.

McDonalds French Fries

Timeless perfection. Put as much herbs, mozarella and mince meat on your fries, it will never beat this beauty.

Juicy Lucy Burger at Mince

Juicy freakin’ Lucy has been ruining my cholestrol for years. Apparently, this sandwich is more important than a pair of skinny jeans.

Tex Mex Burger at Casper and Gambini’s

Hands down, the best burger in town. I just can’t even.

Monaco Pizza at Maison Thomas

I’ve always been a minimalist when it comes to my pizza, as in no cheese for me, but Monaco is like the bad boy you fall in love with. You know he’s not your style, yet you just can’t control the craving.

Shawerma at Abu Heider

Kaisar rolls never ever tasted this perfect. You always order two but end up eating five. Honestly, it is worth being uncomfortable by the beach every year.

Chocolate-Iced Bavarian Crème Bismark at Dixie Cream

Dunkin’ Donuts meen bas? Have you tasted this? Grab some tissues because there will be tears.

Rasberry Chocolate Tart at TBS

If you think TBS’s donuts are all that, this piece of sin is so soft, so incredibly tasty, that you just stuff your face because if it doesn’t stop making you have all those feelings, your heart will explode.

Konafa with Cream at Mandarin Koueidar

Ramadan or not, I cannot be in Korba near the store without salivating.

Lemon Spicy Roll at Mori Sushi

Speechless.

Eggs Benedict at Casper & Gambini’s

Just because they’re eggs, doesn’t mean it’s not going straight to your thighs. But c’mon, life is nothing but one delicious guilty pleasure after the other.

Mac & Cheese Balls at Ted’s

As if mac and cheese wasn’t destructive enough, they had to fry them and dip in mouthwatering sauce. Oh dear Lord, have some mercy!

And finally, this other Ted’s delicacy which I choose to call Heaven

One word: Yalahwi!

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss 9 Bizzare Yet Absolutely Delicious Dishes You Can Get in Cairo.

Dina Hashish

Dina is an orthodontist with a passion for writing and blogging that surpasses the joy of straightening teeth. Her book blog “Closet nerd book club” promotes the work of young aspiring Egyptian authors. Her life’s guilty pleasure is tacky reality TV shows and the two addictions that have taken over her life are Game of Thrones and Perez Hilton.

The post 16 Glorious Menu Items in Cairo That Ruin My Diet Every Day appeared first on Scoop Empire.

You know when you want to throw a small house party but you and your friends are so over Chipsy and dipping it in ketchup or mayo? Yes, we are here to talk about just that. The next logical step is to try catering.

Sadly, most caterers will burn a big fat hole in your wallet as they always charge an over-inflated price for their food. We here at Scoop Empire have scoured the city for a wide variety of the most affordable and budget-friendly catering packages.

Kozbara – Lebanese

Serves: 10 people
Price: 1,300 EGP
Includes: Oriental salads, cold cuts, BBQ station, shawerma station, basmati rice with nuts, oriental pastries, gateaux soirees and drinks
Telephone: 01099762388

Baheya – Egyptian

Serves: 50 people
Price: 1,750 EGP
Includes: Any sandwiches of your choice (kofta, shish tawook, oriental sausages, liver, shawerma), fries and drinks
Telephone: 01028885566

S Lounge – International

Serves: 25 people
Price: 1,250 EGP
Includes: BBQ chicken paninis, steak and cheese wraps, tandoori shrimp wraps and french fries
Telephone: 01022228032

Gringos – Mexican

Serves: 30-40 people
Price: 1,340 EGP
Includes: Corn chips, four dips (guacamole, salsa, jalapeno), chili con carne flautas, chicken tinga flautas and mango ‘n’ cream mini-changas
Telephone: 01128000935 – 01014033223

Uncle Luigi – Italian

Serves: 40-50 people
Price: 820 EGP
Includes: 20 pizzas of your choice
Telephone: 01006267366

Rania’s Kitchen – Egyptian

Serves: 30 people
Price: 600 EGP
Includes: Sambousek, mixed mahshi (vine leaves, cabbage, eggplants, zucchini, pepper), kobeba and dips
Telephone: 01127204522

Pinoy – Filipino

Serves: 12-15 people
Price: 1,500 EGP
Includes: Siopao, spring rolls, chicken adobo, caldereta, chicken pancit noodles, cheese puto and ube cake
Telephone: 01009198061

Tipsy Teapot – International 

Serves: 13 people
Price: 1,300 EGP – 1,700 EGP
Includes: Cheeseburgers, Greek turkey burgers, salmon burgers, bratwurst sausages, veal sausages, chorizo sausages, chicken skewers, mashed potatos, fries and grilled vegetables
Telephone: 01016669907

WE SAID THIS: All these packages can be changed based on the customer’s wishes!

Kurt Galalah

Found in a box of bananas from the Philippines on the River Nile at an early age, Kurt is born to a Filipino mother and an Egyptian father which means emotionally he is completely screwed. Kurt is a bubbling cauldron of masculinity aside from his girly hair, camp voice and passion for One Direction.

The post 8 Catering Services in Cairo That Are Actually Crazy Affordable appeared first on Scoop Empire.

We all go to restaurants, we all have our favorite one, we order from them every day, but do we know what actually happens behind the scenes? Do you know how your sweet and sour chicken gets made? Probably not.

We here at Scoop Empire have reached out to the owners of some of the city’s top eateries (which will stay unnamed for obvious reasons, which you’ll find out in a second) and asked them to tell us all the things that have happened at their restaurants that remain secret and hidden.

I once caught the security guard of my own restaurant watching porn during his shift.

A customer once ordered roz me3ammar, but we brought him roz bel-laban instead on purpose for his nasty attitude.

I’ve had some waiters take food from the customers’ plates in the kitchen before serving them and then eat it when they come back.

The shisha boy who I fired recently used to make two or three shishas a day for his own personal use out of the restaurant’s stock.

We put sugar in our kids’ meals so the kids will like them more.

The special at most restaurants is whatever they need to get rid of before it goes bad. At least that’s how it is in my restaurant. Watch out for the shorba (soup) or anything samak (fish)!

I would never ever ask for lemon in food or drink. I own a restaurant and know full well that everybody touches them and nobody washes them.

We talk shit about customers all the time in the kitchen. If you think we hate you, we probably do.

I’ve had some waiters work high (on hashish) before in my restaurant. They’re surprisingly still working for me.

Avoid coming to restaurants on days such as Valentine’s Day or Mother’s Day. There’s always a lot of pressure on the kitchen and the chefs end up not paying as much attention to the food.

If you want to tip a specific waiter, give the money directly to them. If you just leave it in the check book, there’s a high chance they’ll never get it.

I’ve asked some of my waiters to be late for specific customers on purpose because they were rude and did things such as whistle or snap their fingers.

I’ve deducted the salaries of some of my waiters who I accidentally found out that they don’t wash their hands after they go to the bathroom.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss We Asked 14 Egyptian Moms to Confess and These Are Their Guiltiest Secrets.

Kurt Galalah

Found in a box of bananas from the Philippines on the River Nile at an early age, Kurt is born to a Filipino mother and an Egyptian father which means emotionally he is completely screwed. Kurt is a bubbling cauldron of masculinity aside from his girly hair, camp voice and passion for One Direction.

The post 13 Confessions From Egyptian Restaurant Owners That Will Freak You Out appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Although the UAE is a cosmopolitan country and is exposed to different cultures, Emirati cuisine still retains its traditional character. Emirati cuisine relies heavily on the use of fish, meat and rice, and has a very rich and unique taste. You will find a medley of aromatic spices such as turmeric, saffron, cinnamon and nutmeg in every dish, alongside dried fruits such as dates, almonds and pistachios, and fresh herbs such as thyme, mint and coriander.

However, most Emirati dishes are inspired by a melange of cuisines from various cultures. The Indian Biryani is an inspiration for most Emirati rice dishes, the hummus stems from Lebanon and the use of lemons and rosewater trace their beginnings from the Persian kitchen.

The following are some the most popular dishes and recipes in the UAE.

Stuffed Camel

Considered one of the biggest dishes served in this world, it is mentioned in the Guinness Book of World Records. This dish is typically served by elite families, mainly during wedding ceremonies. This poor, but juicy little camel’s tummy is stuffed by unbelievable ingredients: one lamb, 20 chickens, boiled eggs, fish and rice! This is one of the bizarre but most amazing dishes you would ever taste. Worth trying.

Al Harees

A popular Emirati dish with an exotic taste. It is a simple dish, yet consumes a lot time to prepare. It is mainly served in Ramadan, Eid and weddings. It is made by cooking meat and wheat with a pinch of salt, cooked together in boiling water for several hours. Once the mixture forms a smooth paste, further cook it in a covered clay oven filled with coal almost overnight. After it is cooked, you can enjoy this simple salty flavor with the rich taste of meat and wheat. Also, you can top it with local ghee or butter on flat plates.

Al Machboos

Another famous traditional dish of the UAE. Red meat and rice are the main ingredients of this dish. The meat can be replaced by chicken or shrimp. Other ingredients included are onion, dried lemon, spices and salt. In order to cook this dish, meat should be cooked well in boiling water first until tender, adding a blend of spices and lemon. Then fried chopped onions are added to the cooked meat. In a separate pot, the rice is cooked with saffron, then added to the meat in layers. Some people add vegetables as well. Finally, Al Machboos is left to cook on a low fire or in an oven for about 10 minutes, then served with some roasted nuts on top.

Hummus

More of a dip rather than a dish and inspired by Lebanese cuisine. Its main ingredients are chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, tahini paste, salt and garlic. It can be also served as an appetizer or as a side dish with a shawerma wrap or falafel.

Khameer

Mainly bread made of flour paste mixed with water and dates. The mixture is left for a whole night then baked one by one and a mixture of water and eggs is brushed on each loaf to improve the texture and taste.

Al Reqa’aq

Another common type of bread in the UAE. The name of this bread means “water-thin”. It is made from fairly soft paste, cut into pieces and spread on a pan and left on the fire until it dries. It is usually eaten with butter and sugar. It can also be made into porridge.

Batheetha

Last but not least, one of the main traditional desserts in the UAE: Al Batheetha. It is made of date paste, flour and ghee. It is very simple yet rich in flavor. It is best served during winter time.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss Milas: Elegant Emirati Cuisine in Dubai Mall.

Scoop Team

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post 7 Traditional Emirati Dishes You Can’t Miss appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Seyam has started and everyone is craving chocolate already. Oftentimes during seyam period, it’s easy to fall into the habit of having fool and pasta at every meal or sticking to homemade food. Going out for food might be daunting which is why we’ve compiled a list of the vegan options available at everyone’s favorite restaurants.

Burger Factory 2012

It might seem weird to go to a burger place while fasting but you have not lived until you’ve tried The Burger Factory’s veggie burger. Here are the dishes you can have while fasting:

• Veggie sandwich (make sure to ask for no cheese!)
• Mushroom veggie burger
• Fried onion rings

Casper & Gambini’s

Caspar and Gambini’s doesn’t have an official fasting menu but they do have a few dishes you can still enjoy while fasting:

• Veggie spring rolls
• Wild mushroom soup
• Tomato basil soup
• Lentil soup
• Lemon quinoa salad

Vinny’s Pizzeria

Crave pizza while fasting? Vinny’s has you covered with their vegan pizza!

Cook Door

Cook door has you covered with a line of seyamy dishes including:

• Friskies Fajitas
• Vegan kofta sandwiches
• Vegan kofta platter

Butcher’s Burger

Butcher’s veggie burger is a great option for when you’re craving a fat, hearty burger!

Zooba

Zooba is many people’s Holy Grail when they have to fast. Their menu is filled with great seyamy options such as:

• Oriental salad
• Lentil salad
• Beetroot salad
• Cherry tomato salad
• Koshari
• Mousaka

GoodCals

• Three bean salad
• Quinoa and toasted almond salad
• Pesto pasta. (Make sure to ask for no cheese!)
• Grilled veggies wrap

Cake Café

For all you sweet toothed vegans out there, Cake café has you covered with:

• Hummus sandwich
• Aubergine sandwich
• Chocolate cake
• Lemon coconut cake
• Dark chocolate cookies
• Orange almond cake

Maharaja

Indian restaurants often have plenty of vegan options. Maharani for example has:

• Vegetable samosa
• Vegetable pakora
• Onion bhaji
• Kachumber salad
• Dal soup
• Gazer aur matar soup
• Tandoori roti
• Aloo paratha
• Onion kulcha
• Mushroom tikka
• Aloo capsicum
• Dal tarkewali
• Channa masala Punjabi
• Mushroom mutter
• Vegetarian kofta

Lychee

Cutting animal products out of your diet doesn’t necessarily mean you have to increase your intake of carbs and processed products, Lychee offer many healthy seyamy options. Nothing beats Lychee’s drinks and snacks. Most of their drinks are vegan and when it comes to snacks they have:

• The kale way
• Diet mate
• Oatmeal deluxe (Make sure to ask for almond milk!)
• Breakfast oatmeal (Make sure to ask for almond milk!)
• Protein oatmeal (Make sure to ask for almond milk!)
• Oat bar
• Mocha chia pudding
• Mango chia pudding

Man’oucheh

• Zaatar man’oucheh
• Sabanekh man’oucheh
• Virgin man’pizza

NOLA

• NOLA offers vegan options but make sure to request them 24 hours in advance
• Vegan vanilla chocolate fudge cupcake
• Vegan vanilla
• Vegan free double chocolate
• Vegan blueberry cupcake

Peking

• Cabbage chili salad
• Chinese salad
• Peking salad
• Mixed jumbo green salad
• Vegetable soup
• Broccoli & mushroom soup
• Vegetable spring rolls.
• Mixed vegetable BBQ
• Shredded mixed vegetables
• Chinese mixed vegetables
• Stir fry potato
• Fried noodles with vegetables
• Steamed rice
• Fried rice with vegetables

Crave

• Marinated grilled vegetables
• Farfalle primavera
• Vegetable lentil soup.
• Summer rolls

Gaya Restaurant

• Kimchi dolsot
• Jajangbab
• Mool naengmyeon
• Bibim neangymeon
• Jajangymeon
• Special jajangymeon
• Daynjang jigae
• Spring rolls
• Fried vegetable dumpling
• Steamed vegetable dumpling
• Deep fried vegetables
• Mixed vegetables
• Vegetable soup
• Miso soup
• Tofu with soy sauce
• Tofu with mixed vegetables
• Tofu with fried kimchi
• Mapa tofu

Mori Sushi

• Miso soup
• Tempura moriawese (vegetables)
• Hoso kappa maki
• Ura maki
• Kappa temaki
• Ngiri nabo
• Vegetarian sushi

Tamara

Most Lebanese mezzes are vegan so feel free to stuff yourself with all the hummus and baba ghanoug your heart desires. Taboulleh, thyme manakish and wara2 3enab are also great options.

Beano’s

You can still enjoy all of your favorite Beano’s drinks by asking for almond milk when ordering.

Starbucks

Any of Starbucks’ drinks can easily be turned seyamy by asking for soy milk instead of regular.
Clear sweetener syrups (vanilla, caramel, hazelnut, etc.) and mocha sauce are vegan.

And of course you can never go wrong with good old koshary.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss 8 Phrases Arab Vegetarians Are Sick of Hearing.

Scoop Team

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post The Egyptian Seyamy/Vegetarian Guide to Eating Out appeared first on Scoop Empire.

We give you Reem El-Morshidy, Egypt’s very first woman to open a kebda and sogo2 cart. “I’ve always had the idea of starting that kind of business when I was in college but never had the time until now,” El-Morshidy says.

She loves cooking and it was more than just a hobby for her, which is why Reemosha needed to be created. The cart serves your favorite classic shaabi dishes, from macar0ni bechamel to liver pasta and more, with a twist. You can find Reemosha at 38 Tarablos, behind Moustafa Ell-Salab in Makram Ebeid.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss This Flower Cart That’s Going Around Cairo Is the Cutest Thing You’ll See Today.

Kurt Galalah

Found in a box of bananas from the Philippines on the River Nile at an early age, Kurt is born to a Filipino mother and an Egyptian father which means emotionally he is completely screwed. Kurt is a bubbling cauldron of masculinity aside from his girly hair, camp voice and passion for One Direction.

The post Meet the First Egyptian Woman to Open a Kebda and Sogo2 Cart appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Ramadan is less than two days away and we are in serious panic mode. One minute we are hyperventilating over our caffeine withdrawal, the next minute we’re crying over the un-negotiable calories we are about to digest that have nowhere to go other than our tummies, love handles and thighs.

If you think you are going to get through the holy month this year looking like a model, dessert stores have a surprise for you and it’s unpleasant. So we’ve been nagging since last year about the loss of the classic konafa and basbusa following the red velvet, mango and Nutella invasion. This year things just got crazier and the calories just seem to be infinite in every bite we’ll take.

A cheese cake with Nutella covered zalabia topped with konafa and nuts made an appearance. Konafa krema, you’re dearly missed

Konafa nougat happened and we seriously don’t know why or how we feel about this, yet we’re sure people will go all piranha on it

Eclair karkade, eish saraya and dome just came to life and nothing makes sense anymore. What’s wrong with chocolate eclair in Ramadan?

The jar dessert has been trending for a while, yet red velvet flavoured basbusa with cream in a jar is a heart attack and an ambulance phone call waiting to happen

We’ve seen this last year but it was either kitkat or red velvet. This dessert is the epitome of double identity crisis and cellulite

WE SAID THIS: People of Egypt, save the damn konafa.

Dina Hashish

Dina is an orthodontist with a passion for writing and blogging that surpasses the joy of straightening teeth. Her book blog “Closet nerd book club” promotes the work of young aspiring Egyptian authors. Her life’s guilty pleasure is tacky reality TV shows and the two addictions that have taken over her life are Game of Thrones and Perez Hilton.

The post Weirder-Than-Ever Ramadan Desserts Are Happening AGAIN appeared first on Scoop Empire.

As a fresh Egyptian expat and my first year to attend Ramadan in Dubai, it was a real struggle for me to find a place that sell raw atayef, konafa and rokak, as sometimes I like to make some of my mom’s homemade Ramadan recipes so it could still feel like home. I had to ask around, google for bakeries or patisseries and get my friends to ask their friends to get me some useful info on that, and luckily, I’ve found a few places.

1. Abou Ammar

This man is a freelancer baker will deliver anything your heart desires, from Egyptian bread to rokak, konafa, atayef and more. Unfortunately, this year he is not serving konafa and atayef, but rokak and Egyptian bread are available. Phone: +971 55 821 1393.

2. Carrefour

If you have a Carrefour market near you, you might find stuff there…they’ll just be frozen.

3. Union Cooperative society Hypermarket

Union Co-op has 10 branches spread over strategic areas in the UAE; such as Satwa, Rashidiya, Hamriya, Towar, Mankhool, Jumeirah, Aweer, and Wasl, in addition to two branches in Mirdif at Etihad Mall and in Barsha at Barsha Mall.

4. Istanbul Supermarket

People in Sharjah can finally get their konafa game on with Istanbul!

5. Al Karama Market

It is an open souk in downtown where you can get everything raw from.

6. Al Habib Bakery

Whether you want rokak, konafa or whichever, you’ll get your Ramadan desserts game on point! Phone: +971 4 2691795.

7. Firas Patisserie

Their rokak is probably my favorite in the UAE. Phone:+971 4 341 3123.

8. Lulu Market

Other than the fact that you can get your raw konafa from here, you can also do it while grocery shopping for your entire home!

9. Waitrose

Located at The Dubai Mall and Marina Mall, the popular UK  supermarket has everything you need to make your Ramadan feel special…and delicious! Phone: +971 4 4340700.

10. Al Reef Lebanese Bakery

All dem Lebanese people don’t need to go back to the motherland no more as the UAE has everything they need from there, when it comes to Ramadan sweets. Phone: +971 4 2632100.

11. Hyper Panda

Last but not least, atayef from HyperPanda is a must-have. Phone: +971 4 232 5997.

WE SAID THIS: Ramadan Mubarak, UAE.

Monaliza Wahba

Animal advocate and fashion guru, Monaliza, was born in Alexandria to an Egyptian father and an Armenian-Lebanese mother. Married to her best friend. A fashion stylist/personal shopper, a social butterfly, a traveller and an entrepreneur. Wannabe drummer and hip hop dancer. She can’t resist that bakery smell of a crisping croissant and her house never runs out of Nutella. She currently lives in Dubai.

The post 11 Places to Buy Raw Konafa, Atayef and Rokak in the UAE appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Dear volcano konafa,

We just met yesterday, but for the first time in my life, I believe in love at first sight. I’ve been so angry at unrealistic fusion Ramadan desserts for so long that my heart stopped beating for konafas altogether until you happened.

I dreamed of you last night, resting in your glorious beauty on my dining table. You looked tough from the outside but I knew your inside would be silky smooth and the minute my spoon meets your body; heaven will explode out of you and send shivers down my spine.

I find myself crying as I look at you, and no, they are not happy tears. I’m crying for the dress I just bought that will never fit again, I cry for the cellulite I will have to welcome sooner than I’d like, I cry for the heaven that turned out to be pure evil calories floating through my arteries. Yalahwi begad, love is so blind right now, I can’t even.

But as George Michael once said, you are absolutely flawless. I apologize for quoting something so ancient in front of a majestic millennial like yourself, but I’m out of words because the soul ache is real. I truly believe that no woman on this planet would choose a man over you. EVER! You defy human nature and biology.

I leave you all with this konafa porn.

WE SAID THIS: Begad, we can’t stop watching this video…

Dina Hashish

Dina is an orthodontist with a passion for writing and blogging that surpasses the joy of straightening teeth. Her book blog “Closet nerd book club” promotes the work of young aspiring Egyptian authors. Her life’s guilty pleasure is tacky reality TV shows and the two addictions that have taken over her life are Game of Thrones and Perez Hilton.

The post Dear Molten Lava Konafa, You Are Melting My Soul appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Egypt’s darling desert store NOLA Cupcakes, has been a staple in Egyptian homes since they parlayed onto the scene back in 2010. Ever since then walking into any 3ozooma with a NOLA box meant satisfied stomachs after fetar.

This year not only are the staple cupcakes available but a whole new range of desserts – cakes, cronuts and desert jars. The launch of the special menu offering is already in stores, which includes seven cakes, six sweet cups and seven cupcake varieties apart from the new date cronut.

The festive cake flavors are – Konafa Banana Francesca Bowl, Tornado Bowl, Konafa Nutella Twix Bowl, Konafa Manga, Konafa Nutella, Red Velvet Basbousa and Creamy Konafa.

Sweet Cups Flavors: Tornado, Konafa Nutella Twix, Konafa Banana Francesca, Red Velvet Basbousa, Lotus Crunch and Konafa Manga.

Cupcakes: Konafa Manga, Konafa Nutella, Red Velvet Basbousa, Amar El Din, 3eysh Saraya, Mars with Nougatine and Bala7 Cupcakes.

We Said This: Hit up one of the 8 NOLA Stores to get your Ramadan deserts from!

Sherry El-Kilany

Some call her a workaholic, others call her driven, she calls herself a hustler. Some find her outgoing, others standoffish, she’s just a confused intro/extrovert.

Spanning over 10 years in the event and marketing industry, Sherry began her career in Egypt’s burgeoning Sports Marketing industry, to quickly be recruited by the Middle East’s largest Film Studio Rotana Studios to spearhead and manage their Marketing Department, before starting her own company Nineteen84 Luxury & Entertainment Management.

Along the way she built some of Egypt’s most successful websites, leading up until Scoop Empire, a compilation of her and her 2 partners (best friends) brain child!

The post NOLA Cupcakes Welcomes Ramadan with New Flavors appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Ramadan is upon us and we’re all searching for the perfect post-iftar sweets to share (or perhaps keep all to ourselves). Whether you’re searching for a traditional konafa or Om Ali or something a little more out there, tortina has you covered, and is giving something a little extra on the side.

Panna Cotta (photo courtesy tortina)

In the spirit of the holy month, tortina is joining forces with Ahl Masr and will be donating 10 percent of all sales to the charity in addition to placing donation boxes inside each of its 12 locations across Cairo.

Kunafa Croquands Ice Cream (photo courtesy tortina)

Since 2009, when founder Ahmed Abdellatif opened the first shop in Tagamo3, tortina has been bringing us all sorts of yummy things. This Ramadan they’re preparing some super interesting desserts, from a Nutella bowl with ground konafa and hazelnut croquands to Alaska Bombe, which has “crispy konafa layers with raspberry yogurt ice cream and topped with Italian meringue.” They’ve also come up with a new treat for us this Ramadan: Rawani cake filled with fresh cream and mango cubes. Who doesn’t want to try that?

Rawani (photo courtesy tortina)

If you’re craving something a bit more familiar, they also offer traditional desserts from baked konafa with ishta to Om Ali and konafa with pistachios and honey.

Om Ali (photo courtesy tortina)

They also have some cool new services to offer us. Don’t have time to find a parking space, browse the shop, and wait in line without being late to that all-important family iftar? tortina SPOT delivery has you covered. Just call them in advance with your order and the exact amount you’ll be paying and then again as you’re arriving and a tortina staff person will be waiting outside the door with your order – and your change! – as you arrive.

They’ve also teamed up with the people behind Elves to deliver your dessert right to your door. Just download the app on iPhone or send them a Facebook message, and an elf will be at your service. They may even sprinkle your dessert with fairy dust while they’re at it!

Alaska Bombe (photo courtesy tortina)

Nowadays, tortina pastries “represent the new turn in modern dessert,” according to Abdellatif. “We have been studying and experimenting on the new dessert tastes, working with a group of chefs who are passionate about their work and devote themselves to transforming prime ingredients into sublime creations. Our treats blow a breath of modernity over time-honored desserts.”

Tiramisu Kunafa (photo courtesy tortina)

For years tortina has been bringing unrivaled indulgence to Egypt’s sweet tooth, and this Ramadan is no exception! We know what we want to try first – what about you?

WE SAID THIS: Follow tortina on Facebook by clicking here, or on Instagram by following @TortinaShop.

Scoop Team

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post tortina Joins Forces with Ahl Masr Foundation for a Ramadan Kareem appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Dreaming about photo by: @rooful

A photo posted by Ramadan Tent Project (@ramadantentproject) on Jun 9, 2016 at 3:05pm PDT

Aside from the patience and spiritual strength that is required to complete the month of Ramadan, it takes an extra dose of composure and compassion when helping uninformed Westerners understand the meaning of the holy month. For some, taking on the task is difficult, but for 28-year-old Omar Salha, the power of outreach was more than just the Muslim thing to do.

Salha had started the Ramadan Tent Project back in 2011 with a small group of college colleagues by inviting random people to join them on campus to break fast during Ramadan. Ramadan Tent Project’s incentive has since expanded widely and now invites the homeless and public to join in breaking fast, breaking barriers, and building bridges between communities.

Gathering for Salah at the tent day 1.

A photo posted by Ramadan Tent Project (@ramadantentproject) on Jun 7, 2016 at 3:21am PDT

The postgraduate student at the School of Oriental and African Studies has praised Ramadan Tent Project’s reach for becoming so widespread, “we have served over 10,000 people and all were made to feel part of an extended family across three continents, in Europe, Africa and Asia.” By inviting non-Muslims to join in one the most beautiful customs in the faith, Ramadan Tent Project has opened doors of understanding and tolerance throughout the world.

Since expanding from its London roots to Manchester, Plymouth, Toronto, Portland, and Istanbul, Salha told Buzzfeed that he hopes “by laying the foundations of today, a legacy for the future will continue to grow enabling us all to realize that Ramadan is not a temporary increase of spirituality but an intimate insight of what you can do every single day.”

“The Ramadan Tent Project’s volunteers, including ones who are not Muslim, say the project is more than just sharing food with homeless or people away from home and it’s definitely not about converting people to Islam.” TRT World’s recent piece on the Tent and our vision forward. Catch the rest here: http://www.trtworld.com/europe/ramadan-tent-project-welcoming-all-communities-120409

A photo posted by Ramadan Tent Project (@ramadantentproject) on Jun 8, 2016 at 8:57am PDT

Ramadan in the West is arguably not as easy as fasting in the Middle East where society adjusts accordingly to the month by having shorter work hours, restaurants are closed during the day, and society respects those observing the month and restrain from eating or drinking in front of those who are fasting. By spreading awareness and empathy by sitting together as one species, one race, under a tent that is built under God’s love the Ramadan Tent Project has restored our faith in humanity and is one of the reasons we have not lost hope for acceptance of Islam and Muslims in the West.

WE SAID THIS: Where Is the Ramadan Spirit?

Samar Marwan

Samar Marwan is the accidental product of Palestinian refugees living between the West and Middle East. The San Francisco native is hella serious about PCRF, LGBT rights, and burritos. Through her online writings she is intent on breaking taboos in the Arab world and liberating the white man from orientalism. Currently, she is planning a revolution against the hipsters. Send her your love (or hate) at HellaSamar or samar@scoopempire.com.

The post Ramadan Tent Project Restores Our Faith in Religious Tolerance in the West appeared first on Scoop Empire.

During the holy month of Ramadan, a number of restaurants and cafés will shut down until Iftar time. With Dubai being the ultimate hub for expats in the Middle East, aka people who probably do not fast, we here at Scoop Empire have created a guide of places that are open during Ramadan for breakfast, dinner and everything in between.

Bistro Des Arts

Full menu available, plus a special Plat Du Jour lunch. Open daily 7.30am-midnight throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 551 1576. Address: Dubai Marina.

Brasserie 2.0

Full menu available for breakfast and lunch. Open daily, 6PM-11AM, 12:30PM-3:30pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 316 5550. Address: Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina.

Mama Fu’s Asian House

Full menu available. Open daily 5pm-11pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 551 7735. Address: Dubai Marina.

The Talk Restaurant

Full breakfast and lunch menu. Open daily 6:30AM-10:30AM, 12:30PM-3PM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 449 8834. Address: Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina.

Andalusia

Full menu available. Open daily noon-3AM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 321 9239. Address: Sheikh Zayed Road.

Ballaro

Special à la carte lunch menu. Open daily, 12:30PM-3PM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 444 7111. Address: Conrad Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Celsius

Full menu available for breakfast and lunch. Open daily 6AM-10:30AM, noon-3PM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 308 0000. Address: Nassima Royal Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Eataly

Full menu available. Open Sun-Wed 9AM-11:30PM, Thu-Sat 9AM-midnight throughout Ramadan. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai; Dubai Festival City Mall. Call: 800 328 259. Address: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai.

Flavours on Two

Serving breakfast and lunch. Open Sun-Thu 6am-10.30am, Fri-Sat 6AM-11AM. Daily noon-3PM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 343 8000. Address: Towers Rotana, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Entre Nous

Full buffet available for breakfast and lunch. Open daily, 6:30AM-10:30A,, noon-3PM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 332 0000. Address: Novotel World Trade Center Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Jodhpur

Full menu available. Open daily 11am-3pm, 7pm-midnight throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 355 9846. Address: Al Murooj Rotana, Downtown Dubai.

Kris Kros

Full menu available for take away and delivery only. Open daily 10am-2am throughout Ramadan, at both venues. Call: +971 4 453 9994. Address: Downtown Dubai.

La Cantine Du Faubourg

Full menu available. Special lunch menu Dhs105. Open Sat-Wed noon-2am,Thu-Fri noon-3am throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 352 7105. Address: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Feast

Regular buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner. Open daily, 6AM-11PM throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 503 4444. Address: Sheraton Grand Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Dunes Cafe

Full menu available. Open daily, 6am-10.30am; noon-3pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 405 2703. Address: Sheikh Zayed Road.

The Californian Restaurant

Regular Californian breakfast and lunch served. Open daily, 6.30am-10am, noon-3pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 317 4515. Address: Dusit Thani Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Alta Badia

Full menu available. Open daily noon-3pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 432 3232. Address: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road.

ET Sushi

Full menu available. Open daily noon-3pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 319 8088. Address: Jumeirah Emirates Towers Boulevard, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Tokyo at The Towers

Full menu available. Open daily noon-3pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 319 8088. Address: Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Sheikh Zayed Road.

Butcha Steakhouse & Grill

Full menu available. Open Sun-Thu 11am-2am, Fri-Sat 9am-2am throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 553 0684. Address: Dubai Marina.

Kosebasi

Take away and Iftar deliveries. Open daily 9am-midnight throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 439 3788. Address: Dubai Marina.

Poco Loco

Full menu available. Sun-Wed 11am-11pm, Thu-Sat 9am-1am throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 456 20 81. Address: Dubai Marina.

Retro Feast

Full menu available.
Open daily throughout Ramadan. Sun-Wed 8am-midnight. Thu-Sat 8am-1am.
Call: +971 4 361 3596
Address: Dubai Marina

Crescendo

Full breakfast and lunch menu available. Open daily 7am-11am, 12.30pm-3.30pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 567 8304. Address: Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, Palm Jumeirah.

The Beach House

Full menu available. Open daily noon-4pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 567 8888. Address: Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa, Palm Jumeirah.

Arboretum

Breakfast and lunch available. Open daily 6.30am-11.30am, 1pm-3.30pm throughout Ramadan. Call: +971 4 432 3232. Address: Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss out on The 7 Most Romantic Restaurants in Dubai.

Monaliza Wahba

Animal advocate and fashion guru, Monaliza, was born in Alexandria to an Egyptian father and an Armenian-Lebanese mother. Married to her best friend. A fashion stylist/personal shopper, a social butterfly, a traveller and an entrepreneur. Wannabe drummer and hip hop dancer. She can’t resist that bakery smell of a crisping croissant and her house never runs out of Nutella. She currently lives in Dubai.

The post 26 Dubai Restaurants That Will Save You If You’re Not Fasting This Ramadan appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Continue your celebration for the holy month of Ramadan and enjoy a delicious Sohour in one of Dubai’s coolest venues. We give you some of the best early morning feasts to experience in Dubai.

Zayna, The Ramadan Tent

Evenings come alive at Zayna, a sanctuary of delicious everything where you can experience Sohour in a unique setting enlivened by live instrumental melodies.

Price: A la carte
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Mall

Karat

Karat, the Arabesque lobby lounge, celebrates the essence of sharing with family-style presentations over Sohour, a fitting expression of oneness and fellowship.

Price: A la carte
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Mall

Na3Na3

Authentic yet inventive, Na3Na3 explores regional flavors from the Middle East, and presents them over an indulgent Sohour buffet with fascinating and familiar culinary nuances.

Price: AED 190 per person, AED 95 per child of 6 to 11 years
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Mall

Ewaan

In the elegantly Arabesque venue that is Ewaan, feast on a Sohour buffet with those close to you, as live oud harmonies set the mood for the evening.

Price: AED 250 per person, set menu | A la carte menu also available. Lakeside Tents minimum spend of AED 600 per cabana. Children under 18 are not permitted to dine in the smoking section
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Palace Gardens, Downtown Dubai
Terms: Free valet parking

The Courtyard

The enchanting setting of The Courtyard is the perfect environment to relax over the à la carte Sohour offerings, charming live entertainment and aromatic hubbly bubbly.

Price: AED 170 per person, AED 85 per child of 6 to 12 years
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: Manzil Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Manzil Tent

With the stunning boulevard as your view, indulge in an à la carte menu and Ramadan specials. Enjoy live oud music or watch the European football championship with friends over food, beverages and hubbly bubbly.

Price: A la carte menu pricing, minimum spend of AED 100 per person inclusive of hubbly bubbly.
Call: +971 4 888 3444 or +971 4 428 5928
Address: Manzil Hotel, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai

Ayamna

A newly-opened Lebanese restaurant in Atlantis.

Price: A la carte menu. Minimum spend AED 195
Call: +971 4 426 2626
Address: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Asateer

An ultimate Ramadan experience with glittering lights. Oriental entertainment and a wide array of buffet dishes and traditional delicacies. Also shisha, card games and chess.

Price: A la carte mezze dishes. Minimum spend AED 185
Call: +971 4 426 1000
Address: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Palm Garden Ramadan Tent

The tent is located within Palm Garden with a private entrance, valet and Iftar offering. Buffet with and cold mezze, main course and dessert. Shisha, playing cards and traditional games are also available.

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Price: A la carte items and shisha
Call: +971 4 602 1814
Address: Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira, Dubai

Suq

Named after the traditional Arabian marketplace, SUQ invites guests into a warm and inviting atmosphere with its Arabesque appeal and sumptuous setting that boasts both an indoor restaurant area and tented lounge seating.

Price: AED 190 per person
Call: +971 4 270 7803
Address: Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Jumeriah, Dubai

Al Maeda

A traditional, casual restaurant serving Levant and North African dishes. Traditional buffet with tagine, lentil soup and Um Ali.

Price: A la carte menu and platters. AED 69 (standard platter), AED 89 (premium platter)
Call: +971 4 453 3333
Address: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dubai, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, Dubai

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss out on 26 Dubai Restaurants That Will Save You If You’re Not Fasting This Ramadan.

Monaliza Wahba

Animal advocate and fashion guru, Monaliza, was born in Alexandria to an Egyptian father and an Armenian-Lebanese mother. Married to her best friend. A fashion stylist/personal shopper, a social butterfly, a traveller and an entrepreneur. Wannabe drummer and hip hop dancer. She can’t resist that bakery smell of a crisping croissant and her house never runs out of Nutella. She currently lives in Dubai.

The post 11 Dubai Spots That Will Take Your Sohour Game to the Next Level appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Muslim expats in Dubai, cheer up! We’ve prepared a guide of great spots for lavish Iftars and places where you can enjoy the Ramadan spirit.

Zayna, The Ramadan Tent

Evenings come alive at Zayna, a sanctuary of tasteful opulence where the best of Iftar is presented over a flavorful buffet in a unique setting enlivened by live instrumental melodies.

Price: AED 220 per person
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Mall

Constellation Ballroom

Enjoy a truly meaningful Ramadan at the magnificent Constellation Ballroom as it hosts a truly authentic Arabesque Iftar experience. International and Arabic live stations, Arabic design and flair as well as an oud player make the experience unforgettable.

Price: AED 210 per person
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Marina

Ewaan

A sanctuary of serenity, it’s where a generous Arabic buffet is served over Iftar, while live Oud harmonies fill the air with a sense of enchantment. Enjoy a tantalizing Iftar buffet that is true to tradition as you take delight in the most picturesque setting overlooking the Burj Lake in the Ramadan Tent at Ewaan, which now extends into The Palace Gardens.

Price: AED 240 per person, inclusive of Iftar buffet, Ramadan juices and water | Children: under 6 dine with compliments, between 6 and 11 years, a charge of 50% applies, while the regular price applies for children over 12
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Palace Gardens, Downtown Dubai
Terms: Free valet parking

Na3Na3

Authentic yet inventive, Na3Na3 explores regional flavours from across the Middle East, and presents them over an indulgent Iftar buffet with fascinating and familiar culinary nuances.

Price: AED 220 per person, AED 110 per child of 6 to 11 years
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Mall

Karat

Karat, the Arabesque lobby lounge, celebrates the essence of sharing with family-style presentations over Iftar, a fitting expression of oneness and fellowship.

Price: AED 145 per person
Call: +971 4 888 3444
Address: The Address Hotel, Dubai Mall

3in1

With a delightfully different approach to Iftar, 3in1 presents a flavor-infused buffet coupled with a sumptuous main course served at your table, while mellow Oriental music plays in the background.

Price: AED 160 per person and 50% off hubbly bubbly, à la carte from 10 pm onwards
Call: +971 4 428 6888
Address: Vida Downtown Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, The Old Town, Downtown Dubai

Boulevard Kitchen

Tasteful live entertainment and a fragrant palette of hubbly bubbly flavors add a novel dimension to the Iftar buffet, while indoor and outdoor seating provide choices to match your mood.

Price: AED 170 per person
Call: +971 4 428 5888
Address: Manzil Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai

Manzil Tent

Offering the best of Arabesque cuisine and entertainment, Manzil Downtown Dubai and Fümé Downtown collaborate to bring Manzil Tent to the boulevard.

Price: AED 170 per person for adults (inclusive of beverages on set menu) | AED 85 for Children
Call: +971 4 888 3444 or +971 4 428 5928
Address: Manzil Hotel, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai

Palermo

Beautiful polo fields and lush emerald hues provide a perfectly tranquil backdrop to the Iftar family buffet, as Arabian tunes set the mood for an experience defined by tradition and grace. Enjoy a delightful spread of classic favorites over Iftar at Palermo, as you immerse yourself in the spirit of Ramadan.

Price: AED 190 per person
Call: +971 4 361 8111
Address: DUBAI POLO & EQUESTRIAN CLUB, Al Qudra Road, Dubai Studio City, Dubai

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss out on 11 Dubai Spots That Will Take Your Sohour Game to the Next Level.

Monaliza Wahba

Animal advocate and fashion guru, Monaliza, was born in Alexandria to an Egyptian father and an Armenian-Lebanese mother. Married to her best friend. A fashion stylist/personal shopper, a social butterfly, a traveller and an entrepreneur. Wannabe drummer and hip hop dancer. She can’t resist that bakery smell of a crisping croissant and her house never runs out of Nutella. She currently lives in Dubai.

The post 9 Dubai Spots That Will Take Your Iftar Game to the Next Level appeared first on Scoop Empire.