This Psychedelic Hippy Van That Sells Liver Sandwiches in Zamalek Is Everything

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post This Psychedelic Hippy Van That Sells Liver Sandwiches in Zamalek Is Everything appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Don’t succumb to monotony for breakfast. Sure, some people can happily start every day with avocado toast, or a cup of yogurt, or even by downing a quick ahwa (coffee). But you’re clearly not that person, are you? Here are the xx best Dubai breakfasts that are worth the extra time and money, meals that won’t just break the fast but will ensure that the most important meal of the day is never a boring one.

Clinton’s waffles will make you believe in life after love

Good Morning Dubai, its waffle o’clock!!

A photo posted by Clinton Street Baking Company (@clintonstdubai) on Nov 13, 2016 at 10:40pm PST

Fruits have never looked so Instagrammable at The Farm

#Throwback on the things we love! What is your farm favorite? P.S – We are currently closed for renovation and will reopen bigger & better in October! #Repost @dxbreakfasts ・・・ Let’s have a fruity day today! Picture by @picturebites at @thefarmdubai #DXBreakfasts #thefarmdubai #albarari #veryalbarari #dubai #mydubai #UAE #breakfast #fruity #Throwback #myalbarari #yummy #delicious #tasty #renovation #farmfresh ##summer #dubailife #live #wellness #wellbeing #food #foodie #nature #goodfood #eatclean #indulge #eatwell

A photo posted by The Farm (@thefarmdubai) on Jul 20, 2016 at 1:48am PDT

Yup, your eggspectations need to be really high for this place

Start your weekend on the right note #eggspectationdubai

A photo posted by Eggspectation Dubai (@eggspectationdubai) on Sep 22, 2016 at 11:03pm PDT

There’s falafel, and then there’s Operation Falafel’s FALFEL!!!

We like our food authentic and our Falafel stuffed #OperationFalafel #Falafel #Stuffed #Dubai #MyDubai #Food #StreetFood #MotorCity #BoxPark #KiteBeach #LastExit #OutletVillage #JBR #TheBeach #Downtown

A photo posted by Operation:Falafel (@operationfalafel) on Nov 5, 2016 at 3:42am PDT

The picture says it all, to be honest! Brb while we plan our next breakfast to Zaroob

شو في أطيب من سفرة زاروب صبحية نهار الجمعة مع الفول والحمص وأطيب زيت زيتون وشوية مناقيش سخنة مع كاسة شاي يا سلام، بنستناكم وجمعة مباركة للجميع It’s weekend! Unwind and treat yourself today at #Zaroob with unique ambience and the #deliciousness of our dishes. #توصيل #طلبات #توصيل_طلبات #طلباتكم #اوردر #طعام #مطاعم #مطعم #اكل #غداء#فول# #ZaroobRestaurant #dubaifood #yummy #foodporn #Zaroobian #delicious #Dubai #Sharjah #food

A photo posted by Zaroob (@zaroob) on Nov 3, 2016 at 10:10pm PDT

Pretend you’re English and have breakfast like them at Social House in Dubai Mall

Excuse us while we take a snap of the hearty Old Timer breakfast.

A photo posted by Social House (@socialhousedubai) on Nov 8, 2016 at 9:50pm PST

Hilary Duff’s “This Is What Dreams Are Made Of” was actually about La Serre’s eggs Benedict

Only 4 days left until our Eggs Benedict to share is back! Ohlala! *Only available during the weekend breakfast in the Bistro. To book a table, call our reservations team on 04 428 6969 or email reservations@laserre.ae #Breakfast #BistroBreakfast #EggsBenedict #EggsBenedicttoShare #BestBreakfastinDubai #DowntownDubai

A photo posted by La Serre Dubai (@laserredubai) on May 2, 2016 at 1:58am PDT

Can we talk about the fact that Reform has award-winning chefs?

Our award-winning #ChefRyan brings you 4 delicious granola pots and 5 new smoothies as part of his new breakfast menu. Let’s go healthy Rise and Shine #HealthyLiving #ReformDubai #ReformSocialandGrill #Breakfast #TheLakes #dxbreakfasts

A photo posted by Reform Social And Grill Dubai (@reformdubai) on Aug 9, 2016 at 12:26am PDT

If you Google the word perfection it’ll take you to this video by the Hamptons

Perfection #TheHamptonsCafe

A video posted by The Hamptons Café (@thehamptonsdubai) on Aug 20, 2016 at 10:20am PDT

WE SAID THIS: You need to also check out 24 Spots in Egypt That Serve Amazing Breakfast.

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post 9 Delicious Breakfast Spots You Need to Try in Dubai appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via Scallion

A few weeks ago, I talked about how much I love koshari. Not only is it hands down my favorite Egyptian dish, but it’s my favorite all-time dish ever (and that’s kind of a big statement coming from a fat cow such as myself). But we’re not here to talk about my love for koshari, we’re here to talk about the abomination that is Scallion’s koshari.

I get it. Sometimes dishes can be taken to the next level by professional chefs. Sometimes a liver sandwich (from Bab El-Hadid) costs EGP 17+. I’m okay with these things, but to basically disrespect everything that a dish stands for and destroy its dignity, no, I will not have that. Koshari is supposed to be messy, it’s supposed to cheap, it’s supposed to be an experience. Yes, places such as Zooba and others have done their take on koshari, which was fine, because it was still freakin’ koshari. It was from EGP 14 to 20 (which is more than okay because no one minds to reasonably pay a little bit more for better quality), it tastes good and it looks like a damn koshari.

Scallion’s koshari on the other hand is a big fat no. What am I even looking at? Koshari is not supposed to be all posh or cost EGP 38? How am I supposed to eat this? Koshari doesn’t want etiquette, it accepts you for who you are. You’re supposed to eat koshari looking like a savage and not worry whether you’re using the right spoon or no. I’m sorry, Scallion, but no.

WE SAID THIS: I am in no way dissing Scallion as a restaurant, in fact, I like most of their dishes. I just really, really love koshari and will defend its honor until I die.

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 An Open Letter to Whoever Did This to Poor Koshari appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Dubai has the entire map of the world tucked in between its little nooks and crannies. If meandering around dark alleys in old Dubai is always on your weekend agenda, you’ve probably inhaled fragrances from every corner of the world. Whether you’re making out with a doner kebab after a pub crawl or are getting your fingers greasy with a foot-long dosa, Dubai has something for everyone. If your Instagram is plastered in more pictures of food than yourself and if shows like Survivor and Man versus Wild have you rolling your eyes, this list is for you!

Offal – Do you have the guts to digest this?

Via Giphy

The soothing jazz, delicate clinking of wine glasses, and sophisticated ambience at Boulevard Kitchen perfectly cloak what’s on its menu. While soups, salad, and seafood are to be expected – the lamb section will slap you in the face. Take your pick from its vast selection of lamb tongue fatteh, lamb liver, kidney, brain, or heart. If you’re feeling particularly courageous, opt for the lamb testicles. Seared in garlic, lemon, butter, and olive oil – it’s the perfect icebreaker on a first date!

Where to find it: Boulevard Kitchen is located at the Manzil Hotel, Downtown Dubai.

Puffer fish – Not your typical sushi dinner

Via Gastroville

Eleven deaths. 359 poisonings. One dangerous fish. Are you willing to put your life on the table to stomach some Japanese puffer fish? This notorious sea creature can ensure you don’t wake up the next morning if prepared incorrectly. Umai, a sexy pan-Asian restaurant, hands out puffer fish like it’s Halloween candy! Sink your teeth into the rubbery flesh of this puffer fish, but make sure you’ve called your family and said good bye first. A death-defying dish for only 160 dirhams.

Where to find it: Umai is located at The Oberoi Dubai, Business Bay.

Kopi Luwak – A unique caffeine rush

Via Giphy

Cleaning out your cat’s litterbox will never be the same again. If you think Starbucks is overpriced, wait until you’ve downed two cups of Kopi Luwak for 180 dirhams. Shipped in from the Indonesian island of Sumatra, this coffee comes with a bit of a backstory. The beverage is sourced from the Asian Civet cat that feeds on the fruit pulp of only the best coffee berries. Unlike your espresso machine, when the cat heads to the bathroom with a cigarette and newspaper, you know your coffee’s brewing. Once the animal has defecated, it’s feces is cleaned and roasted into your drink.

Where to find it: Icons Coffee Couture is located at Souk Al Bahar, beside Dubai Mall.

Sea cucumber – Part of your five a day

Via Scuba Magazine

One way to convince yourself to eat more greens is to opt for a vegetable that looks like it’s from an alien planet. If you’re bored of regular old cucumbers, spice up your relationship with it by tucking in to a delectable sea cucumber at China Sea. Silky, spiky, and squishy – make sure your taste buds know what they’re in for when ordering this dish. Priced at 128 dirhams, your dinner will be served dressed in spring onion waiting to become the protagonist of your nightmares.

Where to find it: China Sea is located on Al Maktoum Street, Al Rigga.

WE SAID THIS: You should also check out 9 Bizarre Yet Absolutely Delicious Dishes You Can Get in Cairo.

Guest writers who have worthy insights on pressing matters, that they feel the need to share with the world

The post A Bucket List of Weird and Wonderful Things to Eat in Dubai appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via Koshary Kitchen

The one dish that constantly fuels our country has finally arrived in the UK. Koshary, Egypt’s much-loved street food and national dish, just made a grand entrance in London, via Koshary Kitchen, a new street stall serving it up for lunch.

We Egyptians seemingly can’t get enough of that stuff – and thanks to Ramy Amir, Brits will be joining in on that koshary love. “My passion for Koshary started at an early age. In my dissertation, I wrote about events and the rise of the street food scene in the UK. I had one goal in mind, I wanted to get to know the market well in order to prepare myself for launching Koshary Kitchen in London,” Amir tells us how it all happened. “It was a concept that I have been developing for a few years and I saw a great potential in the market. I completed my dissertation, met all the requirements to obtain the UK entrepreneur visa and was then ready to take this delicious dish to the streets of London.”

Via Koshary Kitchen

But Amir soon found out that starting your own business, even a street food restaurant, wasn’t as easy as he thought. “It was really hard to find a kitchen in central London due to the high rental prices. I decided to look for an apartment with a kitchen big enough and was lucky to actually find one. I contacted the landlord immediately and explained to him that I was interested in renting the apartment as well as launching my street food business. I had no idea what to expect and I thought he would hang up the phone, however, he endorsed the idea and gave me the green light.”

Via Koshary Kitchen

Amir knew he had to something, or he’ll be gone before he knows it, so he braved up, went to his kitchen and improved his menu dramatically in a way that’ll give Koshary Kitchen a competitive edge. He knew just having your normal everyday Egyptian koshary would not be enough, he needed to be creative, he need to think outside of the box, and he did. “Not only did I decide to revamp my menu, I also decided to switch my business strategy and focus more on catering. I got a few catering contracts through The Nationwide Caterers Association (NCASS) but they weren’t enough to pay the bills. Mind you, I was doing all of this alone and still did not hire anyone. My sales weren’t enough for me to bring someone on board.”

It took a while and a lot of patience, but now, Amir has finally made it. Koshary Kitchen now offers on-site catering for private events, corporate catering, showcasing in festivals, trading in street food markets, and of course, take-away service. His new and improved menu now has eight different types of koshary that you can choose from. From baked beef meatballs (yum, this needs to come to Egypt) to slow cooked chicken, okra carrot stew, fusion koshary has never sounded so delicious. He also offers a more healthier koshary option called The Shnee that uses cauliflower rice. Not only that, Koshary Kitchen now has a permanent street food stall in Sclater street that operates from Tuesday to Friday (10 am-4 pm).

Via Koshary Kitchen

Amir is an inspiration to every Arab millennial who wants to go off beaten path and give it a shot at the entrepreneur game. “My message to you would be to stay persistent and follow your passion. Obstacles will arise, but if there is a will there is a way! It is definitely worth it. This is only the beginning for Koshary Kitchen, we have great expansion plans in the immediate future.”

WE SAID THIS: For more on Koshary Kitchen, click here.

The post Koshary Kitchen: How Egypt’s Much-Loved Street Food Made it to London appeared first on Scoop Empire.

You know when you’re having a bad day and quitting your job and life to run away and join the circus sounds like a good idea, but then you have a donut and then everything is great again. Because we here at Scoop Empire totally understand that the struggle is real, we’ve compiled a list of donuts that will be there for you when no one else will.

This donut shake from Lo2met 3eish

Blueberry Donut Shake! So good, it speaks for itself Kafr Abdou Branch: 14 Ahmed Abd El Aziz st, Kafr Abdou, Roushdy telephone : 0111 1666023 Zezenia Branch: 601 Horeya Avenue, Zezenia telephone :0111 7779998 #Alexandria #Smouha #kafrAbdo #zezinia #Cairo #beverlyHills #6October #SheikhZayed #Egypt #donuts #Sandwiches #food #chocolates #delicious #deserts #happy #goodmoments #yummy #instagood #instafood #tagsforlife #foodoftheday #coffee #bread #muffins #waffles #croissants #doughnuts

A photo posted by Lo2met3eish (@lo2met3eish) on Nov 6, 2016 at 6:29am PST

This dreamy Dixie Cream donut from Circle K

#DixieCream dreaming in #Maadi. #circlek #conveniencestore #donut #sprinkles #yum #sweet #instafood #breakfast #cairo #egypt

A photo posted by Circle K Egypt (@circlekegypt) on Jun 2, 2015 at 1:14am PDT

Or head to Dixie Cream itself and devour these four mozzaz

Hello chocolate lovers! Donut anyone? #dixiecream #donuts

A photo posted by Dixie Cream Egypt (@dixiecreameg) on May 25, 2016 at 9:53am PDT

Can we talk about Big Bites’ afro donut?

Afro Donut by Big Bites

A photo posted by Big Bites (@thebigbites) on Feb 18, 2015 at 6:28am PST

This chocolate donut from Backyard will make you believe in life after love

Sprinkles-addict? We completely understand! Good news tho, we’ve got plentyyyy #thebackyard #thebackyardegypt #fresh #burger #food #maadi #cairo #egypt #dessert #doughnut #sprinkles

A photo posted by THE BACKYARD (@thebackyardegypt) on Aug 9, 2015 at 9:57am PDT

Dunkin’ Donuts though…

Mmmmmm.. Donuts #Repost @hadyelhady with @repostapp ・・・ Homer Mood On! #Morning #Coffee #Donuts #DunkinDonuts #CoffeeTime #Food #Foodie #Foodgasm #Foodporn #PicOfTheDay #POTD #Maadi #Cairo #Egypt

A photo posted by Dunkin’ Donuts EG (@dunkindonutseg) on Dec 2, 2016 at 10:25am PST

This donut from Ovio that will take all your worries away

Donut worry, be happy. #oviolicious#ovio#Galleria40#Maadi#restaurant#bakery#food#foodies#breakfast#lunch#dinner#dessert

A photo posted by Ovio (@ovio.eu) on Oct 24, 2016 at 5:12am PDT

And of course, we cannot forget about TBS’ white glazed donut

Which is prettier? #FridayMorning #TBSegypt #Cronut

A photo posted by The Bakery Shop (@tbsegypt) on Apr 8, 2016 at 12:01am PDT

WE SAID THIS: Which one is your favorite?

Guest writers who have worthy insights on pressing matters, that they feel the need to share with the world

The post 11 Cairo Donuts That Will Be There for You When No Else Will appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Brrrrr, Ned Stark was right because winter is here and we are feeling really, really cold. But you know what’s good about feeling like a human snowman? We eat winter comfort foods! To celebrate winter’s arrival, we’ve compiled a list of winter comfort foods that you must eat in Cairo.

This lentil soup from Abou El Sid that is guaranteed to warm your heart

Via Shutterstock

Cumin‘s hommos el sham is the only heater you’ll need this winter

Via CBC Sofra

Let this California tinga shredded chicken burrito from Gringos take care of you

Via Flickr

Winter may have come, but this beef noodle soup from Chinese Dumpling Restaurant has come with it

Via Ang Sarap

We want to take dipndip‘s chocolate fondue to Vegas so we can drunkenly marry it, then eat it

Via Women Planet

Molokheya and rice from Cairo Kitchen? YAAS KWEEN!

Via Cairo Kitchen

Can we all just take a moment to appreciate that we live in a Cairo where bibimbap exists, and you can get it from Gaya

Via Food Network

Imagine having fries + cheese + onions + bacon + gravy. You can have all of that at Ace Club!

Via Tumblr

Because koshari is on the iron throne of comfort food, and Zooba‘s koshari is on the iron throne of koshari

Via Zooba

Pretend you’re a Filipino and have yourself an adobo from Pinoy

Via Pinoy

Hot chocolate from Cafe Supreme because what’s winter without drinking some hot coco and Instagramming it?

Via Cafe Supreme

Take a break from ordering food and actually make yourself some delish mac and cheese wit Kraft

Via Kraft

Available at Metro, Seoudi, Alfa Market.

And if mac and cheese is not your thing, Indomie noodles definitely will be!

Via Indomie

Available at Metro, Seoudi, Alfa Market, normal supermarkets, and sometimes kiosks.

WE SAID THIS: Brrrr, winter might be here but our bellies are ready.

The post 13 Cosy Winter Comfort Foods You Must Try In Cairo appeared first on Scoop Empire.

The weekend’s here, people! You know it’s a borderline federal crime to be a Dubai expat and not brunch on Friday. Here’s a list of awesome boozy brunches in Dubai to make sure your weekend plans sound more interesting than “Netflix and Ben and Jerry’s on loop” come Sunday morning.

Fall down the rabbit hole at Bubbalicious

Via Bubbalicious

You’ll witness everything you typically would while tripping on shrooms, without the latter. Try not to spill your drink while watching the Chinese acrobats perform and try not to drown in happy tears while going wild at the petting zoo. Yes – you read that right – petting zoo! HollA at your boy Lewis Carroll while strolling down the Alice in Wonderland themed dessert alley. Bubbalicious is hosted every Friday, from 1PM to 4PM. It’s located at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina.

The damage: Brunch packages range from 450 to 680 dirhams.

It’s all hush hush at The Secret Garden Brunch

Via Waldorf Astoria

What to expect: Get your Hillary Clinton-esque pantsuit on because this is a big kid’s brunch. Hosted at the elegant Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah, don’t expect dirty jokes at the table and people to gradually strip the closer it gets to 4PM. This is a fancy brunch – think bespoke selection of French raw milk cheeses, champagne with a cherry bobbing in it, and guests wearing black clothes that don’t have cat fluff in them. Children are encouraged to attend, Executive Chef Jens Muenchenbach will help them discover new flavors with a comprehensive menu. The WA’s Secret Garden Brunch is hosted every Friday from 1PM to 4PM. It’s located at Mezzerie, Waldorf Astoria Palm Jumeirah.
The damage: Packages range from 425 dirhams for house beverages to 725 dirhams for French bubbly. The soft drinks package is priced at 345 dirhams per person.

Rock out at the Rock Star Brunch

Via Claw BBQ

What to expect: Load up on hand sanitizer by the gallon because things are going to get messy at this brunch. By the end of the afternoon, your table will be covered in rainbow stains from the ridiculously massive cocktails and grease from all the seafood you’ll be tucking into. If your lips haven’t touched crab since you watched The Little Mermaid, the menu also includes American buffalo wings, BBQ ribs, smoked beef brisket and apple pie just like your momma used to make it. (Shout out to all the readers who’d rather have kenefeh just like their momma used to make it). The DJ will be dishing out classic disco hits to get that booty rocking and rolling. The Rockstar Brunch is hosted every Friday from 12PM to 4PM. It’s located at Claw BBQ, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai.

The damage: Packages range from 229 dirhams to 339 dirhams per person.

Get turnt and tanned at the Mas Mas Maya Brunch

Via Flickr

What to expect: It’s time to prove to yourself that investing in that giant sombrero that one Halloween wasn’t a stupid mistake. Things are about to get muy caliente at the Mas Mas Maya Brunch. Indulge in a sumptuous spread of homemade huarache, quesadillas, and epic nachos. Once you’ve tickled your tummy, sink your teeth into rib-eye steak fajitas, lamb chops marinated in adobo and sea food in achiote coconut sauce and cilantro rice. Soak up some sunshine by the pool while forking around banana fill in crepes with caramelized milk, sherbet and ice cream. The Mas Mas Maya Brunch is hosted every Friday from 1PM to 4PM. It’s located at Maya Mexican Kitchen, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa.
The damage: Soft beverage package is 325 dirhams. Boozy brunch package is 475 dirhams.

It’s all about 80s vibes at the Disco Sushi Brunch

Via Shortlist Dubai

What to expect: Dig up those ironic neon glasses and book a perm at your salon! You’ll be calling in sick to work because disco fever is in town. Okay, I’m done being cheesy now. The Disco Sushi Brunch features twelve whopping courses, including a plate of sumptuous yuzu-saikyo miso black cod, wasabi rock shrimp, avocado volcano and ginger salmon sashimi as well as a prime selection of sushi. Wet your whistle with the lounge’s signature Bloody Mary and passion fruit martini. Boys, get your shades and cringe-worthy white blazers out. Girls, get those hot and happening cocktail dresses out and get your hair all bouffant-ed up. Why? Because the dress code is Miami Vice! The Disco Sushi Brunch is hosted every Friday from 12.30 PM to 5PM. The shindig is strictly reservations only, with a minimum booking of four people. It’s located at the award-winning Okku in the H Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road.

The damage: Soft drinks package is 399 dirhams and premium drinks package is 599 dirhams.

WE SAID THIS: If you happen to find yourself in Egypt, make sure to check out 7 Top Spots To Have a Boozy Brunch in Cairo.

Guest writers who have worthy insights on pressing matters, that they feel the need to share with the world

The post 5 Boozy Brunches in Dubai That Are Worth the Hangover appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via Sahara Grill

The UK-based restaurant chain Sahara Grill has opened its doors in the heart of the glamorous city of Dubai, and we couldn’t be more happy. The restaurant is known for serving the first halal steak in England, making it historic in a way.

Via Sahara Grill

As you enter the place you are welcomed by a magnificent setting, a delightful marriage of antique cut stones and the luxuries of modernity. It won’t matter where you get seated because you’ll have a wonderful view of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

We all know that feeling when you’re being led to your seat by the waiter, only to glide by that dream table. None of that will happen there. I gazed across the room longingly at the light spot at a counter that overlooked a modern open kitchen-bar and backed onto a lively Soho street. Luckily, the food at Sahara Grill was interesting enough to distract me from such injustice.

Via Sahara Grill

The menu offers a wide variety of absolutely delicious starters. I, of course, had to start with the lamb chops, as I heard a lot about it and it’s considered their signature dish, accompanied by a set of impeccably-made sauces. The chops tasted like heaven marinated with a bit of devilish spice that made my taste buds celebrate.

Via Sahara Grill

I couldn’t help myself not to try more of their starters, so I also ordered the Mexican Fajita with rich oriental hummus on the side. They were exquisite to say the least. The main course consisted of rice with grilled salmon topped with Sahara cream, which thrilled me. It all was followed by a delicious cheesecake served for dessert.

Via Sahara Grill

All the products were fresh and the dishes had the warmth of home-made food with a touch of class. The chefs take great care in selecting the best quality ingredients. When I spoke to the owners, they told me that the restaurant caters for all tastes by maintaining the highest standards of quality food sourcing, finest preparation and outstanding dishes of the region, which are, surprisingly, affordable for anyone. Their main purpose was to get everyone to know what it’s like to taste a five-star dish without selling your kidneys.

Via Sahara Grill

Moreover, the service accompanies the high quality of the cooking. You can get a smile and a warm welcome when you enter the restaurant by a hostess and be led to your table by another friendly yet professional waiter that introduces himself and asks about your day (because we all need to know that there is someone out there who cares, haha).

Thankfully, the owners, middle-aged charming men, are always around willing to exchange some kind words with all their clients and make sure everything is intact, which is an indication that this place is not going anywhere. I highly recommend going to Sahara Grill restaurant. An experience you won’t regret or forget.

WE SAID THIS: They are located at the first floor in The Mall, Jumeriah Road Dubai. You can get in contact with them through 04 3380844 or check their website.

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 The UK’s Sahara Grill Has Opened Its Doors in Dubai, and It’s Here to Stay appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via NOLA

Anyone who follows Scoop Empire knows two things, we love Christmas and cupcakes. So imagine how we felt when NOLA announced their newest creation that mixes both our obsessions? We basically sang The Best of Both Worlds by Hannah Montana in happiness! Starting now, NOLA will be our own Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory as they bring us the Winter Wonderland theme for a complete Christmas makeover. Ugh, just look at their window set up!

NOLA is basically taking over Christmas with a strawberry flavor that is guaranteed to put you in the right frame of mind. The most promising and anticipated dessert will be the special edition: strawberry volcano cake that oozes hot melted chocolate. Oh, and if you think cronuts are impressive, just imagine them with a touch of farawla. You can also wow your guests with NOLA’s special edition cups: grandmas thick warm hot chocolate and the traditional German Christmas cake known as Stollen.

“This Christmas season promises to be special, as we have just turned into a full bakery and wish to show that holidays can be big fun with NOLA’s festive line of baked delicacies. Whether it is wowing guests with new aromas or making kids nibble on some freshly baked goodies, our handcrafted Christmas menu reflects vibrant Christmas colors and the joy of the season,” said Laila Sedky, CMO and Co-Founder of NOLA.

Operating at 13 outlets and five pop up booths across Egypt, customers can enjoy this season’s delicacies anywhere. The cupcake giants also now have a full fledged bakery that welcomes charity and donations, whose revenue will go to sponsored organizations, as well as donations of unsold cupcakes to orphanages every day.

These are just some of the sweets that will leave you drooling until 2017…

This season NOLA has eight different designed and flavored cupcakes. Is that upside down Santa the cutest thing ever or what?

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Dark and white Christmas themed Chocolates that look like winter art are our new favorite treats that will add shine and glamour to every table

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NOLA also just announced that you can order a customized red velvet Christmas cake, as if the awesomeness of a small red velvet cupcake isn’t enough

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Have you ever seen a cuter Oreo stick? This chocolate Oreo covered in white chocolate just put every snowman to shame

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The butter biscuits with tree shaped frosting perfectly blends the holiday spirit with deliciousness. Kids will fall in love with these cookies

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In case you are wondering why you just drooled, it is definitely because of this brownie stick made of chocolate fudge and salted caramel tree shape. This is basically heaven

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WE SAID THIS: For more information, visit www.nolabakery.com.

Select Staff Writers from the Scoop Empire Team

The post NOLA Just Won Egypt’s Christmas with Their Winter Wonderland Theme appeared first on Scoop Empire.

What’s Mansaf? If you’re culturally ignorant, let us educate you. It is a traditional Levantine dish that is usually made of lamb and cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur. It is the national dish of Jordan, and can also be found in Palestine, Iraq and Syria.

If you’re not much of a chef, that’s cool, because these recipes are so easy they’re going to make your heart sing. Let’s get cooking, and thank us later.

This mansaf recipe will make Jamie Oliver look like a nobody next to you

Via Blogspot

Click here for recipe.

Whip up a traditional mansaf like you were a Bedouin in a past life

Via Buttery Cooks

Click here for recipe.

If you’re not a fan of lamb, you’ll fall head over heels over this chicken mansaf recipe

Via Tumblr

Click here for recipe.

And if you’re hopeless and hate lamb and chicken, then you have to love this beef mansaf recipe

Via Blogspot

Click here for recipe.

WE SAID THIS: You should also check out 6 Maklouba Recipes You Never Knew You Needed.

The post These Mansaf Recipes Are So Easy They’re Going to Make Your Heart Sing appeared first on Scoop Empire.

While all fries are good, Dubai has its fair share of what we’ll call…the best fries around. Here are the crispiest, curliest and greasiest fries in the city.

Five Guys’ hand-cut fresh potatoes

Hand-cut fresh potatoes, Five Guys style! #FiveGuysUAE #FiveGuysFries #Fries #CajunFries #TheDubaiMall #Downtown

A photo posted by Five Guys UAE (@fiveguysuae) on Jun 3, 2016 at 1:16am PDT

Salt’s Cheetos fries

Cheetos x fries ? Why not #saltfries

A photo posted by SALT #FINDSALT (@findsalt) on Aug 4, 2016 at 12:13am PDT

Shake Shack’s crinkle cut fries

‎اللحظة الحاسمة When you dip, we dip. Taken by @jennybalesphoto #shakeshackme #crinklecuts

A photo posted by Shake Shack ME (@shakeshackme) on Dec 5, 2016 at 3:39am PST

Parker’s truffle fries

Tag a truffle lover !

A photo posted by Parker’s (@byparkers) on Dec 16, 2016 at 3:51am PST

As well as Slider Station’s truffle fries

Truffle love ❤️: truffle shoestring fries taken by @sunnybee11 #SSDXB

A photo posted by Slider Station Dubai (@sliderstationae) on Apr 14, 2016 at 6:35am PDT

Logma’s special fries

#LogmaFries

A photo posted by LOGMA (@logmauae) on Dec 10, 2016 at 3:35am PST

Moylo’s steak-cut fries

Mamma Mia ! Some Steak-Cut Fries Moylos Secret Sauce, Cheese Sauce, and Jalapeno how about that for the lovely weekend #moylos #moylosburgers #dubai #wagyu #burgers #fries #mammamia #food #hungry #Onlyburgers

A photo posted by MOYLO’S BURGERS (@moylosburgers) on Nov 17, 2016 at 9:20am PST

Slapfish’s skinny fries

Amazing lobster burger at #slapfish

A photo posted by Alberto Borghesi (@aborghes) on May 17, 2015 at 8:43am PDT

Switch’s cheesy fries

Did you get your key yet ? to visit Parkers at Alkhazan Park | @byparkers #GotAKey

A photo posted by Switch Restaurant (@switchdubai) on Nov 11, 2015 at 10:10am PST

WE SAID THIS: If we forgot a place, let us know in the comments section.

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The post 9 Outrageously Delicious Fries You Need to Eat in Dubai appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via Popsugar

We know what you’re thinking. If this was ever going to happen anywhere, it was obviously going to be in Dubai. Guinness World Records happen so frequently here that no one is amazed any more. But, there was still time for one more as the year draws to a close.

Via Popsugar

Burj Al Arab and AmStur Caviar have officially broken the Guinness World Record for the Largest Tin of Caviar in the World, weighing in at a whopping 17.860kg.

Via Popsugar

The Amstur branded casing contained the deep-gray delicacy was carried in my gloved butlers on a gold stretcher – every mouthful of the stuff had to be consumed by guests in order for the record to be won.

WE SAID THIS: Ahhhh ya Dubai!

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Guest writers who have worthy insights on pressing matters, that they feel the need to share with the world

Via Rasamalaysia

Click here for recipe.

WE SAID THIS: You should also check out 6 Maklouba Recipes You Never Knew You Needed.

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The post 10 Insanely Delicious Indian Recipes You Can Make at Home appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via Sheikh Mohammed

Last month it was announced that 2017 is going to be the Year of Giving in the UAE, and they weren’t joking. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler has just declared via his Twitter account that a food bank will come to exist on January 4.

Via Sheikh Mohammed

In a series of tweets on his social media platform, Sheikh Mohammed announced the launch of the Emirates Food Bank – ordering government bodies to direct resource in ‘initiatives for giving’ instead of marking the day of his accession on Wednesday.

Via Sheikh Mohammed

“Tomorrow we shall launch, in line with our Year of Giving initiative, the Emirates Food Bank, an institution whose objective is to instill a culture of generosity and providing food in the people of UAE for generations to come,” Sheikh Mohammed explains on his Twitter.

The Emirates Food Bank will be a full-fledged humanitarian organisation that offers food to everyone. It shall consist of hotels, food processing factories, hospitality establishments, and of course, volunteers.

WE SAID THIS: We cannot wait to see what more the Year of Giving brings.

Guest writers who have worthy insights on pressing matters, that they feel the need to share with the world

The post Sheikh Mohammed Launches Food Bank in UAE as Part of ‘Year of Giving’ appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Filipino food truly offers something for everyone. You can enjoy crunchy lumpia, hearty lechon, sweet banana turon, and freshly prepared fish all in the same meal — and often on the same plate. There are ube-laced sweets and morning diners that showcase the Filipino love of the fried egg. From high-minded modern Filipino restaurants to tiny takeaway spots, these are the best places to enjoy an authentic Filipino experience in Dubai.

Can we talk about Resto Pinoy’s delicious breakfasts?

Via Pinoy

Filipino breakfasts usually consist of garlic fried rice, fried eggs and your choice of meat.

How glorious does this bangus sisig from Ortego’s Deli look like?

Via Ortego’s Deli

Bangus sisig is basically sautéed crispy marinated bangus fish with caramelized red onions. Yum!

You need to devour Philippine Hut’s pancit (noodles)!

Via Food Network

Filipino noodles will ruin other noodles for you, forever.

Let Kuya Juan feed you some of his adobo

Via Tumblr

Kuya in Tagalog means brother. It’s also something you say to an older man that you respect. But let’s not delve into that, and talk about how delicious this adobo looks like?

OFM’s lumpia sariwa will make you believe in life after love

Via Pinoya

Sariwa is basically an unfried spring roll with Filipino spices. Yes, you need to try it now.

Fried fish from Rice Overdose like you’ve never had it before

Via Rice Overdose

Frying fish may be popular in the Middle East, but its Filipino counterpart is something else entirely. Think spicy and lots of flavors that will leave your taste buds foodgasming.

There are feasts, and there are Filipino feasts: they’re called boodle fights, and you can have them at the Filipino Kitchen

Via Tumblr

Think of most Filipino dishes you know, well, it’s that and more.

Manila Grill is when you want to have Filipino food and feel classy AF

Via Manila Grill

This new Filipino fine dining restaurant from Asiana Hotel also serves popular Filipino dishes with pork.

How about some squid adobo from Carinderia ni Tandang Sora? Yes please!

Via Ang Sarap

All you need is some rice, and you’re good to go.

Jollibee is basically the Philippines’ McDonald’s, and just like McDonald’s it’s very freakin’ good! Make sure to have some Filipino spaghetti

Via JolliBee

We’re so happy we have branches of you all over the city.

Bring a friend or two and share this generous serving of the delicious and healthy Bulalo at Max’s

Via Max’s

Again, another popular chain restaurant from the Philippines makes it to Dubai, and we are so happy.

WE SAID THIS: You should also read 9 Outrageously Delicious Fries You Need to Eat in Dubai.

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The post 11 Filipino Restaurants in Dubai That You Need to Try appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Via Andrea

Living in Maadi, you don’t really have that many options when you’re craving a delicious meal with a side of a stunning view. You go out, meet your friends who are an hour and a half late, have mediocre food and bad shisha, go home, and that’s it. But then you get introduced to Andrea and your life changes.

So when I heard about their re-opening, I had to know more for myself (and my belly obviously). “This is basically a fresh start to the classic Andrea we’ve all come to know and love whilst still keeping true to Andrea’s overall vibe,” the restaurant told me.

Via Andrea

In this day and age, food is sometimes not enough to people as most of them prefer to accompany their meal with an Instagrammable view, and Andrea provides just that. The floating restaurant won’t just satisfy your taste buds, but it’s a grand experience all together. Not only will you feast your eyes with the Nile view as you cruise it (available starting 5 pm), there will also be belly dancers that are guaranteed to make you shik-shak-shok, tanoura shows that will make you dizzy in the best way possible, and alcohol for whoever wants a fine glass of red wine with your meal.

Via Andrea

WE SAID THIS: Make sure to click here for more info about their Coptic Christmas party this Saturday.

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The post This Floating Maadi Restaurant Takes Instagrammable Food to a New Level appeared first on Scoop Empire.

In this day and age, finding something that is 100% natural is a rare phenomenon, especially with juice. But thanks to Juhayna Pure, we don’t have that problem anymore.

Via Juhayna Pure

Last month, the juice giants unveiled their newest baby, the pomegranate flavor, and everyone (including us) is obsessed with it. “We didn’t just pick the pomegranate flavor because most of our customers requested it, but also because the actual fruit has so many health benefits,” a representative from Juhayna Pure told us.

Via Juhayna Pure

Tunisian screen starlet Dorra Zarrouk has also joined forces with Juhayna Pure, becoming their brand ambassador. “I’m very proud to call myself an ambassador to a brand that promotes people to be healthy,” Zarrouk explains.

Via Juhayna Pure

Amr Beshra, General Manager at Juhayna Pure, also revealed that they’ve doubled their sales within the last two years, as well as increased their production process by 65%. Juhayna is the first ever brand to introduce a “pure” juice (100% natural and sugar-free) back in 2001.

WE SAID THIS: Brb while we get some of that pomegranate juice.

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The post Pomegranate Just Got Added to the Juhayna Pure Family appeared first on Scoop Empire.

Why sip on regular coffee when you can indulge in a cappuccino sprinkled with real 23 carat gold flakes?

Via Armani Dubai Hotel

The Armani Hotel, located inside the Burj Khalifa, is sprinkling gold flakes on top of its blend of finest Arabica coffee beans in the Armani/Lounge throughout the day. Served up with dark chocolate, you’d have to really, really, REALLY love coffee to buy it for AED75.

Via Tumblr

The Armani Hotel Dubai is located at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower. It is the brain child of legendary fashion designer and style icon Giorgio Armani.

WE SAID THIS: One thing is for sure, that coffee is going to be Instagrammable.