Redemption bar concept, gourmet dishes, and opulent interiors are just a few words that come to mind when describing Dubai’s exciting new eatery, Coco Restaurants And Lounge. I had the privilege of attending the soft opening of this new restaurant, and it was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I stepped through the butterfly-wing-inspired doors, I was captivated by the stunning design and vibrant atmosphere. The culinary offerings and impeccable service made the evening unforgettable, setting the stage for what will surely be a landmark in Dubai’s dining scene.
Opulence Meets Mythical Elegance
Inside, the atmosphere blended opulence with natural beauty, highlighted by a towering victory statue and a ‘Green Room’ for intimate conversations. The circular arrangement, adorned with vibrant greenery and rich emerald, gold, and red hues, evoked the magnificence of ancient tombs reimagined as a contemporary dining haven. A glass ceiling brightens the space, drawing inspiration from the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and creating a memorable dining experience.
Epicurean Artistry In Every Dish
Coco Restaurants And Lounge’s menu masterfully blends international flavours with a sophisticated twist. I chose the VIP menu, starting with a refreshing Tuna Tartare, followed by the rich and flavourful Coco Chicken Bao, each bite offering a delicate burst of savoury goodness. The Tavuk Chicken stood out with its tender texture for the main course, served alongside two delicious dips and a fresh salad. The second main course, the Miso Black Cod, was the meal’s highlight. It’s melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and umami-packed richness left a lasting impression, making it my absolute favourite.
The cherry on top had to be the dessert, the Karak Chai French Toast, a brilliant fusion of London-inspired French toast and the beloved karak flavours of Dubai. This indulgent, sweet finale was spectacular, served with velvety coconut ice cream and drizzled with aromatic karak sauce. It beautifully blended two cultures, offering a unique twist that honoured both culinary traditions, creating an impressive finish to the meal.
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Redemption Bar Where Mocktails Shine
One of the standout features of Coco Restaurants And Lounge is undoubtedly the concept of the Redemption Bar, a visionary initiative by owner Naz Choudhury. The bar promotes inclusivity and a sober lifestyle. It features a thoughtfully curated selection of beautifully crafted mocktails skillfully prepared by an international mixologist. This approach enhances the drinking experience and fosters a welcoming environment for all guests. This creative take on non-alcoholic drinks enhances the nightlife experience by offering refined and refreshing alternatives. It clearly showed me that you don’t need buzzing drinks to have a lively and enjoyable evening.
Chef Raheman Leading Culinary Innovation
Chef Raheman brings over 18 years of rich experience in the hospitality industry, including a distinguished tenure in the Maldives. His expertise and leadership truly enhance the culinary offerings at Coco Restaurants And Lounge in Downtown Dubai. Chef Raheman brings expertise from renowned establishments across the Maldives, India, and the UAE as the newly appointed Executive Chef of the Coco Group. His diverse culinary background allows him to curate a global array of flavours for Coco’s diners while overseeing research and development for future Coco locations.
The soft opening was made even more exciting by the presence of celebrity Chef Maurizio Ferraiuolo, renowned for his role as a guest judge on MasterChef Malaysia. As he graced the event with his charismatic presence, he captivated the audience with his exceptional culinary skills. With each dish he prepared, the tantalising aromas and visually stunning presentations transformed the evening into a delightful feast for the senses, leaving everyone in awe.
From London To Dubai
This elegant venue, accommodating up to 300 guests, skillfully integrates global flavours with the distinct style of Dubai to enhance the city’s dining and social landscape. As a proud addition to the renowned Coco brand, which features Coco Tower Bridge, Coco Asia in Essex, and Coco Canary Wharf, this new location in Dubai presents an excellent opportunity to delight discerning food enthusiasts with the signature concepts that have brought success in London.
In conclusion, Coco Restaurants and Lounge in Downtown Dubai presents an exciting opportunity for the city’s vibrant dining scene. With its innovative Redemption Bar, elegant interiors, and outstanding culinary creations guided by Chef Raheman, this venue has the potential to establish itself as a noteworthy landmark.
Where: Al Murooj Complex – opp. Dubai Mall – Downtown Dubai – Dubai
When: Sunday to Saturday from 12 pm to 5 pm
Must try: Karak Chai French Toast and the beverages from Redemption Bar
Cover Image Courtesy: shaun.fernandes_photography and PR image
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