Madeleine Cafe and Boulangerie Dinner Specials in Dubai Mall

Madeleine Cafe and Boulangerie offers weekly specials to its patrons. From starters to desserts, you can find specials not part of their daily menu and will only be available for the whole week.

A few months back I was invited to try some exclusive dishes prepared by their guest chef, Chef Sebastian. Last month I was invited again to try their special weekly dishes. Not part of their daily menu, you can see their offer on the board placed on the left side wall upon entering the restaurant.

Check my blog: Madeleine Cafe & Boulangerie: A Night With Chef Sebastian Torres

Check my blog: All Day Lazy Breakfast at Madeleine Café & Boulangerie

[caption id="attachment_2846" align="aligncenter" width="800"] WEEKLY SPECIALS[/caption]

The Weekly Specials Menu that week was:

Rillette de Saumon - AED 70

Atlantic salmon belly mousse with shallot avocado lemon and butter

Navarin d' Agneau - AED 110

Lamb and vegetable stew served with pilaf rice

Poire Pochee Aux Epices - AED 35

Madeleine, spiced poached pears and vanilla sauce

[caption id="attachment_2848" align="aligncenter" width="800"] CLASSIC, GINGER AND LEMON GRASS AND PASSION FRUIT FLAVORED ICED TEAS[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2849" align="aligncenter" width="800"] RILLETTE DE SAUMON[/caption]

During my previous visits, we always eat by the balcony to have the view of the Dubai Fountain, but as the weather is starting to get really warm, we opted to dine indoors. I think I have mentioned it already in my previous blogs that I really love the interior decor of this restaurant. Sitting down on the bistro inspired chairs and tables, I felt I was transported back to the time I visited Paris.

We were welcomed with a generous basket of sliced bread and butter while we waited for our orders to arrive.

Our starter was the  Rillette de Saumon (see description above). At first I thought I will not like it, there was a bit on an acquired taste in it but eventually, I started to like it. It is a light dish and very refreshing to the palate.

When the main course arrived, Navarin d' Agneau (see description above).  We were surprised how big the serving was. To be honest, it tasted like a Filipino dish called Mechado. Partnered with a pilaf rice, it reminded me of home. With this reason, I am giving this a thumbs up.

[caption id="attachment_2850" align="aligncenter" width="800"] NAVARIN D'AGNEAU[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2851" align="aligncenter" width="800"] POIRE POCHEE AUX EPICES[/caption]

For desserts, we were served with a Poire Pochee aux Epices (see description above), I loved both starters and main dish, but I was not a big fan of this dish. Good thing, Madeleine is known for other desserts and yes we ordered our favorite creme brulee afterwards (more on that below).

What I love with the weekly specials is that every week you can expect something new.

Aside from these, Medeleine Cafe provides other classy contemporary French Cuisines,  and of course, we can't leave this restaurant without trying some of them (again).

[caption id="attachment_2852" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Madeleine Boulangerie Dubai Mall[/caption]

Escargots - AED 65

Snail served with toasted baguette

Seafood Bisque - AED 55

Seafood soup served with rouille and gruyere cheese croutons

Tagliatelle aux Saumons - AED 90

Tagliatelle pasta with creamy fish veloute and smokef salmon

Fillet de Loup Nicoise - AED 120

Sea bass fillet served with La Ratee potatoes, beans, asparagus, olives, cherry tomatoes and capers in noisette butter

Creme Brulee - AED 30

[caption id="attachment_2853" align="aligncenter" width="800"] SEAFOOD BISQUE[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2854" align="aligncenter" width="800"] ESCARGOTS[/caption]

I have tasted their Escargots before and I don't mind to try it again. I really like its strong garlic flavor. The surprising dish for me was the Seafood Bisque. It was rich in flavor with a sort of creamy texture. I can have this dish alone and I am good for the night already.

[caption id="attachment_2855" align="aligncenter" width="800"] TAGLIATELLE AUX SAUMONS[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2856" align="aligncenter" width="800"] FILLET DE LOUP NICOISE[/caption]

For our mains, we added the Tagliatelle aux Saumons  and Fillet de Loup Nicoise. I was not a fan of the Tagliatelle aux Saumons as I feel that it was lacking something. It feels bland and dry. On the other hand, the Fillet de Loup Nicoise was amazing. The skin of the sea bass was perfectly crispy while the rest of the ingredients effortlessly complimented each other.

For our additional dessert, we ordered the creme brulee and it was perfect. ( check my previous blog when I first tried it).

[caption id="attachment_2857" align="aligncenter" width="800"] CREME BRULEE[/caption]

All in all I really enjoyed my time here (again). If you are looking for a quiet place to dine with friends or family on your visit in Dubai Mall, I strongly suggest trying some of these awesome French stylish fixins.

More about Madeliene Cafe and Boulangerie

Madeleine Cafe & Boulangerie: A Night With Chef Sebastian Torres

 All Day Lazy Breakfast at Madeleine Café & Boulangerie

Located at: Ground Level, Fashion

Avenue, The Dubai Mall, Dubai, UAE

Website: www.madeleinecafe.com

6 #MYDUBAI Must Try 'Interesting' Food Joints

As October steps in, people in Dubai bid farewell to the scorching summer heat to welcome a bearable and pleasant sunny weather. During this time, you will see expats and locals flocking their way to the nearest and coziest al fresco dining while tourist (and some residents) find their way into a near by beach front.

For the past weeks, I've been hunting down some interesting food stops which I think everyone should try (well, specially those who love to explore our beautiful city). With all the places that I have been to, here are 6 of my favorite food stops!

1. TOM AND SERG

[caption id="attachment_2349" align="aligncenter" width="800"] I LOVE THE INDUSTRIAL INTERIOR DESIGN[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2350" align="aligncenter" width="800"] MY BIG BREAKFAST PLATE --TRAY[/caption]

I've been hearing/reading a lot of things about this hipster heaven which can be found in Al Qouz Industrial Area. If you're not staying inside a cave, I think you already know that Al Qouz is the place to be. You can find Raw Coffee, Alserkal Avenue, Bounce and of course Tom and Serg. Hipsters all over the city will surely fall in love with this place.

The interior is simple and clean with a very industrial touch. If you dine at the ground floor you will appreciate the high ceiling and if you are like me, you will enjoy watching the whole place being very busy while the second is a bit cozier and more relaxed.

If you just want to sit down with friends or read a book over a cup of coffee and tasty chocolate mousse or just want start your day with a healthy brunch this place is perfect for you.... and of course, they have WIFI!

Location: Al Joud Center Al Qouz

Web: www.tomandserg.com/

Tel: 056474 68 12

IG: @_tomandserg_

2. ZAROOB

[caption id="attachment_2351" align="aligncenter" width="800"] CAN YOU BE MORE COLORFUL THAN THIS?...YES IF YOU ARE A RAINBOW!!![/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2352" align="aligncenter" width="800"] ENJOYING OUR LEVANT WRAP[/caption]

A few years ago, wandering along Sheikh Zayed Road, I was always very curious with that bright signage on the building which spelled as ZAROOB. When a friend of mine, asked if I want to try it, I didn't hesitate. Since then, it became one of my favorite  restaurants in the city.

Zaroob which literally means 'small alley' will give you a feel that you are eating in a very artsy street alleyway. Every time that I bring friends here, they always get fascinated on how colorful and vibrant the interior set-up is. A mix of galvanize iron, concrete and even big cans of cooking oil for seating, all you need to is the sound of cars honking crazily while you enjoy a tasty plate of shawarma.

If you are the artsy kind and don't mind dining in a very colorful and busy environment (and if you love food from the Levant Region) this is the place for you.

Check out my friend Lady's latest blog about Zaroob:

TIP: After enjoying the interior decor, try dining outside.

Location: Shop 1, Jumeirah Tower Building, Sheikh Zayad Road, Trade Centre Area, Dubai

Web: www.zaroob.com

Tel: 043276060

IG: @zaroob

3. SALT (#FINDSALT)

[caption id="attachment_2353" align="aligncenter" width="800"] YHEAP...THAT'S THE LINE[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2354" align="aligncenter" width="800"] FOUND IT!!![/caption]

Recently I blogged about this new food truck concept. I know that in the US, food trucks are everywhere but here in Dubai, you can only find less than a handful and only a few that are making waves. One of it is SALT. It is located at the heart of Kite Beach. Just look for the bright signage or the long line of salt patrons waiting to get a hold of that tasty Chicken Cheetos Sliders.

If you are more of the outdoor adventurous type or if you just passed by the beach after a long day at work, you should try queuing up and placing an order.

TIP: After finishing you mouthwatering sliders, go around Kite Beach and discover other food stalls (and beach volley)

Location: Dubai Kite Beach

Instagram: @findsalt

4. CREEKSIDE

[caption id="attachment_2355" align="aligncenter" width="800"] LAUNCHING TURNED INTO A CULTURAL NIGHT[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2356" align="aligncenter" width="800"] A TIP. TAKE THE ABRA[/caption]

The Dubai Creek is one of my favorite places to bring any friends visiting Dubai. During summer time, I still drag my friends here even though the weather is dreadful and you'll be soaking in sweat in just 5 minutes of 'standing' (as a tip, don't visit me during summer). But during the breezy months of October until mid-May, the creek is "the" must visit place for those who wants to get away from the typical Dubai skyline and feel/see the old Dubai culture. You can ride the abra crossing Burdubai to Deira and haggle around the souq.

Just recently, Creek Side had its formal launch and welcomed cultural enthusiasts and those who are just looking looking for a place to chill and hang out. What I Iike about this place is how it blended well in the Dubai's Old Town. Using and refitting a traditional heritage house it created a modern space yet respecting its heritage (this subject it my thesis study, that is why I feel in love with this place the moment I saw it.)  The main attraction of this place is how it celebrates art, culture, design and heritage with its various programs and offerings.

Just a perfect place to appreciate the busy creek, watch people, learn about the heritage and get loads of  inspirations passing by.

TIP: Parking is very hard in this area, so it will be better if you will park your car near a metro station and take the public transport. Take the green line metro and go down to Al Ras and ride the Abra from this other side (Deira) and appreciate the beautiful creek surrounded by the richness of the Old Dubai.

Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood Dubai (near Grand Mosque and the water pathway)

Tel: 043599220

Email: Info@creekside.me

IG: @creeksidedubai

 

5. SPECIAL OSTADI RESTAURANT

[caption id="attachment_2357" align="aligncenter" width="800"] I WILL BE PRINTING MY PHOTO AND PASTE IT HERE[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2358" align="aligncenter" width="800"] EVERYTHING IS MY FAVORITE[/caption]

When almost all in the list are fairly new, I recently discovered a place with a very long history of serving hearty Persian  meal. An Emirati friend of mine brought me in Special Ostadi Restaurant after our event in the Creekside. If you love walking (and it's not Summer), the food stops number 4 and 5 are relatively close to each other.

The moment I stepped inside, I was fascinated immediately with its very busy decors. If Creekside wants to blend in the environment, this one definitely is trying to stand out. No one can blame them though. As what I was told, it is a family restaurant serving Dubai since 1978. Surely, if you have that long history, you will also brag about it. Its walls are surrounded with photographs of Bollywood stars and VIPs who had a taste of the Special Ostadi Hospitality. All tables are dressed with different currencies from all over the world and several newspaper article clippings hanging on the wall.

Aside from its note worthy marinated kebabs, Special Ostadi Restaurant is also famous for its hospitality. Being a passed-on family business, you can see each member of the family (well just the men), run around serving patrons and greeting them with a joke or fist bump. I always get the french fries treatment (visit this place to find out what I meant).

If you are looking for fun, informal and craving a mouth watering Persian meal, this is the place for you.

TIP: Ask for their house tea (also ask for mint leaves), this is their signature house drinks. I LOVE IT and hopefully you will too.

Location: Khalid Bin Al Waleed, Near Musalla Tower, All Musalla Road

Tel: 04 3971469

 

6. RIPE MARKET

[caption id="attachment_2359" align="aligncenter" width="800"] WHEN YOU SEE THIS, YOU KNOW YOU WILL START TO WAVE GOODBYE TO SUMMER[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_2360" align="aligncenter" width="800"] OUR LOOT FOR THE DAY! YEY WEEKEND![/caption]

One of the best things that I love this season is that RIPE Market is finally open. Last year, it was located in Safa Park but this year, they moved in Zabeel Park (and it is closer to my place now). This year, there were a huge turnout of vendors, artisans and food stalls.

I went to RIPE during their first day of opening and I was overwhelmed with all the interesting booths they have. But, what I was drawn to are the food stalls. They have pastries, grilled sausages, pancakes, ice cream, sandwiches, salads...and a lot of refreshing drinks (fresh coconut juice!!!). The reason why I placed RIPE at the end of my list is that, if you go here, you can create you own list already.

One of the attractions of RIPE is its location. Being in a park makes your visit here relaxing and will make you say "THANK GOD IT'S WEEKEND."While you enjoy munching on all the food you found, you can just sit down on one of the bean bags and listen to a live acoustic performance (or a harpist). While you are busy looking for a good value shopping (maybe a very trendy earrings, or a white washed bohemian home decor, your kids can enjoy the art workshops being offered every week.

If you are a fan of the outdoors and love people watching this is surely a place you will want to visit.

Location: Zabeel Park

Timings: Every Fridays at 9am - 2pm

Web: www.ripeme.com/

IG: @ripefresh

 

Do you know other food joints/stops here in Dubai which you think are interesting? Let us know so we can pay them a visit and maybe we can add them in the list soon. ^^



 

My Dubai Food Blog : The Farm

If you told me months back that I will be having brunch in the middle of the desert with a very tropical environment, I will tell you right away “ARE YOU KIDDING?”.

But as we all know, everything is possible in Dubai.We drove around (somewhere along) Emirates Road and found this amazing “brunch haven”.

The Farm makes you feel as if you are dining in one of the posh tropical restaurants (with a modern and western touch) in the world. Coupled with a perfect weather and breeze this place is a perfect place to relax, dine and have a good chat with friends (i miss this kind of place).

As a designer, the ambiance of the place always add up to the “i like it” factor. The Farm so far is up there in my Top List.

When we arrived, they have handed us an Ipad which I was hoping to be a souvenir, but sadly it was their menu (genius). The food was amazing also, which includes a nice vegetable chip to munch on while waiting for our orders.

The food was just fine, a bit on the pricey scale, but all in all it was a great experience. During the time the we have visited, the service was a bit of a downgrade (hoping that it was just that time—let’s give them the benefit of the doubt this time).

Would I recommend this place? YES!—-and i think I will go back there before the nice weather will leave us.

Check out the link to know more about The Farm

My Dubai Food Blog: The Social House

Last night, after our super rush sale adventure (thank you TopMan), we tried to look for a place to just chill and talk. I’ve been passing by this place every time I go around Dubai Mall but havent really had a chance to experience it….so we tried it!

We ordered 2 chocolate based drinks: Iced Mint Chocolate and Hot Banana Chocolate (which i requested to be iced blended). Both were amazing, although, we are looking for a place to have a chit-chat, the place was kinda busy and we really cant hear each other….but still, i really love the design of the place!—— Systematic CHAOS always catches my attention!