As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, many individuals and families are seeking the perfect place to break their fast. One standout option in Dubai is Wintergarden Dubai, where I had the opportunity to indulge in a truly scrumptious iftar under the stars. With its captivating ambiance, diverse food selections, and commitment to celebrating this special time of year, Wintergarden Dubai offers an iftar experience that is both enjoyable and memorable.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
From the moment you step into Wintergarden Dubai, the Ramadan spirit envelops you. The venue is adorned with glowing lanterns that cast a warm light over an expansive outdoor seating area, making it an inviting space for guests to gather with family and friends. The soft sound of music in the background adds to the relaxed vibe, while the twinkling stars above create a magical setting that is perfect for the holy month.
The design elements throughout the garden enhance the atmosphere, making it feel like a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling city. Whether you choose to sit in a cozy corner or gather around a large table with loved ones, the seating arrangements are thoughtfully designed to accommodate various group sizes, allowing you to fully embrace the communal spirit of Ramadan.
A Culinary Journey Begins
As iftar commenced, we were greeted with an impressive array of food selections that delighted our palates. The buffet started with a substantial assortment of salads, including classic Caesar salad and an assortment of Lebanese mezze favorites. The hummus, moutabel, and baba ghanoush were exceptional, showcasing authentic flavors that embody Middle Eastern cuisine. Among the diverse offerings was a refreshing seaweed salad reminiscent of Korean-style dishes, offering a unique twist that surprised and pleased the senses.
Two types of Ramadan soups—lentil and chicken noodle—provided a comforting start to the meal and perfectly complemented the extensive spread of assorted breads, cheeses, and dips, encouraging guests to sample a little bit of everything.
Snack Style Iftar Treats
Next came the delectable snack-style iftar treats. From delicious fatayer to zaatar manakeesh, kibbeh, and falafel, this selection was perfect for those who enjoy bite-sized delights. Each dish was served alongside flavorful sauces and velvety tahini, enhancing the experience and allowing us to explore various flavors.
A Unique Twist on Iftar
What truly set this iftar apart from others was the surprising inclusion of sushi! The freshness of the crispy salmon and spicy tuna rolls was remarkable, alongside classic California rolls that added a creative touch to our meal. This international flair made it clear that Wintergarden Dubai is committed to providing a diverse culinary experience.
An International Array of Mains
The main course offerings were impressive, showcasing an international medley of flavors. Traditional Arabic dishes like mahshi malfouf and my all-time favorite kibbeh labenieh stood out, especially when paired with vermicelli rice. The tender and flaky fish harra was another highlight, embodying the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Additionally, the Australian beef brisket was an unexpected treat, further diversifying the menu. Other mouthwatering options included Dano Rosto, fish sayadieh, shepherd’s pie, beef lasagna, and a flavorful chicken biryani. The crowning jewel of the mains was a large lamb ouzi platter that captured the essence of this festive meal. There were also freshly grilled meats, fish, and chicken ready to enjoy with a variety of sauces and garnishings.
Live Cooking Stations: A Culinary Experience
One of the most engaging aspects of the iftar was the presence of live cooking stations. Guests could witness the chefs in action, enhancing the dining experience. The pasta station allowed for customization, and my daughters particularly enjoyed selecting prawns and a pink sauce for their pasta creations. The manakeesh station served up fresh flatbreads, while the shawarma station was a crowd pleaser. I relished the beef shawarma, laden with an array of fillings that added depth to each bite.
Beverages to Refresh and Rejuvenate
To accompany the varied culinary offerings, Wintergarden Dubai provided a diverse selection of beverages. Alongside traditional Ramadan drinks, guests could enjoy Turkish coffee, ghawa, and an assortment of teas. The beverage station also featured fresh juices and soft drinks, ensuring everyone could find something refreshing to suit their taste.
Dessert: A Showstopper
As if the meal couldn’t get any better, the dessert section was nothing short of spectacular. With a display featuring moon crescents and Ramadan décor, it was both visually appealing and tantalizing. The assortment of Arabic treats included halawet al jibn, Um Ali, mammoul, kunafa, and baklava. I couldn’t resist the date cake, which I had to sample more than once, along with red velvet cake, rice pudding, and delightful tiramisu cups. Fresh fruit added a refreshing finish to the meal, creating a balance with the rich desserts.
Why Wintergarden Dubai is a Must-Try
Wintergarden Dubai offers an iftar experience that should be on everyone’s list during Ramadan. The crisp evening air, mesmerizing ambiance, and extensive menu ensure that guests of all ages will find something they enjoy. The attentive staff went above and beyond, even providing blankets to keep us warm as we savored every moment of this special evening.
This iftar is more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to connect with loved ones while indulging in a myriad of flavors that reflect not only Arabic traditions but also the global culinary landscape. If you are in Dubai and looking for a memorable way to celebrate Ramadan, I highly recommend checking out Wintergarden Dubai for an unforgettable iftar experience.
Visit: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai
Phone: 04 435 5577