My  review of the Khai Vi Brunch at Shangrila Dubai

July 20, 2024
My  review of the Khai Vi Brunch at Shangrila Dubai

Nestled in the heart of Dubai, Hoi An restaurant invites you to embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant flavors of Vietnam. Fuelled by an entirely Vietnamese kitchen, Hoi An offers a mesmerizing blend of authentic and complex flavors from the land of the blue dragon. The ambiance is complemented by a wide variety of delectable Vietnamese dishes served in traditional style.

Immersing in Vietnamese Culinary Tradition

Hoi An prides itself on its commitment to authenticity, ensuring that every dish reflects the true essence of Vietnamese cuisine. From the moment you step inside, you are greeted by an ambiance adorned with hanging umbrellas, evocative paintings, and photographs that transport you to Vietnam’s bustling streets and serene landscapes.

Starters: A Symphony of Flavors

The culinary journey at Hoi An begins with a delightful array of cold and hot starters that tantalize the taste buds. Imagine a starter platter shaped like a blooming flower, featuring a medley of seafood, chicken, and fresh vegetables sourced directly from Vietnam. The vegetable summer rolls, filled with mixed veggies, tofu, and glass noodles wrapped in delicate rice paper, offer a refreshing start. Equally enticing is the Vietnamese chicken salad, boasting a vibrant mix of cabbage, cucumber, and a tangy fish sauce dressing that awakens the palate.

The Essence of Vietnamese Cooking

In Vietnamese cooking, the use of fresh herbs and aromatics plays a central role in defining the vibrant and complex flavors of the cuisine. Fragrant herbs like cilantro, mint, Thai basil, and perilla add freshness and distinct herbal notes to dishes, while aromatics such as lemongrass, ginger, garlic, and shallots provide depth and intensity. These ingredients are often used generously in soups like pho and bun bo Hue, as well as in stir-fries, noodle dishes, and salads. They not only enhance the taste but also contribute to the aromatic allure that is characteristic of Vietnamese culinary experiences, making each dish a harmonious blend of flavors that is both comforting and exhilarating.

The essence of Vietnamese food lies in its balance of flavors, freshness of ingredients, and the artful combination of textures. Characterized by its reliance on herbs, aromatics, and a variety of dipping sauces, Vietnamese cuisine offers a harmonious blend of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy elements in every dish. Whether it’s the comforting warmth of a steaming bowl of pho, the crispness of fresh spring rolls, or the tangy brightness of a nuoc cham dipping sauce, Vietnamese cooking aims to tantalize the senses and create a memorable dining experience. The emphasis on fresh, local produce and the meticulous preparation techniques reflect a culinary tradition that values both simplicity and complexity, resulting in dishes that are not only delicious but also deeply satisfying.

Hot Starters: Culinary Delights

On to the hot starters, Hoi An presents a feast of Vietnamese specialties. Indulge in crispy duck spring rolls, pan-seared crab cakes brimming with jumbo crab and Vietnamese greens, and the flavorful Vietnamese rocket prawn rolls paired with a sweet chili sauce that enhances their savory goodness. Each dish is meticulously prepared, incorporating aromatic herbs like Laksa leaves, coriander, and ginger to elevate the flavors.

Soups: Nourishing Bowls of Comfort

No Vietnamese meal is complete without a comforting bowl of soup. At Hoi An, savor the tangy tamarind fish soup—a harmonious blend of seabass, mushrooms, tomatoes, and bok choy in a balanced broth infused with celery. For a lighter option, the seaweed soup with tofu and vegetables provides a refreshing interlude, highlighting the restaurant’s dedication to offering diverse and satisfying culinary experiences.

Mains: Culinary Excellence

The main courses at Hoi An continue to impress with their diversity and depth of flavors. Delight in the yellow duck curry, a beautifully plated dish simmered in coconut milk with sweet potatoes, baby corn, and baby eggplants, enlivened by the citrusy notes of lime leaves. Seafood aficionados will relish the seafood egg noodles—a tantalizing blend of seabass, prawns, and scallops tossed with bok choy, shitake mushrooms, and spring onions, accented by aromatic herbs that capture the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

Desserts: Sweet Conclusions

After a sumptuous meal, indulge in Hoi An’s authentic Vietnamese desserts. The pandan sago offers a creamy delight with coconut ice cream, taro, and pumpkin, while the crispy banana—a crunchy fried banana drizzled with caramel sauce and served with vanilla ice cream—is a decadent treat that satisfies the sweet tooth and leaves a lasting impression.

Refreshing Beverages

Throughout your dining experience at Hoi An, complement your dishes with Vietnamese lemonade. This refreshing beverage cleanses the palate and enhances the flavors of each dish, ensuring a memorable dining experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dining at Hoi An Restaurant is a journey of discovery and delight, offering a genuine taste of Vietnam’s culinary heritage. Whether you are a seasoned enthusiast of Vietnamese cuisine or a curious explorer of new flavors, Hoi An promises an unforgettable dining experience. Come, immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and traditions of Vietnam at Hoi An and discover why it stands as a beacon of authentic Vietnamese dining in the heart of Dubai.

The Details

Brunch is served between 12 pm and 4 pm on Saturday & Sunday and is available for AED 228 per person with soft beverages or AED 328 with house beverages.

Location:

Shangrila Hotel, Dubai. Level 1, Sheikh Zayed Road, P.O. Box 75880

Phone: (971 4) 405 2703

Operating Hours:

7 pm and  12 am

Weekend Brunch: 12 pm to 4 pm

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