STYLE
Inspired by the Luxor Obelisk, located in Place de La Concorde in Paris, this skyscraper hotel oozes Franco-Egyptian sophistication with its assemblage of Art Deco furnishings, towering pillars with hieroglyphics and reliefs, statues of Anubis (a canine-headed god) as well as a giant gold falcon that’s suspended above check-in. The latter sits between two handcrafted, three-tonne, stained-glass chandeliers (think giant French Tiffany Lamps) designed in the shape of Nile lotus flowers. All this makes for a wondrous welcome – and sets the scene for a dazzling stay.
ROOMS
For panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, book into one of the city-facing luxury guest rooms. As dusk falls, there’s something mesmerising about watching the city light up from afar. Neutral tones, dark woods and hints of gold make up the in-room colour palette and the pillowy beds beckon for lazy lie-ins or late-afternoon naps. Bathrooms are spacious with generously sized tubs and walk-in rain showers; Lanvin toiletries add the finishing touch.
The lightest, freshest fish at Brasserie Boulud
Daikon salad with wild ginger dressing – one of the many exquisite dishes at Taiko.jpg
GASTRONOMY
The property offers five diverse and well-thought-out culinary venues – all of which, in our opinion, makes it arguably one of the most impressive and consistent dining destinations in Dubai.
Well-known executive chef Russell Impiazzi (who was part of the pre-opening team for WAFI Pyramids in the 90s) heads up the team of 80 overseeing the outlets, including Brasserie Boulud, Taiko Dubai, The Nine Gastropub, Bijou Patisserie and Soleil Pool and Lounge.
With big windows, the bright Brasserie Boulud is ideal for lunch. Start with freshly baked baguettes with lashings of French butter; share the garlicky snails and pulled duck terrine, keep it light with the sea bass for mains and end with molten chocolate fondant.
Taiko, which hails from Amsterdam and was established by executive chef and founder Schilo van Coevorden is where to go for a fancy dinner of Far-east Asian flavours with Middle-Eastern flair. Everyone’s talking about its kimchi-infused melon – a must-try, trust us! Other favourites are the soy-glazed wagyu shisha sushi and the king fish sashimi with saffron and Persian lime.
The Saturday roast at The Nine Gastropub is a good example of its home-made British fare. Leave space for the lemon posset, too! And speaking about treats – Le Goûter (afternoon tea) at Bijou Patisserie is served in a jewellery box that needs to be unlocked with a key. Its contains all manner of guilty pleasures such as mille-feuilles, canelés, raspberry stuffed madeleines, melt-in-your mouth choux pastries filled with mango, and mini lemon yuzu meringue tarts.
For more information, visit sofitel-dubai-theobelisk.com