Dean & DeLuca keeps it fresh at new branch
Gourmet New York grocer and eatery Dean & DeLuca has just launched its new Dubai location at Mall of the Emirates, and the global company’s history of sophistication is apparent the moment you step through the doors. The decor is light and minimalistic, with abundant sunlight streaming through the windows onto images of the iconic New York skyline and the open kitchen — the ideal spot for a breezy afternoon brunch. Diners can witness their meals being prepared in real time, with each section of the kitchen having its own speciality chef in charge, from pizza to salad to the wood fire grill.
Dean & DeLuca’s food philosophy is all about using the freshest of gourmet ingredients, and the menu is a diverse one, calling on its ItalianAmerican origins while also letting the flavours of the local UAE region shine. Starters include a classic Caesar salad with crisp lettuce and a wonderfully tangy in-house Caesar dressing, and expertly-crafted handcut fries that are the perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. A definite point of interest are the shawarma sliders and tacos, an example of Dean & DeLuca fusing different food traditions for a unique, creative dining experience. The flavour profile of the shawarma is moreish and comforting, and there’s something satisfying about the Western twist on the well-loved dish. As far as mains go, the truffle macaroni and cheese is a classic dish elevated to its very best — perfectly cooked pasta in a rich white cheddar and truffle sauce, the topping of breadcrumbs providing that essential difference of texture. The wood-fired baked prawns are an absolute delight, with tender prawns, potato, tomato and okra, all in an exquisitely smoky, lemon-lashed sauce that serves as the perfect spike of subtle acidity against the seafood.
Beverages include freshly squeezed juice, or those seeking more adventure can opt for a fruit cocktail like the Bora Bora, a blend of tropical flavours like pineapple, lemonade and grenadine (it tastes like a holiday). Dessert presents a range of classics — the pecan pie offers a perfect buttery crust, but it’s difficult to go past the New York baked cheesecake, with its tart raspberry filling, making the quintessential Dean & DeLuca dessert. —Melissa Majdandzic is an intern at tabloid!
Our ratings: Price for two: We recommend:
DRINKS AND DESSERT
Dh100 to Dh150 Shawarma sliders, truffle macaroni and cheese, New York Baked Cheesecake Timings: 9am-12am, Saturday to Sunday; Call: 04-4190830 Where: Mall of the Emirates, Expansion Level 2 (next to Vox)
4/5;