ICONIQUE gets a glimpse of how Amelia is breaking every traditional rule of fine-dining
If you’ve ever been to Beirut’s iconic nightlife hub Mar Mikhael, you’ve already got a taste of Amelia’s vibrant ambience and historic inspiration. The restaurant marries mixology, gastronomy and music in the most artistic of ways – its journey began when a 500-year-old historical building was renovated into a refined lounge restaurant in Lebanon.
Located next to Downtown Dubai’s Address Sky View and steering away from traditional fine-dining, the standalone venue’s striking design and dimly lit interiors are a nod to the groundbreaking Moderne Art Deco era that embodied the bright spirit of the 1930s, celebrating visually powerful aesthetics.
The destination’s retrofuturistic, steampunk-inspired theme is a real eye-catcher, making it truly stand out amongst Dubai’s competitive dining and design landscape.
“We established this brand in Beirut to heighten the boundaries of fine dining in the Middle East,” says Rayan Nicolas, Founder of Amelia Dubai. “Our dream of expansion has finally touched down in the vibrant area of Downtown Dubai. Following two years of meticulous work, we are excited to share this new chapter in our story and offer only the best of experiences to our guests. We eagerly await your arrival and exploration of the unrivaled ambience and culinary experience that Amelia has to offer.”
The menu, born of Japanese and Peruvian origins, comprises a fine blend of Nikkei cuisine with Mediterranean hints, complete with multicultural flavours that express diversity. We started with the guacamole served with plantain chips, followed by the exquisite wagyu bao (made with caramalised onions, baby rocca, fontina cheese and truffle cream).
The highlight was the main course – Hokkaido wagyu served on a Himalayan rock of salt and cooked on the table to our liking; every bite was bursting with flavour. For the sweetest ending, opt for the Pelota de Chocolat – an explosion of chocolate served with vanilla ice cream to perfectly complement the dessert. The night isn’t over after the last course – head upstairs to Amelia’s speakeasy Voyage for an unforgettable club experience.
The music, culinary mastery and mesmerising design promise a night of glamour and authenticity; Amelia is a true tour de force in the global dining scene. amelialounge.com
