Simply Abu Dhabi II

Mezlai is the latest restaurant acquisition for the hotel and specialises in a wide variety of the UAE’s most famous local cuisines under the supervision of Head Chef Ali SalemMusbeh Al Badawi. The restaurant offers many traditional dishes alongside some ‘fusion’ options delivering a cosmopolitan spin on local staples with an undeniably appetising outcome – one we were more than happy to sample. The first traditional UAE restaurant Mezlai’s authentic decor and music focus on a local heritage theme to create a gloriously traditional atmosphere with all the lavishness A&J have come to expect of the Emirates Palace. A contemporary and unique interior manages to stay true to the culture it so passionately reflects. After being welcomed with traditional Arabic coffee and dates in the locally themed majlis, the relaxed hospitality meant our evening continued in opulent style. The UAE has a range of magnificent traditional cuisines that are distinct from other countries in the region and Mezlai showcases this wonderful distinction with ease. The food is cooked to reflect the real identity and heritage of the UAE.Combining a cooking style based in tradition but with a modern twist, the Chefs at Mezlai hope to spread the international appeal of traditional Emirati cuisine. From our culinary experience in the restaurant, we believe this will be easily achieved. Having spent a more than pleasant evening appreciating the traditional ingredients we know that the Chefs at Mezlai will appeal to a global clientele without turning their backs on their heritage. We expectantly savoured every mouthful of the authentic Emirati dishes we ordered enjoying excellent ingredients prepared to absolute perfection with the ideal blend of genuine flavours and herbs. Our taste buds were tantalised with a delicious starter of Emirati pan fried fish egg salad with onions, garlic, lemon and local spices. Mezlai specialises in local flavours and our main of Lamb Madfoun didn’t disappoint. The menu also tempted us with regional favourites including the mixed grill with fresh baked bread. The grilled ostrich being taken past us to another table looked spectacular and everywhere we turned diners were tucking in with gusto. It wouldn’t have mattered if A&J had been full after such a delectable meal, the collection of Emirati desserts on offer were simply too attractive to ignore. From the stunning range of truffles and sweets available, we sampled Al-Tubidah, Al-Asedah and Sawaqah – a true taste sensation and a fitting finale to such a mouth watering meal. Discover a distinctive Emirati experience Our evening at Mezlai allowed us not only to try some divine authentic Emirati food, but also to celebrate a imitable nation and A&J would like to thank the passionate Chefs and the friendly waiting staff for serving us with speed and efficiency. It was a pleasure to experience the UAE’s first luxurious restaurant of its kind. Mezlai is open for lunch from 12.30pm until 3pm and dinner is served between 7pm and 11pm. So, for an authentic culinary experience whilst staying at the Emirates Palace, try Mezlai. It won’t disappoint. For further information please visit www.emiratespalace.com or www.simplyabudhabi.com MEZLAI makes its mark 53 SIMPLY ABU DHABI

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