Since the opening of Grosvenor House’s iconic Tower Two in September, newcomer on Dubai’s social and dining scene Siddharta Lounge by Buddha Bar has been talk of the town. The venue features wondrous and sleek surroundings set in pure tones of white and gold and showcasing startling views of the Dubai skyline views coupled with handsome modern oriental décor. Siddharta Lounge, as the venue’s namesake suggests, is a place meant to awaken the senses and the mind towards momentary bliss through a visually stimulating culinary experience.
The venue offers dishes boasting Asian and Mediterranean influences featuring a colorful menu of dainty plates from the East and the West. As the enrapturing sounds of the DJ’s tunes began to play, my guest and I chose a table on the outdoor terrace by the pool situated with stunning views of the Marina’s evening skyline and beach down below. We were immediately taken with the impressive drinks menu encompassing a range of specialities from the fresh fruit Ryuku cocktail of watermelon juice, cranberry juice, green apple juice with honey to the “Shake Yourself” Martini of cointreau with gin infused tai chili, lemon juice with orange marmalade and even the option to make your own fruit juice or cocktail by selecting specific ingredients. We both opted for a Rich Martini made of cointreau, strawberry puree, kaffir lime with “homemade” spicy raspberry marmalade and enjoyed the instant kick.
Our appetizers included a refreshing salad of spicy crab and green papaya with pineapple dressing and roasted peanuts, a zesty tuna carpaccio of shallots, ponzu and mint sauce and our immediate favorite and certainly one of the most innovative of starters – goat cheese with fresh figs and balsamic and pistachio reduction featuring a creamy, sweet and salty aftertaste evoking Mediterranean summer dishes. Another preferred nibble to start off with was the smoked salmon with crème fraîche, chives and capers – simple yet regally rich.
It’s hard to decipher the mains from the starters given that the menu is divided into food categories rather than the regular three-course meal listing. From the Tapas section try the warm Spanish tortilla with roasted peppers coulis and the vegetable samosa and mint chutney from Crispy and Crunchy. The Mini-Burger section features a variety of tasty burger bites made with Wagyu beef, chicken, crab and chickpeas and tahini all of which come with crispy vegetables and guacamole. The Wagyu beef with orange and soy was an instant hit; its small and dainty size allows for multiple helpings without feelings of overeating and the usual accompanying guilt.
Not to miss out is the stir fry of Spicy Sambal Prawns or the Mixed Fish Satay of prawns, hammour and salmon with peanut sauce. To wrap up the meal, we delighted in a serving of pistachio flavored crème brûlée – wonderfully cripsy on top and delectably creamy inside.
Siddharta Lounge provides an immediate sensory escapade. Immensely tasty and satisfying, the venue’s rich variety of dainty servings offer the perfect option for a low-key meal while indulging on the extensive selection of specialty drinks. A wonderful spot for after-work drinks, a smoke of shisha and casual dining while gazing at the stars.
Siddharta Lounge
Grosvenor House, Tower Two, +971 4317 6000
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