#GastrologyInDubai - Asian Inspired World Cuisine @ China Grill

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of China Grill Dubai.

It's a Friday night and China Grill is bustling. While most are toasting to the end of another working week, the work is just beginning for the China Grill team.

Waiters and waitresses, elegantly dressed in black, waft around the moodily lit dining area delivering seamless service.

Executive Chef Owen Stewert is serving up a lesson in gastronomic diversity, showcasing a range of Asian inspired cuisine. 

Housed within The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, China Grill immediately transports you to a world of old school luxury, combined with a dash of the ultra-modern.

The moody colour scheme and lighting create an ambience of subdued elegance, accented by lanterns that gracefully fall from the ceiling of the dining room. 

Dim sum

China Grill delivers a modern twist on dumplings. Each dumpling we tried was delicious. The velvety dumpling pastry was beautiful in texture and the accompanying sea of dipping sauces were each pleasantly appetising. Bursting with flavour, exquisite balance and complexity, these dumplings are a must-have.

Barbecued pulled lamb steamed bun

The lamb buns were an absolute winner. The fluffy, moist and slightly sweet buns were filled with wonderful slow roasted lamb. Having truly mastered the art roasting, the lamb was tender, juicy and packed with flavour.

Black tea smoked cod, Thai basil & pomelo salad

The cod was cooked to perfection, retaining its characteristic delicate but firm texture, the sweet flesh was a delight. 

Kalbi spiced bbq short ribs, kimchi pickled jalapeño chilies

The braised beef short ribs were tender and delicious, with caramel undertones courtesy of being slow-braised in kalbi. Paired with an earthy Asian braising sauce, the ribs fell away at the weight of our spoons whilst still retaining their integrity. The pickled jalapeño chilies and tangy kimchi were the perfect accompaniment. It was a magnificent dish.

Bananas in a box 

An exemplary display of China Grill’s versatility, the desserts are also highly recommended. A theatrical “Bananas in a box” dessert concluded our evening on a decadent chocolate note. 

One of the hottest restaurants in Dubai, China Grill delivers excellent, unique Asian Inspired World Cuisine in a wonderfully understated, elegant setting. It provides a perfect backdrop to meet with friends over a cocktail (or three) and treat yourself to some of the good things in life.

Location: The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Al Sufouh Road, Jumeirah Beach

Phone: +971 (4) 511 7333

Link: http://www.chinagrilldubai.com/

Cuisine: Modern Asian

#GastrologyInDubai - Italian fine dining with views @ Bussola

Gastrology bloggers dined courtesy of Bussola.

Highly acclaimed Bussola offers one of the best Italian culinary experiences in Dubai, and has been certified by the Italian Cuisine Academy.

The double decked layout offers diners the chance to savour a more fine dining ambience downstairs, while the open exterior of the upper level pizzeria provides a relaxed and casual family atmosphere.

We were spoilt with a decadent Italian fare with breathtaking sea views at the fine dining arm of Bussola. A warm, minimalist atmosphere greeted us where an elegant and subdued indoor ambience is complemented by refreshing candlelit patio seating next to the pools.

The kitchen serves delicious Italian cuisine which centres on the preparations of authentic Italian dishes paired with fresh ingredients.

Squid ink spaghetti

A lovely dish that was highlighted by the al dente tagliolini which captivated with its delightful salinity courtesy of being made with squid ink. The accompanying morsels of Canadian lobster were very tender and beautifully flavoured.

Canadian lobster 

The lobster was stunning and cooked to perfection. The lemon beurre blanc with confit garlic accompanied the sweet lobster perfectly resulting in a dish that was flavoursome, rich and complex.

Baked turbot with potato, white onions, green olives, white wine and tomato wedges

The quality of the turbot was exemplary. The skin of the fish was perfectly crisp while the flesh was delicate and moist. It was a dish that allowed the natural subtle sweetness of the fish to be enjoyed. 

Sicilian Flavours

Pleasing to both the eyes and palate, this dessert of frozen cassata with ricotta and candid fruits cannoli, orange pudding, fresh almond jelly was simply outstanding. The mellow, milkiness of the cassata paired exceptionally well with the subtle infusion of ricotta and candied fruits from the cannoli. Eaten together with the fresh almond and jelly, this dessert was the most balanced of flavour explosions.

Bussola serves cooking that comes from the heart, infused with fresh ingredients, traditional flavours and innovative preparations; blending contemporary Italian style with classic Italian influence.

Location: Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Jumeirah, Dubai

Phone: +971 (4) 511 7136

Link: http://www.bussoladubai.com/

Cuisine: Italian