Restaurant Al Mahara, meaning ‘Oyster Shell’ is housed inside the ultra-luxurious Hotel Burj Al Arab. The Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is one of the most iconic hotels in the world. The 321 m high building, constructed 20 years ago, is an architectural marvel that has put Dubai on the world map. The all-suite hotel in the shape of a sail ship redefined all levels of luxury throughout the years. The recent upgrades in their gastronomic experiences have led into engaging new top chefs for restaurant Al Muntaha and Al Mahara.

The stunning floor to ceiling aquarium inside the restaurant Al Mahara sets the scene for a culinary experience that will stimulate all your senses. Guests sink into the soft seats for dinner and are fascinated by the world of colourful sea life swimming beside their table. The restaurant boasts one dining room that is built in a circle around the big aquarium. Elegance is key in the interior and the stylish tables in combination with the aquarium give a very special and relaxing atmosphere. Big tables and luxurious chairs offer enough space and comfort to enjoy the unique culinary episode.

The Al Mahara kitchen is home to Executive Chef Kim Joinié -Maurin. He is in charge of the kitchen of seafood-oriented Al Mahara restaurant and transformed the menu to what it is today. He is a protégé of the famed Joël Robuchon’s school of excellence. Robuchon who had the highest number of Michelin stars attached to his signature restaurants at 32! Chef Kim Joinié-Maurin, French citizen with South Korean parentage, has an extended culinary background from working in Paris and Monaco, after which he spent 12 years at two of Robuchon’s top restaurants. First in Las Vegas, then in Singapore, where he was appointed Chef de cuisine at the age of 35. He refined his skills and cemented his reputation by adding unique touches to his dishes. With a main focus on the produce and quality of the ingredients the chef pays attention to all details and focuses on techniques and seasoning.

The chef creates dishes that complement the experience at Al Mahara and the menu offers a wide range of seafood possibilities. As choice a Chef’s Menu in five or seven courses with wine pairing or premium wine pairing. The à la carte options include a caviar & oyster selection and a seafood tower with lobster, langoustines, Hokkaido scallops, king crab, tiger prawns and Loch Fyne Oysters. As a signature dish, the chef serves a king crab salad with green herbs in a daikon ravioli with honey & sherry vinaigrette. Sea Bass is served with artichoke barigoule and a vongole emulsion while wild turbot on the robata grill comes with green asparagus, snow peas and a lemon beurre blanc sauce. To complement the seafood choices one can also opt for the Wagyu striploin with grilled vegetables and a Mantova sauce.

Restaurant Al Mahara is a destination restaurant in the bustling city of Dubai. It is a truly exceptional restaurant in the stylish setting next to a huge aquarium. The recent changes with the appointment of chef Kim Joinié-Maurin and the focus on only the best and freshest produce, offer you a memorable dining experience. Get ready for intimate fine dining in a unique setting!

Gastronomy

The Chef : Kim Joiné-maurin

Interior

Exterior

Written by Frank & Veerle