Dubai: 50% discount on fine dining as food festival returns

Dubai - This year's Dubai Food Festival will run from March 25 to April 17.

Dubai’s annual food festival is set to return next week, with exciting gastronomic experiences lined up — from 50 per cent discounts on lunch or dinner at fine-dining restaurants to desert dining and foodcations.

This year’s Dubai Food Festival (DFF) will run for 24 days, from March 25 to April 17. There will be four highlights in focus: rich culinary diversity, authentic and homegrown cuisine, unique restaurant experiences, and exceptional value for money, event organiser Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) announced on Monday.

Watch: Inside the home of Afghan food delights in Dubai

All DFF dining experiences, events and activations will follow safety protocols and social distancing guidelines.

“Dubai Food Festival is a powerful platform for showcasing Dubai’s culinary talent and demonstrates the city’s food capabilities, placing Dubai firmly on the international stage as a gastronomy leader,” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE.

Residents and visitors can expect the return of the Etisalat Beach Canteen in the fourth quarter of the year, with food trucks, pop-up shops and family-friendly food events.

Mark your calendar

>> Dubai Restaurant Week (March 25 – April 10)

During Dubai Restaurant Week (DRW), outlets are offering specially curated three-course dinner or two-course lunch menus at a discount of at least 50 per cent for dine-ins. This year, the participating diners are COYA, Bread Street Kitchen, Hakkasan, Toro Toro, Nobu, Torno Subito, Buddha Bar, Chicago Meatpackers, Hotel Cartagena, Indya by Vineet, Rockfish, Rhodes W1 and Seafire.

>> Hidden Gems (March 25– April 10)

DFF plans to release a list of 32 of the best Hidden Gems in the city. From Emirati and Indian to American and Lebanese, the variety of cuisine will provide more than food for thought.

>> Foodcations (March 25– April 17)

Take your staycation to the next level by indulging in food and a stay. Participating hotels include The Meydan Hotel, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Armani Hotel Dubai, Grand Hyatt Dubai, and more.

>> Dine and Win (March 25– April 17)

Spend Dh50 at up to 2,800 participating outlets between March 25 and April 27 and get the chance to win a three-month Zomato Pro membership and the grand prize, a GAC GS3 SUV. The winner will be announced on the April 17.

>> Home Edition (March 25– April 17)

Shoppers in the city have the chance to win a years’ worth of groceries at selected hypermarkets including Waitrose, Spinneys and Lulu-Hypermarket when they spend Dh250 or more. Winners will be chosen and announced in a raffle draw on April 17.

>> Foodie Experiences (March 25– April 10)

With more than 20 gourmet experiences to choose from, residents and visitors are sure to enjoy unique experiences like dining in the desert with Platinum Heritage or being part of BOCA’s Chef Table that includes a Spanish-influenced tasting menu, as well as BOCA’s Paella Masterclass.

>> Mall Events and Citywide Attractions (March 25–April 10)

Malls and attractions around the city will be offering exclusive dining deals, experiences, and fun for the whole family. Participating outlets include City Walk, Mercato Shopping Mall, The Beach, La Mer, The Pointe and The Dubai Mall.

• Dubai