Buddha Bar to launch in Dubai

The Grosvenor House West Marina Beach by Le Meridien has signed the rights to the Paris-based Buddha Bar in the UAE, and will open the Dubai concept of the globally-renowned venue in the summer.

Buddha Bar was created by Raymond Visan in Paris. Grosvenor House’s general manager Pam Wilby said, “The two names, Buddha Bar and Grosvenor House, need no introduction, and are two of the most famous brands in the lifestyle and hospitality sector.

“From the moment Grosvenor House Dubai was conceived, we believed it needed an anchor outlet with a name that could stand alongside – and Buddha Bar was the only name we wanted. This really stamps our name on the map.”

The ‘eatertainment’ venue fuses rich décor with Asian fusion-style cuisine. From the striking dragon mosaic at the private entrance to the dramatic staircase leading up to the mezzanine floor, the décor carries the signature of Buddha Bar Paris.

Vaulted ceilings in the main area are complemented by the themed dining areas and bars with features such as a sushi bar, tatami seating and sunken private lounges. A four-metre statue marks the entrance, and the floor-to-ceiling windows and terrace offer clear views of the Dubai Marina.

Executive chef Patrick Lannes said, “The place, name and ambience converge with the essence of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese flavours and seasonal ingredients of Arabia. Our chefs trained at the original Buddha Bar in Paris to infuse the highest standards with their own creative influences from Dubai.”

Buddha Bar will be open for lunch and dinner with an emphasis on the a la carte cuisine served platter style, made for sharing with family and friends, in addition to set menus and business lunches.

There is a dedicated beverage manager, Brett Seychell, to oversee the designer drinks based on fresh flavours and fruit with heavy muddling, with an emphasis on bar-side entertainment. Infused spirits – such as rose petal or caramelised – will be available along with a large selection of French champagne.

Grosvenor House West Marina Beach, Dubai by Le Meridien will have 217 sea-facing rooms, while the 205 apartments will offer marina views, and three of the signature touches will be plasma televisions in all rooms, personalised butler service and 24-hour room service, in addition to the use of beach and pool facilities at the adjacent Le Meridien resort.

The top 11 floors will be dedicated to the Grosvenor Club, premium executive accommodation whose guests will also have access to the 44th floor dedicated lounge that will provide an unrivalled observation deck over Dubai.

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