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A symbol of modernity and an impressive architectural project, Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah, a manmade island constructed to look like a flourishing palm tree when viewed from above, has become home to some of the most extravagant and luxurious hotels in the region and none more so than the Emerald Palace Kempinski.
Situated on the West Crescent, the five-star property rises out of the ocean waves and has become a landmark in its own right. Flanked by the Arabian Gulf on one side and the glittering Dubai skyline on the other, the majestic five-star property, affectionately referred to as ‘Dubai’s Palace by the sea’ is set within 100,000 square meters of manicured gardens, creating quite the first impression.
Welcomed into a grand dome supported by eight pillars of Portuguese pink marble, the neoclassical architecture and design elements replicate the palaces of 18th century continental Europe. The palatial welcome is further enhanced by hand-painted 24-carat gold leaf detailing and a grand chandelier weighing in at 850kg and adorned with 40,000 Swarovski crystals.
A sense of regality prevails throughout the extensive property which is home to a 500m private beach and 391 luxurious rooms, suites and villas. Invited for a culinary weekend stay, we’re delighted by our deluxe room with ocean view. Clocking in at 75 square meters, the rooms makes for one of the largest lead-in room categories on the Palm. Truly palatial in design and with no expense spared when it comes to comfort and luxury, the space is beautifully decorated in tones of platinum and offers unrivalled views across the ocean from a small private balcony that comes alive during sunset hours.
Comfortably appointed with a large king sized bed, an abundance of textiles and plush carpeting, these deluxe rooms have evidently been designed with ease in mind and feature a number of modern touches such as, flat screen televisions, connectivity hubs and a large in-room safe (that can easily fit your laptop). Deluxe rooms also contain a small lounge area with a writing desk, a polished marble bathroom with deep tub, separate shower and walk-in closet. Kempinski are a brand renowned for European luxury and strong service and these rooms make space and comfort a priority, plus the 24-hour butler service is truly appreciated.
A small kids club, outdoor playground and large lagoon style pool, complete with in-water loungers and a number of jacuzzis and fountains makes the Emerald Palace an excellent choice for families. Watersports are also available as is an 18-hole putting green and private cinema.
For those in search of wellness and rejuvenation, the 3,000 square meter Cinq Mondes Spa reveals an urban sanctuary, complete with a staggering 23 treatment rooms and Dubai’s largest indoor swimming pool. While a state of the art 24-hour fitness center offers guests Technogym equipment and the services of a personal trainer.
When it comes to dining, guests at the Emerald Palace are spoilt for choice with 8 bold and distinct concepts available on site. Blüthner Hall just off the lobby offers a carefully crafted High Tea Collection presenting five distinct experiences inspired by iconic 18th century classical composers. miX by Alain Ducasse is located on the Palace rooftop and represents the first restaurant of the three Michelin-Starred Chef in the United Arab Emirates. Pan-Asian steakhouse Matagi offers up a range of Asian dishes in a lively yet intimate setting, Villamore (reviewed in the last issue of Dining & Nightlife Middle East) provides Mediterranean beach front vibes. There’s also Sablanc beach bar, Le Jardin for a European inspired all-day dining experience and Skorpeus the hotels new nightclub.
Yet it’s the classy All’onda that brought team of Dining & Nightlife to the Palm for a culinary weekend escape. For the Italian restaurant perched on the upper levels of the Emerald Palace has recently launched a Saturday afternoon cookery classes. These master classes which take place each week between 1.00pm and 4.00pm under the tutelage of All’onda’s charismatic head Chef Ibraheem Musleh aim to take guests on a culinary adventure.
During the three-hour class (plus time at the end for eating your creations) we learnt not only how to create the dishes but also the history behind them, how to select the best ingredients and even some innovative culinary techniques. From the secret flavors used in All’onda’s signature Beef Tartare, through to how to construct the perfect Green Tea Tiramisu. Our favorite part however was learning to make pasta from scratch, although it’s a far more difficult process than it appears. The class was educational, yet the fun nature of the class makes it so easy to recommend.
Switching themes each week these classes cover everything from Venetian cuisine through to beverage making classes. The intimate restaurant with its sleek bar area and panoramic terraces makes for one of the more impressive restaurant locations in a city where we are spoilt for choice when it comes to views.
One thing for sure, we will be recreating some of All’onda’s signature dishes at home, effortlessly blending together the cuisines of both Italy and Japan for our next dinner party.
Emerald Palace Kempinski Dubai, +971 4 248 8888
