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Happy employees translate to happy customers

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Exclusive interview with Yunib Siddiqui, Group CEO and proprietor of Jones the Grocer

Congratulations on the Heathrow opening, how does this milestone impact your business, and what can travelers expect at this new location?

Thank you! The opening of Jones the Grocer at Heathrow is a significant milestone because it is our first store in Europe. It certainly demonstrates that our wonderful brand, in its various formats, can successfully scale alongside entrenched players in the West.  At over 550sqm, this is our largest full-service restaurant at an airport and features an open kitchen with a live grill, a traditional pizza oven and a stylish bar serving fine wines and cocktails. Many dishes, familiar and loved by our customers in the Middle East, are served at London Heathrow. For those on the go there is also a ‘grab and go’ with freshly made pastries, sandwiches, toasties, salads, wraps, and a selection of beverages and exceptional coffee. This dual offering ensures a gourmet experience for every traveler, whether they have time to sit and dine or need something quick and delicious before they fly away.

Can you share some key insights into your global franchising strategy and the challenges and opportunities you’ve encountered along the way?

The first and most important thing is to work with a partner who is a) passionate about food and b) consistently wants to deliver the most memorable experience. These two points underpin our strategy. Concurrently we look at financial capacity, access to locations and a strong team which can operate our franchise system. In my experience everything must work in tandem to deliver mutual success. Our biggest challenge is always the supply chain. We need to make sure every ingredient we specify is available and if not, then test recipes with substitute ingredients to ensure consistency. In terms of opportunities – well, there are so many given we’ve only just begun to venture outside the Middle East!

What innovative concepts and strategies have you implemented at Jones the Grocer that have helped propel the brand to new heights in the culinary world?

We’ve introduced several concepts that set us apart. The first one is this idea that a gourmet grocery can be successfully and meaningfully combined with casual dining. Then we took this one step further by designing our stores where food is theater. Whether it’s a walk-in cheese room, someone slicing meats, a barista pouring a flat white, a chef cooking on an open flame, it’s all open and visible to the customer. Many of our stores are designed to host cooking classes and some even hold live music events. We often use our fabulous retail products as ingredients on our menu, and this is a key objective now and going forward.

We’ve also embraced technology to enhance the customer experience, with initiatives like our online store and loyalty programs. Sustainability is another key focus; we’ve implemented eco-friendly practices across our operations, from sourcing locally produced ingredients to reducing plastic use. These strategies align with our values of quality, community, and sustainability.

From your perspective, what are the latest trends in the gourmet food and beverage sector?

We’re seeing a growing demand for transparency in sourcing and sustainability in the gourmet food and beverage sector. Customers are more conscious about where their food comes from and how it’s produced. There is also a trend towards experiential dining, where the focus is on creating memorable experiences rather than just serving food, which as I mentioned earlier has always been part of the Jones concept.  Additionally, the integration of technology, such as AI and data analytics, is playing a significant role in personalizing customer experiences and optimizing operations. Finally, health and wellness continue to be a major trend, with an increased demand for organic, plant-based, and allergen-free options.

August is the month of happiness, so how does Jones the Grocer create an environment that promotes happiness and satisfaction for its customers and staff?

At Jones the Grocer, we believe happiness comes from a sense of community and belonging. For our customers, we create a welcoming and vibrant atmosphere in our stores, where they can enjoy high-quality food and connect with others. We regularly host events and workshops that bring people together and foster a sense of joy and camaraderie. For our staff, we prioritize a positive and supportive work environment. We invest in their professional growth and well-being, providing opportunities for training, development, and team building. Happy employees translate to happy customers, and that’s a key part of our philosophy.

As someone deeply passionate about gourmet food, how do your personal culinary interests and experiences influence the offerings at Jones the Grocer?

My passion for gourmet food is deeply intertwined with the vision for Jones the Grocer. I often travel to explore food, and am constantly exploring new culinary trends and ingredients, which helps to keep our menu innovative and exciting.  I also enjoy cooking, which gives me a deeper understanding of technique and flavour. I like simple food, nothing too fussy. I like the dish and its ingredients to sing on the plate. This passion is also reflected in our commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients and supporting artisanal producers.

Hospitality

TUMBI HOTEL DUBAI THE PALM, TAPESTRY COLLECTION BY HILTON, MARKS ONE YEAR OF WELLNESS-LED HOSPITALITY

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A modern, sunlit restaurant at TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm featuring elegant pastel-colored chairs, wooden tables, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the waterfront, and a contemporary ceiling design with geometric gold light fixtures and reflective panels.

As TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm, Tapestry Collection by Hilton marks its first anniversary, the milestone reflects a year of steady growth, considered decision-making, and a clear commitment to wellness-led living on Palm West Beach. Since opening, the hotel has established itself as an alcohol-free lifestyle destination that prioritizes balance, flexibility, and meaningful guest experiences.

A Location Designed for Ease

With private beach access, flexible check-in and check-out options, and calm, contemporary interiors, TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm appeals to modern travelers seeking comfort without excess. Thoughtfully designed rooms and shared spaces allow guests to slow down, reset, and experience the city at their own pace.

Wellness at the Heart of the Stay

Wellbeing is central to the TUMBI experience. From restorative treatments at SUKOON Spa and a fully equipped fitness centre to the rooftop infinity pool overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline, we offer spaces designed to support both physical and mental renewal. Our environment encourages a balanced stay, where rest and restoration are part of the guest journey, reflecting a broader shift in traveller priorities towards rest, clarity, and intentional living,” says Babar Khanyari, General Manager of TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

Food That’s Honest, Accessible and Full of Flavour

Food and beverage has been a defining pillar in the hotel’s first year. The dining philosophy centres on flavor, consistency, and accessibility, offering dishes that are satisfying, well-priced, and thoughtfully prepared. This approach is reflected across the hotel’s dining experiences, from the recently relaunched dEATox Café, which champions wellness-forward, nourishing cuisine without compromising on taste, and Afia, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant, serving comforting international favorites alongside wholesome options from breakfast through dinner. Together, the venues reinforce the belief that mindful dining can remain enjoyable, inclusive, and rooted in everyday pleasure rather than restriction.

A People-First Culture

At the heart of TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm’s success is its team and a leadership approach rooted in trust, respect, and shared purpose. The hotel’s culture emphasizes belonging, wellbeing, and growth, recognizing colleagues as custodians of the guest experience rather than simply service providers.

“Hospitality only works when people feel genuinely cared for, both guests and the teams who serve them,” says Babar Khanyari, General Manager of TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. “When colleagues feel supported, heard and proud of where they work, that sense of care naturally carries through to every guest interaction. Our role as leaders is to create clarity, stability and an environment where people can do their best work.”

Recognition and Industry Momentum

Over the past year, TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm has earned multiple industry acknowledgements and award recognitions, reflecting its growing credibility across hospitality and F&B platforms and its resonance with today’s discerning travelers

Looking Ahead

As it enters its second year, TUMBI Hotel Dubai The Palm will further strengthen its wellness-led offering, expanding experiences that support mindful, balanced living. Upcoming initiatives include beachfront yoga sessions on the hotel’s private beach and enhanced wellness-focused meal plans at dEATox Café, designed to complement guests’ health and lifestyle goals. Building on the foundation of its first year, TUMBI remains committed to evolving as a destination centred on wellbeing, ease, and intentional living by the shore.

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Hospitality

GALENTINE’S BREAKFAST CLUB THIS VALENTINE’S

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A table at Grazer Downtown set with a colorful breakfast spread, including pancakes topped with berries, eggs Benedict, scrambled eggs, baked beans, labneh, dips, grilled vegetables, bread, vegetable sticks, and two glasses of fresh juice, photographed through green plants in a bright indoor setting.

This Valentine’s weekend, Grazer Downtown invites friends to gather, graze, and celebrate with the launch of its Galentine’s Breakfast Club, a relaxed and social breakfast experience designed for sharing and savouring the moment.

Available on 14 and 15 February from 8AM to 12PM, the Galentine’s Breakfast Club is priced at AED 79 per person and serves as a generous sharing spread, perfect for long chats, coffee refills, and effortless morning indulgence.

The experience features two beautifully presented sharing boards. The savoury selection includes eggs, avocado, grilled vegetables, freshly baked croissants, sourdough, and a variety of spreads. For those with a sweet tooth, the table is completed with pancakes or waffles, mini pastries, and fresh fruit. Each guest also enjoys a choice of coffee, tea, or juice.

Set in Grazer’s bright and welcoming space, the breakfast is all about easy mornings, colourful plates, and moments worth capturing. With natural daylight, playful pink accents, and flat-lay friendly boards, it is a breakfast designed to be enjoyed both on the table and on camera.

Whether celebrating friendships or simply starting Valentine’s Day on a feel-good note, Grazer Downtown’s Galentine’s Breakfast Club offers a laid back and delicious way to toast to love, laughter, and good food.

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Hospitality

OASIS TERRACE AND GARDEN UNVEILS MEDITERRANEAN LOVERS NIGHT FOR VALENTINE’S DAY

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A bowl of burrata served with sliced cherry tomatoes, red and yellow peppers, and basil, drizzled with green pesto, surrounded by additional dishes including a plate of fresh fruit and a drink on a tiled table at Oasis Terrace and Garden.

This Valentine’s Day, Oasis Terrace and Garden invites couples to step into a romantic Mediterranean escape with the launch of Mediterranean Lovers Night, an intimate set menu dinner served under the stars. 

Available on 14 February from 7:00 PM onwards, the experience is priced at AED 250 per couple and offers a thoughtfully curated Mediterranean inspired menu designed for sharing in a relaxed, poolside setting.

The evening begins with a selection of fresh sharing starters, including vibrant salads and ceviches, followed by a choice of Valentine’s inspired mains such as black cod or the indulgent marry me chicken. To end on a sweet note, couples can enjoy a shared dessert featuring rich chocolate cake or chocolate covered strawberries. The experience also includes two signature mocktails or soft beverages.

Set against candle lit tables, soft lighting, and shimmering pool reflections, Mediterranean Lovers Night delivers a laid back yet romantic atmosphere ideal for couples seeking a memorable Valentine’s dinner without the fuss.

Perfect for a quiet celebration or an effortless date night, Oasis Terrace and Garden offers a charming alternative to traditional Valentine’s Day dining with fresh flavours, generous portions, and a beautiful outdoor setting.

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