Hospitality

The Secret Ingredient is Teamwork (and a Centralized Kitchen)!

Published

2 years ago

September 23, 2024

Exclusive Interview with Katarina Filipova, Founder, Mondoux UAE

Mondoux is known for its affordable luxury culinary experience. How do you balance affordability with high-quality ingredients?

What helps us achieve this balance is sustainability. We have a centralized kitchen, where all things are delivered, prepared, and packed precisely in one place. In this way, there is no risk of waste. Above all, cook well so that customers like the food and nothing is wasted.

Since opening your first branch in Dubai Creek Harbour, you’ve expanded to Downtown and JBR. What factors do you consider when choosing new locations for Mondoux?

Each of our locations caters to a different type of customer, where some branches serve tourists and others serve residential communities. One of our most pivotal factors when choosing a location is a space where time feels like it passes differently, which is a very challenging task when assembling the experience of Mondoux.

What is your process for developing new dishes and ensuring they meet your brand’s standards?

Quality is paramount. We select the best suppliers and centralize the production of our products, like in our JBR branch, which has a central bakery. Additionally, we are selective with the spices and marinades we use, and we don’t add any onion or garlic because it can overpower the freshness of the natural produce.

Furthermore, our house team across all branches is ingrained with the principle that any dish served must represent essential Mondoux values—fresh flavoUrs, minimalism, and the health-driven focus we live and breathe. For instance, we introduced Central European delicacies like ‘busty’ prepared from scratch using real yeast, a rarity in the market. Similarly, we use organic chocolate to offer patrons a decadent and authentic flavour that is not overly processed.

The work culture in Dubai differs from Slovakia, with a strong emphasis on teamwork. How do you foster this culture within your team?

We highlight our team by showcasing our kitchen and floor staff in engaging videos. This fosters community within our organization and creates a vibrant work culture that resonates with our employees. Likewise, we’ve always tried to be supportive of every family situation. For example, when Chef Luisa was hired, her baby was only four months old, so together, we agreed on a split shift, allowing her to spend more time with her little one.

What is your favorite dish at Mondoux, and why? Is there a special story or inspiration behind it?

My favorite dishes would be desserts like French brioche and homemade cakes. These dishes were a part of the initial menu when we opened 11 years ago and were selected from my cherished home recipes. These specific desserts now continue to serve as the foundation for all our restaurants.

How do you design and maintain an environment that promotes happiness and well-being for your guests?

Design is a hot topic with us at the moment. Our rules have been about using solid wood, warm, inviting materials, and creating a dynamic café and comfortable space.

“For me, happiness lies in having passion and love for what I do. Only through this passion and love can one truly savor the sensual experience of food and drinks. This same passion and love drive me to ensure my customers always remain happy and satisfied.”

Hospitality

A RELAXING POOLSIDE RETREAT AT PALACE DOWNTOWN

Published

1 day ago

March 26, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

Enjoy a relaxing day under the Dubai sun with the Pool Pass at Palace Downtown, available on food and beverages. Perfect for a leisurely daytime escape, the offer allows guests to indulge in refreshing drinks and light bites while unwinding in a serene poolside setting in the heart of Downtown Dubai.

Surrounded by palm trees and the hotel’s elegant Arabian-inspired architecture, the pool at Palace Downtown offers a tranquil oasis with breathtaking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. With its peaceful atmosphere, comfortable loungers, and attentive service, the pool creates the perfect setting for a sun-soaked retreat blending relaxation with refined hospitality.

Date & time: Monday & Sunday | 7am – 7pm
Price: AED 250 (fully redeemable on F&B credit) | Location: Ground Floor, Palace Downtown

Sun-Soaked Poolside Escape at Address Downtown

Enjoy a refreshing day in the heart of the city with the Pool Pass at Address Downtown, available daily at AED 350 per person, fully redeemable on food and beverages. Perfect for a leisurely daytime retreat, the offer allows guests to indulge in poolside dining while relaxing in a sophisticated setting overlooking Downtown Dubai.

Surrounded by elegant design and breathtaking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa skyline, the pool at Address Downtown offers a serene urban oasis. With its tranquil atmosphere, comfortable loungers, and attentive service, it provides the perfect setting to unwind, soak up the sunshine, and experience a relaxed yet refined poolside escape.

Date & time: Monday & Sunday | 7am – 7pm
Price: AED 350 (fully redeemable on F&B credit) | Location: LobbyLevel, Address Downtown

Contemporary Mediterranean Flavours at Solara, Address Dubai Mall

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Downtown Dubai, Solara at Address Dubai Mall invites guests to discover a contemporary Mediterranean dining experience infused with Middle Eastern flair. The stylish restaurant offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere with stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, creating the perfect setting for an elegant evening.

Guests can enjoy a specially curated two-course set menu for AED 199 per person or a three-course set menu, available for dinner from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM. Designed to highlight Solara’s vibrant flavours and refined culinary style, the experience promises a memorable night of exceptional cuisine in one of Downtown Dubai’s most scenic dining destinations.

Experience: The Luncheon

2 course set menu at AED 199 | 3 course set menu at AED 249 | Timing: From 6:30 PM – 11:30 PM | Location: Solara, Address Dubai Mall

Discover a Renewed Haven of Calm at The Spa at Address Dubai Mall

The Spa at Address Dubai Mall unveils a refined wellness experience designed to restore balance and elevate relaxation. Nestled within the iconic hotel, the serene setting enhanced by soft lighting, soothing textures, and graceful interiors offers a peaceful retreat from the energy of the city, inviting guests to unwind and reconnect in a tranquil atmosphere.

Guests can indulge in expertly delivered treatments tailored for deep rejuvenation, including the Signature Wellness Rebalance Massage, a 60-minute experience available at AED 450. Thoughtfully designed to restore harmony, the treatment provides the perfect opportunity to pause, recharge, and embrace a moment of calm within one of Downtown Dubai’s most elegant wellness destinations

Experience: 60-Minute selected Spa Treatment

Price: AED 450 | Timing: From 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Location: The Spa, Address Dubai Mall

Cool Off in Style with Pool Access & Dining Credit at Address Dubai Mall

Immerse yourself in pure indulgence at Address Dubai Mall’s breathtaking infinity pool, where shimmering waters meet the glamour of Downtown Dubai. Bask in the golden sun as you take in the spellbinding views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, creating picture-perfect moments of serenity and sophistication. Enhance your experience with an exclusive pool access pass that comes with a delightful dining credit to tantalize your taste buds.

Relax in the comfort of elegant poolside lounges, sip on refreshing beverages, and savor gourmet delights while basking in the most coveted views in the city. Float effortlessly in the infinity waters or unwind in breezy, sun-kissed lounges, where every moment is a scene of pure bliss waiting to be savored. No reservations required; simply stroll in and surrender to luxury. Pool access passes are available at the Pool Counter on Level 12.

Date & time: Daily | 10am – 7pm | Price: All 7 Days of the week- AED 200, fully redeemable on F&B credit | Location: Level 12, Address Dubai Mall

Hospitality

A SUNDAY BRUNCH FOR KIDS: BAMBINI BRUNCH AT FALCONE

Published

1 day ago

March 26, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

FALCONE invites Dubai families to join with their little ones for a special kids’ brunch afternoon 1pm – 4pm at FALCONE: “Bambini Brunch”. An afternoon dedicated for kids to have fun away in the heart of Italian cuisine featuring children’s all-time favourite: pizza.

Now that Dubai kids are studying from home due to the current challenging situation, they are more than ever spending time on screens. Bambini Brunch is the perfect weekend activity for kids to get them off screens and engage in fun, hands-on interactive activities that stimulate their creativity while they’re making unforgettable memories.

Activities include a pizza masterclass for kids (that adults would love too), showcasing the original Neapolitan pizza recipe and techniques, as taught by FALCONE’s world-ranked pizza chef, Chef Roberta, the talent behind FALCONE’s pizza that was named Dubai’s Best Pizza, Highly Commended for Best Pizzeria at the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2026. Kids will get to learn directly from the chefs and make their own pizzas.

In addition to the pizza masterclass, children can enjoy DIY kids’ stations, all set within a lively and engaging atmosphere, with their favourite tunes playing throughout the afternoon.

While their kids are enjoying the kids’ activities, parents can relax and enjoy FALCONE’s comforting Italian favourites.

Bambini Brunch is happening this Sunday 29 March, 1pm – 4pm. All ages are welcome.

Details:

Where: FALCONE, Galleria Mall, Ground Floor, Al Barsha, Dubai
When: Sunday 29 March, 1pm – 4pm
Offer: Bambini brunch for kids featuring:
- Pizza masterclass for kids
- Magician show
- DIY kids’ stations
- Balloon bending

Hospitality

WELLBEINGS HOLISTIC HEALING AT EDITION DUBAI PRESENTS A “WELLNESS ESCAPE”

Published

1 day ago

March 26, 2026

Integrator Web-Admin

In a moment where the world calls for greater stillness and intention, Wellbeings Holistic Healing at Edition Dubai introduces Wellness Escape, an elevated experience designed to restore balance through refined simplicity and thoughtful care.

Set against the iconic backdrop of Burj Khalifa, this exclusive offering by Wellbeings Holistic Healing invites guests into a serene sanctuary where time slows and wellbeing takes precedence. The experience includes pool access with sweeping skyline views, a 90-minute signature massage or rejuvenating facial, an oxygen therapy session designed to refresh and restore, AED 150 redeemable on food and beverage, and full access to the spa’s sauna and steam facilities, each element curated to deliver a seamless sense of indulgence and calm.

Rooted in a philosophy that blends holistic therapies with contemporary luxury, Wellbeings Holistic Healing continues to define elevated wellness experiences, creating spaces that nurture both body and mind in an atmosphere of quiet sophistication.

Christian Kiefer, CEO and Founder of Spa Wellness Project Management, commented: “In times of uncertainty, true luxury lies in the ability to pause, recalibrate, and reconnect. Wellness today is about creating meaningful moments of restoration that resonate long after the experience itself.”

The Wellness Escape presents a refined expression of modern wellbeing for those seeking both escape and renewal in the heart of Dubai.