Hospitality

We Are the Balance Between Professionalism and Comfort

Published

11 months ago

January 6, 2025

In an exclusive interview with Giacomo Puntel, General Manager of voco Bonnington JLT, he shares his vision of blending professionalism and comfort to redefine corporate hospitality and elevate guest experiences in Dubai.

In your new role, what leadership values and experiences do you aim to bring to voco Bonnington JLT to elevate its reputation as a leading corporate hotel?

In my role at voco Bonnington JLT, I aim to bring a leadership approach centered on collaboration and service excellence. Understanding the unique needs of corporate travelers and exceeding their expectations will remain at the heart of everything we do.

voco Bonnington JLT has a distinctive style and identity. How do you see its design and ethos enhancing the overall guest experience, particularly for business travelers?

The versatile meeting and event spaces, equipped with state-of-the-art technology, provide the perfect setting for corporate engagements. Meanwhile, the well-appointed rooms and communal areas foster an atmosphere where guests can unwind and recharge, ensuring a balanced experience. The combination of style, functionality, and care creates a standout experience that supports both professional and personal well-being.

As a corporate hotel, voco Bonnington JLT embodies a balance of professionalism and comfort. How do you define this approach, and how do you ensure it resonates with business and leisure guests alike?

For business travelers, this means providing efficient service, modern facilities, and amenities designed to support productivity, such as high-speed Wi-Fi, well-equipped meeting spaces, and a strategic location in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, close to major business hubs.

For leisure guests, we focus on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, offering unique touches like comfortable rooms, personalized service, and access to leisure facilities. We emphasize a relaxed yet vibrant experience that reflects the voco brand’s hallmark charm.

With its diverse room offerings, how does voco Bonnington JLT cater to the unique needs of corporate travelers while maintaining a sense of premium hospitality?

We recognize that corporate travelers have specific needs, and we’ve designed our diverse room offerings to provide a balance of practicality and premium hospitality. Our rooms are thoughtfully equipped with amenities tailored to business guests, such as spacious work desks, high-speed Wi-Fi and easily accessible charging points, allowing them to work seamlessly from the comfort of their room. Corporate needs vary, which is why we offer a range of room types to suit different requirements. For instance, our standard rooms cater to solo travelers looking for efficiency and comfort, while our suites provide more expansive spaces, ideal for longer stays or informal meetings.

How do the hotel’s amenities, like the rooftop pool, signature dining, and meeting spaces, enhance the guest experience and attract business events?

Our array of amenities, including a rooftop pool, signature dining experiences, and state-of-the-art meeting rooms, elevates the guest experience and positions the hotel as an ideal choice for business and corporate events. The rooftop pool and fitness center provide guests with a chance to unwind after a busy day, while our diverse dining options offer both casual and fine dining settings perfect for networking or relaxation. Our versatile meeting and event spaces, equipped with cutting-edge technology and dedicated event support, ensure that corporate functions run seamlessly.

How will you leverage voco Bonnington JLT’s prime location in Jumeirah Lakes Towers to create memorable experiences for corporate and leisure travelers?

Situated in the heart of Jumeirah Lakes Towers, voco Bonnington JLT capitalizes on its prime location to offer a unique and dynamic experience for both corporate and leisure guests. the surrounding area offers an array of dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions that can be explored through personalized recommendations and curated experiences..

What are your key priorities for voco Bonnington JLT, and how do you see its role in Dubai’s competitive hospitality market?

As the General Manager of voco Bonnington JLT, my key priorities for the coming year are centered around enhancing the guest experience, expanding our market presence, and driving operational excellence. I envision voco Bonnington JLT playing a key role in Dubai’s competitive corporate and hospitality market by capitalizing on our strategic location in Jumeirah Lakes Towers. We will continue to attract business travelers through bespoke offerings tailored to their needs, including enhanced meeting solutions and proximity to key business hubs. Simultaneously, we aim to be a preferred choice for leisure guests by offering distinctive, immersive experiences that highlight the best of Dubai’s vibrant lifestyle.

Hospitality

INDIKAYA INTRODUCES A NATIONAL DAY MENU ROOTED IN HERITAGE AND CRAFTED WITH QUIET AMBITION

Published

13 hours ago

November 20, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

A close-up shot of a creamy dessert in a stemmed glass, topped with fruit on a skewer, next to a small UAE flag

In honour of the UAE’s 54th National Day, INDIKAYA presents a one day dining experience that reflects the nation’s spirit of unity through refined Indian flavours. On Monday, December 2nd, guests are invited to savour a special Eid Al Etihad multi course menu shaped by craftsmanship, balance, and cultural depth. In recognition of the 54 years of the Union, the experience valued at AED 350 will be offered at an exclusive AED 160 per person, a generous fifty four percent tribute to the occasion.

Rather than celebrating with grandeur, INDIKAYA embraces the day with sincerity. “National Day brings together everyone who calls the UAE home,” said Chef Hemant, Indikaya. “Our intention is simple. We honour the day through thoughtful dishes that respect where we come from and reflect who we are today.”

The Eid Al Etihad menu is composed as a gentle progression of flavours. The experience begins with an Amuse Bouche that introduces the meal’s sensorial rhythm. Guests can then choose from two vegetarian appetisers, the Jaitooni Malai Paneer Tikka with its velvety marinade or the Subz Shikampuri Kebab shaped by centuries old culinary practice. Non vegetarian selections include the Malabari Fish Tikka inspired by coastal seasoning traditions, or the Kesari Murgh Ki Chaap, a saffron guided preparation known for its depth and aroma.

The main course highlights dishes that balance richness with restraint. Vegetarian guests may enjoy the Khumbh Makhane Ka Salan, a harmony of mushrooms and fox nuts in a layered gravy, or the Paneer Methi Ki Bhurji where the creaminess of paneer meets the gentle bitterness of fenugreek. Non vegetarian options include Kandhari Murgh, known for its delicate acidity, and Lagan Ka Ghost, a slow cooked lamb dish that showcases the patience and precision of Indian culinary artistry. Each main course is complemented with Dal Makhani, Minted Kabuli Pulao, and Assorted Indian Breads.

The experience concludes with two timeless desserts. Berry Phirni offers a cool and creamy finale with soft fruit notes, while Malai Kulfi delivers a dense, nostalgic sweetness. Both desserts close the menu on a composed and celebratory note.

With limited availability, this National Day menu invites guests to share a moment that feels both intimate and festive. Early reservations are strongly encouraged.

About INDIKAYA
INDIKAYA is a refined, modern expression of Indian cuisine. Rooted in heritage and shaped with restraint, the restaurant offers a sensorial journey curated by Chef Hemant Oberoi. Located on Level 2 of the Shangri La Dubai Hotel, INDIKAYA brings together bold flavour, understated elegance, and cultural depth in every plate. “Every Bite Tells a Story”

Hospitality

KONJIKI HOTOTOGISU LAUNCHES WEEKEND BREAKFAST ON PALM JUMEIRAH

Published

14 hours ago

November 20, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

A wooden tray holding a selection of Japanese-inspired breakfast items, including avocado toast, a side salad, yogurt with granola and fruit, pancakes, and a cup of tea

Konjiki Hototogisu, Dubai’s Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024 & 2025 Japanese restaurant, is giving early risers a reason to set their alarms. Best known for its award-winning ramen, the Tokyo-born brand is expanding beyond its lunch and dinner repertoire with the launch of a Breakfast Menu. Served exclusively at its newly opened Palm Jumeirah Mall branch, the menu will be available from 21^st November.

Slightly more relaxed in spirit than its Tokyo original, but with the same commitment to craft, balance and flavour, the new Palm Jumeirah location has quickly gained a loyal following for its shoyu ramen, gyoza, tempura and kushiyaki plates enjoyed at the counter. Now, the restaurant brings its Japanese culinary sensibility to the morning table with a concept designed for both fans and families alike.

The breakfast experience remains refined, thoughtful and unmistakably Konjiki: Japanese-inspired comfort, fresh produce and precise flavours, all served in a casual, weekend-friendly setting.

Available every Friday to Sunday (walk-ins only), 8:30am to 11:30am, the menu features two breakfast formats:

Breakfast mains

A line-up of morning favourites with a Konjiki twist, including Sourdough Burrata, Hummus Beetroot Sourdough, Corn Fritters with Poached Egg, Crispy Eggs Croissant, Chicken Katsu Sando, Smoked Salmon Toast and Grilled Beef Bacon Toast.

Build-your-own Breakfast Bento tray

A fresh take on the traditional Japanese bento, allowing guests to customise one main, one salad, one soup and one side. Options include Wakame Salad, Kenchin-Jiru Soup, Fruits & Granola and more. Each bento includes eggs cooked to preference and a cup of green tea, with speciality coffee available on request. Guests can also choose between one soup and pancakes to complete their meal.

Designed with families in mind, the new Palm Jumeirah space is the first Konjiki outlet in the UAE to introduce a family-focused dining experience, complete with a dedicated kids’ menu and a specially curated soft-play garden for children aged three years and above.

Hospitality

ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS LUNCH WITH ROHINI AT MÖVENPICK JLT

Published

21 hours ago

November 20, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Rohini restaurant interior at Mövenpick JLT featuring colorful seating, Indian artwork, decorative tree, and modern dining ambiance

Rohini at Mövenpick JLT has unveiled a weekday Business Lunch bringing fresh Indian flavours to midday dining. With a two-course menu for AED 80 and a three-course menu for AED 95, both inclusive of soft drinks or water, the offering delivers great flavour and value in one easy decision. Served Monday to Friday from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm, it’s a great-value option for a more enjoyable midday break.

Rohini aims to keep the experience simple and pleasant. Guests can choose from a lineup of Indian starters, mains, and desserts that pair familiar comfort with a modern touch. Each dish is designed to be balanced and enjoyable without slowing down the rest of the day, making it ideal for quick catch-ups, team lunches, or a quiet moment away from the desk. Rohini’s warm, comfortable setting adds to the appeal. Service stays efficient, and the overall atmosphere keeps the focus on good food and a smooth midday pause.

What to Expect:
● A curated 2 or 3 course Indian Business Lunch with soft drinks or water
● Starters, mains, and desserts featuring clean, flavour-forward Indian dishes
● Balanced portions suited for workday dining
● A relaxed, welcoming space ideal for meetings and weekday breaks
Rohini’s Business Lunch offers great value, steady flavour, and a comfortable setting, making it an easy choice for anyone craving Indian food in the JLT area. It is straightforward, satisfying, and designed to brighten up the middle of a busy day.

Business Lunch Details:
● Monday to Friday | 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm
● AED 80 for 2 courses, AED 95 for 3 courses (with soft drinks or water)