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Authenticity is at the heart of everything I do

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QWERTY Dubai

Exclusive Interview with Chef Thomas Smeeth, Senior Sous Chef, QWERTY

In this exclusive chat, chef shares his journey from family kitchens to Dubai, blending British tradition with authentic, comforting flavors.

You started working in your father’s kitchen at the age of 13. How did those early experiences shape your passion for food and cooking?

Starting young in my father’s kitchen ignited my passion for the culinary world. It wasn’t just about learning to cook—it was about discovering the energy and creativity of kitchen life. Those formative years taught me skills I never had before and instilled a respect for hard work and attention to detail, which continue to drive me today.

What’s your personal twist on classic British dishes that makes them stand out to diners in Dubai?

I like to keep things simple yet impactful. Authenticity is at the heart of everything I do, avoiding overcomplications. My focus is on presenting classic British flavors that stay true to tradition while subtly elevating them to appeal to a diverse audience in Dubai.

You’ve described British food as comfort food. If you had to choose one dish that embodies this sentiment, what would it be?

For me, it has to be apple crumble with custard. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and warming—a dish that feels like a hug on a plate. It takes me back to my roots and resonates with people looking for that same nostalgic comfort.

Menu at QWERTY promises to tantalize taste buds, so what is one of your signature creations?

One of my standout dishes is the tuna steak paired with burnt onion purée and chimichurri. The dish offers a nice contrast of smoky, tangy, and herby flavors with a unique balance that surprises diners and leaves them wanting more.

Dubai is known for its diverse culinary landscape. How do you plan to carve a niche for British flavors in this multicultural city?

By keeping things simple and authentic. My goal is to remind diners of the comforts of British home cooking, whether they’re locals exploring new flavors or expats craving a taste of home. It’s about delivering those familiar tastes with the highest quality ingredients and care.

Does the art of welcoming lie in ambiance creation or human connection?

For me, it’s all about human connection. Ambiance plays a role, but nothing beats being made to feel truly welcome by attentive and genuine staff. It’s that warmth and personal touch that allows guests to relax, unwind, and fully enjoy their experience.

Hospitality

THE BROOKLYN CREAMERY LAUNCHES ITS FIRST SORBET BAR WITH JUST 37 CALORIES – MEET THE MANGO SORBET

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A close-up shot of The Brooklyn Creamery's 37-calorie Mango Sorbet Bar, showing the bright orange sorbet and a partially peeled wrapper on a white background.

Who says you can’t enjoy the taste of peak-season mango in the middle of winter? The Brooklyn Creamery, the UAE’s premier better-for-you ice cream brand, makes it possible with its newest innovation: the Mango Sorbet Bar.

A bright and refreshing celebration of mango, the 37-calorie Mango Sorbet Bar is crafted for health-conscious dessert lovers, mango enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a little sunshine in their day. Made with just five ingredients, the bar delivers indulgent fruity flavour without compromise.

“We wanted to bring the natural, juicy goodness of real mango to our fans all year round,” says Shivaan Ghai, Founder of The Brooklyn Creamery. “With just 37 calories, the Mango Sorbet Bar delivers bright, authentic fruit flavour in a clean, low-calorie format — without compromising on ingredients or quality.

The Mango Sorbet Bar is 100% natural, free from artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives. Its smooth, vibrant taste mirrors the luscious sweetness of real mango, transforming a simple sorbet into a moment of tropical escape. Perfect as a post-workout treat, afternoon pick-me-up, or light dessert, it proves that indulgence can be refreshing, simple, and better for you.

The new Mango Sorbet bar is available across the UAE for AED 9 per 55ml bar, via Deliveroo, Talabat, Noon Food, and Careem.

With this launch, The Brooklyn Creamery continues to redefine indulgence, offering flavors that surprise, delight, and deliver a creamy, satisfying experience.

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Hospitality

CELEBRATE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS WITH SKYLINE VIEWS AND EXQUISITE DINING AT OANJO

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A close-up of a meticulously plated OAnjo Nikkei dish, possibly a festive tuna ceviche or tiradito, garnished with edible flowers and vibrant Peruvian accents.

This festive season, celebrate Christmas with a touch of sophistication and sky-high style at OAnjo, Dubai’s elegant rooftop restaurant where Japanese culinary artistry meets the vibrant spirit of Peruvian flavours. With panoramic skyline views and a specially curated three-course festive menu, OAnjo invites guests to experience the true spirit of Christmas — refined, joyful, and unforgettable.

Guests are invited to indulge in a three-course festive menu, thoughtfully curated to showcase the elegance and balance of modern Japanese cuisine with the warmth and zest of Peru. From delicate sushi creations to exquisitely grilled dishes, each course reflects OAnjo’s signature precision and flair — an ode to Japan’s culinary philosophy of harmony, simplicity, and flavour.

Guests can choose from two festive packages designed to suit every celebration:

With panoramic views of Dubai’s glittering skyline, OAnjo provides the perfect backdrop for festive gatherings, intimate dinners, and joyful moments shared under the stars. Guests can toast to the holidays while savouring exceptional dishes and soaking in the restaurant’s stylish, serene ambiance.

Book your table today and make this Christmas one to remember — where good food, great company, and breathtaking views come together in perfect harmony.

Event Details
OAnjo Restaurant, Sheraton Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
Christmas Eve Dinner Celebration — December 24 

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Hospitality

DECEMBER’S MUST-SEE MUSIC NIGHTS AT HONEYCOMB HI-FI

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Close-up of the Honeycomb Hi-Fi interior, showing large, six-sided acoustic panels with embedded mood lighting and professional sound equipment.

Honeycomb Hi-Fi is turning December into a month-long celebration of international sound. The venue has announced a trio of standout DJ nights, each spotlighting deep grooves, eclectic vibes and artists who really know what they’re doing.

The series opens on Friday, 5 December, with WASS & NESTA. Known for their dynamic, rhythm-driven sets and the ability to read the room, the duo is set to ignite the dancefloor, turning the night into a serious dialogue between DJs and the crowd.

On Thursday, 11 December, the spotlight turns to a Jazz Kissa-inspired evening featuring Dan Greenpeace, Frezidante and Amir. Each brings a distinctly different musical lens, resulting in a flowy blend of jazz influences, broken beats and soulful house.

Rounding out the month is “Italian Job” on Friday, 19 December, led by LTJ and Tommy Outside. The pair will deliver a tribute to Italy’s influential electronic music with warm textures, timeless grooves and the kind of sophisticated selections that have made Italian DJs beloved around the world.

Throughout all three nights, guests can enjoy Honeycomb Hi-Fi’s Japanese-inspired menu along with its standout drinks. Music starts from 9 pm onwards, and there’s an entry fee of AED 120, which includes a complimentary drink token, while table reservations require a minimum spend of AED 350 per person from 9:30 pm.

For those unable to join the international nights, Honeycomb Hi-Fi will still be buzzing throughout the month with its local programming. Upcoming December highlights include PEPELZ on Monday, 15 December, a MONILE guest shift with Raiza Carrera on Wednesday, 17 December, and an NYE takeover with N-You-Up on Wednesday, 31 December.

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