Hospitality
Authenticity is at the heart of everything I do
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
A MEDITERRANEAN MOMENT BEGINS IN DUBAI AT ERGON AGORA
ERGON AGORA DUBAI


Discover a new way of experiencing Mediterranean living at Ergon Agora Dubai, where gastronomy, culture, and community come together under one roof. Rooted in Greek heritage and brought to life through a contemporary lens, Ergon Agora offers a vibrant, all-day destination designed for connection, flavour, and shared moments.
Guests can enjoy a curated selection of Mediterranean dishes crafted with premium ingredients, alongside a warm, inviting atmosphere that reflects the essence of leisurely dining. From morning coffee to evening gatherings, Ergon Agora is a space that celebrates authentic flavours and meaningful experiences.
Location: Boulevard Heights, Downtown Dubai
Timings: Daily | 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Balboa


Step into Balboa, where bold Mediterranean street-food flavours take centre stage in a lively and relaxed setting. Inspired by global influences and rooted in quality ingredients, Balboa delivers a more casual, energetic take on the Ergon Agora experience.
Expect flavour-packed dishes, creative combinations, and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for quick bites, social gatherings, or laid-back dining. Balboa brings a fresh, modern twist to street food, making it a must-visit within the Ergon Agora space.
Location: Ergon Agora, Boulevard Heights, Downtown Dubai
Timings: Daily | 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
72H Artisanal Bakery


At the heart of Ergon Agora lies the 72H Artisanal Bakery, where traditional techniques meet contemporary craftsmanship. Specialising in slow-fermented sourdough breads and freshly baked goods, the bakery offers a daily selection of artisanal creations made with time, care, and premium ingredients.
From signature breads to pastries and light bites, the bakery is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a relaxed start to the day. It’s a celebration of simple, honest baking, elevated through quality and authenticity.
Location: Ergon Agora, Boulevard Heights, Downtown Dubai
Timings: Daily | 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Hospitality
TIMES SQUARE CENTER FOSTERS COMMUNITY TOGETHERNESS THIS EID WITH MR. KIND


Times Square Center will mark Eid Al Fitr with a three-day family experience from 20–22 March 2026, running 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM daily, featuring the beloved mascot Mr. Kind.
Under the theme “LOVE EID – A Day of Caring, Sharing & Fun!”, the event invites families to experience a lively programme of interactive shows, creative workshops, and engaging activities designed to entertain children while sharing positive messages around kindness, courage, and friendship.


Young visitors will also receive a complimentary Mr. Kind’s Book of Missions, packed with activities, badge stickers, and access to a library of transformational songs and missions that extend the fun beyond the event.
Event schedule
- Mr. Kind Village Workshop (Creativity corner) : 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Ground Floor
- Mr. Kind Show + Meet & Greet: 4:15 – 5:00 PM & 6:00–6:45 PM | Ground Floor
- Mr. Kind Parade: 5:15 PM – 5:35 PM | Roaming throughout the Mall
With music, performances, and interactive experiences throughout the day, Times Square Center aims to provide a friendly space for families to connect and share meaningful moments together.
At Times Square Center, the safety and wellbeing of our community remain a priority. We encourage everyone to follow any guidance or protocols issued by the relevant authorities.
Hospitality
BKRY PARTNERS WITH BROOKI BAKEHOUSE FOR EXCLUSIVE LIMITED-EDITION CROOKIE

This Ramadan, bkry unveils an exclusive collaboration with Australia’s cult-favourite Brooki Bakehouse by introducing the bkry Brooki Crookie. Priced at AED 39 per piece, this special edition pastry will be available daily until the end of Ramadan in limited quantities exclusively at the bkry pop-up in Marsa Boulevard.
Thoughtfully developed as a celebration of shared creativity and experimental baking, the collaboration brings together bkry’s artisanal approach with Brooki Bakehouse’s globally renowned flavours. Designed to be enjoyed as a moment of indulgence after sunset, the Crookie reflects both brands’ craftsmanship, curiosity, and comfort-led baking.
At the heart of the collaboration is the Crookie: a buttery, flaky croissant filled and topped with wholewheat brown-butter cookie dough, and enveloped with Tanzanian milk chocolate. Baked until golden and crisp on the outside, with a soft, gooey centre, the Crookie offers a layered textural experience that combines richness with subtlety.


To mark the official launch, bkry Founder and Head Chef Kameel and Brooki Bakehouse Founder Brooke Bellamy will be present at Marsa Boulevard on Saturday, 28 February at 8:00 PM, celebrating the partnership and their shared passion for innovative baking.
Founded by Brooke Bellamy, Brooki Bakehouse is an Australian-born bakery known for its indulgent, cult-favourite baked goods and playful approach to classic flavours. What began in Brisbane has grown into a globally recognised brand with a loyal international following, driven by Brooke’s distinctive style and community-led storytelling. Celebrated for bold flavours, generous textures, and modern comfort baking, Brooki Bakehouse brings a globally relevant perspective to the collaboration, making it a natural partner for bkry’s experimental, craft-led approach.


Available throughout Ramadan at bkry’s Marsa Boulevard pop-up, the bkry x Brooki collaboration reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to meaningful partnerships and thoughtful experimentation – bringing together global influence and local craftsmanship in moments designed to be shared and savoured, setting the tone for a collaboration everyone has been waiting for.
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