Embark on a culinary journey like no other at La Med’s Amber Night, housed within the luxurious confines of The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain, writes Jayne Houghton.
As I was welcomed to the outside seating area, I was immediately captivated by the ambience that enveloped me; a symphony of twinkling lights and Arabian-inspired decor that created an enchanting setting over the entire evening. The live DJ’s melodic Arabic tunes added an extra experiential layer, setting the stage for an evening of indulgence and relaxation, which can be enjoyed Tuesday to Thursday from 7pm.
From the moment I arrived, it was evident that no detail had been spared in crafting an authentic sensorial experience of Arabic culture. The attentive staff ensured that my every need was met, from keeping my glass filled to ensuring that each plate was impressive in its own right. Their impeccable service spearheaded by Ritz-Carlton’s food and beverage director William Fily only enhanced the already charming atmosphere, leaving me feeling cared for throughout the evening.
As I perused the extensive beverage menu, I was delighted by the array of options available. From soft drinks that refreshed the palate to mocktails and select beverages, there was something to suit every taste and preference. Each sip complemented the bold flavours of the dishes, adding an extra blend of complexity to the culinary journey.
And what a journey it was! As a connoisseur of fine food, I was thoroughly impressed by the creativity and quality of the dishes on offer. Each plate was a masterpiece, thanks to Ritz-Carlton’s executive chef Joergen Sodemann and Arabic chef de cuisine Hanan Osman, with vibrant colours and artfully arranged ingredients throughout the buffet showcasing the skill and care of the chefs.
Chef Hanan has been dishing up Bahraini cuisine for Ritz-Carlton patrons for over 18 years, which is lovingly evident throughout the Amber offerings. From the tender and succulent lamb ghouzi, smoky grills ranging from marinated lamb chops to tender chicken and fresh and flavourful seafood, every bite revealed new layers of taste and texture.
One dish that particularly stood out was the local hammour; a traditional Middle Eastern delicacy that was expertly prepared and presented. The delicious flesh, infused with rich and aromatic spices, paired perfectly with my selection of fresh hot and cold mezze.
But the delights didn’t end there. Dessert was a fitting finale to the evening, as I made my way through the sweet offerings, including blueberry cheesecake and moreish luqaimat, which are Middle Eastern fried dough balls dunked in date syrup. They are crispy on the outside and soft and fluffy on the inside! The white chocolate saffron cake deserves a mention as the creamy white chocolate and delicate saffron combined to create a flavour sensation unlike any other, leaving me craving more, long after the last bite had been savoured.
La Med’s Amber night beckons guests to indulge in Arabian-inspired delicacies. Each meticulously crafted dish promises to evoke the vibrant spices and time-honoured traditions of the Arabian Peninsula, offering an unparalleled fusion of flavour and sophistication.
To cater to diverse preferences and desires, La Med presents four distinct packages: The introductory option, priced at BD29, invites guests to savour an array of tantalising dishes paired with traditional tea and Arabic coffee.
For those seeking an elevated experience, another option, priced at BD35, offers the same delectable cuisine alongside a selection of soft beverages.
For connoisseurs desiring a touch of luxury, the next option, priced at BD45, encompasses all the offerings of the previous package with the addition of select beverages, ensuring a refined dining experience. Lastly, for those yearning for exclusivity, the final option, priced at BD55, invites guests to a VIP dining encounter in a private setting, complete with personalised service and luxury ambience.
For more information or reservations, call 17586499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations