This newcomer to Downtown Dubai promises an exciting dining experience for locals and visitors alike. Housed in the world’s biggest shopping mall Ana has made her mark with bright contemporary interiors, hospitable staff and a menu of Emirati classics with a modern twist. Expansive glass windows give the venue a light and fresh feel with mirrored panelling adding to the sense of space. Contemporary furnishings, colourful crockery and tranquil leafy corners make this an enticing spot to enjoy a casual drink or meal with friends or family. For a truly memorable meal choose a seat on the outdoor terrace with stunning views over the Mall’s dancing fountains below.
To start, there is a selection of appetisers on the a la carte menu – ideal for sharing with the table. Guests can choose from the likes of Kibbeh Roub – stuffed lamb meat balls with labneh yoghurt, parsley pesto and pine nuts; falafel bites – stuffed in Emirati breads with a sesame sauce and jijir and onion salad; and prawn and calamari tempura with a chilli mayonnaise dipping sauce. For a light but wholesome main a range of colourful salads and nutritious soups are offered. We love the sound of Lalmass, a salad of barley, pistachio, almonds, pine nuts and pomegranate seeds, with a coriander and lemon dressing. The creamy green asparagus soup is also an enticing option, topped with slow cooked chicken breast.
For something more substantial a traditional Mbahar curry with chicken or lamb is a hearty option , as is the lamb freed – an Arabic bread topped with lamb, potato, marrow and tomato sauce. The BBQ options are equally popular and comprise a variety of meat and seafood kebabs to choose from served with aromatic rice and yogurt-based sauces.
Desserts here are particularly decadent with options including a hot croissant pudding topped with a milk chocolate caramel sauce, pistachio crunch and blueberry compote or a brownie and chocolate cake stack with a white chocolate custard and Galaxy sauce.