Roberto Cavalli, a name that strikes as synonymous to allure and fashion, is also the mind behind Cavalli in Dubai. The renowned Italian fashion designer from Florence is popular for his creative sensibilities and for establishing his power fashion house over the decade. Point out the biggest skeptic and Cavalli will make him a believer. In his fantasy trip to casting idealism to realism, Roberto Cavalli does not just create distinguished fashion mantras, he offers a lounge in Dubai with a bombshell plethora of crystal euphoria.
He has indeed painted the pinnacle of fantasy into every facet of his restaurant. The suspended Swarovski crystal chandeliers in the interiors of the lounge capture and re-tell a magnanimous story of grandeur.
Cavalli is definitely a venture of exuberance if you must indulge, however, it is not for the faint hearted. You can expect to find the crème de la crème of the UAE's hottest. The aura is almost intimidating as you are greeted and escorted by model hosts who make sure you spend your night perfectly. The prospect of a luminescent evening enveloped in a classic beauty with sheer luxury sure is enough to lure in the right crowd. Cavalli has hallmarked haute-ness with unbridled allure of their brand name in form of their lounge located at Fairmont Dubai.
Open for dinner, their Italian and International cuisine restaurant gives you the chance to dine in fine luxury. Take a sip from the signature glass and reflect upon the well-placed crockery with Roberto Cavalli cutlery. Their Italian collection of sushi varies from Bresaola and Burrata Battle Ship, Smoked Salmon, Rocket Maki and Roast Vegetable Nigiri.
Their Sweet Chili Chicken with Avocado Salsa and Arrabbiata Crab Cakes with Dill Crème Fraîche are a great start. Also try their Fritti-Zucchini Fritti Dip of Spicy Tomato for a tinge of flavor play.
Their steak is heard to be the best in town, if not all over the Middle East. With delectable juices and flavor flowing through the thick gravy and meat, you can have it done the way you like it. Try their Grilled Ribeye for two with Roasted Potatoes, Garlic, Rosemary and Aceto Manodori Branzino dell’Adriatico in crosta di Sal. For those familiar with Italian cuisine, Tortellone of Waygu cheek and Black truffle veloute is a classic deal.
Have their Tempura Tiger Prawns with Pickled Ginger and Wasabi Cream for those who love tempura, they will relish the expertise.
It is intriguing to know what a Cavalli antipasti could mean, but its facets are as natural as you deem. On the list are: Roasted Capsicums, fresh mozzarella and basil, Bresaola wrapped figs, Bruschetta fresca, fritto misto di mare, artichokes in oil and sardines in oil. Their Caesar salad is a toss and turn of duck bacon with poached eggs and toasted foccicia — scrumptious and delectable.
You can sip on Cinderella, a mocktail of fresh pineapple and passion fruit, balanced with apple juice and cinnamon sugar. And, if you feel like a mini millionaire, Cavalli caters a platter to suit your game and taste.
The Cavalli Millionaire platter offers 30 grams of Asetra Caviar with Blinis and Crème Fraiche. The Pan Seared Foie Gras on Brioche and Hazelnut Oil into a European Lobster and Pure Gold Leaf Maki with Perigord Truffles, which alone costs AED 1,500.
Desserts are a mind-boggling chapter, again in question with what a designer palette would taste like. It is a feeling of apprehension. Try their Cioccolato Fondente, Chocolate Hot Cold and Liquid, with the veracity of dark, white milk flavors that escalate your senses.
If you like to keep it light, then delve into Tagliata di Frutta di Stagione con Sorbetto al Limone, which is a ménage of thinly sliced fresh fruits, garnished with lemon sorbet — sensuous and absolutely fresh beat. In case you decide to go for a dessert that is daringly different, try the Sfogliatina al Misto Bosco, which is a crisp merge of summer berries and vanilla mille-feuille and caramel ice cream.
Do remember late nights roll into a red carpet boulevard into a theatre of entertaining dreams. Adding to its long list of superstar performers, Cavalli Restaurant and Lounge has live performances all year long. Recent performances included Yves Larock and Ibiza’s famous top sax player, Ruben Moran, serenading the euphoric crowd.
Take a walk downstairs to their authentic boutique, which showcases luxurious jewelry, watches, home accessories and a selection of Roberto Cavalli’s couture. "This is our world. I have to show that I believe in my style." Roberto Cavalli, I concur with that notion. All in all, be prepared for a night of couture and a night to remember. But ask yourself: Can you handle it?
AED 100 and above
Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
+971 50 856-6044, +971 4 332-9260
6 p.m. - 3 a.m.
