Bahrain This Month rounds up the al fresco dining locales for the swish set to see and be seen in.
Bahrain is a veritable hub of fine gastronomy, offering a plethora of cuisines and restaurant styles, as also varying degrees of swank to suit your mood of the moment.
The much-anticipated cooler climate has finally made its presence felt, and residents are raring to make the most of it. Eateries, big and small, have swept off the dust from their patios and laid out their seating to invite eating-out aficionados to enjoy fantastic fare in the crisp winter air.
One of the dreamiest ambiences in the country is the outdoor area of Keizo, Al Areen Palace & Spa’s Asian fine dining outlet. The gazebos, set on a man-made island, are a stunning set-up for an evening out with your special someone. Couples can book their private lakeside pavillion, complete with a four-course set menu. The package includes a striking centerpiece, rose petal décor, flowers, candles, and whatever else your heart desires, as well as a 30 per cent discount on a couple’s massage.
Another five-star property that affords guests the tranquility of getting away from the city lights is Sofitel Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. This epitome of class and sophistication has an array of offers that make you feel like royalty. The world-class eateries onsite not only offer a fantastic gourmet repertoire, but unmissable deals as well. Savouring haute cuisine and the breathtaking views of the Gulf at Tapas restaurant’s terrace makes the long drive worthwhile.
Coming to the commercial district of Seef and Manama, the Swiss-Belhotel’s Swiss-Café has become an epicurean force to reckon with. It’s the ideal outdoor spot to dig into heart-warming fondues, besides international cuisine, while admiring the span of glimmering lights from atop.
Close by, The Ritz-Carlton, Baharin’s La Plage provides a vibrant outdoor scenery only footsteps away from the beach, while the terrace at La Med overlooks the pool and gardens.
In the same vicinity, Bushido and Trader Vic’s, both have verdant surroundings for sundowners and tasty bites.
If being in the epicenter of the island excites you, Alto, the rooftop lounge and restaurant at Downtown Rotana will not disappoint.
Braving the bustle of Adliya’s Block 338 will land you delicious rewards at The Foundry. Its top-floor verandah offers an extensive menu and a new barbeque theme, besides classic dry aged meat and smoked salmon. Steak Frites (sirloin steak in garlic butter sauce with fries) and grilled sushi grade tuna with mixed black rice are signature delights.
To stick to the tried and tested, the idyllic garden seating at Lanterns Restaurant and Lounge is a top favourite for contemporary Indian flavours. Word has it that a gastropub is soon to open on the second storey of the establishment in Adliya, enticing open-air fans with industrial-style interiors and delectable tapas-style food.
The Gulf Hotel Bahrain offers something extraordinary by way of the poolside Gulf Night Out, where guests can relish various dishes from 10 of the hotel’s most sought-after restaurants under the stars.
Atiram Premier Hotel’s sports bar, Wembley, boasts outdoor fun in an upbeat, electric environment. This is where you can guzzle thirst-quenching beverages and mouth-watering food while you cheer your favourite sports team on the multiple big screens at the venue.
By day and night, Coral Bay is a top contender for tasty bites and an outdoor ambience that can transport you to paradise.
There are various other outdoor venues dotted around the island, including Yas-e Isfahani at Galleria mall, with a 20-seater outside area, serving modern Persian fare.
With so many appetising options beckoning, it’s time you took the best advantage of the cooler days ahead.
