My Perfect Day - Samantha Wood

Samantha Wood, a.k.a Foodiva, is one of Dubai's most respected authorities on dining out. Who better than this blogger/restaurant review website publisher to tell us about the best places to dine and drink in Dubai? Here, she reveals her favourites.

How do you start your day?

A cup of hot water with lemon juice, followed by a session at home with my personal trainer. With all that dining out, I need regular exercise!

Leisurely lunch go to?

Bistro des Arts at Dubai Marina - I enjoy the casual, waterfront setting paired with traditional, rustic French fare... it's as close to a Parisian bistro as you can get in Dubai.  I love their steak tartare!

Favourite way to pass the time in Dubai?

Needless to say, it’s dining out. Whether it's for work or pleasure, I love dressing up for the prospect of a good meal! 

Favourite Dubai landmark, and why?

The twin Emirates Towers. My first job in Dubai in 1999 had me overlooking them, as they were being built and subsequently finished. So every time I drive past, they bring back fond and sentimental memories.

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout?

Champagne, always! I love Luna Sky Bar at the Four Seasons DIFC for their champagne cocktails and the unbeatable Burj Khalifa views.

Favourite Dubai restaurant, and your favourite table/corner there? Why?

Well, my favourite restaurant closed down recently (Q’bara) but I understand it will open in another location at DIFC. It’s hard to beat that concept, but in the meantime, I’d probably have to go for something that reminds me of home in Cyprus, and that’s Mythos, the (licensed) Greek restaurant in JLT. Its banquette table in the far right corner is my pick. Book ahead!

Favourite dining destination (global) and why?

It has to be Bali. Provided you do your research, and avoid the central Kuta district, the dining scene in Ubud and Seminyak is world class - with much more than nasi goreng and satay on the menu (although the Balinese grub can be pretty decent too). Thanks to locally sourced ingredients, cheap rents and labour, fine dining is ridiculously affordable. 

Final stop for a nightcap, and why?

I am not really one for nightcaps, but if I had to recommend a suitable spot, I would pick Coya’s bar for its pisco sours and Latino vibe.

Best hangover remedy?

I’ve been on a health drive this year and now drink in moderation, never mixing, and therefore never a hangover! (Famous last words!?)

Where next on your travels?

I'm heading back home to Cyprus for the Eid holidays, and then going on a cheese-inspired tour of France later in September. I am particularly looking forward to Christmas and New Year in Australia.

Your favourite thing about Urbanologie?

I love that it has the latest updates on all the new restaurant openings.

 

Samantha Wood founded www.foodiva.net five years ago, after taking the proverbial leap from the corporate world (she used to work in hospitality PR) to follow her passion. The impartial restaurant review website and app has won multiple awards and accolades since, making Foodiva one of the most recognised food media brands in the region. A Dubai resident for the last 17 years, Samantha also curates exclusive dine-around experiences in Dubai, and culinary trips around the world, and works as an independent consultant on her favourite subjects - food, restaurants, hotels, travel and social media.

 

 


title

text