New dining and leisure outlets redefine Souk Al Bahar as Dubai's must-visit lifestyle destination

Dubai, UAE; August 19, 2013: Ten new dining, retail, and leisure outlets have opened their doors in Souk Al Bahar, in Downtown Dubai, redefining its position as the must-visit lifestyle destination set in the heart of Dubai.

A thriving social venue, Souk Al Bahar, which means ‘Market of the Sailor' in Arabic, is home to a diverse range of food and beverage outlets, including international restaurants serving cuisines from the East and West. The eclectic spread of outlets at Souk Al Bahar underlines the multicultural diversity of Dubai.

With newer concepts to excite the palates of connoisseurs and enthusiasts, visitors can savour a delectable choice of global cuisines, with world-class dishes being created by veteran professionals using the freshest ingredients and the finest accompaniments.

Fans of Japanese food can savour the modern interpretations of Kanpai, a blend of Japanese colours and textures set in a modern 21st century ambience. Deriving its name from the Japanese word for ‘Cheers,' Kanpai evokes a laid back, welcoming atmosphere.

Also offering the ultimate in Japanese hospitality is Sake No Hana Dubai by Crystal, created by the dynamic Hakkasan Group and The Crystal Group. Set to become a high-end lifestyle venue, Sake No Hana Dubai by Crystal is known for its authentic Japanese cuisine combined with a modern lounge.

Traditional Indian cuisine takes the centrestage in Patiala, making it the only fine-dining Indian restaurant in Downtown Dubai. Fusing flavours of India with contemporary interiors, Patiala, under the culinary direction of renowned Chef Sanjay Bahl, offers signature dishes and authentic recipes that appeal to Dubai's discerning diners.

Further south of the border is Café Habana, a Cuban-Mexican eatery that has been serving culinary flair to New York City's Nolita neighbourhood since 1997. Inspired by a storied Mexico City luncheonette, Café Habana offers traditional Mexican and Cuban food, original and unique signature house blends, and macerations and infusions, all served in true Habana retro style glassware.

Inspired by ‘fire', Fuego invites visitors to take a journey down the culinary history of Mexico, with authentic flavours infused into every layer of each dish. Boasting dishes created by celebrity Chef Anil, Fuego promises a true cosy Mexican ambience.

The true taste of America's Southern hospitality is offered on a massive platter at Claw, which features an in-house rodeo mechanical bull, barbeque smoker, and grilled meats, specialty steaks, as well as seafood buckets of fresh crabs, crawfish, and shrimp.

Also opening its doors shortly is Mayrig, a twin restaurant concept which will house Lebanese cuisine with an Armenian twist. Bringing the traditional Armenian culinary legacy, Mayrig will showcase dishes and desserts created through recipes that have been handed down through generations.

Patisserie lovers can make their way into the ‘Salon of Cakes,' also known as Eugenie, which houses classic and traditional French pastries. Decked in white hues and exuding the genuine atmosphere of a patisserie from the 1850s, Eugenie is the ideal place to sit down and savour delicate desserts and afternoon tea.

Visitors looking to unwind during a shopping and dining excursion and make a quick stop at Yas Beauty Spa, which serves as a moment of respite, and a place of sanctuary, with treatments designed to leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.

Take home a memento from your visit to Souk Al Bahar at Brazil's famous jeweler, FR Hueb, which draws inspiration from the rhythms of bossa nova, combining the delicate intricacies of nature and the bold distinctiveness of art. Providing visitors with hand-crafted 18-carat gold, diamonds, and precious gemstones, FR Hueb celebrates the harmony of classical grace and contemporary expression in jewellery.

Since its launch in 2007, Souk Al Bahar has become the one of Dubai's most sought-after lifestyle destinations – featuring over 100 stores including over 30 food and beverage outlets. Souk Al Bahar's repertoire also includes: Karma Kafe; Left Bank; Mango Tree; Dean & DeLuca; Baker & Spice; Rivington Grill; The Meat Co.; Bice Mare; Abdel Wahab; Zahr El-Laymoun; and Shakespeare & Co.

Providing easy access to key attractions in Downtown Dubai, billed as ‘The Centre of Now,' Souk Al Bahar is directly linked to The Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping and entertainment destination, and the spectacular 3.5km Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, while providing spanning views of Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building and The Dubai Fountain, the world's tallest performing fountain.