Last Friday, I was kindly invited by Seven Sands to preview their Ramadan Buffet, located on The Beach, opposite JBR. I was able to taste traditional Emirati cuisine for the first time, including local culinary treasures and a special set menu platter for Suhoor. The buffet will be running daily during Ramadan from sunset to 9 pm. 

“The Emirati cuisine specialists, Seven Sands represents a blend of ethnic flavours and inspirations. Seven Sands is an all- day dining Emirati cuisine outlet with outdoor seating that is not only limited to breakfast, lunch and dinner but doubles as a café, grab & go concept and shisha lounge.”

The contemporary interior accompanied by Emirati hospitality is very welcoming indeed. Walking in, we were welcomed in and guided upstairs to the buffet dining area, overlooking the beach. I can imagine, watching the sunset from this spot during Ramadan would surely be a breathtaking view, and the perfect backdrop for your Iftar.

Starting off with the salads, I went for the Chicken and Broccoli Salad, the Chickpea Salad and a bit of Fattoush. There was also a range of other starters including Hummus and Tabbouleh. The fragrances coming from the golden pots were irresistible and I decided to dive in to the mains soon after the starters.

“The Iftar buffet will serve a variety of thirst-quenching beverages like qamar aldin and jallab, appetising starters, delicious main courses and desserts. To start, guests can break their fast with a fresh Maleh salad comprising of the native Maleh fish served on a bed of bright mangos topped with a tangy pomegranate dressing. Other heart-warming dishes include Chicken Margougah, a flavourful succulent Bedouin dish and Ouzi Rigag, a traditional carved lamb feast.”

The native Maleh fish was my favourite from the array of delicious Emirati food, along with the roasted and buttered vegetables. I also thoroughly enjoyed the creamy textures of the Harees too. To quench my thirst, I opted for the peach mocktail which was not only stunning but tasted sweet and refreshing.

“Diners can also enjoy a selection of sweets and end the evening on a high note with a creamy Aseeda Bobar, stacks of thin layers of sweet pumpkin puree infused with aromatic cardamom and saffron, and the signature Seven Sands Date Pudding.”

Desserts are by far my favourite part of any buffet, and this one did not disappoint. The white and dark chocolate verrines were delectable, but the fruit salad was a hit with Baby Z, so much so that he had two of them! The images speak for themselves!

Overall, I would say if you are looking to get familiar with the Emirati cuisine, Seven Sands is the place to be this Ramadan. The traditional cuisine full of authentic flavours will surely fill your appetite.

Iftar is priced at AED 145 per person, 50% off for children aged 6-12, and under 6 dine for free. Suhour is priced at AED 75 per person. Seven Sands is located on the Beach, opposite JBR. For more information, visit http://www.sevensandsrestaurant.com.

Note: I was invited by Seven Sands for the preview, however all views and opinions expressed are my own.