Le Meridien was in need of a full face lift and let me tell you: they understood the assignment. The Village has been completely transformed! Located on the waterfront with views of Al Maryah Island, Mykonos was a stunning surprise: Scandi boho design – lots of whites, rattan and accented with plants. Don’t be fooled by the name though, the Mykonos Salad was the most Greek thing there. The menu is actually a mix of Japanese and Mediterranean.

We started the meal with a shared bowl of crab bisque: warm and wintery with finely chopped bites of crab meat in a smooth, charred pumpkin broth with hints of saffron. Exactly what I want at this time of year when it's a bit cold outside.

I had to order the grilled oysters, I rarely see them here! Served on a bed of sea salt, the oysters were huge and topped with a thick buttery crumb. Absolutely divine and, if you’re trying to introduce someone to oysters, these are the place to start.

The duck salad was a must-order. Crispy pieces of duck mixed with fresh fruits, avocados, salad leaves and an added sweetness with the caramelized toasted walnuts and orange dressing. The Mykonos salad was a typical Greek salad but made to look a lot prettier, with rolled cucumber slices and crumbled feta, fresh and full of goodness.

From the sushi, raw bar & rolls section, we tried the wild yellow tail Hamachi and the Mykonos golden signature roll. The signature roll is probably the most unique roll I’ve had, a combination of wagyu, unagi, mushroom laced with edible gold and topped with a bite of foie gras and fish roe. It was gorgeously plated and such an interesting mix of flavours – skip the soya on this one and enjoy it for the flavours it has.

 We were surprised to see braised rabbit pappardelle on the mains menu and perhaps my mum could have been tempted but I decided on a fish and lamb option instead. The tender lamb rack coated in crumbed pistachio was simply mouth-watering, and was enjoyed with the rustic, smoky flavours of the roasted eggplant. With a mix of Mediterranean inspired spices, the grilled Arabian red mullet and prawns was a great comfort dish. One to share! We didn’t try it but I’m curious to know what the story with the golden coal burger with brisket. It comes at a hefty price of AED 270 so if you try it, please report back. I need to know!

 As recommended by our waiter, we tried the signature chocolate pavlova. Served to the table in a smoke of dry ice, the pavolva comes encased in a stunning chocolate meringue shell that is cracked open to reveal layer after layer of sponge, chocolate mousse and candied mandarin. Think a levelled-up Terry’s Chocolate Orange.

Natalie Christodoulides

December 2022