Dining in the Dark at Bab Al Qasr Hotel.
Do you subscribe to the principle that we eat with our eyes?
Well you may be in need of a rethink after a visit to Fresh Basil – Pitch Black Dining.
The restaurant based on the second floor of Bab Al Qasr Hotel & Residences will soon be lighting up the city’s culinary scene with its new concept of Dining in the Dark brought to the Bab Al Qasr by food and beverage director Elias Saad.
Launching on 15 September, diners will be able to experience a three-course meal in pitch black surroundings while being served by waiting staff replete with night vision goggles.
Team Yalla went along this week for a sneak peek at the dark.
Upon your arrival at Fresh Basil – Dining in the Dark, guests will be greeted with tasty canapés and a mixed drink. Before entering the darkness, waiter Jerome will debrief you and your friends about the upcoming experience and you will be asked to place all light emitting objects such as phones, watches and lighters in a secure box.
For those worried about messing their finest outfit, a full length, black, embroidered apron (which you can take home) is provided to catch any spillages. When guests are suited up, staff will show you to the table. It’s baby steps all the way as your eyes are enveloped by darkness. Once safely seated, the feasting begins.
Three bells signal the arrival of each course which has been curated by Executive Chef Yvan Marclay and Head Chef Gayan Rupasinghe. Now while we won’t reveal what is going to be on the plate, expect a proper work out for your taste buds, as well as plenty of eating with your hands for those who struggle with poking their fork into the dark (guilty).
When bellies full and plates cleaned, it’s back to the light, where all will be unveiled.
Lasting for 60 to 90 minutes and coming in at AED 249, the experience is one that you won’t forget and will be the main topic around the water cooler in the office the next day.
For more gastronomic experiences, keep your eyes on Yalla – Abu Dhabi Life
