All about the new menu at Maiden Shanghai, FIVE Palm Jumeirah that deserves your attention
One of the hottest hotels on the island, Five Palm Jumeirah is perhaps not the first to spring to mind when it comes to gourmet meals. The latest menu at Maiden Shanghai is here to challenge that perception though.
Maiden Shanghai at dinner is a sophisticated affair, worlds apart even from the playful chaos of their iconic Naughty Noodles brunch. The moment you step into the 1920s Shanghai-inspired setting, you’re enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance.
On our visit, the expansive three-floor restaurant was buzzing, with nearly every table occupied – a clear sign that it’s winning over Dubai’s discerning diners. While it was a shame that the terrace was closed for the season, if the rave reviews and gorgeous views are anything to go by, winter evenings here are going to be something really special.
From the moment we arrived, the staff’s warmth was palpable. Gaurav, in particular, was an absolute star, guiding us through the menu with a blend of knowledge and genuine enthusiasm.
While Dubai continues to raise the bar for what’s considered great food, I’m willing to die on the hill that it’s the service and attention to detail that makes a meal worth it. At Maiden Shanghai, that’s precisely what came through to ensure an evening that was impeccable, as the staff made us feel truly looked after without ever being intrusive.
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The evening kicked off on a high note with the mixed drinks, which are easily some of the best we’ve had in Dubai. Each drink was a masterclass in mixology, perfectly balancing bold flavours with just the right amount of flair. Whether you’re a mixed drinks enthusiast or simply enjoy a well-crafted drink, the menu here has a unique twist and refreshing flavour combinations to pique everyone’s interest.
The food, of course, is where Maiden Shanghai truly shines. We started with the Sesame Prawn Toast, a crisp and golden delight that set the tone for the meal. Another highlight straight off the bat was the dim sum basket, which arrived steaming hot and bursting with fresh, nuanced flavours. Special props to the Turnip Puff, a bite so flavourful and deliciously unique, it will linger on your palate long after the meal.
One dish that Maiden Shanghai does exceptionally well is the Peking Duck. With crispy skin, tender meat and all the right accompaniments, it’s a must-try if you’re dining here. The Crispy Beef Cubes were another standout, sizzling in a rich mix of chilli, garlic, and black pepper sauce, the meat practically melting in your mouth.
While desserts are usually the chink a restaurant’s armour, the menu manages to level up here too! With a meal as luxurious as the one you’re sure to have here, the Almond Rice Bowl is just the right mixture of palate cleansing and decadence you need to wrap up the night.
There’s something incredibly relaxing about enjoying a post-dinner cigar or shisha as the night unfolds, and Maiden Shanghai offers the complete experience for those inclined to keep the evening going.
That is to say, this dinner’s perfect for those special occasions of bouts of treating yourself.
For bookings, call 04 455 9989
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