DUBAI Marina has never exactly been short on dining and entertainment options.
And now it has a new triple level venue that encompasses both elements and more, under one stylish roof.
District 8 dominates a prominent plot at the end of Marina Walk – its colourful exterior like a beacon beside the yachts moored on the adjacent tide.
It sets the scene for a charismatic, exuberant three-storey hospitality venture that tenders three very different experiences.
District 8 promises a “culinary and cultural journey” which begins the moment you pass through the decadent reception area into Blume restaurant.
A smart, circular bar offering inspired mocktails dominates the immediate floorspace.
Guests can grab a stool here or venture straight to one of many tables and seating areas occupying this botanical-inspired haven which pledges to embrace globally-inspired flavours.
Decor is stylish and detailed, and a great backdrop for a vibrant menu that explores Silk Road flavours with a few surprises.
Cold starters cross the continents, ranging from refreshing salmon tartare and zesty ceviche-style avocado with mango dressing, to richly presented tuna acebichado maki – complete with prawn tempura to render it as tasty as it is visually pleasing.
Hot starters maintain the quality level with prawn tempura again lending winning texture to crunchy tempura rolls, each given moreish quality by the presence of goma shabu and unagi sauces.
Further contrast comes via a creamy signature mushroom pizza taken to lofty heights by black truffle and stracciatella cheese, while borek rolls ensure Russia is traditionally represented, the three-cheese filling enhanced by lime and truffle honey sauce.
Star of the starters show is stunning ‘octopus flames’, its accompaniment of confit tomato, chimichuri sauce and chipotle combing to have this vying for most memorable dish.
Mains include Wagyu beef tenderloin served on a mini grill at the table and a beautifully prepared/presented grilled seabass – with halhali olives, rock grove salad and capers adding complexity. Full marks for the broccolini side, given depth by fresh tomato sauce, almond flakes and garlic.
Desserts include a rich pistachio San Sebastian cheesecake with pistachio ice cream and chocolate sauce.
For theatre, however, the baked Alaska is a hard act to follow.
TERRACE TREATS: Dubai Marina views compete with culinary artistry in both Blume and Rodina, shown here
This cunning combination of chocolate sponge, vanilla semifreddo, salted caramel and vanilla meringue is drizzled in chocolate sauce, poured over at the table for an extravagant treat that would make your personal trainer wince.
Blume’s menu boasts more than 100 dishes, blending Mediterranean classics, Japanese delicacies, and international favourites powered by a garden-to-table philosophy with many herbs grown on-site, and produce sourced from UAE farms.
The restaurant offers seating inside and out on a terrace over-looking Dubai Marina, as does Rodina on the second floor.
Meaning “motherland” in Russian, this sophisticated venue was created by award-winning chef Viktor Beley and features fine dining selections from the country.
With elegant decor to match the opulence of its authentic menu, the venue draws on the architectural spectacle of Moscow and pays homage to its aristocratic culture.
ELEGANT EATS: Food fans will be transported by a menu calling on Eastern Europe with suitably opulent decor
Rodina reimagines Russian classics such as an indulgent truffle-laced Moscow Pelmeni dumplings to an Olivier salad elevated with Oscietra caviar. Inventive signature cocktails include the Nutcracker and the Dostoevsky.
Topping off District 8 and contrasting all below it, Luxuria blends high-energy entertainment with high-end dining for a cabaret experience that is difficult to describe or compare in Dubai.
Described as a Russian karaoke lounge, it blends sleek modern interiors, plush seating, and vibrant lighting to support a lineup of 30 shows, from international and Russian artists to stand-up comedy acts.
Think ‘dazzling champagne shows’ and dishes including “Golden Maki” sushi and luxurious caviar in a venue that transports you to somewhere far from the UAE.
NOCTURNAL THRILLS: Luxuria has opened with a brief that spans karaoke and live music to comedy shows
DISTRICT 8 was created by Alex Investment Group, the brains behind Down Dubai restaurant Zenon.
The venues are open daily and for more information or bookings, please visit https://districteightdubai.com/
