Flair 5 at the Ritz-Carlton in DIFC has long been one of the city’s favourite watering holes in the desert; from the much-celebrated vibe-fest that is the Secret Garden Saturday brunch, to quintessential city slick post-work cocktails, this uniquely-themed al fresco establishment is an absolute pillar of the downtown social scene. To combat the soaring city heat, Flair 5 has created a summer pop up indoors, so you can play by city rules but stay in the urban jungle.
Described as an “eclectic neon jungle”, the new indoor location brings all the popular outdoor attributes – delectable menu, cocktails and party atmosphere – into a perfect new summer domain. Just as the outdoor space had Instagram-worthy swinging chairs and abundant floral decor, the pink lighting, elevated egg chair and cascading greenery ensure the new location is just as labyrinthian and awe-inspiring. Dress to impress in tribal prints or city chic, hunt around the bar as you sip your Princess Jasmine or Staight from the Garden, or chill in one of the secluded corners to sample a Sushi platter. The “Flair Vibes Only” neon sign is a perfect photo opportunity for the girls on a night out.
With its jungle backdrop and 3D foliage-covered walls, the menu is suitably influenced by refreshing botanical cocktails and exotic Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. The starters are inspirational summer flower names, while the main courses and desserts are served in typically trendy sharing style – with bountiful portions. We loved their signature Tuna Ceviche with prawn crackers, and Japanese inspired Salmon Tartare, while for mains the sumptuous Striploin came with crispy enoki mushroom and drool-worthy Chimichurri. The Sushi Platters are fit for a king, and don’t miss the tacos and other seafood in Café de Paris butter. Through the decadent culinary landscape, we found space for dessert, enjoying the Passion Fruit Ceviche’s explosion of taste and tangy flavour. If you’re craving a little more of the wild side, the Molten Chocolate cake and Strawberry Cheesecake will hit the spot.
Bringing the music vibes is a DJ serving not just looks but deep house music, setting off the epic floral wilderness, but the extensive cocktail menu is worth a mention. For those adventurous types, the beverages infused by herbs, fruits and spices, (served on floral-decorated menus of course) are custom-blended by experienced mixologists, charming guests with an enchanting blend of pure alchemy. Adding to the vivid interior hues, the cocktails are a myriad of colour with genuine wild flowers; the perfect remedy for a long day in the heat. Escape to one of the lush hidden alcoves and enjoy the chilled lounge vibes with your flora and fauna drinks and sharing platters.
If you want to be a party animal, you have to learn to live in the jungle.
Guests can enjoy comfortable indoor seating, signature cocktails and deep house music, as well as the weekly Secret Garden Brunch, which restarted on June 11th, and will take place every Saturday from 1pm to 4.30pm. The brunch starts from 345 AED with soft drinks, 445 AED for the House Package, 545 AED for the Sparkling Package and 745 AED with Champagne. During the rest of the week, guests can also enjoy Social Hours between 5pm and 8pm, with cocktails starting at Dhs40.
For bookings contact: Flair 5, The Ritz Carlton Dubai International Financial Centre, DIFC, daily 5pm to 4am, tel: (0)4 372 2323
