There’s a new hotspot in town. Villa Romana, the world famous celebrity hangout from Saint Tropez has arrived in Dubai. It’s set up home on the beach at the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa. Joanna Andrews went to sample the delights of the theatrical French-Italian themed restaurant
As soon as you step into Villa Romana Saint Tropez – Dubai you feel like you have stepped into the set of Moulin Rouge, a West End play in London or a Broadway show in New York. It is full of theatrics. The staff are elaborately dressed and ready to play a leading role in your dining experience. And to top it off Villa Romana Saint Tropez – Dubai has breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. This exclusive restaurant has 100 seats indoors along with two large terraces just a few feet away from the beachfront with further seating.
Ever since Jean-Luc Fournier took over the reins on the Saint Tropez restaurant, which first opened in 1956, Villa Romana has become known as an “exceptional place for exceptional people”. This well-known culinary institution has been a meeting point for Saint Tropez’ elite for decades. In the magnificent walled garden in the heart of the French village, celebrities and jet-setters rub shoulders away from prying eyes, making the most of the upbeat atmosphere and the highly-reputed menu.
Now the offspring of Fournier’s creation is in Dubai, offering something very unique to the glitzy city. Jean-Luc’s son, Antoine, who is managing the restaurant, says, “Dubai is one of the most important crossroads in the world. This city welcomes each day a lot of people from all over the world. It feels a little like Saint Tropez where, in the summer, you can meet people from hundreds of places.”
He adds, “We had the chance to meet here a real partner and a professional who helped us to make this dream come true”
The Italian-style décor and French influence is a perfect eclectic mix. To top it off there’s a ‘state of the art’ bar and cocktail lounge and even a fashion outlet selling the latest trends - designed by an in-house fashion designer.
The mood is electric; complete with a DJ, dance acts and a fashion show. The guests are encouraged to take part in the entertainment with available themed costumes and accessories on hand. You just can’t help but feel the urge to join in, taking a cameo role in the theatrics or to get up and dance.
But it is not just all show. The glitz and glamour compliments the international team of food and beverage experts who create some awe inspiring food dishes and beverages and provide a level of service that is outstanding.
Appetizers like eggs ‘a la coque’ caviar and cream make for a great starter and leave room for heartier entrees like whole grilled lobster or fillet of beef. Home-made pasta is a pre-requisite, topped off with divine seafood sauces and Italian truffles. And you can finish it off with a duet of panacotta with vanilla and red fruits for dessert.
With the aroma of a French-Italian touch, the delivery is anything but ordinary. Villa Romana is a place to enjoy people watching while dining on seriously delicious Italian-French cuisine. Villa Romana Saint Tropez - Dubai is open daily from 12:30 pm-2:00 am.
Book now for lunch or dinner. The world class team is ready to take you on the Villa Romana adventure. But make sure you dress for the occasion: Dress to impress!
Villa Romana Saint Tropez - Dubai is located on the shores of the Habtoor Grand Beach Resort and Spa, Dubai.
To book please call:Tel: +971 4 399 5000
Reservations line: +971 5 0502 8666