Tasca by José Avillez
Mandarin Oriental, Jumeirah


OMG I’m obsessed!!
As a proud Portuguese, this restaurant set up all the expectations.
Let’s start from the Lobby of the hotel, that has a beautiful entrance décor, not to speak about all the super car parked outside when you arrive.
Entering at the restaurant, you find a dark, romantic and elegant décor.
Tasca won a Michelin star in 2022 what elevate this restaurant, what in all honesty it doesn’t surprise me as its one of my favourite restaurants in Dubai.
In one of the side of the restaurant, you can find the terrace, where is amazing to have a sunset drink overlooking the infinity pool and an open view to the sea. Its absolutely stunning! Or you can also have dinner at the terrace, has they have some outdoor seats. On the other side of the restaurant , you can find another terrace with direct view to the skyline and Burj khalifa.
In the middle of the restaurant, you will find an open plan kitchen where you can see all the chefs preparing your food, I love this set up as it always gives me the sense of transparency and confidence in the food. I wouldn’t say this restaurant has traditional Portuguese food, but The food experience is creative and delicious.
It is an expensive experience; I’m not going to lie but definitely worth for a special occasion. Can’t wait to go back
Tasca has a Saturday Brunch with the prices below, however they don't accept groups of over 10pax, neither to bring decoration from outside. This is a way to keep their concept and branding (fair enough).
Price:
AED 450 per person including soft drinks
AED 550 per person including house beverages
AED 750 per person including champagne
Time: Saturdays, 12:30 – 4pm
Location:
Tasca - Mandarin Oriental, 6th Floor
Starters:
Algarve prawns ceviche- yes, please!
Golden eggs – different and very yummy.
Bulhao Pato - clams - a must try!
Pica-pau pan fried - it's so good!
Crab Cascais style – its sooo Portuguese and tasty!!
Mains:
Bitoque - OMG, it's unreal!! If you would go to Portugal, it’s the most basic food but here the quality of the meat and the sauce its so good.
Lagareiro Octopus – a must try!! You cannot visit this place without this octopus.
Dessert – Pasteis de nata – and take some home 😊 their chef make them from the scratch, they are sooo good.
Champagne – louis Roederer – its great for a special occasion.
**Note: Looking forward to try the brunch here!
Cuisine: Portuguese cuisine
Price: $$$$
Location: 9/10
Food: 9/10
Décor: 9/10
Entertainment: 8/10
Service: 9/10
Value for money: 8/10
Facilities: 10/10
Branding: 10/10 (clear website navigation, presenting the chef, the concept, all menu and prices)
Parking: Valet parking
Venue Review Classification: 9/10
(sorry for the lack of pics, this means I really enjoyed my experience)