The new restaurant distinguishes itself with its immersive atmosphere and a rich selection of Persian delicacies, where fruits, nuts, herbs, and floral scents blend with meats, grains, and vegetables. Ariana, the first restaurant of the renowned Iranian-American chef Ariana Bundy, stands out with its feminine concept and management. It offers the finest traditional Iranian cuisine infused with a distinctive touch in terms of texture, ingredients, and presentation, adding an innovative modern touch. Ariana aims to highlight Persian culture by presenting delicious dishes beautifully. The delightful meal is complemented by refreshing beverages and traditional Persian tea with delicious baklava.
Menu:
Ariana prepares flavorful and rich dishes inspired by family recipes passed down through generations. These dishes combine distinctive textures, delicious spices, exceptional flavors, and elegant presentation in a warm and inviting atmosphere. The menu includes the tastiest classic Persian dishes with Ariana’s innovative twist on ingredients, textures, and presentation. Examples include kebab fillet inspired by the flavors of the Caspian Sea region, rose-scented grouper, and a new selection of colorful appetizers. Additionally, there’s Persian ice cream with saffron, pistachio, and rosewater. The restaurant offers a variety of gluten-free desserts and dishes, as well as vegan and vegetarian options, providing guests with a distinct sense of hospitality. The chef insists on using fresh ingredients, mostly imported from Iran or nearby regions. The restaurant provides an extensive list of drinks made from fresh Iranian ingredients, such as orange blossoms, mint, basil, and rose, along with cocktails and mocktails taking guests on an immersive journey of unique Persian flavors.
Specialties:
- Ghormeh Sabzi – (AED 120): This dish, known as the national dish in Iran, consists of five smoked herbs served with Shirazi lime. It features tender meat chunks with a delicious sauce and fresh herbs.
- Fesenjan Stew – (AED 155): Prepared over a long time, this dish is reserved for special guests. Ariana adds her own touch to this traditional dish from northern Iraq, originating from the Caspian Sea region in Iran. It includes chicken cooked with walnuts and pomegranate.
- Rosewater Grouper – (AED 195): Grouper is washed with Persian rosewater in the traditional Kashan way. It is served crispy with lemon, Valencia orange paste, and additional rosewater for a distinctive and refreshing scent. The dish can be presented with rose petals, parsley, and an elegant table decorated with flowers. Orange-scented sweetened orange peel, carrots, barberries, pistachios, and gold leaf can also be added to the delightful fish.
- Wild Orchid Ice Cream “Bastani Sonnati” – (AED 45): The classic Iranian dessert dating back to 1920 is enhanced by Ariana’s touch. It includes scented rosewater, saffron, crushed Aleppo pistachios between rice biscuit pieces, with the addition of wild orchid root powder for a distinct texture.
Special Drinks:
- Kashan Lemonade Ariana’s Way – (AED 40): Ariana serves this drink to guests in the courtyard of her home in Kashan, Iran. It consists of fresh lemon juice with rosewater, aloe vera nectar, and water. It stands out with its unique refreshing flavor and distinctive pink color.
- Dara Soda: Ariana created this refreshing drink for her son Dara as a healthy alternative to soda. It includes fresh orange juice, sparkling water, and saffron.
These dishes and drinks showcase Ariana’s dedication to offering an authentic and innovative Persian dining experience.