International Paella Day is celebrated on September 20, 2024 to honour the iconic Spanish dish, paella, which originated from the region of Valencia.

The day showcases the culinary traditions and cultural significance of this rice-based dish, featuring a variety of ingredients such as saffron, vegetables, and different types of meat or seafood.

As paella has become a global symbol of Spanish gastronomy, with chefs and food enthusiasts worldwide celebrating by cooking and sharing different styles of the dish.

The History

The earliest version of paella was created by farmers in the fields of Valencia. The dish was cooked over an open fire in a large, shallow pan called a “paellera,” which gave the dish its name. Originally, paella was a humble dish made from local ingredients like rice, vegetables. It sometimes included snails or rabbit, which were common in the area.

As Spain’s coastal cities grew and seafood became more accessible, new variations of the dish developed, most notably paella de marisco (seafood paella). This version included fish, shrimp, mussels, and other seafood and became popular along the Mediterranean coast.

While the dish has many variations, the essentials remain the same: rice, saffron, olive oil, and the use of the “paellera” pan to create a crispy layer of rice at the bottom, known as socarrat, which is highly prized.

Dubai is known for its array of fine-dining havens where this dish is crafted to perfection.

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101 Dining Lounge and Marina

Evoking Riviera glamour on the water’s edge, 101 Dining Lounge and Marina invites diners to savour the Mediterranean's rich and inviting flavours. Every afternoon throughout the week, guests can indulge in their signature Seafood Paella, perfectly paired with a bottle of rosé. Perfect for couples and groups of friends, the Paella and Rosé afternoons at the chic dining destination are sure to transport your taste buds to sun-kissed shores. The offer is valid daily from 12:30pm to 4pm for Dhs600 for Seafood Paella for two and a bottle of Rosé.

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La Niña

With Iberian-Latino fusion cuisine, La Niña has opened its doors with sophisticated décor featuring lavish chandeliers and rich red velvet furniture that has taken inspiration from centuries of sea exploration. For an unforgettable dining experience, guests can indulge in an array of delectable delights crafted by a team of world-class experts to conquer every diner’s taste buds. With Paella being the signature dish as this restaurant, the lobster and octopus paella is the focus of any evening. Scooped up from a central dish, the rice bears the sweet caramelisation scars of a truly authentic paella. Located in DIFC, this spot is definitely a must-visit.

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Tagomago

For the ultimate Balearic feel, the restaurant, bar and beach club Tagomago has officially opened its doors in Dubai. With bohemian aesthetics, this must-visit hotspot serves both lunch and dinner with freshly sourced ingredients. Opened under RIKAS Hospitality, this holiday spot offers a signature menu curated by chef Gilles Bouquet, with dishes for everyone. The traditional Paella O Fideuà comes in a myriad of options including the rabbit and chicken or Beef short ribs , the seafood mix and more starting at Dhs250 for two people. Located at Palm West Beach, Azure Residence, the venue’s restaurant is open from 12pm to 1am and the beach is open from 10am to sunset.

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TATEL

"Arroz de langosta" is a sumptuous seafood rice bisque, featuring perfectly grilled lobster as the centerpiece. Served in a traditional wide, shallow paella pan, the dish highlights golden, flavorful rice with a slightly crispy socarrat layer at the bottom, showcasing the art of Mediterranean cooking. In Spanish culture, rice dishes hold great significance, often being associated with gatherings and celebrations. This particular dish is a luxurious seafood rice bisque, enriched with the flavors of grilled lobster. The rice absorbs the lobster-infused broth, making it a rich, savory dish, perfect for sharing for Dhs550.

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Aprons & Hammers

For a delightful midweek treat, look no further than Paella Night at Aprons and Hammers. On Wednesdays, from 6pm till late, savor the famous A&H paella, brimming with rich flavors and a selection of fresh seafood. Enjoy a generous serving of our signature paella accompanied by a carafe of wine or a pitcher of Sangria for only Dhs 199 for two people.

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