Making some noise on the quiet streets of Al Manara is Bystro, the new entrant on the foodie scene of Dubai. Whether you’re looking to have breakfast, lunch or dinner, Bystro is the new place to be, especially if you have a sweet tooth – it’s Tuscan sweets are every chocolate connoisseur’s dream. To top it all off, Josh Benson insists, with pride, that everything available on the menu is freshly made in-house.
Décor
Chic and understated, Aussie foodie Josh Benson and his designer wife have done a superb job on this one. The pastry counter at the centre of the restaurant is full of bite-sized Tuscan delights. The open plan kitchen gives you an idea of what’s going behind the scenes while an entire wall promoted the day’s specials, adding to its allure.
Ambience
The restaurant’s tall glass windows allow the sun’s rays to come through creating a cosy and relaxed vibe. The calm atmosphere means there’s no pretensions.
Food
We started with the delicious beetroot hummus teamed with soft focaccia bread topped with herbs and Parmesan custard with anchovy toasts. The salted bread served with the hummus was baked to perfection. They were a touch too generous with the rock salt though.
For mains, my friend opted for the freshly cut rump steak with mashed potato, which she said was nurtured to perfection. My pan fried cod fillet with crushed new potatoes and mashed peas was simply divine.
Since the portions were generous, we almost struggled to bite into the plethora of sinful and decadent Tuscan delights, but don’t worry, we just about managed. Believe us, they are worth the gluttony.
Go For
The whole experience – the atmosphere, the charming and attentive staff coupled with a genius chef in the kitchen and, last but not the least, the delectable Tuscan bites.
Best for
A night out with your besties. Grab the little table on your right by the window at the entrance – it’s perfect for the loud laughter and all-round banter.
Details
Bystro | Al Manara, next to Reem Al Bawardi | Sheikh Zayed Road | Dubai | (04) 3368056, facebook.co/bystrodubai
