We’re here to tell you about one of the best-kept secrets in Dubai and it’s perhaps one of the most exclusive experiences you’ll have in the emirate.
By now, you’ll already have learnt that GAIA, one of our favourite restaurants in DIFC, is the place to go for some of the best cuisine in Dubai.
The brainchild of Chef Izu Ani aims to showcase the core elements of Grecian culture and encompasses the Greek Goddess of Earth, the mother of the sun, the mountains and the sea in its extensive menu.
Since opening in 2018, the restaurant has become one of the most popular spots in Downtown Dubai with an opulent and stylish venue and a phenomenal menu, you’ll be hard-pressed to get a booking unless you make it at least a week in advance.
While everything on the menu is truly exquisite (yes, it’s true) some of our must-have hero dishes include the tiganita lachanika – aubergine and zucchini tempura with tzatziki; mousakas – grilled aubergine, minced beef potato, nutmeg and Graviera cheese; keftedakia, greek-style meatballs – kofta with cumin, mint, tomato sauce and yogurt; and the sea bream carpaccio, just to name a few.
However, as we mentioned, we’re here to tell you about one of the most exclusive haunts you may have never heard of and it’s located right under Gaia.
The inconspicuous venue, known as NYX, is located downstairs in Gaia behind a hidden door next to the decorates souvenir shop. Head through the hidden door down a short corridor where you enter the world of NYX.
In stark contrast to the bright and airy interior of Gaia, NYX is rich in design embodying a true speakeasy atmosphere in a sophisticated sense.
Red velvet sofas are seen all around the outer edge of the venue with touches of gold and dark wood to create a moody and enigmatic ambience for the ultimate after-hours fun.
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Just like Gaia which embodies the Greek Goddess of the Earth, NYX embodies the Greek Goddess of the Night, influenced by the Greek Gods, Zeus & Chao which is exemplified in its look and feel.
Ensuring guests at NYX enjoy a good time until the early hours of the morning, the venue’s resident DJ Marios Tsiaprazis is there to create an energetic atmosphere. Playing on the personalities of each crowd, DJ Marios has versatile sets to bring different types of people together, also ensuring no one-time at this exclusive hotspot is ever the same.
Matching the interiors and entertainment is NYX’s exquisite team of mixologists behind the bar, serving unique cocktails and mocktails which pay tribute to the rich history of Greek culture. And for those who still can’t seem to get enough of the cuisine from Gaia, there’s a hand-designed menu of Greek-Mediterranean small plates.
Now the secret’s out, it’s safe to say a night at NYX is like no other in Dubai.
For more information visit gaia-restaurants.com/dubai.
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Images: Supplied, Feature Image: Emirates Woman’s ‘The Party Issue’, December 2020
