It’s both a sad state of affairs, but reassuring that security is tight at the Burj Al Arab Hotel. Dubai has remained outside most of the tensions in the Middle East, but is still wary of the safety of foreigners. Our visit began with a short queue outside the grounds as identities were checked before even being allowed in the compound.
Once inside, you can appreciate the trouble the hotel goes to, and appreciate what this hotel has to offer. Driving up to the entrance you pass a string of white Bentleys, which are there for guest use. First impressions of the hotel is pure luxury. Everything is polished white stone and marble.
You are greeted by a string of staff with ready smiles, a drink, a towel and a pleasant greeting. We were only there for afternoon tea!
Once past them, you embark on an escalator journey which takes you through meandering fountains and you arrive on the mezzanine level which boasts several restaurants.
A panoramic lift transported us 27 floors up, with breath-taking views of the ocean and surrounding islands until you arrive at the restaurant and Sky bar. I was somehow expecting something a little more from the restaurant design, but the real beauty is looking out of the huge glass windows, so perhaps this understated elegance is appropriate.
We were seated by an attentive member of staff on the perimeter of the restaurant which gave us one of the best views. Service began promptly with a glass of champagne and a handful of strawberries, topped with a dollop of fresh cream. This was followed by one of the most sumptuous beef wellingtons that has ever passed my lips.
The beef was tender and cooked medium to allow a subtle pink centre, the pastry that cased this beef was perfectly prepared, which made it light and it fell apart beautifully as it made contact with my knife.
By this point I thought surely we had sampled the best the Burj had to offer, but out came an awe inspiring spinnaker shaped tiered stand with several layers of fine delicacies. They included pastries, miniature pies, finely cut sandwiches and caviar, all of which were a pleasure to experience. We were offered additional sandwiches and pastries so there were no limitations on portions.
Our afternoon tea could not have concluded in a better way than with a sampling of delicious handmade chocolates and truffles, coconut fillings, praline topped, marzipan covered and the not forgetting the divine chocolate dipped strawberries.
The Bill: £87 per head
