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Fancy a floating iftar?

We know Ramadan tents are all the rage this season but if you have a taste for the unusual, BBQ Donut offers a visual and gastronomical treat

Considering the UAE's impressive dining scene, it comes as no surprise that the Holy Month brings with it an incredible number of alternate iftars. From 'all-you-can-eat chicken wings' offers to healthy eateries with light, ala carte menus, there really is no dearth of options for enthusiastic foodies. But, every once in a while, there comes an alternate iftar that's so unique it definitely deserves a review.
Boardwalk's BBQ Donut happens to have one such offer. We were told to arrive at 6.45pm, considering that the iftar began at 7pm and were treated to gorgeous views of the Dubai Creek during sunset while our donut - and by that, I mean the donut shaped dingy that was our 'venue' - was laden with food. Our server helped us board, explained how the motor worked, warned us not to venture too far ("But if you do end up floating away, we will tow you back by boat") and... simply let us sail away. The concept of being captains of our own boat (okay, donut) was absolutely thrilling, and we soon found ourselves surrounded by water views and a stunning skyline, all while dining on quite the feast. Shish tawook, lamb kofta, hummus, salads, breads, fruits, Arabic sweets... the spread was quintessentially Arabic, and the variety was impressive. All the makings of an experience you won't soon forget.
Taste - The donut was laden with an impressive variety of meats, breads, fruits, salads and sweets, meaning there's something for everyone. There's a cooler for water and soda, and glasses of RoohAfza on the table. But we'd be hard-pressed to name a dish that stood out completely.
Ambience - Definitely the highlight of the meal. Floating away on the Dubai Creek during sunset makes for a special experience and the view from every direction is just lovely. Seeing the boat-shaped Boardwalk restaurant, its reflection glittering in the water in the distance isn't bad either.
Service - Since we're left floating by ourselves for about two hours, we can't judge service by the regular parameters. But from helping us board to explaining the motor, the staff were friendly, polite and happy to answer any questions. No complaints here.
Presentation - The food was presented as can be seen in the picture above. We appreciated the Middle Eastern touches given to the donut for iftar - the lanterns, and the decorative fabric placed underneath the food. Coupled with the water views, plenty of photo opportunities there!
Value for money - The experience costs Dh165 per pax for two hours, and up to eight people can fit in one donut. The food is decent and the experience as a whole is priceless. So, if you're looking to do something unique with friends and family this Ramadan, this is for you.
At a glance
Boardwalk BBQ Donut, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, Al Garhoud, Dubai
Tel: 04-2956000
Cost per head: Dh165
janice@khaleejtimes.com