Nation Galleria is still making a name for itself – the sleek shopping centre is usually quiet – yet it’s home to a great selection of eateries.
Smoking Doll serves Southeast Asian cuisine – think Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese – and features panoramic views of the Corniche. Black tables are dotted around, interrupted by large orange sofas, while giant Asian fan-style structures grow down from the ceiling, acting as room dividers and decoration.
The extensive beverage menu includes teas and mixed drinks made with spices and fruit. We sip on Asian sunset, a sparkling grape juice muddled with strawberries, fresh mint and lime, while our guest tries the gentleman, a lemonade-based drink with crushed kumquats, lychees and Thai basil.
The vegetarian among us starts with the aromatic Vietnamese summer rolls, transparent rice paper wrapped tightly around finely chopped vegetables. They are usually served with nam phrik, a fish sauce, but we have it with Thai chilli sauce.
Our guest tries the betel leaves – an Asian dish that we haven’t seen on other menus. Large leaves – similar to vine leaves – lay flat, topped with spoonfuls of diced, candied beef cheek, mixed herbs, fried shallots and shrimps. It’s messy to eat but worth the struggle.
For the main course, the vegetarian enjoys the traditional pad Thai – rice noodles mixed with bean sprouts, chives, shallots, green beans, tofu and peanuts.
Our guest opts for the signature massaman curry made with tender chunks of beef short rib that have been slow braised for 12 hours. A side of pad ki mao, spicy noodles with chilli, soy sauce and fresh holy basil – a Thai herb – complements the meat dish well.
When it’s time for dessert, our guest deviates from the Thai theme and goes for a dark chocolate mousse with crunchy honeycomb. Meanwhile, we enjoy a lime and ginger crème brulee, a perfect mix of a custard-like base with a crunchy, caramelised top that’s decorated with candied limes and star fruit.
The bill for our meal is surprisingly affordable. Smoking Doll is definitely a place to keep on the radar to impress a date or enjoy a meal with friends.
Details
Location: Second floor, Nation Galleria, Nation Towers, Corniche West
We say: Great for a date night
Cost: AED 345 for two people for three courses with soft drinks
Opening times: Daily 11am-11pm
Contact: 600 560 603
www.smokingdoll.com
www.facebook.com/SmokingDoll
