Viva España
Ever since those language classes at school, we’ve had a love for all things Spanish – and so when we found out that Tuesday night is Spanish Night at the Lemon Tree restaurant, Holiday Inn we jumped at the chance to try it out.
Though there are other options for Spanish food in the capital, there aren’t many and so for those of us with a taste for tapas any addition is welcome – and Spanish Night at Lemon Tree certainly hits the spot!
We arrived a little late to join our party, but we were seated quickly and our glasses were immediately filled from great pitchers of a deliciously refreshing Spanish beverage. Then came bread and dips, but what followed was what we were there for!
What seemed like an endless parade of little terracotta dishes were laid out before us, with such delights as marinated mushrooms, Spanish omelette, prawns in garlic and potatoes in a garlic mayonnaise - to name but a few. Each dish was delicious and we were glad that we had a few friends to share it all with. There is no scrimping on the portions here.
After a short break the main dishes were served. We were able to sample a wonderful chicken stew, but the star of the show is really the paella – we tried both the seafood and vegetable. Though the former shined brightly with its delicate flavours and sumptuous seafood, vegetarians will most certainly not be disappointed with their option.
At 8.30pm the very elegant, very glamorous and very tall Raquel took to the floor to dance Flamenco. The dramatic swishing of skirts and beautiful arm movements of the dance really added to the atmosphere and gave us all a chance to give our stomachs a rest from all the eating! There was a second performance an hour later and with a costume change and added castanets, Raquel was just as enchanting as the first time and even pulled a very brave volunteer up on to the floor with her. Suffice to say, everyone came away itching to learn how to Flamenco!
Tuesday nights at Lemon Tree are a fiesta of all things Spanish. Great food, lovely music and an enchanting floor show will more than cure any craving Española.
Anna McCormack
What? Spanish Night at Lemon Tree restaurant, Holiday Inn
When: Tuesday nights
Cost: AED 145 per person for unlimited tapas and Spanish beverage
We say: A fun, mid-week night out. Olé!
Contact: 02 657 4856
