YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE Arts Culture Clubs Sports Interviews Lifestyle Dining Nightlife TECHNOLOGY - ENTERTAINMENT - TRAVEL www.bahrainthismonth.com Digital Edition Since 1997 MOTORING A taste of Bahrain’s food truck and Al Fresco dining scene We review Marriott’s new restaurant - Crossroads Bahrain WTM Pictures Worth a Thousand Words with Bahraini Photographer- Sawsan Taher Playful Patterns in Fashion Beauty Must-Haves The Ultimate Used Car Buying Guide PEOPLE DINING SPECIAL It’s On Wheels’ Husain Khalil on starting Bahrain’s food truck industry The July Project on their soothing music September 2020 | Vol. 24 | Issue 9 | BD2 / SR20
Special heart checkup package - Consultation with Cardiologist - ECG + 2D echo - Tests for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and Troponin I Are you at risk for Heart Disease? Too much cholesterol in your blood increases your risk. Get tested to learn your total cholesterol, good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides. High blood pressure greatly increases your risk. Get tested. Reduce your sodium intake. Stay active. Maintain a healthy weight. Sources: American Heart Association National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute Smokers are up to 6 times more likely to su er heart attacks. Don’t smoke and, if you do, quit. Physical activity boosts your risk even if you have no other risk factors. Aim for 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week. Diabetes puts you at increased risk of heart disease. You can lower your risk by keeping your blood glucose close to the recommended target numbers. The higher your Body Mass Index (BMI), the higher your risk for heart disease. Maintain a healthy weight. www.bsh.com.bh 17812222 Don't wait. Check your Heart Health today! BD 20
Dining out is going to look very di erent from now on. O ering restaurant experiences overlooking the turquoise hues of the Arabian Gulf, the perfect setting for groups of 20 with ample space for social distancing. Simply choose your preferred venue and leave the rest to us. Curated menus are available for Cantina Kahlo, Nirvana, Thai Lounge, Ritz Gourmet Lounge, La Med, Primavera and Plums. THE PERFECT VENUE FOR ANY OCCASION Advance reservations required. Gatherings available for up to 20 guests. © 2020 The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. For reservations, please call +973 1758 6499. Bldg 173, Road 2803, Al Seef, Block 428, Kingdom of Bahrain +973 1758 0000
now open Book your private gathering at Bahrain’s newest dining experience Available for minimum of 8 and maximum of 20 persons Scan to view our menu
September 2020 5 September 2020 Bahrain This Month George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman COVER Cover Picture: Dining www.bahrainthismonth.com Scan this QR Code to subscribe to the digital edition of the magazine. Printing Press Union Press, Bahrain Published monthly by RED HOUSE MARKETING P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777, Fax: (+973) 17 813-700 Email: [email protected] www.bahrainthismonth.com © Copyright Reserved 2005-2020 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission. • Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3 1 YEAR SUBSCRIPTION Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. THE TEAM Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editor Farah Baig Contributors Behnaz Sanjana, Dick Potter, Pria Masson Tanwar Ouiam Charkani El Hassani Razan Al Arabi, Danny Sokov, Bill Grieve, Hasan Ahmad Editorial Consultant Ahdeya Ahmed Print Production Manager Sabu Sebastian Layout and Graphics Hatem Monem Webmaster Nishad Eapen Photography Editor Muna Yousef Staff Photographer Subeesh Kumar N S Administration and Finance Samson Vaz, Marlyn Ragasa Corporate Affairs Director Bassem A. Al Khabbaz Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman, Gopal Arul Kumar Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) Media Sales ANURADHA MANHAS [email protected] TATUM TURNER [email protected] DIGITAL & CONTENT MARKETING TEAM Digital Strategy Director Lini Reghunath Digital Marketing & Social Media Executive Farah Baig Art & Animation Director Hatem Monem Videography Danny Sokov Welcome to our September digital edition. We hope all our readers are staying safe while the region recovers from and adapts to the changes presented by the current pandemic. The Kingdom has remained resilient in battling the coronavirus, but it’s important for each of us to continue to do our part in preventing the spread. That being said, we are looking forward to taking a step towards normality with the gradual reopening of dining venues. According to recent reports, Bahrain aims to allow the recommencement of outdoor dining on September 3rd, followed by remaining outlets being reopened by September 24th. As a prelude to these events, we set our sights on Bahrain’s food and beverage industry to bring you this exciting Dining issue. One of the most interesting developments in Bahrain’s food scene is the ever-growing popularity of food trucks. So, we sat down with the man that started it all, Husain Khalil of “It’s On Wheels” for our main interview this month. Our team has even put together a list of some of the most fascinating food trucks that will get your taste-buds moving. For our food review this month, we had the pleasure of digging into a feast at Crossroads Bahrain – a wonderful new restaurant by Marriott Executive Apartments Juffair. For a breath of fresh air, we’ve even got a feature on some of our top Al Fresco dining venues in the Kingdom, because we’re serious when we say that we’re ‘Your Guide to a Great Way of Life’. Our other interviewees this month were the creative musicians behind The July Project who have done a great job of soothing their listeners’ emotions with some ambient music during these unprecedented times. In our Motoring section, Dick Potter delved into the most talked about motoring articles in 2019. On the other hand, Sangeeth Mullassery did some digging and extensive research to help you figure out what to look for (red flags too) when buying a used car. Our Woman This Month segment is a feast for the eyes this month as we were served a visual treat and insight into the life of Bahraini photographer, Sawsan Taher. She took us on a journey through some of her most spell-binding photographs taken on her travels to some of the world’s remote regions. For fashion and beauty, you can draw inspiration from our features that show you some of the most exciting musthaves this month. We’re sure you’ll enjoy this issue, and hope you remember to follow us on our official social media accounts while doing so! Hopefully, Bahrain will be even more open when we write to you this time next month.
Private Dining at Fraser Suites Diplomatic *INCLUSIVE OF TABLE DECORATIONS & MUSIC Scan this QR CODE To see all our Private Dining Promotions & Menu FOLLOW US! *Subject to Availability *Terms & Conditions apply For Bookings & Enquiries: +973 3362 1016 +973 1616 1840 *Limited Rooms available OPT INTO OUR WHATSAPP BROADCAST LIST
September 2020 7 www.bahrainthismonth.com 14 8 11 21 24 22 28 30 28 11 14 8 54 49 SEPTEMBER Cover Story ISSUE 277 CONTENTS CONTENTS WOMAN THIS MONTH Sawsan Taher takes us on a journey through her photography Dining Delights Light, Cool and Refreshing Recipes The latest Skincare and Makeup products Easy steps to Happy, Healthy Skin Exploring the latest that the brands have to offer 49 48 46 54 44 Interview Lifestyle Beauty Fashion www.bahrainthismonth.com bahrainthismonth bhthismonth Dining Special We delve into Bahrain’s food truck and al fresco dining scene. Exploring the Elements We speak to the musical minds behind The July Project. Taking Life by the Wheel The pioneering Husain Khalil on igniting the food truck industry in Bahrain My Life in Cars The most talked about motoring news in 2019 with Dick Potter The Ultimate Used-Car Buying Guide We answer your most pressing questions to help you make the right decision Motoring Bites Business Bites Where Money Can Grow Pria Masson Tanwar tells us how to make sound investments INTERVIEWS MOTORING COMMERCE 22 44
Could you tell our readers a bit about yourselves? The two of us were born and raised in the Kingdom of Bahrain and have been playing and performing music across the island for about ten years or so. Our friendship dates all the way back to high school and has led to exciting memories created over several cups of great coffee and now the birth of The July Project. What can you tell our readers about ‘The July Project’? What’s the story behind you getting started? Having music rooted within us from our earliest childhood memory, we somehow found a common ground of what style of music we wanted to produce - apart from all the other various bands and projects we were already involved with. Hence, The July Project was born, out of the need for making original music. This is more of interview 8 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com EXPLORING THE ELEMENTS The Kingdom of Bahrain has long been a hub of creativity, paving the way for the rise of artists, sculptors and a bounty of talented musicians. As avid listeners of just about every genre the world of music has to offer, the BTM team stumbled across the ever-relaxing sounds of The July Project. We caught up with the dynamic duo behind the music - Ryan Rodrique James & Vishnu Salvacion Pillai, who told us what makes them tick.
a passion project than anything else, where we explore sounds, genres, and elements that we otherwise wouldn›t experiment within any of our other projects. What is the significance of the name ‘The July Project’? Actually, it’s quite simple, just two friends that got together in July and decided to jam without any intentions. Coincidently, we created our first track ‘Waves’ unknowingly which blossomed into the idea of making an EP (Extended Play record); and to not overthink of our name ‘The July Project’ was formed. Where can people find your tracks? We have just released our debut EP titled ‘Elements’ which is a concept album. It is now available on most popular streaming platforms including Spotify, Anghami, Apple Music, SoundCloud and Bandcamp under the name The July Project. How would you describe the music you produce? What inspires it? We haven’t really fit ourselves within a specific genre. We are, however, influenced by a lot of genres, ranging from the ethereal/cinematic sounds of post-rock to the majestic orchestral arrangements and spaces that are created by the renowned Hans Zimmer, to the ambient and lush sounds that nature itself provides. However, we’re not limited to just these soundscapes, as we are always exploring new music and genres, and finding inspiration in anything that sounds good to our ears. Your music seems to invoke emotion and be quite ambient. Is there a deeper meaning to the music you produce? People may perceive music differently, it’s a subjective topic. But to us, ‘Elements’ is about taking our audiences through a journey using music to tell a story through a meander of emotions, all the while being rooted to the energies that nature provides. How is the feedback you’ve received from listeners so far? We’ve been really overwhelmed with all the support and appreciation. There is a lot of positive feedback for our music and we are also thankful to receive constructive criticism from our fellow musicians. We are currently living through unprecedented times which prevent musicians from making use of the added benefit of performing at a venue. How have you overcome this challenge when launching during these times? We really didn’t put much thought into it. It was limiting, yes, but on the bright side, there’s been a major rise in the creative field locally and internationally. Given the lack of our ability to perform live, many artists had to embrace and adapt to their environment to be able to tap into their ability to produce more original content during these times. It is challenging, yet it can be very fruitful in the end. Any plans of performing at venues once things go back to normal? Yes! Definitely, with our individual projects or bands. What’s next for ‘The July Project’? Quite simply- make more music and keep making music! To get in touch with The July Project, email [email protected] or follow them on Instagram, using the handle @thejulyproject_. September 2020 9 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview
10 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander Lulu Hypermarket, Dana Mall Phase 2 Expansion Lulu Hypermarket held an opening event for the second phase of their expansion at Dana Mall with an emphasis on fresh food including fruits and vegetables, and a larger seafood section. The new section covers an area of 1456 sqm is part of the flagship store’s new look expansion that will see its space increase by 40%. The new section’s highlight includes a special service where customers can buy fresh fish at the seafood counter and have it prepared and cooked to their preference by Lulu’s expert chefs while they shop. They can choose a marinade to go with the type of fish selected and also the method of cooking – baked, steamed, grilled or cooked in a spicy gravy. The next phase of the expansion will include the upgrading of the electronics and fashion sections. AVOID CONTACT WITH SICK PEOPLE WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN CLEANING HANDS WITH ANTISEPTIC WEAR A FACE MASK bahrainthismonth
TAKING LIFE BY THE WHEEL Food has a way of making the heart sing, so it’s no surprise that we’re always searching for the next best thing when it comes to digging up the best grub across Bahrain. That being said, it’s hard not to notice the ever-growing food truck industry in the Kingdom. BTM caught up with the man that started it all, one eyecatching food truck at a time – Husain Khalil. September 2020 11 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview
12 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview Could you tell us about your business - It’s On Wheels? The name says it all. You want to start your business, so why not on wheels? Anything on wheels is a mobile business, from customized trucks to kiosks, and other solutions which can be used indoors or outdoors. To date, we’ve created unique solutions for trucks, trailers and more while helping young entrepreneurs to start their business, guiding them to finish their papers with Tamkeen and get any required support. We started in early 2017 and now also import and export mobile trucks across the GCC and shall soon reach a global level. What led to the idea of starting this concept in Bahrain? The idea popped up when I travelled to London, Thailand, Philippines and Taiwan. I saw that mobile business food trucks and kiosks are very active in these countries. In fact, they have so much of a response that they have even organized regular events specifically for these businesses, sometimes weekly or monthly. During this time, these businesses are extremely active and people gather on street corners and other specific areas, in a bustling atmosphere with all kinds of exciting food, products, services and more! By 2016 I thought to myself, “Why we don’t have this in Bahrain?” and thought about how I could buy or import or even try to build one in Bahrain. In March of 2017, there was an announcement in the newspaper that the government is studying the industry in order to start the commercial registration for these trucks. So, that was my opportunity and the rest is history. How has your idea changed or developed the Food and Beverage industry in Bahrain? Today we have over 240 trucks on road, with numbers increasing, in Bahrain. It’s turned into a big player for SMEs and is adding more than 300,000 BD to our GDP. You can also see that many of the present and established companies have purchased trucks and are fully operating in the country. There is also no event or activity that happens in the Kingdom that takes place without having a mobile truck or food truck present. Soon, in the near future, there will be specific allocated areas in each governorate to have this concept all year round, similar to Last Exit in Dubai. On a side note, there is a proposal being studied by the government to open over twenty activities other than food for the mobile trucks, for instance mobile offices, tailors, beauty salons, clinics and more. Hopefully it gets approved and will significantly contribute to our GDP. What are the different kinds of food trucks a person can get? There are many types and models like the concession trailer in different sizes, with the smallest starting from 2.4m x 2m, which is an ideal beginner’s truck for those who want to start and test their product in the market to see how they can improve their business. Then you have the Mini Van which is a cargo van and the six-wheeler which are converted into food trucks. Last but not least is the big Bus (Chevrolet, TATA etc.) which are 8 to 12 meters long and can facilitate some dine-in as well. That being said, we always advise our clients to start small, plan and dream big so in two years they can either start another truck or a restaurant and use the truck for events and outdoor catering. What are the challenges of building a food truck and how long does it take? There are many challenges when creating a food truck. No two food trucks are the same; they might look alike from the outside, yet the setup and the standards differ according to the activity or what will be served from the truck. For instance, a burger truck will be considerably different from one which serves coffee, or the equipment in the trucks might vary in size and shape. It also depends on the work flow of the client and so on and so forth. After all designs and details are agreed upon it takes between 4 to 6 weeks to deliver a truck and start operating. What do you consider your greatest achievement? I believe I haven’t achieved enough until I see more mobile businesses and allocated areas in Bahrain for this segment. However, my greatest achievement to date in this field is that I was able to change the food and beverage industry, create a whole new segment and commercialize it so it has a GDP input of more than a quarter million to Bahrain’s economy and growing.
September 2020 13 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview What would you consider the most memorable project you’ve worked on to date? The most memorable project is the Ministry of Interior bus; I consider it an honor that I was able to get a project of this magnitude. It was a lot to work on, restoring and transforming it into a top of the line bus which took over 3 months to accomplish as it was made to meet global standards. They now have a truck of their own which caters and will represent the ministry in many events to come. What would be your advice for anyone wanting to run or start a food truck? My best advice is: please be innovative, do not copy or imitate. The trend of coffee, burgers, fries and sweets will eventually die out, so try to create and invent new concepts, there are millions of possible concepts! Also be patient and do not give up on your trucks; it takes time to create a name and brand for yourself in the market and then have a constant revenue. So, stop thinking about getting quick gains followed by eventually closing down. As a young entrepreneur, do you have any advice for those wanting to start a business? Around 5 years ago, when I was still an employee, I came across a poem by Charles Bukowski entitled ‘No Leaders, Please’. It changed my life. It told me to invent, then reinvent myself. So, I sincerely request that young entrepreneurs stop being afraid and stop depending on what works. Don’t do things because you’re afraid. Face your fears, take the risk, never doubt yourself and always believe in your idea. And a message for the young ones who do not like being criticised: please do not take negativity to heart, learn and improve, believe in yourself, have a vision, find good people and take action! No Leaders, Please by Charles Bukowski invent yourself and then reinvent yourself, don't swim in the same slough. invent yourself and then reinvent yourself and stay out of the clutches of mediocrity. invent yourself and then reinvent yourself, change your tone and shape so often that they can never categorize you. reinvigorate yourself and accept what is but only on the terms that you have invented and reinvented. be self-taught. and reinvent your life because you must; it is your life and its history and the present belong only to you.
14 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com dining feature Bahrain This Month tells you about 5 of our favourite food trucks that you absolutely need to try. GOOD FOOD on the go! StrEat Establlished in 2018 by two Bahraini women: Aysha Buali and Mariam Habib, StrEat offers a range of mouth-watering food truck favourites including burgers, sliders, brisket, hot dogs and loaded fries. If you plan on popping by you definitely need to give the succulent Knockout a try. It’s loaded with brisket that has been steadily slow cooked for 4 hours, served with cheese, StrEat sauce and jalapenos on toast. To visit StrEat, be sure to check out their Instagram regularly for location updates. Check out @streat.bh on Instagram for more information. Senor Churros Dessert in any shape, size or form is a big, giant ‘YES’ for us. However, one thing we’re really glad has made its way to Bahrain is the deliciously warm, crunchy yet soft delight that is churros! Senor Churros now has a food truck in Sanad on Estiqlal Avenue -which is quickly becoming a hub for food trucks in the Kingdom. They serve their classic churros in different sizes to be dipped or stuffed with a variety of mouth-watering sauces including salted caramel, kinder, pistachio and Nutella. There’s nothing quite like a warm churro dipped in Nutella to fix a bad day, mend a broken heart or just put you in a good mood. Check out @sr.churros_bh on Instagram for more information.
September 2020 15 www.bahrainthismonth.com dining feature Dutch Chips Who doesn’t love a good plate of fries? Well, now with Dutch Chips, you can enjoy a cone of classic Dutch Street fries from 5 pm to midnight daily. The food truck, located on Estiqlal Avenue, serves up fries in different sizes loaded up with a range of delicious sauces and toppings. For your sauces you can choose the classic: ketchup or mayo, or get creative with flavourful sauces like garlic aioli, smoky BBQ, creamy French, honey mustard and Belgian peppers. If you need the thrill of a spicy sauce, you can opt for the Dutch Hot, or the even spicier Dynamite Explosion. Top your cone of fries with toppings including cheddar cheese, jalapenos, olives, crunchy nachos, blazing Cheetos, Chips Oman of chili flakes. It’s important that you remember they do not take orders in advance to keep things fresh. Check out @dutchips.bh on Instagram for more information. The Fruit Guys One unique food truck that has popped onto Bahrain’s food scene is The Fruit Guys! It’s the perfect stop if you want to end things on a sweet, yet healthy note. They serve a variety of freshly chopped fruit including mango, watermelon, sweet melon, pineapple, pomegranate and more in a range of sizes. They also serve a couple of desserts including mini pancakes topped with chocolate or can top off any of your fruit selections with some decadent chocolate sauce. One of the most interesting things that they offer is their fruit bouquets, which could include chocolate-dipped strawberries, or literal fruit cakes which are the perfect alternative to your standard birthday cakes. If you do opt for a fruit bouquet or fruit cake, remember to place your order early in the day or the previous day. Check out @thefruitguysbh on Instagram for more information. Umai Tori This unique food truck, located in Sanad, has quickly become the talk of the town with people lining up in their cars to give it a try. What makes Umai Tori so unique? The brainchild of Mohamed Ahmed Alkowari serves a variety of Japanese and Asian inspired softserves which are a spinoff from his frequent travels. We were delighted to give one of their signature flavours -Hokaido Milk aside from their Aomori Apple and Tomita Lavender a try. Other interesting flavours include the Yoshino Sakura and Enoshima Sea Salt. With a range of flavours that are in rotation (day to day), you’re sure to head back for another unique explosion of flavour. Check out @umaitoribh on Instagram for more information.
16 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com DINING OUT… LITERALLY! As venues around the Kingdom open up to the public, here are a few places where you can dine al fresco and finally enjoy a meal with friends or family outdoors again. As restaurants and eating spaces are just getting back up on their feet amidst the pandemic, keep in mind they have strict health and safety guidelines to follow to ensure your well-being. Whether it’s a romantic meal for two or a group of up to 20, pre-booking is a must so you can enjoy your meal in comfort and safety. The Ritz Carlton Bahrain’s venues all offer al fresco dining alongside their indoor set up. You can catch a Mexican fiesta brunch at Cantina Kahlo’s patio, or simply relax under a shaded gazebo at La Plage and have a fusion of Arabic and Mediterranean as you soak in the beach vibes. Thai lounge offers an inviting outdoor experience, for you to feast on refreshing Thai food and drinks as you overlook the Arabian sea. If it gets a little nippy, warm your taste buds with some of Nirvana’s authentic Indian cuisine. Seating will be available on the La Med Terrace overlooking the pool. Satisfy your sweet cravings at the Gourmet Lounge with breakfast and afternoon tea set menus. Call 17 586-499. Rediscover Magnifique alfresco dining experiences and Dîner Sous Les Étoiles at Tapas and Fiamma restaurants at Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa. Tuck into your favourite gastronomic indulgences once again with the return of Seafood Under the Stars at Fiamma Restaurant every Thursday and Friday from 7pm to 11pm and a BBQ Under the Stars at Tapas Bar and Restaurant. Ladies can also treat themselves to a 50% off on food and beverage at the ladies night from 7pm to 12.30am. Call 17 636-363. Plan your romantic meal for two on the secluded beach of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, which boastfully sits on an island of its own within the city. As the shimmering Manama skyline adorns your evening, your private butler will present five indulgent courses under the stars, designed to tempt and delight. Bay View restaurant offers its signature dishes, traditional mezze selections, light bites, fresh salads and a delicious selection of meat and fish for takeaway and home delivery. Two and three-course set menus are also available alongside a selection of seasonal pastries, home-made scones, finger sandwiches and cakes to accompany an afternoon tea session, or celebrate a special moment. Opening times are from 11am to 12am. The modern American steakhouse CUT by Wolfgang Puck impresses with superb meats and dining out at the terrace with magnificent views. Opening times are from 12pm to 11pm. Call 32 300-081 or email [email protected]. dining feature
September 2020 17 www.bahrainthismonth.com dining feature Lanterns Lounge & Restaurant takes you on a gastronomic journey with its cuisines boasting of Indian and Intercontinental cuisines. There’s surely something to soothe everyone’s taste buds at one of their venues – Amwaj, Budaiya, Adliya, Riffa. However, if you’re looking for that breezy outdoor setting you can find this at either the Amwaj or Adliya branch. Call 17 250-999. Coco’s in Adliya offers some new flavours upon reopening. The Thailao, is sautéed rice spiced with mild red chilli, lemon grass and oriental herbs served with your choice of fillet, white fish or prawns and wrapped in a banana leaf. For prawn lovers, the Java Prawns has a rich fragrant sauce infused with a hint of coconut, chilli and herbs served with jasmine rice and topped with onion salsa. You can also choose from an assortment of beef, prawn or chicken tacos topped with a bunch of fresh herbs and sauces. Call 17 716-512. The Orangery Tea Room & Patisserie has reopened both its venues - The Palace Boutique Hotel in Adliya and The Avenues mall offer a lovely outdoor garden setting to have breakfast, lunch or a casual mid-day catch-up with friends and family. Call 17 369-696. Masso, a family-friendly Italian restaurant serves up Italian, European and Mediterranean dishes, with a lovely sit-out. The menu has some new additions with a revamped pasta section with Spinach Ricotta Ravioli, Shrimps by H, slowly braised and smoked Short rib Croquettes, breaded in charcoal bread and served up with a decadent black truffle mayonnaise. Round off your meal with the newly crafted vanilla cheesecake with raspberry coulis. Call 33 280-280. Shakespeare & Co. is accepting reservations for two or more guests at its chic Victorian setting. The outdoors at The Avenues mall faces out on to the waters overlooking Bahrain Bay. The restaurant serves up an eclectic menu and French patisseries and breakfast every day. Call 17 443-360. Nothing beats the outdoor serenity at Jumeirah Royal Saray Bahrain! The Al Hadiqa Pool and Beach is the perfect setting to catch a bite prepared by some talented chefs and with the right company, your meal would be complete. Call 77 707-070.
18 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com/gallery bystander Crossroads Bahrain pre-opening at Marriott Executive Apartments Juffair Crossroads Bahrain held a pre-opening event, attended by members of the media, at Marriott Executive Apartments in Juffair. During the event, the restaurant’s culinary team introduced the attendees to the venue’s exciting menu which included a range of Middle Eastern appetisers, international main courses and delectable desserts. The attendees were also given a tour of the restaurant.
September 2020 19 www.bahrainthismonth.com Bahrain This Month’s Farah Baig digs in at Marriott Executive Apartments new restaurant. The world has gone through huge changes in 2020 with its effects being felt in just about every aspect of our lives. One of the things we missed the most, however, was the ability to dine out at a beautiful location, with great company and tuck into some delicious grub! So, we were naturally excited when Marriott Executive Apartments, Juffair announced the launch of their beautiful new restaurant – Crossroads Bahrain. From the moment you step in you’ll notice the warm, yet vibrant interiors and are greeted by their friendly team. The restaurant follows all the necessary guidelines to ensure social distancing and the safety of its patrons. So, with our peace of mind intact, we got ready to dig into the wide range of cuisines tastefully put together by their creative culinary team, headed by Chef Akram Ahmed. The menu offers a wide range of familiar yet classic British, European and Middle Eastern dishes alongside some very welcome vegan and vegetarian options. For our starters we opted for the Caramelised Onion Hummus and Crossroads Mezza which came loaded with Middle Eastern favourites including falafel, muhammara, hummus, moussaka, nojoumia and vine leaves. The Caramelised Onion Hummus is beautifully presented with peaks of toasted pita bread carefully adorning the plate. The hummus is bursting with flavour, complimented beautifully by the sweetness of the onions and crunch of the pita bread. We carefully sampled every bit of the mezza platter which proved to be the perfect start to an exciting meal. We accompanied our starters with a healthy serving of Strawberry and Date Salad. For our mains, we were given the pleasure of sampling a wide range of dishes including the Chicken Milanese, Fish and Chips, Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie, Crossroads Burger, Vegan Burger, Crossroads Hangover Pizza and Crossroads Pasta. It was undoubtedly a feast, but what really caught our eye was the Crossroads Burger – an Angus beef patty, topped with fresh veggies, cheddar cheese and (drum roll please) a crispy bun filled with cheese! We watched in awe as Chef Akram carefully sawed away at it, revealing a glorious stream of cheese which flowed onto the burger. The patty is complimented well by the crunch of the bun and creamy cheese. What surprised us next was the Vegan Burger, which was delightfully fulfilling and full of flavour. It’s made with a Beyond Meat burger, topped with vegan sauce and fresh veggies. The Fish and Chips stayed true to classic British cuisines with a generous serving of fried fish, mushy peas, malt vinegar and steak fries. To add to the refreshing British favourites, we quite enjoyed the creamy goodness of the Vegetarian Shepherd’s pie which was filled with fresh veggies, tomato sauce and perfectly cooked mashed potatoes. To end our culinary adventure on a high note, we were served three slices of cake: Old-fashioned Chocolate Cake, Russian Honey Cake and Blueberry Cheesecake. The Russian Honey Cake is without a fragment of doubt a must-have at Crossroads; it’s brimming with the natural flavour of honey, beautifully paired with the cool, rich butter between every layer. A Culinary Adventure at Crossroads Bahrain! After a true feast for the eyes and palette, we left Crossroads Bahrain with a smile and will to return! review
20 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com dining Head over to Cantina Kahlo at The Ritz-Carlton Bahrain for a Mexican Brunch fiesta exclusively available for private group bookings with a maximum of 20 persons. This culinary journey will take you from Manama to Mexico every Friday and Saturday accompanied by your all-time favourites such as tacos, antojitos, ceviches and other authentic, street-inspired fare alongside premium grilled meats, fresh seafood and decadent desserts. The impressive special beverage list is as vibrant and bold as the décor itself, alongside live entertainment and the relaxing view of the verdant garden. Call 17 586-499. Bambudha is a firm favourite on the island and takes its inspiration from a few Asian cuisines including Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Indonesian and Malaysian. The venue’s One Bowl Wonder is the ultimate comfort food and the noodle station dishes out handcrafted noodles in rich broths. The venue opens for dine-out on the patio by September 6. Call 17 100-188. You simply can’t get enough of David’s Stir Fry Crazy! This popular venue remains sold on all its dishes that the chefs keep churning out. Dine-in reservations are for 10 to 20 people maximum with two slots available for dinner from 6.30pm to 8.30pm and 9pm to 12 midnight. Lunch reservations are from 12 noon to 3pm. Call Adliya: 17 540-188 / Riffa: 17 760-780. Da Rosa by Fraser Diplomatic has a lunch offer for healthy eaters. Some of the variety on the menu includes local Sea Bass with Thai Coconut Vegetables, Shrimp Quinoa and Endive Salad; and Fresh Salmon Ceviche in a Citrus Sauce. The menu also lists out the calories you will consume with each meal. Priced at just BD5 net per guest, the full meal includes a soup, plus salad or a healthy main or keto main, plus beverages. Call 16 161-840 / 36 794-963. Gallery 21 Restaurant and Lounge is back with its weekly Friday brunch. A special unlimited set menu is just what you need for a hearty weekend indulgence. Brunch runs from 12pm to 3pm and is priced at BD19.5 for standard and BD27.9 for premium. Prior Booking required for a minimum of 6 persons and maximum of 20 persons for 3 hours per reservation. Call 17 711-600 / 32 234-664. Hong Kong Restaurant in Adliya sports its usual classic dishes of Chinese, seafood and vegetarian prepared by Chef Ling. Orders are for take-away and free delivery and the venue is open for dine-in with pre-booking for 2 or more. Call 17 728-700. WHERE THE GREAT FOOD IS AT Good food is certainly not a scarcity on the island and is very likely to be just around the corner, but here are the places to go get some great food!
www.bahrainthismonth.com September 2020 21 MY LIFE IN CARS “The car industries continue to foray ahead in 2019, providing us with updates as to how major changes in the form of electrification and automation reshape the automotive landscape”. Yes, you read that date right – it was 2019. Well, what on earth am I going to scribe about for 2020? As you can imagine, “driving experts” are in the front seat of all this automotive updating and whatnot for us. I considered it my duty therefore to separate the automotive wheat from the chaff, so you don’t have to! So, here it is, the most prominent articles engaged with in 2019, in no particular order. As expatriates and locals alike, many of us go to the used car market for our vehicle selection. Undoubtedly, we always want to know which vehicle, from which brand, will be the most reliable and last the longest on the least amount of money and energy - not exactly rocket science is it? But here is the bad news on this front. Experts trawling through data from 2019 urge us to consider the previous owner. In other words - experts claim the best used cars are not created by factories, they’re actually created by owners through diligent, proper maintenance and care over the years. Buying a used car comes with various and sometimes certain risks. The more you know about them, then obviously, the less likely you are to end up with a pile of trouble. Luckily, you don’t need to be an actual mechanic to nab a keeper set of wheels. The professionals to the rescue again then! Their top tip is to assume your used car will require some mechanical attention as soon as you purchase it, and budget accordingly. Next up in the expert’s survey: Driving laws. Now they are universal right? Moreover, they’re in place to keep people operating vehicles and those around them safe and comfortable. The definition of “safe and comfortable,” however, may differ in terms of the country in which you reside. Apparently, in Thailand, law states drivers of any gender must be wearing a shirt while behind the wheel. Hmmm, I’m quite certain I have never in my life packed a shirt to travel to and within Thailand. Perhaps they mean a “T-shirt”? Meanwhile, if you’re travelling around Spain, anyone requiring corrective lenses must have a backup pair with them in the vehicle. Moving on, as we drivers increasingly “swerve” towards a more consumerist society, materialistic loyalty to “things” are becoming rarer. I thought, then, you might like to see the results of a survey analysing ‘cars most likely to stay in your garage for 15 years or-gasp-longer. For starters, the top motors you would most likely remain loyal to are all Japanese manufactured. Essentially then, Toyotas hold the top ten places. Honda, Subaru and Acura bringing up the rear end, so to speak. The car most likely to be kept in your driveway/garage for a decade-and-a-half, according to my sources? Drum roll… it’s the Toyota Highlander. 2019 also bid a sad farewell to a select few car models cars and they were mostly sedans. The Ford Taurus was evidently hauled off to retirement pastures. So too-apparently- was the Toyota Prius C, the BMW 6 Series and, sadly, even the Volkswagen Beetle. I confess I was not especially aware of the iconic Beetles demise! Only one SUV-the Ford Flex- was on the list of vehicles that was not expected to make it to 2020. Given how this year continues to pan out-it will be interesting indeed to see what motoring snippets the “driving experts” will wheel out for us in their 2020 updates? Safe driving all. Dick Potter gives us the gist on used cars, driving laws, and cars that last. motoring
22 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com motoring news DOUBLEPODIUM FINISH Aston Martin Racing fought back from adversity in a fiercely-contested Total 6 Hours of Spa – Round 6 of the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) – to record a hugely competitive doublepodium in Belgium and maintain its convincing lead in the GT Manufacturers’ and GTE Pro Drivers’ standings. Despite two torrential rain showers, one of which forced the race to begin behind the Safety Car, three further Safety Car periods, two punctures and several critical strategic calls to manage an ever-changing race, the #95 Aston Martin Vantage GTE driven by Danish duo Nicki Thiim and Marco Sørensen raced through to second place – finishing just 5.6s behind the GTE Pro leader. Behind them, in third position were their team-mates Maxime Martin (BEL) and Alex Lynn (GB), who came within seven minutes of fuel’s-worth of winning the Belgian race for the second year in succession. Aston Martin now leads the GT Manufacturers’ Championship by 29 points with 219, while Thiim and Sørensen hold a 19-point lead in the Drivers’ standings. The result also means that an Aston Martin Vantage GTE has finished on the podium 15 times out of 24 attempts, while least one works Aston Martin Racing crew has stood on the podium at every race this season. TAKING CENTER STAGE This November, INFINITI Motor Company will raise the curtain on the all-new QX55, heralding the brand’s return to the luxury crossover coupe segment it created almost two decades ago. With a roofline and visual elements inspired by the iconic INFINITI FX, the QX55’s design will fuse the stance and versatility of a premium midsize crossover with the sleek profile of a sports coupe. The QX55 will also feature innovative technologies designed to empower, engage and connect luxury customers. The all-new QX55 will be revealed via social media on November 11, 2020 at 5:55 PM PST. The 2022 QX55 will arrive in showrooms across North America in the spring of 2021 and will be available in other regions thereafter. Its debut signifies the first in a wave of new products coming from the INFINITI brand over the next few years. Genesis has received four 2020 Red Dot Awards within the Interface, Retail and Spatial Communication design sub-categories. Genesis took home a win in Interface & User Experience Design for its ‘Copper Design’ Infotainment System featured on the all-new G80 and GV80. Genesis also won in the Retail Design – Showroom category for its brand experience center, Genesis Studio Hanam. Opened in 2016, Genesis Studio Hanam is designed as an open space devoid of purchase pressure and successfully hosts special exhibitions, new model presentations and concept car debuts. Additional awards were received for special exhibitions presented at Genesis Studio Hanam for the G90 and the Mint Concept within Red Dot Awards’ ‘Spatial Communication - Light installations (The G90) and Event Design (The Mint Concept)’ category. In 2019, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class facelift was introduced to the region with a new front design, new colours and upholstery choices, as well as an extended range of safety and assistance systems. Mercedes-Benz has further enhanced the model with the integration of the intuitive and self-learning MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system in the V-Class, available now in showrooms in the region. “We are excited to introduce the sophisticated MBUX multimedia system to our V-Class models. Digitalisation and connectivity are important components of our product strategy. By integrating the MBUX multimedia system familiar to Mercedes-Benz cars, the V-Class becomes even more compelling”, said Acting General Manager and Head of Sales of Mercedes-Benz Vans Middle East and North Africa (MENA), Serkan Sarikaya. In the V-Class, available in the MENA region, there are two baseline MBUX systems to choose from. MBUX Entry is equipped with a 7-inch display and touchpad and MBUX Mid adds the navigation system. Customers can specify individually desired functions to enhance the MBUX multimedia system, such as a larger 10.25-inch display, smartphone integration package and Burmester® surround sound system. DIGITAL INNOVATION INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
September 2020 23 www.bahrainthismonth.com motoring news A SUPER TRANSFORMATION With the new Trofeo collection, Ghibli and Quattroporte are transformed into Maserati super-sedans taking them to the top of the brand’s range. They will boast the same distinguishing features, but in a superlative new expression with the power to hit 326 kilometres an hour: the fastest factory-issued Maserati sedans ever. They represent the modern fulfilment of the brand’s racing promise, which in the 1960’s came up with the concept of a sporty luxury sedan model. Animated by a 580 horsepower V8 engine, they will speed along on 21-inch wheels, the largest sizes within this range, and will sport carbon-fibre inserts. The hood of the Ghibli, already considered one of the most beautiful sedans ever, will boast two supplementary air vents. The lateral air vents, on the other hand, are bordered in red and wield the Trofeo name. The interiors are to be wrapped in full-grain Pieno Fiore natural leather and, just like the exteriors, will boast 100% carbon-fibre inserts. The Italian flag will embellish the central pillar and, for their official launch, the Quattroporte model will be green, white Levante and red Ghibli representing that they are made in Italy. Furthermore, Levante Trofeo, has been restyled with new rear lights, a new infotainment system and new design features. Hyundai Motor Company has announced the launch of its new IONIQ brand dedicated to battery electric vehicles, opening a new chapter for the brand in the era of electrified mobility. Under the IONIQ brand, Hyundai Motor will leverage its manufacturing know-how in EVs to introduce three new dedicated models over the next four years with more innovative models to follow. The creation of IONIQ brand is in response to fast-growing market demand and accelerates Hyundai’s plan to lead the global EV market. Hyundai will combine its current EV capabilities – such as ultra-fast charging, spacious interior, and battery-supplied power – with future innovations that combine design, technologies and services to integrate in-car and out-of-car experiences for a seamless journey. The first model under the IONIQ brand will be the IONIQ 5 midsize CUV that will launch in early 2021. In 2022, Hyundai will introduce IONIQ 6 sedan, which is based on the company’s latest concept EV ‘Prophecy’, unveiled in March; followed by IONIQ 7, a large SUV in early 2024. Prophecy’s iconic exterior design is characterized by its aerodynamic silhouette of perfect proportions. Nissan has announced the regional launch of its new 5 Year Nissan Warranty available for new cars across the brand’s retail line-up. The new warranty option provides consumers with coverage for 5 years and a minimum of 300,000 kms. As an upgrade from the existing warranty of 3 years or 100,000 kms, the 5 Year Nissan Warranty will be available as a standard on all new retail vehicles purchased from authorized Nissan dealers in the region. Additionally, customers who bought MY20 vehicles previously can visit their local Nissan dealer to avail the new warranty. The new 5 Year Nissan Warranty is the latest in Nissan’s aftersales offering, with the aim to protect customer investments and deliver a more relaxed ownership experience. Customers can also avail of warranty support across the region – an ideal option for those travelling across countries by road. With a comprehensive breakdown coverage against electrical, mechanical, and other malfunctions, the 5 Year Nissan Warranty ensures the use of genuine parts by Nissan-trained technicians for all repairs. Combined with the warranty transferability, this helps boost car resale value to provide for maximum returns when investing in Nissan vehicles, while reducing the total cost of ownership. BRINGING PEACE OF MIND AN ELECTRIC LAUNCH!
interview Every buying tip explained and every car-dealer trick exposed. BUYING GUIDE By Sangeeth Mullassery THE ULTIMATE USED-CAR Times are exceptionally tough, and now more than ever there›s a bargain to be had on the used car market. So this is as good a time as any to publish my findings of a year-long investigation. After hearing countless horror stories from friends and clients, I decided to find out how deep the rabbit-hole goes. Here are some quick buying tips: 1. Don’t buy a car in winter: When the weather is cool out, even the biggest lemon will run and drive. Give it a few heat cycles and increasing temperatures, and you›ll start to notice issue after issue beginning to pop up. It could start off with the little things like broken window regulators (the plastic guides fail as it gets hot out), failing electronics such as instrument clusters and radiator fans - up to bigger things like gearboxes. Besides, prices for used cars are always cheaper during summer months since demand is low. 2. Ask for detailed photos, videos and information: One of the best things you can do prior to investing your time and effort to go out and see a car, is to ask the seller to send you detailed, current photos of the car. The interior, exterior, engine bay, trunk, wheels and body panels are what you’re looking for. These days, most genuine sellers will have these readily available on hand to send to potential buyers. If the seller refuses by saying “come have a look at it in person”, doesn’t respond, sends “ten feet away” photos or beauty shots of the car like it’s supposed to be in a magazine ad, just save yourself the time and the hassle. 24 September 2020 www.bahrainthismonth.com
September 2020 25 www.bahrainthismonth.com interview 4. Zero-in on a specific make, model and type of vehicle: This is something that I keep repeating to those who come to me for advice on buying a used car; select a specific make and model that’s within your budget and have another similar car from a different brand as a back-up. For example, if your budget is BD4000 and you need a reliable daily driver, you ought to be looking at a Toyota Camry or a Honda Accord. That›s it. Let’s expand on the same example with BD4000 as the hypothetical budget; if you didn›t have a specific car in mind, pretty much every single make and model out there is a potential buy. Does that make a BMW 5 series a great deal because it has low miles and is a newer model? No it doesn›t - especially if your budget can›t cash those monthly repair bills. Stick to looking for that Camry. 5. Ask the seller questions outright: Are you a car dealer? Send me a photo of the ownership card. When did you buy the car? Why are you selling it? Has it had any accidents? Make a mental note of the seller›s responses and cross-check the car›s history. If the seller was dubious, you’ve now added ammunition to your negotiation arsenal, or are able to walk away from the deal. 6. Run a VIN check through the Traffic Department and the local dealership: Prior to physically viewing the car, always use the VIN and the license plate number to get the car›s history through Bahrain.bh or the traffic services app. 2. Get a price index online - even if those prices are from the US market: Get a ball-park estimate of what the car you›re going to be buying is worth in the global market. The final figure may vary a few points but in general those values are a great yardstick to go by. Simply Google (insert car make and model here) followed by the word «price» or «value» and you›ll be able to see the going rate for that specific car. 3. Test-drive multiple variants of the same car that you intend to buy: If you›ve never really driven the car you›re considering, look up a few and test drive those back to back, preferably on the same day. This will give you excellent insight into how a good example runs and drives versus a poorly maintained or wreckedand-repaired one. If the car you’re planning to buy is significantly newer than the car you’re currently driving, I highly recommend going to the dealership and test driving a new one. You will be surprised at how better a car that’s just three years newer drives. Use that as a “Noise, Vibration and Harshness” benchmark when test driving the potential used car that you’re about to buy.
bahrainthismonth.comRkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==