José Andrés’ restaurant Jaleo at Atlantis The Royal formally opened its doors to its first diners. Jaleo, which means lively in Spanish, was conceptualised through the creative lens of the internationally famous chef and entrepreneur. It brings to life the spirit and flavours of Spain by displaying the rich regional diversity of Spanish food in a festive, chic, and relaxed ambiance.
Guests are encouraged to explore the space, which is created to be varied like a tapeo (a meal that comprises of many delectable tiny morsels) and is situated on the ground floor of Atlantis The Royal, the world’s most ultra-luxurious entertainment resort. Upon arrival, visitors can partake in a light meal and drink at the tapas bar or play a round of foosball before settling into a seat in the restaurant – whether that be in an intimate private bay, or on the expansive outdoor terrace surrounded by 100-year-old olive trees.
At Jaleo, dishes are designed for sharing. The menu boasts the finest, locally sourced, authentically Spanish ingredients that are simply prepared and meant to be enjoyed with good company. The restaurant’s award-winning variety of signature tapas, classic Spanish small plates, savoury paellas, as well as a vast array of the best Spanish cheeses and wines, are not to be missed. And neither is the The chef’s tasting menu, “José’s Way,” which is comprised of a selection of José’s personal favourite dishes combined with mouthwatering Spanish wines, a trademark of Jaleo.
Live cooking stations are impressively theatrical, with masterful paellas created live in front of guests. When the famous dish is finished cooking over a wood-burning fire, the chef rings a cow bell and the team shout out, “Paella!” Traditional Spanish meats and Mediterranean fish are prepared live on a grill, with aromas that will have you salivating.
Inside the menu is a tale of friends and family, from dishes José’s used to prepare with his father for gatherings with friends and family to recipes passed down from his mother. For example, Croquetas de Pollo is a dish José’s mother created, served on a plate with a light crust, filled with shredded chicken and a creamy béchamel. This is provides an unforgettable taste sensation due to the two-day cooking period, packing it full of flavour.
Chef José Andrés comments, “I am excited to launch my first Jaleo restaurant outside of America at Atlantis The Royal in Dubai – making it our first restaurant in the United Arab Emirates, an incredible and majestic destination! Guests will be able to experience Jaleo like they never have before!”
Timothy Kelly, Managing Director, Atlantis Dubai states, “With a shared vision for culinary excellence, we see great synergy between Atlantis, The Royal and José Andrés. As one of the most influential chefs in the world, we have no doubt that the arrival of his authentic and celebrated Spanish concept will be another great addition to the culinary offering at our property. Working closely with valued partners such as José Andrés Group to creates truly unique dining experiences, Atlantis The Royal is set to deliver an eclectic mix of culinary experiences unrivalled anywhere in the world.”
