Ramadan Daytime Dining at Hard Rock Cafe

Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic culture. It is when Muslims observe strict fasting from sunrise to sunset. Non-Muslims are required to follow rules and regulations to show respect to the Islamic tradition; no eating, drinking, smoking and intimate gestures in public. Women should wear modest clothes; knees and shoulders should be covered. Playing loud music is also not allowed. Of all the courtesy policies to be followed during the holy month, I find abstaining from food and water hard to comply. I am always attacked by thirst and hunger in the middle of nowhere! Good thing, there are still restaurants where non-Muslims can dine discreetly during daytime. 

Hard Rock Cafe in Dubai Festival City is one of the licensed restaurants that can serve food before sunset. On the first weekend of Ramadan, Ed and I were able to check out the happenings at Hard Rock. Two hours before Iftar time, the place was nearly empty. There were less than 10 groups of Westerners and some Asians. Hard Rock is known to be a party place, yet it has mellowed down to a regular dining spot during this time of the year. No live band, no loud music, no dancing and booze is served only after 8 pm. 

The ambiance may be a lot different from the usual, yet we hoped that we can still experience the good "Rock n Roll" stuff that Hard Rock is famous for. Dancing was prohibited, so I wasn't expecting the wait staff to entertain us with awesome dance moves. I still noticed that they are bunch of happy party people while I was taking some snaps at the bar. :)

Hard Rock is also well-known for "legendary" food that can rock your world. We had a half portion of Haystack Chicken Salad and the Legendary 10oz. Burger. Our meal did rock my world... a little! Maybe because I was expecting the big, juicy patty to be more flavourful. You know, just like a typical unhealthy fast-food burger. :) On the other hand, the Haystack Chicken Salad is real good. A diet-concious person will surely be delighted to find fresh greens with grilled chicken on a menu list that is loaded with protein and calories.  

Anyhow, I am letting Hard Rock describe what's on the menu. I drooled while I was reading these: 

Legendary 10oz. Burger

"It is not called 'Legendary' for nothing. Our big, beautiful, 100% Certified Angus Beef burgers, cooked to your exact specifications, are known and admired around the world. More than a burger, they're an experience."

Haystack Chicken Salad

"It's the salad that won't leave you wanting more: fresh mixed greens, carrots, corn, diced tomatoes, pico de gallo, and shredded cheese, topped with Tupelo fried chicken or a grilled chicken breast, tossed with ranch dressing and a sprinkling of spiced pecans and crisp tortilla straws."

Bill for 2:

Legendary 10oz. Burger: 59 AED

Half Portion of Haystack Chicken Salad: 34 AED

Cola: 14 AED each

Location:

Hard Rock Cafe

Dubai Festival City

next to Mark & Spencer's