A "Merry Christmas" Lunch at Boardwalk

Our Christmas was too perfect for words! I never thought I could say that a week ago! I was actually down and not feeling the holiday vibe as Ed and I had to do things differently this year. I had to be at work on Christmas Eve and was a little scared that I will still be in my white lab coat when all the others are on their holiday outfits! To avoid disappointments, no Christmas Eve plans were made. We looked forward to a simple celebration for two on Christmas Day instead. 

Right after a solemn Christmas Day Mass at St. Mary's, Ed and I went to Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club for lunch. Out of all the hotels and restaurants that offered Festive Lunch, we chose to dine at Boardwalk primarily because of its location; it is just a few minutes away from the church and fairly in between our workplaces. Yup, no holiday break for us! Little did we know, we chose the best! 

Boardwalk is a famous alfresco dining restaurant situated in the heart of Dubai. The main restaurant with indoor seating is currently under renovation, but who care's about dining indoor when there's a wooden terrace overlooking Dubai Creek! The restaurant offers stunning views of the yacht club adjacent to the Santorini-inspired Park Hyatt Hotel and the amazing Dubai Skyline.  

'Tis the season to dine outdoor! Boardwalk's wooden terrace is perfect for alfresco dining.

all things white and luxurious

a view of Deira's skyline from Boardwalk's terrace

Dubai's famous skyline of skyscrapers

We arrived for lunch at 12nn, just in time for our reservation. Since it is quite an early lunch timing for Dubai residents, Boardwalk was still empty yet most tables were already topped with reserved signs. Being the early birds, we had the chance to pick a shaded table with the best panoramic view! We gushed over the complexity of Dubai from our spot. There's the tranquil blue waters of Dubai Creek, the lush greenery of Creek Park and the astonishing skyscrapers; including the tallest man-made structure in the world! 

dine with a view

We got the best seats! 

Boardwalk's Festive Menu is just as stunning as the scenery! Our Christmas lunch started with complimentary bread in six different flavors and butter. Just when I was done with my portion of herbed rye bread, my Leek and Potato Soup arrived. It was creamy and piping hot; well enough to keep me warm on that chilly winter morning. 

complimentary bread and butter

Leek and Potato Soup served with truffle and rosemary focaccia

Ed, on the other hand, had Smoked Salmon and Fresh Ocean Trout Tartare. It was gloriously served on a bed of avocado, rocket leaves, green apple and passion fruit vinaigrette. I was never a fan of smoked salmon, but that starter dish screamed "EAT ME!" So, I gave it a try and wow oh wow! There's the melt in your mouth creamy salmon and avocado together with the sweet green apple, slightly bitter rocket leaves in a light tangy sauce... a magical mix of flavors! 

Smoked Salmon and Fresh Ocean Trout Tartare

For the main, Ed had the ultimate Christmas classic dish with all the trimmings. The Slow Cooked Turkey filled with Sage and Cranberry was neatly presented, juicy and flavorful! The turkey slices on my husband's plate looked so divine, yet I wasn't jealous as my Walnut and Herb Stuffed Salmon looked even better! The healthy fish dish topped with mild spicy tahini sauce and served with Saffron rice was exquisitely delicious! 

Slow Cooked Turkey with Sage and Cranberry

Walnut and Herb Stuffed Salmon

For dessert, we shared a heavenly concoction of cream based liqueur and chocolate! We indulged in a dome of smooth and creamy Baileys and Chocolate Cheesecake. It was served with a scoop of fine dark chocolate ice cream. It was a dessert made especially for both of us; for my husband who loves Baileys and for me who is a cheesecake fanatic! 

Baileys and Chocolate Cheesecake served with dark chocolate ice cream

halfway through the fancy dessert... nom!

In between our 3-course meal, we took sips from our festive drinks! Boardwalk has a great line-up of holiday beverages; from cocktails to mocktails, from cool party quenchers to comforting hot drinks. Ed had Hot Almond Chocolate which looked so festive with whipped cream, cherry and almond flakes on top. I wanted to have something warm as well, but then I was curious with the mocktail with the cutest name! I'm glad I had the Snow Ball mocktail as it has a delightful blend of green apple, hazelnut and cinnamon ice cream!

Ed and I needed to rush to our respective workplaces as soon as we were done with dessert, yet an hour of giving thanks in the church followed by an hour of splendid festive lunch at Boardwalk made our Christmas a very merry one! 

Christmas Lunch Date by the creek

Christmas is over, but the feast at Boardwalk isn't! You can still enjoy the special holiday dishes and drinks until December 30, 2013! Had enough of Christmas treats? You can also pick your favorites from the a la carte menu!  

The Holiday Specials

The Fun and Festive Drinks

Boardwalk's regular menu

Location:

Boardwalk

Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club

(near Deira City Centre)

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