Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Dubai, UAE

Ordered late at night at the Sofitel Dubai Downtown in Dubai, one of the many 5 star Accor properties throughout the city.

Three days in Dubai for meetings, a conference, and several dinners out – the 14hr flight there didn’t seem so bad when I arrived at the Sofitel, an oasis surrounded by massive buildings and ample desert.

It was a quick work trip, and I wanted to make the most of my time there, ensuring I completed all tasks at hand, while also taking in some of the city. But when would I find time to explore? I arrived to my hotel at 9pm on a Saturday night, and low and behold it appeared Dubai stays up late.

I walked from the Sofitel through winding corridors and into the largest mall I have ever come across. I explored the mall for 15 minutes only to find myself completely lost. Not wanting to turn back – wherever back was – I pursued forward, landing outside, surrounded by fountains that put the ones in front of the Bellagio in Las Vegas to shame. Wow, this was quite the incredible spectacle… and even closing in on midnight, the area was completely packed.

I walked and walked and walked until I made it back to the Sofitel, my feet tired, my stomach hungry. The time difference meant it was really around 6pm for me, perfect time to dinner, and so I went for the exact comfort inducing go-to that my body craved: the Chef’s Club Sandwich at the Sofitel Downtown.

Decrusted and using both “dark brown” and “spinach” bread, I loved the twist on this club sandwich that the layers of carbohydrates provided. The perfectly fried egg created both strong flavor and creamy texture that resonated with each bite down, drawing light notes from the Dijon mustard chicken. The turkey ham/bacon – in a country where not even Din Tai Fung serves pork xiao long bao dumplings – was surprisingly decent albeit not the most exciting; at least they tried. Thankfully, the avocado labneh spread was there to help this turkey ham spread its wings.

The presentation was fun, the French fries were average,  but the whole experience was just what the Dr ordered after a long flight followed by hours of meandering through a hot, crowded, shopping mall of a downtown: pure layered bliss.

I did want to take a moment and compliment the Sofitel on their service – everyone was beyond kind and helpful throughout the property, and while I was only there for three days, working for 95% of the time, I did enjoy the moments I had throughout the hotel’s public spaces.

Location