A new flavour for an old favourite
Avatara is Dubai’s only MICHELIN-starred Indian vegetarian spot, but the restaurant is giving diners much else to talk about – a new wine and drinks journey inspired by reincarnation. The concept has already proven it’s prowess in giving Indian flavours a makeover. Now, it’s doing the same with what’s in your glass.
The Dubai Hills spot is launching RE:AVATARA on 15 October, a new wine and beverage experience built around one big idea: reincarnation. In other words, old flavours, forgotten grapes and traditional techniques are getting a seriously stylish second life.
And yes, there’s a story behind every sip.
Chai, But Make It Cold
The new drinks journey takes familiar flavours and gives them an unexpected plot twist.
Cucumber, for instance, leaves its usual salad duties behind and meets gin and basil for a fresh, aromatic serve. Chai gets an even bigger makeover, transformed into a cold tea inspired by Kathiyawadi flavours, keeping its spice and warmth while giving it an entirely new personality.
Basically, it’s everything you know, just not quite as you remember it. And that’s exactly the point. The drinks have been designed to evolve alongside Avatara’s food, adding another layer to its theatrical vegetarian tasting experience.
The Wine List
The wine list follows the same philosophy, with bottles chosen for their backstories as much as what they taste like.
Take Lingua Franca Pinot Noir, which channels the spirit of Burgundy from Oregon’s Willamette Valley. Then there’s Catena Zapata Malbec, following the journey of a French grape that found a new home in Argentina’s high-altitude vineyards and developed a personality all of its own.
And then comes The Dead Arm Shiraz, which might just win the award for most on-theme bottle. Named after a vine disease that leaves one arm lifeless while the surviving arm produces fewer, more concentrated grapes, it’s quite literally a story of survival and transformation.
Across the list, expect indigenous grape varieties, revived techniques and historic wine styles brought back into the spotlight.
Pick Your Pour
RE:AVATARA launches at Avatara on October 15, alongside the restaurant’s new food menu.
The four-glass wine experience costs AED750, while the cocktail experience is AED495 for four glasses. Going alcohol-free? The mocktail experience is AED390 for four glasses, while the champagne experience is AED750 for three glasses.
Image credit: Supplied
Curious, expressive, and always chasing new ideas, Zainab sees creativity as a way of life. She thrives on discovering new perspectives, connecting with people, and turning inspiration into something tangible. Her work and her world reflect a balance of intuition, imagination, and authenticity.
Contact me: zainab@nommemag.com
