Find your fragrance for this month
This Holy Month, a traditional Iftar gets a fragrant twist at Blue Door, as Delano Dubai teams up with Arcadia by Amna for an immersive garden experience that blends perfume, memory and Anatolian-Levantine cuisine.
Running throughout Ramadan, Majlis of Memories transforms the restaurant’s serene outdoor space into a scent-led storytelling journey – and yes, you’ll leave with your own bespoke fragrance.
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Set beneath soft lighting and surrounded by whimsical styling, the experience is designed to encourage guests to slow down and savour the rituals of Ramadan. Subtle notes of bakhoor drift through the air, creating an intimate, reflective atmosphere that feels worlds away from the city’s usual pace.
At the heart of the concept is a bespoke Arcadia scent bar. Guests are invited to create a personalised 15ml perfume inspired by aromas tied to their favourite memories. Think warm spices, delicate florals and resinous woods – notes that echo both the season and the dishes on the table.
Along the garden path, diners can share a cherished Ramadan moment or a meaningful scent memory, displayed as part of a growing collection of stories. It’s thoughtful, interactive and refreshingly different from your standard Iftar set-up.
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The menu mirrors the fragrance journey, weaving subtle hints of citrus, saffron, vanilla and spice throughout the courses.
Iftar begins traditionally, with a platter of honey, kaymak with dates, dried figs, walnuts, Ezine cheese and black olives, followed by Turkish lentil soup and a rotating seasonal soup.
Cold mezze and salads include Urfa Ezme, Yaz Cacığı, Atom with charcoal-grilled aubergine, beetroot with goat’s cheese and sour cherry–infused stuffed vine leaves. Warm starters such as Mücver zucchini patties and beef manti pave the way for hearty mains.
Expect Adana kebab, Sis Tavuk marinated chicken and beef medallions, alongside daily chef’s selections inspired by Ottoman and coastal Mediterranean cuisine, all served with classic Turkish rice and sautéed vegetables.
Dessert is suitably indulgent: pistachio baklava, rose-scented Güllaç, Kunafa, Qatayef, Umm Ali, Basbousa, Turkish delight, Maras ice cream and seasonal fruits round off the evening.
Blending fragrance, flavour and atmosphere, this is one of the more imaginative Iftars we’ve seen this season – perfect for those looking to gather, reflect and try something a little out of the ordinary this Ramadan.
@bluedoorbydelano, @arcadiabyamna
Image credit: @arcadiabyamna on Instagram
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
