Now we are finishing work a little earlier due to Ramadan we can get back home in time to catch a business lunch. On Thursday we chose to go to Aroma at the Kempinski as we often go to one of the outlets at W but we fancied a change. We’ve been to Aroma a few times before and also to The Lounge and Z Lounge  for drinks and always found good service and nice surroundings. We didn’t have a reservation but as there were only a couple of other tables occupied it wasn’t a problem. The restaurant is quite small and cosy with a light, airy feel and a semi open kitchen. It was nice to see a few decorations in recognition of the Holy Month.

We were brought the business lunch menu and were a little spoilt for choice.

Having placed our order we were brought a lovely selection of fresh breads with butter and pesto oil. I love a good bread basket!

For my starter I chose salmon with avocado and fruit. It was beautifully presented and tasted so fresh with a lovely zingy, zesty sauce and balls of avocado which packed a citrus punch in contrast to the subtle salmon. Greg chose the crepes which were fresh and tasty, with lots of chicken and mushroom however it wasn’t too heavy.

After about fifteen minutes our main courses arrived, another wow. My sea bass looked and tasted amazing. It was soft and flaky with buttery spinach and mushrooms. The crab bisque added depth but wasn’t too rich or overpowering. Gregs face lit up when he saw the camel burger. It’s their signature dish and certainly looks impressive. A juicy, thick, camel patty with melted halloumi and salad on a nutty bun. The flavour is hard to describe as its not like beef as its a bit richer, more like game with a sweetness and kick of spice. It didn’t last long!

For dessert we’d both opted for millefeuille, but for me it was a little disappointing. Again, it certainly had the wow factor, it was like a mini work of art. The flavours worked well together but I felt there was a lack of strawberries and cream and my pastry was a little hard. The layers of the pastry weren’t really clearly defined so it felt a little heavy and crunchy, more like a biscuit. The pastry Greg had was a little better as it was softer. Overall it was refreshing and fruity but lacked the buttery lightness if that makes sense?

Our lunch was very nice, it was good value at 95QR each for 3 courses (excl drinks). The service was fantastic, the staff really care and show an interest, I also like that they identify the healthier options on the menu. If you’re looking for somewhere to eat in West Bay during or after Ramadan I would recommend Aroma, the business lunch is served weekdays 12noon until 4pm.