Richard Drake previously helped launch Gaucho Dubai. Richard Drake previously helped launch Gaucho Dubai.

Fine dining and theatre will come together at the Middle East’s first Supperclub, says general manager Richard Drake:

When did you join supperclub Dubai and what is your career background?
I joined Supperclub Dubai as GM in August last year and work alongside the partners of Supperclub MENA, the new hospitality company bringing the first venue for the world-famed Supperclub franchise to the Middle East.

Prior to this, I was working with international restaurant chain Gaucho as part of the launch team for the famed Argentinian steak house brand in Dubai and also Jamie’s Italian.

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How did supperclub Dubai secure its first location in the Middle East?
Dubai was chosen as a location for the first outlet in the Middle East because of its consistent reputation for delivering outstanding luxury hospitality and its position as a cosmopolitan hub.

The city also has a burgeoning art scene which provides a platform for artistic expression very much in line with the original Supperclub concept — rooted in fine food with artistic choreographed entertainment, ranging from aerial and acrobatic artists, musicians and showcases by international and local creative talent, all designed to stimulate the senses.

While there is an array of incredible restaurants, the demands of Dubai’s society are changing and the Supperclub partners saw a clear trend in the market for restaurants that aren’t controlled by chains.

Supperclub Dubai will deliver a new concept that will diversify the region’s hospitality sector. We have partnered with Jumeirah Group for the first location of Supperclub in the Middle East at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.

How will Supperclub compete in Dubai’s nightlife sector?
Supperclub Dubai will be the first official supperclub in the region, and the first restaurant in the Middle East to offer fine dining combined with complementing performing arts. At Supperclub Dubai guests can expect the unexpected.

With a team of international connoisseurs in place from across the world of arts, music and cuisine, we are set to provide the social set of Dubai with what the founders coined ‘a feast for the senses,’ a play on the traditional late-night ‘supper,’ with a modern twist.

What are the design and product highlights?
The award-winning Concrete Architectural Associates, who designed the original supperclub in Amsterdam, Holland, are behind the two-floored venue overlooking the ocean. There will be six key dining and entertainment areas including the Salle Neige (the restaurant); Salle d’Or (the Gold Room); two exclusive Chef’s Tables; a terrace; Bar Rouge; and Balcony Noir.

What food is on offer at supperclub?
Renowned Chef Dom Robinson is at the helm of the kitchen for the fine dining concepts across the six key dining areas. The food is designed to surprise with unexpected delicacies but epicureans can expect a play on eclectic European fusion cuisine.

What is your approach to guest service?
As the cuisine and entertainment at Supperclub Dubai are choreographed, we are working with a 100-strong team of creative individuals who have a passion for delivering the utmost experiences for our guests.

Will you roll Supperclub out in the region?
Supperclub MENA is bringing Supperclub to Dubai and was founded last year. In line with the region’s hospitality sector witnessing tremendous growth, the company hopes to roll out further venues in the future with potential locations for Supperclub including Morocco, Abu Dhabi and Qatar.