Star chef Greg Malouf to open Cle Dubai in Q4 2014

Michelin-starred chef and author Greg Malouf's first restaurant in the UAE, Clé Dubai, is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year at Al Fattan Currency House, Dubai International Financial Centre.

Billed as a "homegrown destination restaurant", Malouf's contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine will be offered at what will also be an arts and performance venue with a bar and lounge.

“This is my home, my new destination and my dream to finally cook in the Middle East. This is a place where I can put Middle Eastern cuisine on a pedestal. Cle’s food is truly an expression of an ancient culture done graciously and generously," said Malouf.

Clé Dubai's interior is designed with revolving displays of art and sculpture, and also has a music and live performance area. The airy dining area has floor-to-ceiling windows with a private area for VIP events with separate access.

At either end of the restaurant, there is a casual lounge area and a bar. These offer lighter, mezze-style small plates and a comprehensive drinks menu.  An open-air terrace will have day beds and can be used to have mezze and shisha while overlooking the Burj Khalifa.

The combined dining, lounge and bar areas cater to over 300 people, seated, or in excess of 1000 in standing capacity.

Born in Melbourne to Lebanese parents, Malouf has been on the international food scene for the last 15 years, and has seven food and travel books to his name.