Sponsored: Can we make foodcations a thing? 

Perched between the Hajar Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Le Meridien Al Aqah is the UAE road trip of choice for all kinds of holiday goers – from family getaways to romantic weekend escapes. But, what you may not know, is that the hotel is a paradise for foodies with a total of eight different restaurants dotted around from Italian to Indian, Thai to Mediterranean, and more.

If you are considering a staycation in the near future (and you love food!), here are eight must-try dishes at Le Méridien Al Aqah:

1. Dibba Bay oysters at Gonu

When in Dibba Bay, eat fresh Dibba Bay oysters. It’s a must. You can get them at the hotel’s beachside restaurant Gonu for Dhs15 each. Pair with sparkling bubbly as you watch the sunset behind the mountains. Pure bliss. For special occasions, Gonu offers guests a moonlit four-course pairing dinner on the beach. The location right on the beach with endless uninterrupted views of the ocean makes this a stellar spot for dining. 

2. Homemade pasta at Sapore

Dreaming of the Italian Riveira? The hotel has another beach restaurant called Sapore serving authentic Italian food and famous for their homemade pasta. With a simple yet sophisticated menu, guests can choose their sauce and protein to go with a sensational bowl of their handmade pasta.

3. Arabian sea night at Views

Every Thursday, the hotel’s all-day dining restaurant Views hosts Arabian Sea Night. Priced at Dhs185 per person, guests can indulge in locally sourced seafood with endless views of the gardens and sea.

4. Thai food at Taste

If you’re craving Asian food, Taste restaurant serves up the best of Thai and Indian cuisine from spring rolls to traditional kebabs. Located in the hotel lobby, Taste has a high-end bar and outdoor terrace for the cooler months.

5.  Chicken tikka frankie at Baywatch

Keeping guests well fed and hydrated as they soak up the sun, you can pretty much spend all day here at the poolside restaurant Baywatch. Fact: sipping on a pint by the beach is much more enjoyable while simultaneously munching on their succulent Chicken Tikka Frankie.

6. Pistachio eclairs

There’s tea and cake and then there’s tea and cake. The hotel’s lobby lounge is known for its delightful sweet and savoury treats but for those with a sweet tooth, the pistachio eclairs come most recommended.

7. Oriental mixed grill at Layali by Swaad

 Being in the UAE, you could say these chefs know a thing or two about cooking up mouthwatering Arabic cuisine. Tucked in the corner of the hotel’s main restaurant, Layali by Swaad serves traditional Levantine cuisine as well as international favourites. What to eat? You can’t go wrong with their chicken skewers.

8. Grab a sundowner at Astro’s

With picturesque views of the Indian Ocean, Astro’s serves up some of the best drinks and bar snacks in the building. We think you will love this 20th-floor bar to chill out with a cocktail, watch the sunset, or even catch a game on the big screen.

Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Dibba Road, Fujairah, UAE. Tel:(0)9 244 9000, Email: reservation.lmaa@lemeridien.com, lemeridien-alaqah.com

Images: Supplied