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FAR EASTERN FLARE
BY ALEXANDRA SANDELS
Entering the mysterious, darkened foyer of Buddha Bar is like stepping into a Far Eastern country. The dimmed lighting, the rich red and gold hues, the carved Chinese symbols and a hosting staff decked out in gold-detailed black kimonos – it could easily be a refurbished palace in old Beijing.
Located in the new Sofitel El Gezirah Hotel at the southern tip of Gezira, Buddha Bar is Cairo’s hottest new nightspot, with a touch of opulence and an ample dose of exclusivity. Those familiar with the original Buddha Bar in Paris will appreciate that all the celebrated chain’s signatures are there: the stunning decor, first class dining and a colossal gold Buddha statue glancing over the dining room from high above.
The upstairs cocktail lounge, located just inside the foyer, boasts a commanding view of the dining area below and Nile backdrop. Its comfortable armchairs and mahogany tables make it an ideal place for a gathering with friends or colleagues on weekend nights.
For dining, customers can choose between the impressively designed indoor area, with its massive chandeliers and a prominent view of the giant Buddha statue, all flanked by a long sushi bar; or an outdoor terrace that offers a stunning view of the Nile – though you might want to catch it before the weather turns cold.
Both dining areas feature contemporary Asian design replete with ornate hand-carved wood and brass artwork, and tall black porcelain vases tucked into the corners. The lacquered black wooden tables – each decorated with a vase filled with an assortment of exotic Asian flowers – are well spaced, ensuring intimacy for all diners. Plush red cushions make the rigid wooden chairs surprisingly comfortable.
The Buddha Bar chain is all about ambiance, and music plays a big part in that. The eclectic selection of contemporary Oriental tunes fused with slow lounge beats is reminiscent of the avant-garde compilations made famous by the original bar and lounge in Paris. Subdued lighting, rich colors and awe-inspiring extravagance gives the place an air of eastern mysticism.
The menu offers a broad array of dishes from both East and West, as well as an extensive sushi selection. A variety of meat dishes are available including tender filet steaks and mouthwatering lamb chops. There are also several options available for the seafood enthusiast, including seared sea bass.
My weakness for lamb dishes immediately had me set on the lamb curry with mango chutney sauce (LE 140), which turned out to be an excellent choice. The lamb was sizzling and tender, and the curry was spicy enough to make an impression, yet without overpowering the taste of the meat. Topped off with fresh mango chutney sauce and served on a bed of soft steamed jasmine rice, this delicious dish would please even the most discerning gourmand.
My dining companion indulged in the sea bass fillet (LE 150), which was perfectly grilled and accompanied by fresh seasonal vegetables. Lightly spiced and extremely fresh, it proved you don’t have to be next to the sea to have great seafood. As the entrée came without any side dish, we ordered some steamed rice (LE 40) – a princely sum for a small bowl.
Buddha Bar features an impressive but rather expensive wine list that includes imported European selections as well as Egyptian vintages. Beer and cocktails are available. Those really in the mood to celebrate can order up a couple of bottles of Moët & Chandon champagne for LE 2,500 each.
For dessert, many enticing options are available, from fresh sorbet to cakes, pastries and a fresh fruit basket. We opted to split the chocolate fudge cake with hazelnut cream (LE 60) – a very tasteful choice, but a teaser in terms of quantity. Delicious and rich in taste, we each got just two small bites before it was all gone.
The service at Buddha Bar is impeccable. The wait staff is very attentive, but not to the point where diners feel disturbed. Chairs are pulled out for all guests, each plate is served by a team of waiters, water and drinks are constantly refilled, and your table is swept of crumbs and spills after every course. The bathrooms are beautifully designed and, thankfully, managed without the presence of a haggling bathroom attendant.
Make no mistake – Buddha Bar is not cheap. Expect to pay up to LE 1,000 for a night out for two including drinks. That should be enough to maintain its older, more sophisticated crowd. But with dazzling decor, stylish atmosphere and top-notch service, this is the kind of place that makes any visit a special occasion.
Buddha Bar Cairo
Sofitel El Gezirah Hotel
Gezira
Tel: 2737-3737
Open daily from 7pm to 2am
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