The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain’s Layali Al Noor Ramadan tent is where the finest flavours come together in a magnificent set-up that reflects top-tier luxury, writes Aziz Alshawoosh.

My dining companions and I visited the gorgeous venue on a lovely Ramadan night for a ghabga experience like none other.

As we entered, what caught my eye was the stunning backdrop to the main stage area. It brought alive the Arabian scape, with elements like the crescent moon, sand dunes and palm trees, all reflecting the Ramadan spirit.

The lighting was reminiscent of the night sky and set the tone for an intimate evening. The seating was spread across a sprawling space of five halls made into one. You can easily accommodate more than 700 guests here, making it ideal for big events.

The night kicked off with an entertaining tanoura performance. Tanoura is an Egyptian folk dance, where the male dancer continuously spins for long periods while wearing a heavy, multi-layered, colourful skirt that could weigh up to 18kg! The movement is a symbolic imitation of the planet’s orbit around the sun and an invitation to remove one’s ego and self to focus purely on one thing while listening to the music and dancing.

Of course, a major attraction at a ghabga is the food and, as always, The Ritz-Carlton, had prepared an extraordinary feast, curated by executive chef Joergen Sodemann and Bahraini chef Fatema Alghannemi. There were 55 individual food stations, with cuisines representing 16 different countries. The variety on offer was overwhelming in a good way and could easily satisfy even the most indecisive of diners.

Ramadan staples included the Bahraini ouzi and machboos, as well as an assortment of Arabic-style grills, which were authentic and tasted like home to my Bahraini palate. I was equally impressed by some of the modern creations like the succulent truffle shawarma. International fare like the unique Japanese fruit sandwiches and the rustic Austrian apfelstrudel – pastry with apple filling – kept diners happy.

Chef Sodemann spoke to us about how they had thought of using the diversity of the kitchen’s staff to elevate the experience and present authentic meals from many different countries. Everything was meticulously prepared to the highest standards.  

Almost paralysed by the number of choices, I decided to start my gastronomical adventure in familiar territory. I devoured the truffle shawarma, which had the goodness of juicy, tender beef – almost like a medium-rare kebab – blended with the classic conventions and dressings of the Middle Eastern wrap. The subtle truffle flavours added a je ne sais quoi, which worked beautifully. I must admit, I did not think it would. It was a personal favourite and I recommend it.

The grills, spiced in true Bahraini fashion, were equally delicious. The lumee tikka laced with the tart flavours of black lime was the highlight for me.

Touring the buffet for a second time, I tried a mix of Indian and Mexican cuisines - a fantastic tandoori selection so vastly different from the Arabic grills, butter chicken with a delectable gravy, and a birria taco that was prepared live at the Mexican food station. The ingredients were fresh, the flavours elevated and preparation absolutely exquisite.

I ended with perhaps an odd mix of Italian and Thai food. However, I was determined to explore the world on this culinary journey. The white sauce penne pasta with mushroom and cheese was creamy and earthy. Sat next to it was a portion of seafood pad Thai. The textures and flavours on it were exceptional, with all the entrapments of an Asian food adventure.

After this, my fellow diners and I sat back and enjoyed the ambience at Layali Al Noor and the musical entertainment. Dessert was next and an equally extensive counter awaited us. It was a truly magical night and I wish I had the appetite to try every single item - perhaps on my second visit.

Overall, after travelling through the culinary universe at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain and experiencing the magic of tanoura, I found myself truly removed from my own ego and focused on the enchanting dining experience at Layali Al Noor.

For more information and reservations, call 17586499 or email rc.bahrz.restaurant.reservations@ritzcarlton.com.