Now’s the time to discover DESEO at ME Dubai

This lively Latin favourite has reopened in Dubai.

With its Tulum vibes, playful edge and al fresco setting, few eateries are as effortlessly appealing at DESEO – which is why its much anticipated reopening at ME Dubai is cause for celebration. The contemporary restaurant and lounge at ME Dubai transports diners to the vibrant and exotic elements of South American culture. Uplifted by euphoric Latin-inspired beats from its resident DJ, authentic bites, creative cocktails and lively yet relaxed interiors, the venue truly offers guests an immersive dining experience.

DESEO is punctuated with personality and charm throughout its intimate lounge and dining space, stimulating a tropical and celebratory vibe that calls to the fiery fiestas of the Latin American continent. For starters, it’s ornamented with comfortably impressive lounge sofas, beautifully plush carpets in Tulum-esque patterns, and a sea of warm conical overhead lamps that beautifully complement the bursts of foliage on the hotel’s lush green terrace. Here, guests are invited to discover Latin gastronomic delights that are assembled by renowned resident Chef James Knight-Pacheco and central to DESEO’s effortless character. His recipes are rooted in the diverse cultural backgrounds of Latin America, translating to carefully curated dishes that look to the land and the sea, while fusing classic and unexpected ingredients together.

Signature starters include diners’ choice and the immensely addictive, Maiz Maiz, a carefully concocted dish steeped in flavour and texture, achieved by bringing together the most elementary of ingredients including sweet corn and Italian parmesan, topped with 37 grams of Belgian truffle. This creamy dish, which is known to produce queues of culinary enthusiasts throughout its Mexican homeland, is guaranteed to have Dubai guests returning time and time again to DESEO. Other starters range from Peruvian ceviches (crafted from seasonal and local fish in exciting tropical and distinct flavours) to the irresistible Anticuchos (a contemporary take on a classic Peruvian street food dish) that is served in traditional yet tantalising spices.

For mains, a key highlight is the Wagyu Picanha, marinated and served with bright and zesty chimichurri that cuts through the full-bodied flavours of the beef. Guests can also be ready to sink their teeth into the likes of Wagyu Rib-Eye, Red Snapper, Chilean Seabass and more, all of which can be paired with a range of Mexican beverages or custom cocktails. Round off the night with DESEO’s Tres Leches, taking the ever-popular dessert to new levels by being created with 17 different textures that will have any diner devouring with ravishing delight. Everything about the tangy Pina Colada Ice Cream is Instagrammable. Unveiled in an innovative and immersive dry-ice presentation – and placed within a fresh pineapple – this dish deserves a spot on everybody’s social media feeds.

 “We are extremely excited to launch DESEO in ME Dubai and welcome the public to join us on a gourmet voyage of epicurean ecstasy. The concept behind the restaurant is to present an exclusive alluring Latin affair that pulls people closer together through groovy music, bespoke cocktails and eclectic dishes. My team and I have worked hard to create a flawless mix of South American culinary highlights while instilling time-honoured traditions. If you haven’t fallen in love with Latin American cuisine yet, you will at DESEO,” says Chef James Knight-Pacheco. Couple his creations with cooler temperatures, and you’ve officially found your new post-work watering hole.

GO: Visit www.melia.com or follow @deseodubai on Instagram for more information.