Nick Alvis’ The Beam has opened its door, taking over part of the space of what used to be Geales, in the Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. We went over one weekend with the kids in tow, to review the new menu. I did contemplate booking the nanny but apparently the venue is very much family-friendly and in their words ‘ an approachable and relaxed dining experience’. So we figured, let’s go test how ‘relaxed’ our experience is going to be 🙂
Here’s how our evening went at The Beam.
The Venue
They’ve properly utilised the outdoor space this time – laying astroturf down on the ground, a water fountain feature, a little swing structure and a new bar to the corner. We were there early May – so it was still reasonably cool in the evening. There were a few tables of adults – making the most of ‘alfresco dining’ season. The sun was setting – and it was beautiful outdoors. I can only imagine it will be packed over the winter season – and families would love sitting out here as there’s space for the little ones to walk around when they get restless.
They’ve kept some familiar bits in the indoor dining space – the mirrors on the walls which I remember well. There’s rattan chairs, marble top dining tables and to the corners – comfortable booths which families would love. We chose to sit on the outdoor terrace so we get the best of both worlds 😉
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The Gin Trolley
Before we get into the menu – let’s talk about The Beam’s Gin Trolley experience. The team wheels over this impressive trolley with different gins – Sipsmith, Hendricks, The Botanist, Malfy and more. They give an introduction of the various options and cocktails – and we watch them prepare it in front of us. It’s all very interactive and personal – and we love it. Can all restaurants have a mobile bar like this?
The Menu
The Beam’s menu has been carefully put together by Nick Alvis and team.
On their recommendation – we started off with a venison tartare (110 AED) – which has been delicately plated with smoked egg yolk, anchovies and root ginger. Together with the whipped salt cod with charred peppers (85 AED) – it was appetising and a good start.
For mains, my husband opted for a 300g rib eye, and I – fresh fish from their market platters. Please forgive me as I cannot recall if it was a bream or a bass – but I do recall it being absolutely fresh, and delicious. Crispy, charred skin and tender, juicy within. Note that all seafood is grilled over coals and served with Koffman’s chips, a garden salad and a choice of sauce. It is as they describe it to be – simple food, cooked exceptionally well.
Kids Menu
The Beam does quality food for the little ones’ as well. Garlic flat bread with cheese, tomato soup, mac and cheese to start. And for mains – crispy chicken with mash, battered fish with chunky chips and beef burger with french fries. We love that they’ve kept the quality for the kids – as they should be eating good food as well.
Is there any live entertainment at The Beam?
When we were there – they had a live acoustic duo Vlad and Laura playing every Friday evenings from 8pm. It was lovely to see Vlad again – who’s absolutely amazing with the guitar.
We stayed until until 8:30pm or so and could see that there were more couples coming in by then. I can definitely see that the place is suitable for a date night as it is quite a romantic spot – with the sunset beyond.
Overall Thoughts
Having been to Geales so many times over the years – it is nice to see what the team have done with the space and transformed part of it for The Beam. I like it, and I think it’s definitely here to stay. Congratulations to Chef Nick Alvis. And to Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa – it was definitely a good choice to introduce a home-grown bistro to the property.
I hear they have recently launched a Sunday Brunch at The Beam? Give it a try!
- The Beam Dubai
- Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa Dubai
- Call 04 316 5550
- Email resbook.leroyalmeridien@lemeridien.com
Disclosure : We were guest of Le Royal Meridien to review The Beam Dubai with the family.