Let me be up front with you, dear reader. \u00a0I love food. \u00a0I love new restaurants. \u00a0I love unique experiences and getting together with friends. \u00a0I do not go into restaurants with the sole purpose of trying to tear them down, because I honestly believe there is something redeemable in almost every situation. \u00a0As a personal code, I try and gauge a venue against what I consider a ‘peer group’ such that Shake Shack isn’t set against the same standards as say, Noma.<\/p>\n

Are we clear?<\/p>\n

Good.<\/p>\n

Furthermore, during a soft launch of a restaurant, I understand that perhaps not everything will be available or that the kitchen hasn’t sorted out its expo. \u00a0I am completely willing to forgive those things. \u00a0But there are a number of things, no matter how long a restaurant has been open, that I cannot and will not let go.<\/p>\n

Let’s get this night started then, shall we?<\/p>\n

Following new restaurants on Instagram, I like to keep up with what is going on and opening around Dubai. \u00a0When I saw last week that Zoco (at Habtoor City) was offering a week long promotion of 50% the entire bill for their soft opening, I called up some friends to see who would be interested. \u00a0I made reservations for a party of 8 people, confirming at the time that there would be options for our vegetarian diner. \u00a0Yes, there were. \u00a0All of the details were confirmed, and we set out on Monday evening, looking forward to getting together.<\/p>\n

After all…<\/p>\n

Reflecting on his menu, Chef Jimmy said: \u201cI like to respect the product and enhance its natural flavor while playing with different textures and flavors, using a variety of culinary techniques to create harmony in each dish. The guest should have a sensorial experience with my food.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

And…<\/p>\n

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