Full stop, I have a special relationship with the Jumeirah Emirates Towers<\/a><\/strong>. \u00a0In 2007, we had been in country 11 days, when I got a job in the office towers (42nd floor, no less). \u00a0From 2008-2009, a friend and I would stop in weekly at the Agency for their ladies night specials. \u00a0In 2010, I nearly accepted another job in the office towers and in 2013, I finally had the chance to stay in the hotel (excellent, in case you were wondering). \u00a0In between my trips to this property were (many) visits to Harry Ghattos. \u00a0Without question, the Emirates Towers are iconic and one of my favorite destinations in the city.<\/p>\n Walking through the corridor, I note how the Boulevard has changed (Scarletts to The Ivy<\/a>, for example) and thus find myself at La Cantine du Faubourg<\/strong><\/a>, yet another iteration of the ever-changing\u00a0roster of restaurants. \u00a0As a ‘celebrated Parisian <\/a>institution’ I didn’t even know existed in Dubai, I was happy to easily find a seat for lunch on Thursday afternoon. \u00a0Passing by the private dining area (which looked to be quite chic) and the lounge (quite spacious for Dubai), I took a seat inside (yes, the heat has arrived). \u00a0After some discourse with the server (we had to confirm I was eligible for the lunch deal — worth fighting for at AED105), I ordered a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, observed the restaurant\u00a0and read my book.<\/p>\n The interior\u00a0currently showcases the artwork of Ms. Nadine Kanso. \u00a0According to the ‘art attack’ portion of the restaurant’s website, ‘her message is a message of optimism, written out in the ancient art of calligraphy, throughout her photography, collages and now, the walls of La Cantine du Faubourg. This creative dialogue masterfully confronts issues of cultural identity, offering very personal insight yet allowing room for the individual to ponder.’ \u00a0While I do not profess to be an art expert, I did think the exhibition enhanced the overall ambiance of the restaurant. \u00a0I’d be curious to see who the management will bring in next. \u00a0Her artwork blends well with what I’m calling ‘ Beverly Hills chic.’ \u00a0While the venue may be trying to pull off a French look and offers, the Angeleno in me says otherwise.<\/p>\n