Life is getting even better for Sheikh Zayed residents. Crave is now open in the new extension of Mall of Arabia, offering an exciting menu and a perfect space to chill out with friends and family.
Signature Dishes & Dishes Sampled
There are some innovative new items on the already comprehensive international fusion menu. Dishes to head for are Chicken Dukkah Salad, Taco Salad, Chicken Dynamite, Wild Mushroom and Truffle Oil Pasta, Steak Pizza, Philly Cheese Bowl Sandwich, Pepper Soy Beef, Sriracha Salmon, and the perennial favorite, Shrimp Konafa.
The sun was setting as we ensconced ourselves next to the picture window overlooking the greenery of The Park, great timing for a cool drink. It was a tough choice, as there were so many tempting options, but the fresh ginger and berry laden Wild Booster and Strawberry Basil Crush hit the spot perfectly.
We planned to try some of the new dishes, and didn’t take long to tuck into a huge shared dish of Chicken Dynamite, along with an old favorite, Shrimp Konafa. They both delivered on flavor and presentation, from the light, non-greasy exterior to the succulent chicken, tempura vegetables and shrimp. The two different dipping sauces; spicy, cheesy Dynamite and a sweet chili, set the dishes off to a “t”.
Please note that portions are really large, so we were happy to share, saving space for the Pepper Soy Beef and Salmon Sriracha which followed. The beef was tender filet, and teamed up with colored bell peppers and onion in a rich peppery soy sauce, it was a delight. The basmati rice came accented with finely chopped spring onion and zucchini, creating a perfect balance for the spicy sauce.
The salmon came paired with a smooth pea purée, sautéed vegetables and strips of cucumber and nori, giving it a true seafood aroma. This all barely left room for the highly recommended steak pizza, which was a shame, as it was excellent. You can’t beat the combination of hot-from-the-oven pizza, with a true homemade crust, laden with gooey provolone cheese, mixed peppers, garlic confit, artichoke and spinach, all topped with slices of tender fillet steak.
After a break to chat and enjoy the relaxed vibe and well-curated playlist we succumbed and agreed to share dessert. Anyone feeling calorie-deprived should opt for the Lotus Konafa Bomb with Cheese. Served hot, with a massive scoop of lotus ice-cream on the side, as well as a jug of decadent caramel Lotus sauce, it was an early reminder of treats in store for Ramadan.
Other Menu Options that Appealed
We would love to come back for the salads and explore the pizza options a bit further. But everything on the menu looked great.
Décor and Ambience
The understated interior is effortlessly chic. Pared back taupe and beige; leather teamed with wood, and black iron work supporting contemporary industrial lighting, it is very on trend. Spread comfortably between indoor and outdoor areas, Crave overlooks The Park, giving the feel of being close to nature. We loved the playlist of female vocals, some old, some new, but all good listening. Suffice it to say, the service was exceptional. We would expect nothing else from Crave.
Clientele mix: Urban professionals, early 20s upwards. Smart, on-trend groups of friends and couples.
Price range: Moderate, and super value considering the portion sizes.
Worth noting: Catering is available – Tel: 0128 800 0034
Contact information
Opening hours: Normal hours 12 pm to 12 am.
Address: Mall of Arabia, New Extension.
Facebook: @craveegypt
Instagram: crave_egypt
