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Head Chef Axel Godefroid, who comes to Empire after running one of Dubai's award winning fine dining seafood restaurants, describes Empire as the "diamond" of the hotel's culinary service.
"Empire offers more than just a meal, it's a complete dining experience," he says. "While nothing less then the best ingredients can be expected from a restaurant of this calibre, Empire combines this with presentation, atmosphere and a personalised service which amounts to a feast for all the senses."
"Empire is truly special. We wanted to create a service, an experience, which goes beyond the meal and becomes a personal, intimate courting between us and our guests," says Tim Hansen, Director of Food and Beverage.
He added,
"Empire is such that its reputation sits on the mouths and pallets of those who experience it... People come for the experience they've heard so much about but it's everything -the personal service, the intimate atmosphere and of course, the food, that they come back for."
As well as greeting guests at the door and preparing dishes tailored to a guest's preferences, based on familiarity, if this is the guest's second visit, Chef Axel will host Dubai's first and only Chef's Table.
Hansen said:
"Much like the great cruises of old where guests were invited to dine with the Captain, the Chef's Table will be an honour reserved for few. It provides a unique experience in a world class kitchen; to dine with the chef at his own private table in the midst of the action."
As Head Chef to this new and bold statement in fine dining, Chef Axel 's role has expanded beyond the realms of the traditional to make Empire what it is.
"I will greet guests at their table as they arrive and go through the evening's options with them," he explains.
Unique to Empire's brand of fine dining, half of the menu will change on a regular basis -"ensuring regular cliental, or a guest of the hotel on an extended stay, is able to enjoy a different meal with every visit".
"I will be able to offer the day's menu, as well as any special recommendations I might have if they have dined with us previously," says Chef Axel. "Of course, I can take any special requests which I will do my utmost to fulfil."
If the guest is a repeat guest, Chef Axel will know what they have chosen in previous visits as all preferences, dislikes and comments will be tracked and added to the daily reservation sheet.
Also, revitalising an all-but-extinct concept, Empire will return the nearly forgotten art of classical table side work. Flambees, Tranchees and other table side work will be performed and revived as no other restaurant in Dubai offers the same variety with this unique, personal touch.
"With its intimate personalisation and location within The Monarch Dubai, Dubai's fine dining experience has confirmed its world leading status," says Hansen.
Posted by Husam Odiabat
