Stunning views, relaxed ambience and bold flavours were on the menu for Apple Sharma, as she experienced AlMassarah’s refined fusion dining at Royal Saray Resort.

Nestled in the heart of Seef is the impressive grand property of Royal Saray Resort, its expansive landscape as inspiring as its newest outlet, AlMassarah. As we took the golf buggy (yes, you’ll need one to shuttle across the resort’s various outlets), my colleagues and I were thrilled to be spending an afternoon here.

As soon as we entered, we were struck by the scale of AlMassarah. With its high vaulted ceiling, dark wooden beams and flower-shaped fans (I absolutely loved these), the boho-inspired pool club, restaurant and bar feels relaxed yet chic. It’s split into three interconnected areas, each with a unique colour scheme: a central lounge with comfy sage and cream sofas; a lounge bar to the right, complete with a beautifully carved wood panel, blush-pink seating and a live music stage; and the main dining area to the left, where orange cushions pop against brown wooden tables and chairs. One bamboo-clad wall features a cut-out window offering a view into the open kitchen, adding to the laid-back, resort-style feel.

But the most impressive view is outdoors, where terrace seating overlooks one of the most exquisite (and largest) pools I’ve seen on the island, with a smaller children’s pool beside it, both lined with sunbeds.

As I wandered around, taking in the impressive surroundings and lively lounge music, I was snapped out of my reverie by the chatter of my friends as we were greeted by the Marketing Manager, Mai Mohamed Alhelaibi. She welcomed us and introduced the culinary experience ahead – a curated menu of fusion dishes inspired by the Mediterranean and Middle East, from mezze platters to grilled seafood. Along with the hospitality of the friendly Floor Manager, Zumrad, and our lovely waitress Safina, we knew we were in good hands.

We began with drinks: a berry-heavy mocktail that leaned on the sweeter side, a refreshing basil and green apple combo and a creamy virgin piña colada – not on the menu but quickly whipped up. Then the food arrived, and the real fun began! We started with AlMassarah Chicken Salad – a well-balanced dish with perfectly grilled chicken and a rich honey mustard dressing that didn’t overpower. Handpicked mixed leaves, including rocket, added a fresh, peppery kick.

Next, the showstopper: Avocado Fattoush. My mouth watered as the bowl released a delicious truffle aroma. It came covered with markook – thin flatbread sprinkled with zaatar – hiding the salad underneath. Safina cracked the flaky bread into pieces, tossing it through mesclun leaves, avocado, halloumi, cucumber, cherry tomatoes and pomegranate. Peppery, earthy, sweet and sour, the flavours married perfectly with the truffle molasses vinaigrette. Enough for sharing and a hit at the table, this was my favourite dish of the day. As one of my friends exclaimed: “I can finish this whole salad by myself!”

Then came the small warm plates, all arriving with style – and in one case, fire! The Wagyu Kibbe took a familiar Lebanese dish and gave it a twist. The Grade 5+ Wagyu, Panko-crumbed and deep-fried, was melt-in-the-mouth, while the Greek yogurt and tahini added richness. Elevated by the chipotle butter, this isn’t your grandmother’s kibbe, but one we’d happily go back for. The Kaitafi Mia Taria – a fried kunafa parcel of organic feta and Turkish kashkaval wrapped in crisp vermicelli – was one of those dishes you instantly want more of. With spicy harissa, tangy tomato sauce, sweet fig compote and creamy cheese, every bite delivered something different. And then came the Flaming Halloumi. Safina flambéed it tableside with an aniseed aperitif, adding a subtle liquorice-like flavour. The salty cheese, sweet nectarine-chilli jam and hint of smokiness came together in perfect balance – a lovely little dish.

Moving on to the sharing plates, the Baby Tomahawk was another highlight. A kilo of charcoal-fired Wagyu tomahawk, expertly cooked and served with a tahini-peppercorn jus, the meat was incredibly tender, and the spicy kick of the sauce took it to another level. Simply superb. The Robata Calamari Skewer – beautifully charred Patagonian calamari – had a subtle smoky note, paired perfectly with green shatta (Middle Eastern chilli paste) and a sweet nectarine purée. The lime mayo on the side was a nice touch and tied everything together for a well-balanced bite.

Appetites still eager, a buzz of anticipation grew as we awaited the next course, AlMassarah’s two signature paellas: Seafood and Robata Mixed Grill. The Spanish bomba rice, cooked in lobster and meat broths respectively, was packed with flavour. The seafood version featured Canadian lobster, tiger prawns, mussels, clams and octopus, all cooked to perfection. The grilled meat version – with Wagyu striploin, robata lamb chops and chicken skewers – was equally satisfying, each element flavourfully seasoned and seared.

With just enough room to spare, we ended on a sweet note. Beautifully presented, the Pistachio Fondant tasted as decadent as it looked. Oozing a verdant pistachio sauce and topped with pistachio ice cream, caramelised nuts and gold flakes, its delicate flavour was comforting – just as a fondant should be. The Crunchy Chocolate Bliss was pure indulgence: filo pastry filled with chocolate cream, drizzled with dulce de leche, creamy chocolate sauce and finished with candied walnuts and vanilla ice cream. Imagine it as a Nutella baklava – rich, delightfully crunchy and utterly irresistible. A must for those with a sweet tooth.

AlMassarah’s spacious layout, intimate seating areas and impressive outdoor terrace make it ideal for all occasions, from casual bites to celebratory feasts. Come for sunset drinks, a leisurely lunch or, like us, spend the whole afternoon. ✤

GO: CALL 1667 7778 OR VISIT WWW.ROYALSARAY.COM/DINING FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A RESERVATION.