Dubai’s $1.4bn Royal Atlantis to feature José Andrés’ Spanish eatery Jaleo

Dubai’s upcoming $1.4bn Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences has announced José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup will be bringing its Spanish-themed Jaleo restaurant concept to the property in 2019.

The outlet will add to a growing lineup of eateries at the development including celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal’s first restaurant in the Middle East.

Read: Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal to open Dubai restaurant

Jaleo was debuted in Washington DC in 1993 and now has locations in Bethesda, Maryland; Arlington, Virginia; Las Vegas; Mexico City and a further addition planned in Disney Springs, Florida, later this year.

The restaurant concept is based on sharing and features a menu of Spanish dishes including tapas, savoury paellas and cheeses.

“I am thrilled to be bringing Jaleo to The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences in Dubai – our first restaurant in the United Arab Emirates, and an incredible and majestic destination! Guests will able to experience Jaleo like they never have before,” said Andrés, who has earned two Michelin stars among other awards.

The wider Royal Atlantis Resort and Residences project features 795 hotel rooms and suites and 231 luxury apartments in three-, four- and five-bedroom configurations with private gardens, terraces and pools.

Read: New $1.5bn Royal Atlantis Resort Planned For Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah

South Korea’s Ssangyong Engineering & Construction won the contract to build the resort alongside Belhasa Six Construct in 2016.

Read: ICD-controlled Ssangyong wins Royal Atlantis contract, eyes expo, world cup projects

Atlantis Resorts and Residences chief operating officer Serge Zaalof said several other dining options would be unveiled in the coming months.