Discover Mosaic: A Unique Afternoon Tea Experience at Shai Salon
Shai Salon, located within the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, is launching a delightful new offering this season—Mosaic Afternoon Tea. This innovative creation draws inspiration from the art of composition, where each element—flavor, texture, and color—is purposefully chosen to create a harmonious experience.
Crafted by Culinary Experts
The Mosaic Afternoon Tea is the brainchild of two renowned pastry chefs: Executive Pastry Chef Andrea Bonaffini from Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at Chao Phraya River and Senior Executive Pastry Chef Nicolas Lambert from Four Seasons Resort Dubai. Together, they have designed a menu that is much like a mosaic itself—each component distinct yet integral to a sophisticated whole.
A Global Culinary Journey
Set to launch on February 6, 2026, the Mosaic menu reflects the chefs’ diverse culinary backgrounds and deep expertise. Chef Bonaffini’s training in French pastry is beautifully complemented by Chef Lambert’s Italian influences, resulting in a collection that is rich in flavor and presentation. Each dish is a testament to their commitment to craftsmanship, showcasing an array of colors, textures, and contrasts that invite guests to indulge.
Savory Starters
Guests are greeted with a refreshing Sparkling Green Tea, paving the way for a carefully curated selection of savory bites. Among these appetizers, the Crimson Tide stands out with a beetroot tart paired with Bluefin tuna tartare, raspberry, and basil. Additionally, the menu features a Black Velvet Brioche, a luxurious treat topped with creamy Taleggio mousse and exquisite Périgord black truffle.
Fresh and Vibrant Flavors
The Meadow and Herb offering is a celebration of freshness, featuring a green pea and basil tart enriched with marinated trumpet zucchini and topped with Pecorino. On the other hand, the Scarlet Orchard serves a modern take on a classic Italian tomato and bread soup, artfully layered with creamy Stracciatella cheese and capers for a zesty finish.
A Refreshing Interlude
Transitioning to the sweet portion of the experience, the Yuzu Lemon pre-dessert provides a bright palate cleanser. This delightful dish incorporates vanilla crème fraiche, yuzu granita, and lemon fizz foam, finished with fresh clementine—making it an invigorating pause before the dessert extravaganza begins.
Signature Sweet Creations
The dessert selection shines with Chef Bonaffini’s signature pastries. The Strawberry Short Cake features a delicate balance of silky choux biscuit, strawberry gel, and whipped white chocolate ganache, adorned with fresh strawberries. Another standout is the Pecan · Caramel · Vanilla, which layers pecan praliné, tonka vanilla mousse, and decadent Dulcey chocolate, encapsulating warmth and indulgence.
Unique Flavor Combinations
For those seeking a contrast of flavors, the Dark Sesame Black Rice · Dark Chocolate dessert combines a dark sesame sponge with a rich dark chocolate crémeux, topped with a crunchy black sesame praliné. Another innovative dish, Pistachio · Thai Basil · Citrus, showcases a nutty pistachio sponge accompanied by a refreshing makrut lime leaf Chantilly, Thai basil mousse, and kumquat, capturing subtle Asian influences.
An Indulgent Finale
Rounding off the sweet journey is the Golden Mango Swirl—a flaky Danish pastry filled with tender coconut milk rice pudding, offering a luxurious conclusion to the experience.
Extended Options at Shai Salon
The offerings at Shai Salon don’t stop at Afternoon Tea. The Vitrine features a selection of signature desserts, including Chef Bonaffini’s iconic Tirami-sù. Guests at Jou Jou Brasserie can also savor the Chocolate and Lemon dessert, which presents a stunning ensemble of black lemon chocolate ice cream and various complementary elements, further enhancing the collaborative creative spirit.
Meet the Chefs
Andrea Bonaffini: A Master of Pastry
Chef Andrea Bonaffini is celebrated for merging classical European techniques with contemporary flair. With over twenty years of experience, he excels in crafting desserts that showcase ingredient integrity and artistic expression.
Nicolas Lambert: A Rising Star
Chef Nicolas Lambert oversees the pastry operations at both Four Seasons Resort Dubai and its sister hotel. His seasonal approach and technical proficiency have earned him accolades, including the Prix d’Excellence 2021 and the title of Pastry Chef of the Year 2022.
The Mosaic Afternoon Tea at Shai Salon promises an unforgettable culinary journey, blending tradition and innovation. With prices starting at AED 420 per person, including Champagne, or AED 260 for a tea and coffee option, this experience is not to be missed. Reservations are now open for this unique gastronomic adventure.
