Culinary Alchemy: The Magic of Burnt Food and Versatile Onions at Flor Dubai

The Art of Controlled Burning

When we think of burnt food, images of culinary mishaps often come to mind—charred remnants of what was once a delightful meal. However, at Flor Dubai, head chef Timofey Sulima transforms this notion into an art form, using controlled overheating techniques to coax out unconventional flavors and textures. Imagine delicious charred onions, caramelized beetroot, and even brownies re-imagined through the lens of careful charring. Here, burnt food becomes a sophisticated exploration of taste, rather than a culinary disaster.

The Versatile Onion: A Flavor Powerhouse

Onions are often seen as a basic ingredient, but at Flor, they transform into an electrifying presence on the plate. Sulima’s focus on controlled burning enhances their natural sweetness, depth, and umami, elevating them beyond mere garnish. The element of fire plays a transformative role, showcasing how even simple ingredients can be elevated to star status through skilled preparation.

Ambiance: A Calm Refuge in Dubai’s Financial District

Flor Dubai is not just about the food; the setting adds to the overall experience. Nestled within the elegant Ritz-Carlton Hotel, this intimate 50-seat restaurant sports a minimalist design with white walls, soft lighting, and carefully curated artwork. This calming aesthetic mirrors the culinary philosophy of simplicity and refinement.

Guests can opt for the serene indoor dining area or the leafy outdoor terrace, where city lights twinkle against the dusky sky. The atmosphere invites diners to focus on the beautifully crafted dishes while appreciating the artistry of the environment.

The Creative Mind Behind the Cuisine

Timofey Sulima’s culinary journey began on a Ukrainian farm, instilling in him a profound appreciation for fresh, seasonal ingredients. At just 27, he has made a name for himself, earning a Michelin Bib Gourmand award at Flor Moscow before bringing his expertise to Dubai. His partnership with owner Konstantin Borisov, who has risen through the ranks from dishwasher to restaurateur, showcases a dynamic duo poised to revolutionize the culinary scene in the Emirates.

Menu Highlights: Everyday Ingredients, Extraordinary Transformations

Flor’s menu is a refreshing take on fine dining, moving away from overly complicated dishes. The focus lies on high-quality, everyday ingredients—transformed through Sulima’s fearless use of flame.

• Starters: Begin with the Hokkaido scallop in green verbena sauce, beautifully complemented by an apple ribbon. The transcendent mix of flavors sets the stage for what’s to come. Don’t miss the Scandinavian-style black stout bread with whipped honey butter, featuring a unique blend of burnt and unburnt butter—simply irresistible!

• Main Courses: The cabbage steak with pepe verde sauce exemplifies Sulima’s ability to elevate humble vegetables, showcasing their natural allure. Alternatively, the roast beef with chef’s special sauce is a standout, served on a warm Russian sauna stone that keeps it sizzling, and garnished with a sauce infused with burnt onion ash for added umami depth.

• Desserts: Save room for the unique coffee cheesecake or the surprising berry beetroot, where caramelized beetroot meets raspberry and coconut yogurt mousse. These desserts demonstrate the playful side of Sulima’s culinary philosophy, merging rich flavors with light textures.

Valuing the Experience

Flor strikes a balance between mid-range pricing and exceptional culinary craftsmanship. While some dishes, like the filet mignon, are at the higher end, they deliver a multisensory experience that justifies the splurge.

For a more economical yet equally delightful meal, diners can enjoy the stout bread with honey butter paired with the cabbage steak and berry beetroot, proving that exquisite dining doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag.

An Invitation to Explore

Flor Dubai stands as a beacon of innovation in the city’s culinary scene, inviting food enthusiasts to explore the art of controlled burning and appreciate the versatility of ingredients like onions. Through Sulima’s creativity and the restaurant’s serene ambiance, every dining experience becomes an opportunity to enjoy familiar flavors in an extraordinary way.

Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or just looking for a cozy spot to savor exquisite food, Flor promises an unforgettable voyage through flavor and technique.