Geordie Armani: How I fell in love with JLT

How I fell in love with JLT

It must be have been about ten years ago when I saw the original plans for Jumeirah Lake Towers. At that time, the lakes were actually linked to the Marina and you would have been able to sail boats in and out.  I remember saying to the developer at the time (at some property exhibition) that I honestly can't see that ever happening. I was in fact 100% correct. 

At that time I had no idea how much of my time would be spent at Jumeirah Lake Towers. The hotel in which my hairdresser (Juan Salon) was based had been pulled down to make way for a flashy new hotel (which never happened) and Juan enlisted my help in finding him a new location. We ended up in Jumeirah Lake Towers. There were times when we were given hard hats to tour the buildings, all of which were half constructed. It was an interesting time and it wasn't long before various new food outlets opened in each cluster.

My food blog had been born and I was always looking for new openings that I could write about.  My food relationship with JLT and all its little clusters with restaurants opening on a daily basis became a home from home for me. I was dining and writing about outlets in JLT on a weekly basis. People aren't aware of what is actually on offer in terms of dining in JLT - there is quite simply something for everyone!  I am yet to discover a cuisine that is not available in JLT.  The Bonnington Hotel was the first licensed hotel to open and my beloved McGettigan's became a hotspot for people living locally, who wanted a bit of entertainment along with a pint after work.

Today JLT is still growing and its food scene is expanding, too. Recently, we saw the opening of Spice and Ice, with a Chef who trained at the Oberoi in Mumbai.  Coming soon is 1762 Stripped, a new take on successful brand, which will also offer a bakery. 

Congratulations on the launch of JLT Dining!

Love,

GA