Since moving to Dubai, Ramadan has carried a quiet sense of absence, a feeling that something familiar was missing.

For over a decade, the holy month meant gathering around expansive hotel buffets with family, where conversation flowed as easily as the food. In a family where plans revolved around meals, quality time was measured in shared dishes and second helpings. Two occasions called for hotel spreads without fail: National Day weekend lunches and Iftar during Ramadan.

This year, however, brought a small but meaningful consolation. While my parents, who have always been my dining companions, were not by my side, The Podium at the Renaissance Hotel offered an experience that softened the homesickness.

With a thoughtfully curated Iftar buffet and an atmosphere that echoes the warmth of traditional gatherings, the venue delivers more than just a meal. It recreates the spirit of Ramadan evenings.

For those seeking a taste of tradition in the city, this Iftar may just make Dubai feel a little more like home.

Upon stepping inside, the modest Arab-inspired interiors and thoughtfully spaced seating immediately create a sense of calm, a welcome contrast to the bustle often associated with some Ramadan buffets in town.

Moments later, the focus shifts to the expansive spread: A vibrant salad bar, hearty mains, and an indulgent dessert selection. An assorted bread station, comforting soups, and the classic fried Iftar favourites complete the offering, striking a balance between tradition and abundance.

With fattoush always being my top-pick at the salad bar, I was not disappointed. Topped with fresh crisps, the light and crunchy salad was the best way I could start my Iftar. 

There was also an assortment of samosas. The spinach-stuffed one had a perfect blend of tanginess combined with the delicate flavour of the spinach. The ones filled with minced meat had a faint taste of flavourful chicken.

The real deal here was the main course. We started off with the pasta, a rich and creamy blend with soft mushrooms, topped with parmesan, which makes any pasta taste better. It was the perfect comfort food, something my mum would whip up in the kitchen for me after a long day.

However, the main highlight of the buffet for me was the kofta. Juicy, minced meat rolls cooked to perfection. And the flavours were an assortment of spices that burst into your mouth. It was the game-changer for me. I was instantly transported to my family’s favourite restaurant back in Saudi Arabia, where every visit meant indulging in some of the most delicious kebabs.  

Another standout was the traditional Emirati Lamb Ouzi, a first for me, and a memorable one at that. The well-seasoned rice, layered with minced meat, was rich without being heavy, while the tender lamb was succulent and deeply flavourful.

It is the kind of dish that quietly demands a second helping. For those who have yet to try Lamb Ouzi, this is reason enough to start.

No meal is complete without dessert, and here, it takes centre stage. The extensive selection makes it almost impossible not to save room, rewarding patience with a display that is as tempting as it is varied.

From classic Arabic sweets to inventive international fusions, the spread catered to both nostalgia and curiosity, offering a sweet finale that lingers well beyond the last bite.

Baked yoghurt , in particular, caught my attention, and Tanya Chandani, the pastry chef, shared that it is a slow-baked dessert like cheesecake, but a much healthier alternative. Her choice of flavours was coconut and mango, minimal yet innovative. Its feather-light texture melted almost instantly on the palate, while the delicate notes of mango and coconut added a refreshing lift to every bite.

I also tried the Chocolate Cremeux, a dessert the chef described as her own creation, somewhere between a ganache and a mousse. The texture struck that delicate balance: smoother and lighter than ganache, yet more structured than mousse, resulting in a rich, velvety finish.

While the dark chocolate intensity leaned slightly stronger than my personal preference, my dining companion appreciated its depth.

To round it all off, I opted for a flat white, a simple but comforting finish to an indulgent evening.

The hospitality stood out just as much as the food. Staff were attentive throughout, swiftly replenishing buffet stations and clearing tables with quiet efficiency. More importantly, they ensured guests felt welcome and well looked after, an essential ingredient in any memorable Ramadan gathering.

The restaurant balanced Ramadan vibes with a touch of warmth that will make you miss home. If you’re on the search for a buffet spot that will stay with you, The Podium is where the wind should take you.

(By Shura Kola)