www.womanthismonth.com 79 November 2014 Master Cook-off Time to put on the aprons and sharpen the knives as Bahrain’s favourite cook-off is back at Cucina Italiana. The award-winning restaurant, located within the Al Safir Hotel & Tower in Juffair, has started the registration process for the second season of the Italian Master Chef Challenge. Thirty-six amateur contestants battle it out for the coveted title and the winner dons the Master Chef apron along with taking home an array of great prizes. The competition starts with a series of elimination cook-offs that run throughout November. These are head-on challenges that are designed to wean out the cooks and propel the potential chefs to the final round. Two winners from each of the six elimination rounds will compete in quarter finals, from which the winners will progress to the semi-finals. The grand finale will see four contestants compete against each other and the clock in December. Pete Lyons, general manager of Bahrain Family Leisure Company (BFLC), is practising his quips and is ready to host the event. “Last year we hosted the Master Chef Challenge which became a massive hit with the people,” says Pete. “It just turned from a small idea to this huge event that was televised by three TV channels. It was so much fun for all of us and we were amazed by how good the contestants were.” Friends and family of the contestants are encouraged to be present during the contests and cheer the competitors. Each cook-off will be shown live on large screens throughout the restaurant. “The competition will showcase the simple, rustic style of cuisine for which Cucina is known,” says Pete. Participation in the competition costs BD20. The event will be held every Sunday and Tuesday evening, from 5-7pm, starting November 9. Savour new flavours Parent firm of the Italian restaurant Bahrain Family Leisure Company’s latest culinary venture breaks away from the stereotypical image of an Arabic restaurant. Bayti in Bahrain Financial Harbour is more of a concept than a mere restaurant. It sheds the typical heavy upholstery, dark interiors and gilded artefacts, and offers a relaxed space that is colourful and inviting. “At Bayti, we feel the local cuisine is rich and has great potential to evolve into interesting preparations,” says Pete. “Keeping inherent flavours intact, we want to take these dishes to the next level.” The highlight of the menu is the gourmet shawarma, a bespoke dish made to your preference. From the bread to the meat and relishes, you get to choose it all. Another must-have is the chocolate shawarma for dessert. You’ll know why it deserves a special mention when you see it. The restaurant drops age-old service industry clichés, making way for a more casual, equal and hospitable dining experience. Call 17 001-317. After a successful season one, the much-anticipated cooking competition at Cucina Italiana is all set to cook up a storm. showcase
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==