Just when you thought your weekends couldn’t get any tastier, along comes Saffron—the culinary equivalent of a first-class ticket to Thailand, minus the jet lag. Touching down at the dreamy Banyan Tree Dubai starting March 28th, this pop-up gem is setting up shop at the Tranquillity Deck, and spoiler alert: it’s going to be the highlight of your Friday to Sunday evenings.
Picture this: a candlelit garden, the soft hum of the city fading into the background, and you—fork in hand—diving into flavour-packed Thai dishes so good they could make a grown man cry. With just 30 seats per night, Saffron isn’t just a dinner—it’s an event. One where the vibe is exclusive, the menu is fire (literally, there’s chili), and the memories? Chef’s kiss.
A Little Spice, A Lot of History
Before it became the chic globetrotter it is today, Saffron began its journey in Phuket in 1995, charming diners with dishes that whisper (and sometimes shout) tales of Thai heritage. Now, this award-winning restaurant is sprinkling its magic over Dubai—and let’s just say, it’s bringing the heat.
Think of Saffron as that effortlessly stylish friend who shows up in linen, speaks five languages, and makes everything look easy. The name itself is inspired by the saffron spice—rare, refined, and not afraid to steal the spotlight. Much like the dishes on this menu.
What’s on the Table? A Whole Lot of Yum.
Let’s start strong—Yum Nue Yang. No, that’s not a yoga pose. It’s a dreamy Wagyu beef salad with a herby Thai dressing that slaps in the best way. Then there’s the forever-iconic Som Tum, a zingy green papaya salad that hits you with the perfect chili-lime combo. Fresh? Yes. Spicy? A little. Addictive? Absolutely.
Feeling extra? Go big with the Kohng Wang Ruam, a gorgeous sampler of crispy, grilled, and golden Thai delights—ideal for sharing unless you “accidentally” forget to.
And the mains? Buckle up. From Pla Krapong Neung Manao (steamed snapper in a tangy chili-lime sauce) to the velvety Gaeng Kiew Waan Gai (green curry done so right), every bite tells a story you’ll want to read again and again. Veggie-lovers, don’t fret—there’s a glorious Gaeng Kiew Waan Phak just waiting to win your heart with tofu, Thai eggplant, and all the green curry goodness.
The Sweet Finale (a.k.a. Dessert Heaven)
Now, if you don’t end your meal with Khao Niew Mamuang—aka mango sticky rice with coconut ice cream—are you even doing it right? Or go triple-threat with the Thai crème brûlée trio, featuring coconut, pandan, and Thai tea. Basically, it’s like a spa day for your tastebuds.
So… How Do You Get In?
Seats are very limited (30 per night), so unless you’re planning on charming your way past the hostess with a homemade Thai dictionary, you’ll want to book ahead.
When? Every Friday to Sunday | 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM
Where? Tranquillity Deck, Banyan Tree Dubai
Price? AED 420 for the Discovery (sharing) Menu | À la carte also available
Seats? Only 30 per evening | Max table size: 8
So, whether you’re a Thai food fanatic or just really love dinner with a side of “wow,” Saffron at Banyan Tree Dubai is calling your name. Come hungry. Leave swooning. And maybe book again before dessert even hits the table.
Because let’s be honest: weekends are for winning—and this might just be your tastiest one yet.
