In the Press
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22Nov 2024
With a new generation mining local flavors, Dubai’s dining scene is no longer defined by superstar global chefs. By Samantha Wood
In Dubai, ambitious chefs are fusing their personal stories with regional influences, forging a new vision for fine dining in their city. Read more here
Conde Nast Traveler/ Traveller USA & UK - December 2024 Print Editions -
22Nov 2024
Chefs from across the globe tell Samantha Wood about their hero ingredient
Chefs from across the globe tell Samantha Wood about their hero ingredient – and how it enhances their cooking
Conde Nast Traveller Middle East - November/ December 2024 Print Edition -
25Mar 2024
Raemona 40 over 40
Welcome to our fourth and final week of the 2024 Raemona Magazine 40 over Forty list. That’s a lot of fours. It’s our annual curated list of influential impact makers – all women who happen to be over 40.Being ‘Renowned’ means being noticed. Making a name for yourself is never easy, keeping it at the forefront of industries, over the years and becoming the ‘go to’ – even less so. In week four we celebrate those who have not only done that, they keep going – improving and innovating with every
Raemona Magazine - 25th March 2024 -
20Mar 2024
Why there’s more to Dubai than glitz and glamour
Sarah Marshall reveals how to get the best of the much-loved Middle Eastern metropolis.
The Irish News - 20th March 2024 -
18Mar 2024
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15Mar 2024
Back on Dubai Eye 103.8FM radio
15 March 2024: Jen Crichton filling in for Helen Farmer. Samantha Wood, Foodiva letting us know where to go to celebrate Ramadan. We learn about an Emirati cultural experience, Whispers of the Sand at Andaz on The Palm with Dubai based writer and director – Alex Broun, Emirati writer and cultural guide, Bader Al Mansoori, and the CEO of Host Theatre – Yulia Maksimovich. Chef Kelvin from Jun’s is talking about the link between food and stories. Looking at food wastage with Khuloud Al Nuwais – Chief Sustainability Officer, Emirates Foundation & Secretary General, ne’ma National Steering Committee and Nikki Walsh, Director of F&B Marketing at Hilton. Looking at two females in F&B, Mehreen Omar and Muna Mustafa. – co founders of Supperclub Middle East.
Dubai Eye - 15th March 2024 -
10Jan 2024
Podcast interview: Samantha Wood’s personal and business journey
Samantha Wood is a British-Greek-Cypriot resident of Dubai for 23 years who wears a number of hats – a food writer, event organiser and communications consultant with nearly three decades of experience in the UK and the Middle East across a diverse range of industries including food & beverage, hospitality and tourism.
Most Memorable Journeys - 2nd January 2024 -
6Oct 2023
Co-hosting #DXBToday episode on Dubai One TV
Dubai’s thriving food scene sees local restaurants succeeding abroad, alongside international outposts. These homegrown eateries are now going global. And as the homegrown restaurant scene in Dubai has flourished post-COVID with locally developed concepts, supper clubs have dominated over the imported celeb chef-helmed venues.
Dubai One TV - 6th October 2023 -
4Sep 2023
Podcast: Mental health and wellness in the hospitality industry
We’ve come to expect service with a smile, after all, isn’t the customer always right? But what about the people behind the smiles?
Mentl - 1st September 2023 -
1May 2023
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2Mar 2023
The Dubai food scene has never been hotter
A new wave of spectacular Dubai restaurants makes the city one of the most exciting places to eat in the world right now. Here’s where to eat and stay in Dubai to explore its rapidly evolving food scene.
Food & Wine, USA - 1st March 2023 -
12Jan 2023
Why it could be happy hour for Dubai tourists after alcohol tax is scrapped
After Dubai announced it would drop its 30% alcohol tax, experts explain what it will mean for tourists and the travel industry.
CNN - 10th January 2023 -
12Jan 2023
The gourmet food scene in the UAE is taking on the likes of Paris, New York and London
While the economic outlook for much of the world is predicted to be rocky over 2023, in the Gulf there’s a buoyant mood.
CNBC - 30th December 2022 -
18Aug 2022
What makes a true restaurant critic?
With social media and democratisation of opinion, we believe we’ve been elevated to a vantage point where we ‘understand’ food. But whatever happened to the rigour o…
Khaleej Times - 18th August 2022 -
23Jun 2022
What does the Michelin Guide mean for Dubai?
From encouraging chefs to attracting tourists, Michelin-starred destinations will up the city’s culinary reputation
The National - 23rd June 2022 -
5Jun 2022
Industry leaders weigh in on predicted culinary trends for Dubai
Some of the industry’s top chefs, entrepreneurs and corporate leaders outlined their thoughts on what to expect from Dubai’s ever-evolving culinary industry.
The ProChef Middle East - June 2022 -
3Jun 2022
How the Michelin guide’s arrival will shake up Dubai’s dining scene
DUBAI: The Michelin Guide — the restaurant industry’s most-respected guidebook — will launch its Dubai edition this month in partnership with Dubai Tourism. That has led some skeptics to speculate that the list will be filled with international headliners in tourist-friendly venues. But it’s not uncommon for Michelin to partner with tourism boards for its guides, and the company has stressed that “one star in Dubai equals one star in Paris.” Michelin inspectors visit venues multiple times, anonymously.
Arab News - 3rd June 2022 -
10Dec 2021
Does the UAE’s new weekend signal the demise of the Friday brunch?
While Saturday and Sunday brunches are in the pipeline, the ‘frunch’ might not yet be a thing of the past
The National - 10th December 2021 -
1Jul 2021
Delicious bites under Dh50: what would UAE chefs and foodies eat?
Sample these bang-for-buck dazzlers the next time you seek a treat
The National - 1st July 2021 -
20Jun 2021
Dubai’s most underrated restaurants according to the experts
11 often overlooked restaurants that you need to put on your radar…
What’s On Dubai - 20th June 2021 -
26May 2021
Will summer 2021 see a slowdown in Dubai’s F&B industry?
Panelists at ATM Virtual debate whether the summer’s heat and border re-openings will weaken tourism demand amidst industry boom.
Arabian Business - 26th May 2021 -
25Mar 2021
A podcast interview – The Lighthouse Conversations
‘For a review, I have to be in the right state of mind.’ Samantha Wood AKA FooDiva on her restaurant review process, Dubai’s F&B scene & the ONE review that broke the internet.
The Lighthouse Conversations - 25th March 2021 -
8Mar 2021
Top 15 changemakers in F&B
To celebrate International Women’s Day, we highlight the top female F&B experts who helped shape the country’s culinary scene.
BBC Good Food Middle East - 8th March 2021 -
8Mar 2021
9 inspiring female travellers on their most memorable trips
Some of our favourite female frequent fliers share the trips – and destinations – that have left a lasting impression.
Conde Nast Traveller Middle East - 8th March 2021 -
23Dec 2020
Restaurant trends feature
To tempt diners back, operators across the emirates are offering budget-friendly options
Gulf News - 23rd December 2020 -
7Dec 2020
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27Aug 2020
Podcast with Chef JKP
James Knight-Pacheco celebrates the inspirational stories of people within hospitality, their ups, their downs and everything in between. What does it take to keep up in one of the most competitive, mentally and physically stressful industries in the world?
Chef JKP - 27th August 2020 -
18Aug 2020
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13Aug 2020
Ask FooDiva interview
In the next interview in the series, we had a chat with Samantha Wood, Founder at Foodiva on the trends and challenges of the F&B industry
SME10 - 13th August 2020 -
25Jun 2020
FooDiva on Dubai Eye 103.8FM
25 June 2020: The FooDiva herself Samantha Wood joins us to give her top tips on where to dine out at or order in from this weekend. Sam also tells us about a new
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 25th June 2020
summer dining series being launched by Avli and discusses some new openings
around town. -
6Jun 2020
FooDiva on Dubai Eye 103.8FM
04 June 2020: Samantha Wood, AKA Foodiva, gives us a few helpful tips to keep in mind when dining out, in support of local restaurants. She also tells us about some new restaurant openings, as well as restaurants that have launched new delivery-only brands.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 4th June 2020 -
2Jun 2020
ATM Virtual hosts webinar on effects of food tourism due to coronavirus
Caterer Middle East editor Simon Ritchie hosted a panel on how food-driven travel could be affected by the coronavirus pandemic at this year’s Arabian Travel Market Virtual conference.
Caterer Middle East - 2nd June 2020 -
21Apr 2020
FooDiva’s #UAERestaurantsUnite COVID-19 pro bono social media campaign passes five million impressions
Over 6,000 posts have been made using the hashtag across social media in one month.
Caterer Middle East - 21st April 2020 -
23Jan 2020
FooDiva back on Dubai Eye 103.8FM
23 Jan 2020: Samantha Wood, AKA Foodiva, joins us to talk food, reviewing some of the new openings around town, including Chuan, Nammos and Kimpo, as well as the best Chinese restaurants to head to for Chinese New Year celebrations.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 23rd January 2020 -
23Jan 2020
Meet Caterer Middle East’s all-female advisory panel
A group of inspirational women in F&B discussed the industry’s hot topics ahead of the conference in March
Caterer Middle East - 23rd January 2020 -
21Jan 2020
FooDiva’s #ThreeChefsDinner to return in March
The Greek-themed event will take place in DIFC’s Avli
Hotelier Middle East - 21st January 2020 -
21Jan 2020
FooDiva to host next #ThreeChefsDinner in March
The Greek-themed event will take place at DIFC’s Avli
Caterer Middle East - 21st January 2020 -
15Dec 2019
On air discussing Saudi Arabia
As Saudi Arabia scraps segregation in restaurants and cafes, we hear from food
Dubai Eye Business Breakfast - 10th December 2019
critic Samantha Wood, also known as FooDiva, about her recent food tour in the Kingdom. -
15Dec 2019
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17Oct 2019
Foodie news with Samantha Wood
17 Oct 2019: Discussing all things food with Foodiva Samantha Wood.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 17th October 2019 -
25Sep 2019
A podcast with FooDiva
And the state of fine dining here in the UAE
Esquire Middle East - 25th September 2019 -
12Sep 2019
On air with chefs Greg Malouf, Gilles Bosquet and Sahar Parham
12 Sep 2019: Three chefs in the studio to celebrate middle eastern cuisine – Greg Malouf, Gilles Bosquet from Ninive and Sahar Parham from Burj Al Arab ahead of them cooking together for one night only.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 12th September 2019 -
11Sep 2019
#ThreeChefsDinner with FooDiva on 4th November
Samantha Wood is hosting her third #ThreeChefsDinner ticketed experience
Esquire Middle East - 11th September 2019 -
5Sep 2019
#ThreeChefsDinner with FooDiva on 4th November
The event will have a modern Middle Eastern theme and be held on November 4 at Ninive, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Hotelier Middle East - 5th September 2019 -
5Sep 2019
#ThreeChefsDinner with FooDiva on 4th November
Greg Malouf is one of the top chefs making an appearance
Caterer Middle East - 5th September 2019 -
27Aug 2019
The Social: Foodie news with Samantha Wood
27 Aug 2019: Samantha Wood is a food writer, consultant and event organiser with 25 years of experience. She talks the latest restaurant openings and foodie news from around the world.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 27th August 2019 -
14Aug 2019
The conundrums of service charge and tipping
Food writer Samantha Wood weighs in on the lack of influencer etiquette and the need for transparency when it comes to gratuity
Hotelier Middle East - 14th August 2019 -
28May 2019
The Social – Foodie News with FooDiva
28 May 2019: Samantha Wood, AKA Foodiva joins us to talk the latest restaurant openings and foodie news, including the red flags that we should look for when avoiding a restaurant by Chef.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 28th May 2019 -
20May 2019
Meet the judges of the Caterer Middle East Awards
The industry experts deciding who will be the big winners on June 18
Caterer Middle East - 20th May 2019 -
13May 2019
Top 5 restaurants open for daytime dining over Ramadan
With the holy month of Ramadan on, we roped in Dubai-based food writer Samantha Wood to choose five places in the city where non-fasters can grab a bite during daylight hours.
Arabian Radio Network - 13th May 2019 -
12May 2019
Business Breakfast Nightcap with FooDiva
Brandy Scott lifts the tablecloth on the restaurant industry as she speaks to food writer and founder of Foodiva, Samantha Wood.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 12th May 2019 -
30Apr 2019
The Social – Foodie News with FooDiva
30 April 2019: It’s restaurant and Foodie gossip time. Samantha Wood of FooDiva joins Georgia Tolley standing in for Helen for all the latest foodie news.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 30th April 2019 -
23Apr 2019
11 foodie influencers to follow
Local Instagram feeds you need to have on your radar
Time Out Dubai - 23rd April 2019 -
26Mar 2019
The Social – Foodie news with FooDiva
26 March 2019: Getting all the foodie gossip with Samantha Wood of FooDiva.net. She shares her insights on the latest opening and reviews from around Dubai.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 26th March 2019 -
20Feb 2019
Food On The Brain: 3 Dubai Foodies You Should Already Be Following
3 Dubai Foodies You Should Be Following Lovin’ Dubai - 20th February 2019 -
12Feb 2019
The Social: FooDiva’s Top Dubai Restaurants on Valentine’s Day
12 February 2019: Samantha Wood, the founder of the food website FooDiva tells us how we can avoid being ripped off when eating out on Valentine’s Day.
The Social - Foodie News with Samantha Wood, FooDiva Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 12th February 2019 -
29Jan 2019
The Social – Foodie News with Samantha Wood, FooDiva
29 January 2019: Helen is joined by Samantha Wood, the Founder of the FooDiva website and app – famous for its impartial restaurant reviews and food features, and the DineAround event.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 29th January 2019 -
15Jan 2019
The Social – Foodie News with Samantha Wood, FooDiva
15 January 2019: Veganuary and peganism are huge this year says restaurant blogger Samantha Wood from FooDiva.net who joins us on the show.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - 15th January 2019 -
18Dec 2018
The Social – Foodie News with Samantha Wood, FooDiva
18 December 2018: Samantha Wood AKA Foodiva joins us on the show chatting the latest restaurant openings in town. Which ones are worth our dirhams?
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Afternoons with Helen Farmer - 18th December 2018 -
6Dec 2018
CNN travels to Dubai
Dubai is known for its towering skyscrapers and opulence, but it has also become one of the most diverse food scenes in the world.
30 minute episode aired 24th November - 6th December 2018 -
27Nov 2018
Foodiva blogger Samantha Wood responds to Izu Ani ban
Following the decision by chef Izu Ani to ban Samantha Wood, Foodiva blogger, from his restaurants following a negative review of recently opened Gaia, Wood has responded to defend her impartiality.
Caterer Middle East - 27th November 2018 -
20Nov 2018
The Social – Foodie News with Foodiva, Samantha Wood
20 November 2018: Have you ever been upsold in a restaurant? We’re chatting about the phenomenon today with Samantha Wood AKA Foodiva, and she’s sharing the latest opening and reviews from around Dubai.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Afternoons with Helen Farmer - 20th November 2018 -
5Nov 2018
DIFC restaurant scene
Dubai International Financial Centre’s food scene is on the boil with a raft of new concepts – but few can rival its established haunts.
Business Traveller Middle East - November 2018 -
16Oct 2018
New global restaurant guide and Dubai dining news
16 October 2018: We’re talking food glorious food, where you should be eating this weekend, no matter what your budget is with Samantha Wood a.k.a. FoodDiva.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM - Afternoons with Helen Farmer - 16th October 2018 -
4Oct 2018
New restaurant guide focuses on honest ethical eateries, so which UAE restaurants made the cut?
A new global restaurant guide will highlight venues that offer outstanding food and service, but are also sustainable.
The National - 4th October 2018 -
18Sep 2018
Food news
18 September 2018: The leading food blogger Samantha Wood from FoodDiva is in the studio talking foodie news, the restaurants to book this weekend and the Netflix shows that will make your mouth water.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Afternoons with Helen Farmer - 18th September 2018 -
20Aug 2018
Health food bloggers to follow on Instagram
11 accounts to beat your junk food cravings
Harpers Bazaar Arabia - 20th August 2018 -
8Aug 2018
The pros and cons of restaurant reviews
Glee Hospitalityâ??s Abdul Saadi & Food Diva’s Samantha Wood debate the pros and cons of restaurant reviews.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Business Breakfast - 8th August 2018 -
15Jul 2018
The 5 most authentic Greek restaurants in Dubai
Greek-Cypriot-British gourmand SAMANTHA WOOD predicts the next hot cuisine to pop up all over Dubai will be Greek. Here, she shares her top picks to whet your appetite
Conde Nast Traveller Middle East - July 2018 -
18Apr 2018
Food and restaurants trends 2018 researched by FooDiva for Dubai Tourism
In celebration of the fifth edition of the Dubai Food Festival, Dubai Tourism along with research by food writer Samantha Wood of impartial restaurant review website FooDiva, compiled the top 10 food trends that have been slowly making their way to the forefront of our hearts and our palates, and are set to make
Hospitality News Middle East - 18th April 2018 -
22Mar 2018
A French cheese-inspired #DineAroundDubai with FooDiva
Sally joins the selected group of diners as part of FooDiva’s Samantha Wood’s Dine Around Dubai, with European Cheeses Arabia.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM The Ticket - 22nd March 2018 -
13Mar 2018
Will Heston Blumenthal succeed in Dubai?
Samantha Wood, founder of impartial restaurant review website Foodiva gives us her views on whether celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal will succeed in Dubai.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Business Breakfast - 13th March 2018 -
7Feb 2018
The business of blogging
They might have started out as mere online essays but these days, blogs are big business. We meet five of the UAE’s most successful online entrepreneurs to find out how they’re turning their diaries into dollars.Jumeirah Magazine – February 2018 -
10Dec 2017
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25Sep 2017
Abu Dhabi restaurants with a view
Samantha Wood tries out a selection of Abu Dhabi’s finest restaurants, which offer splendid views of the Arabian Gulf and city skyline.
Business Traveller UK – October 2017 -
22Sep 2017
Top 100 Dubai websites
Feedspot – A fast, free, modern RSS Reader. Its a simple way to track all your favorite websites in one place.
Feedspot – 22 September 2017 -
1Sep 2017
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22Jun 2017
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27Mar 2017
Potential arrival of Michelin in Dubai
Samantha Wood, Founder of Foodiva.Net, tells us about the potential arrival of the Michelin Star Guide here in Dubai.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Business Breakfast – 27th March 2017 -
24Mar 2017
Is Dubai the world’s most underrated city for food?
It was the fourth most popular travel destination in the world last year, outperforming New York, Tokyo and Rome. Yet, unlike its rivals, Dubai’s food scene has largely flown under the international radar.
The Telegraph – 24th March 2017 -
3Mar 2017
Will Michelin start rating Dubai?
Could Dubai be the first place in the Middle East to get a Michelin guide?
CNN Travel – 3rd March 2017 -
23Feb 2017
Business of Food With Foodiva
Samantha Wood, Founder of website Foodiva, talks us through the state of the F&B industry in the UAE from a food blogger’s perspective.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Business Breakfast – 23 February 2017 -
4Feb 2017
The food bloggers’ dossier 2017
From London to Melbourne via Amsterdam, here are the must-visit foodie destinations from the bloggers and Instagrammers who know their cities best.
Etihad Inflight magazine – February 2017 -
2Feb 2017
Pattiserie trends
Catering News and Sopexa hosted ‘La Pâtisserie: A Sweet Influence’ at Inked in Dubai’s Al Quoz on 12 January, an event organised for the French Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with Valrhona to explore how French patisserie has influenced the Middle East’s dessert trends, ingredients and culture.
Catering News Middle East – February 2017 -
22Jan 2017
Is Dubai ready for Michelin?
Experts tell us about the restaurants they feel could be in line for a Michelin star.
The National, Arts & Life – 22 January 2017 -
9Jan 2017
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31Aug 2016
My Perfect Day
Samantha Wood, a.k.a Foodiva, is one of Dubai’s most respected authorities on dining out. Who better than this blogger/restaurant review website publisher to tell us about the best places to dine and drink in Dubai?
Urbanologie – 31 August 2016 -
30Aug 2016
Culinary Happenings
With a host of interactive tours and festivals, epicureans are well catered for in Dubai.
Luxury Travel Magazine, Australia – April 2016 -
10Apr 2016
Ahlan Hot 100 influencer 2016
The food critic who’s introducing the world’s best artisan ingredients to the UAE.
Ahlan – 20 March 2016 -
14Jan 2016
Eating out is on everyone’s menu in the UAE
Dubai residents have become compulsive foodies. Here’s why…
Khaleej Times – 14th January 2016 -
13Jan 2016
In Dubai, 4 Places Where Brunch Is a Party
Friday brunches in the City of Gold are often lavish, hourslong events with dizzying spreads. Here are four to get you started.
New York Times – 13th January 2016 -
4Dec 2015
What am I going to eat today?
Samantha Wood, founder of UAE-based impartial restaurant review website www.foodiva.net talks about what she knows best – food!
Khaleej Times Weekend Magazine - 4th December 2015 -
16Aug 2015
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23Apr 2015
Social media feeds a hunger for nutritional knowledge
Since the explosion of social media, the way we share information has changed dramatically, and never more so when it comes to food.
The National - 23 April 2015 -
19Mar 2015
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23Feb 2015
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22Feb 2015
Matcha to our delight we introduce you to a new superfood trend in the UAE
Matcha is a powdered tea that completely dissolves in water. Top-grade brands are a vibrant lime-green shade. The lighter-green varieties are sweeter, with the darker ones more astringent.
The National Arts & Life -
9Dec 2014
Dine Around Dubai with FooDiva
Samantha Wood, founder of the award-winning restaurant review website FooDiva, invites you to dinner.
- Business Traveller Middle East – April 2017
- Conde Nast Traveller Middle East – 27th March 2017
- Urbanologie – 14th November 2016
- Food & Travel Arabia – October 2016
- My Custard Pie – 25th September 2016
- The National – 25th August 2016
- Ahlan – 24th August 2016
- The Atlanta Journal-Constitution – 20th February 2016
- Concierge – December 2015
- Ahlan – 22nd October 2015
- Conde Nast Traveller India – October 2015
- The National – 13th October 2015
- The National – 11th October 2015
- Business Traveller Middle East – May/ June 2015
- The National – Weekend – 1st May 2015
- Dubai Eye 103.8FM – The Ticket – 20th April 2015
- The National – Arts & Life – 12th January 2015
- Ishitaunblogged – 6th December 2014
- Four Seasons Magazine – December 2014
- Ahlan Live – 13th November 2014
- The National – 13th November 2014
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1Nov 2014
Insider Diner monthly column
Food guru Samantha Wood of Foodiva.net serves up the latest on the UAE’s dining scene
- Gourmet – January 2016
- Gourmet – April 2015
- Gourmet – March 2015
- Gourmet – February 2015
- Gourmet – January 2015
- Gourmet – December 2014
- Gourmet – November 2014
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29Oct 2014
FooDiva on air discussing culinary travel in Morocco and Zanzibar
The travel gang are getting foodie now, with Samantha Wood: a publisher, journalist and communications consultant, as well as the founder of Dubai-based food blog FooDiva.net. And today, they’re off to Morocco and Zanzibar!
Dubai Eye 103.8FM Travel Show -
3Sep 2014
Raw foodism: UAE trends feature
A half-dozen local restaurants in the UAE are now serving dishes – or entire menus – that have never seen an oven. We meet the husband-and-wife team who have recently opened Raw Foods cafe in Abu Dhabi.
The National - Arts & Life -
2Sep 2014
FooDiva on air discussing #MyDubaiTrip with Peeta Planet
The travel team are joined in the studio by some returning guests: food guru, Samantha Wood from FooDiva.net; and the founders of the Peeta Planet TV show, Mohamed and Peyman Al Awadhi, talking about the new #MyDubaiTrip planned series of webisodes.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM The Travel Show -
1Jul 2014
FooDiva on air discussing all things foodie travel in Vietnam and Cyprus
Some foodie travel now, as the team delves into the histories and modern practices behind some great global cuisines. They’re joined by Samantha Wood: a publisher, journalist and communications consultant, as well as the founder of Dubai-based food blog FooDiva.net – who turns the spotlight on Cyprus and Vietnam!
Dubai Eye 103.8FM The Travel Show -
1Jul 2014
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15Jun 2014
A brunch in two parts: UAE trends feature
We’re seeing a trend in UAE brunches: part buffet, part à la carte served at the table, all in one meal.
The National - Arts & Life -
1Jun 2014
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1Jun 2014
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23May 2014
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11May 2014
Will Wolfgang Puck’s steakhouse make the cut?
In an exclusive interview, the renowned chef Wolfgang Puck talks to us about opening his first restaurant in the country: the steakhouse Cut.
The National - Arts & Life cover story -
9May 2014
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30Apr 2014
Greek cuisine in the UAE
Johnny Tomazos has opened Eat Greek in Dubai – a welcome addition to the UAE’s small selection of Greek restaurants. Plus: we list other Greek eateries in the country and share a recipe for a signature Greek dish.
The National - Arts & Life cover story -
10Apr 2014
FooDiva discussing all things food and restaurants in the UAE
On Dubai Toda’ys “Thursday Brunch” it’s all about New Zealand ingredients, dishes and cuisine, with the panel of Suzanne Husseini and 2 of the judges from Taste New Zealand – Samantha Wood and Jessie Kirkness Parker.
Dubai Eye 103.8FM -
19Mar 2014
Burger Joint New York comes to the UAE
The famed Manhattan eatery Burger Joint New York opens in the UAE tomorrow. ‘It’s not a fancy burger, just incredibly tasty,’ says the founder Steven Pipes.
The National - Arts & Life -
24Feb 2014
Gourmet Abu Dhabi round-up on TV
Tonight on Studio One – The Dubai teen who’s reaching thousands with her lifestyle tips…All the action from the finale of Gourmet Abu Dhabi…And it’s time for Jamie from the Gaucho to show off his international taste…
Dubai One TV -
19Feb 2014
A hint of good things to come at Taste of Dubai
It’s that time of year again – the seventh edition of Taste of Dubai. So what’s new on the menu this weekend?
The National - Arts & Life -
11Feb 2014
UAE chefs invited for Taste New Zealand contest
Second annual competition tests skills of chefs in using Kiwi products
Hotelier Middle East -
9Feb 2014
Anthony Bourdain, Eric Ripert and co predict the tastes of the future – globally and locally
Celebrity chefs Anthony Bourdain, Daniel Boulud and Eric Ripert share their predictions on 2014’s food and restaurant scene, as well as the region’s cuisine.
The National - Arts & Life -
28Jan 2014
Meet the new chef at the helm of Table 9 in Dubai
Gordon Ramsay protégé, Englishman Darren Velvick is the new chef patron at the renowned Dubai restaurant Table 9.
The National - Arts & Life -
14Jan 2014
Cravin’ Cajun: American southern Cajun and Creole soul food comes east to the UAE
A new Cajun restaurant has opened in Dubai. We talk to its Louisiana-born chef about his offerings, including the most popular dish on the menu: southern fried chicken, cornbread waffles and smoked turkey gravy.
The National - Arts & Life -
15Dec 2013
Meet Mohammad Islam from Dubai’s latest chef-driven restaurant, Atelier M
A stylish dining spot seating 140, Atelier M is Dubai’s latest chef-driven restaurant concept.
The National - Arts & Life -
2Dec 2013
Top 10 Best Dubai Blogs
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city with a widely diverse population of people from many different backgrounds. There is much to do here: the city has a vibrant night life, a plethora of restaurants that feature cuisines from different parts of the world, art exhibits from aspiring local artists as well as reputable international artists as well as many entertainment options including concerts and fashion shows.
Living in Dubai -
1Dec 2013
FooDiva wins Gold for UAE in 2013 Expat Blog Awards for second consecutive year
Expat Blog Awards 2013 -
12Nov 2013
Dubai to showcase Emirati traditions of taste
Dubai is hosting its first significant showcase for Emirati cuisine via the World Hospitality Championship.
The National Arts & Life -
15Oct 2013
The food writer Anissa Helou on her new cookbook, Levant
The food writer Anissa Helou’s Levant is a cookbook peppered with memoirs and traditional recipes from Syria, Lebanon, Palestine, Jordan, Turkey and Iran.
The National - Arts & Life -
1Oct 2013
The top 3 mistakes bloggers make
As top food writers converge in Dubai for the city’s first Food Blogger Connect event, we talk to the best of the UAE’s 100-plus food bloggers about their recipe for success.
The National - Arts & Life October 1, 2013 -
1Oct 2013
The impact of social media on F&B (page 22)
It’s about food. Seriously. Unlike other F&B trade magazines, The Pro Chef Middle East focuses on chefs and their inspiration, allowing them to demonstrate their talents as well as providing a …
The Pro Chef Middle East -
25Sep 2013
On the world’s spice trail with Atul Kochhar
Atul Kochhar talks about menus, curries and Michelin stars.
The National - Arts & Life -
3Sep 2013
Savoury selections blossom at Magnolia Bakery in the UAE
The Magnolia Bakery has just opened its first store in Abu Dhabi, and for the first time, the menu has more than just the sweet items we’ve come to love.
The National – Arts & Life -
7Aug 2013
A taste of Eid traditions
What’s on the menu for Emiratis over Eid? The UAE’s first Emirati chef reveals his family food traditions.
The National - Arts & Life -
5Aug 2013
Dubai’s Table 9 founders move on
Nick Alvis and Scott Price, the Dubai chefs behind Table 9 are leaving at the end of the year to work with Spinneys.
The National - Arts & Life -
1Aug 2013
Interview with Expat Stars Award winner August 1, 2013
Welcome, Samantha, food and travel writer at foodiva.net, our Expat Star Awards 2013 Gold Winner. Comprising of food experiences and restaurant reviews in the UAE and on her travels, Samantha’s blog is an exciting and quirky spot for all readers to enjoy and learn something new. 1. You say…
MyCurrencyTransfer -
3Jul 2013
The veggie way of life: 77 Veggie Boutique
The newly opened 77 Veggie Boutique serves mostly local organic produce at a reasonable price.
The National - Arts & Life cover story, July 3, 2013 -
29Apr 2013
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10Apr 2013
Mediterranean diet for a longer, healthy life
With recipes and restaurant recommendations: Research now indicates that it can reduce the risk of heart disease by 30 per cent and add up to 15 years to your life.
The National - Arts & Life -
1Mar 2013
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19Dec 2012
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16Dec 2012
FooDiva scoops gold in the Expat Blog Awards for UAE
FooDiva proved her immense popularity stealing the show: Expat Blog Awards judge
Emirates 24/7 -
16Dec 2012
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16Dec 2012
FooDiva scoops gold in the Expat Blog Awards for UAE
FooDiva, the Dubai-based food website and blog dedicated to impartial restaurant reviews has scooped the gold title for the UAE in the first international Expat Blog Awards garnering 372 public votes and beating 35 other blogs to the top spot.
Ameinfo -
4Dec 2012
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27Nov 2012
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20Nov 2012
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16Nov 2012
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2Nov 2012
Culinary Journey: Sated in Cyprus
Samantha Wood revisits childhood memories and exquisite dishes on a trip home.
The National -
1Nov 2012
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1Nov 2012
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31Oct 2012
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29Oct 2012
Giannino rogue chef tirade, Dubai’s restaurant scene comes of age
If this week’s high-profile spat between Dubai-based food blogger FooDiva and hot-headed Italian chef Andrea Brambilla has done one thing, it’s shown me how far Dubai’s restaurant scene has come in the past decade. When I started writing restaurant reviews in Dubai 13 years ago, my editor gave me strict instructions: “You can’t write a bad review. If you want to say something negative, say two positive things before it and two positive things after it. Always start and finish on a positive note. If the restaurant is so bad you can’t think of anything nice to say, don’t write anything at all.”
My Telegraph – Expat -
27Oct 2012
Giannino rogue chef tirade, Top Italian chef makes vulgar attack on Dubai restaurant review that points to huge overcharging
Arabian Money -
27Oct 2012
Giannino rogue chef tirade, Michelin-starred chef’s fury after blogger complained about cost of her £200 meal in review
Samantha Wood was stunned when chef de cuisine Andrea Brambilla responded to her review of the Meydan Beach Club in Dubai (pictured).
Mail Online -
27Oct 2012
Giannino rogue chef tirade, Il ristoratore italiano lascia la blogger con l’amaro in bocca
Samantha Wood cena da Giannino negli Emirati Arabi. E sul suo blog volano i coltelli. La replica (pepata) dello chef
Corriere della Sera and Arabian Money (Italian) -
26Oct 2012
Giannino rogue chef tirade, Milan chef vents his wrath at restaurant blogger whose review left a bitter taste
For more than a century, Giannino restaurant in Milan, with its three Michelin stars, has drawn the great and the good, with its rustic charm and sepia-tinted photographs.
The Telegraph -
17Oct 2012
FooDiva judges Hilton Worldwide MEA F&B Masters
The second annual Hilton Worldwide Middle East & Africa F&B Masters, held on October 17 at Hilton Abu Dhabi, brought together three teams from Hilton Worldwide hotels across the region to compete for the title of F&B Team of the Year via two live cooking challenges.
Flickr -
19Sep 2012
60 seconds with FooDiva
Meet Samantha Wood. The lovely restaurant review food blogger behind Foodiva (@FooDivaWorld) from Dubai in the UAE. What would your last meal be? I would have picked El Bulli before it closed down. Perhaps now Ferran Adria can invite me over to his for dinner. Otherwise I will happily settle for Noma in Copenhagen. What celebrity or celebrity …
Food Blogger Connect UK -
30Aug 2012
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23Aug 2012
Meet the Caterer Awards 2012 judges, FooDiva included
Largest Middle East’s hotelier & hospitality news portal including latest Gulf,UAE & Dubai hotelier news,analysis,comments,events,directory,business opportunities,tenders,projects,training courses,jobs,photos & videos. Also find hospitality,catering,leisure, meetings & retail industries.
Hotelier ME -
12May 2012
10 points to consider before earning a living as a blogger
Samantha Wood’s top 10 tips on how to make money from blogging.
The National -
1May 2012
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3Mar 2012
Chasing the dream interview with FooDiva
Who hasn’t thought about quitting that dreary job and doing what you really want to do? Tahira Yaqoob profiles five business owners in pursuit of their passions.
The National’s M Magazine -
1Feb 2012
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1Dec 2011
FooDiva wins 2nd place in Best Blog in Dubai 2011 awards
The 2011 Best in Dubai winners and runners-up revealed
Ahlan Live -
18Jul 2011
FooDiva features in Top tweets
The international nature of expat life leads itself to a little culinary experimentation – and where better to swap restaurant tips and recipe ideas than Twitter?
The Telegraph Expat -
1May 2011
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1May 2011
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30Apr 2011
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25Apr 2011
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16Mar 2011
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16Mar 2011
FooDiva Feedback
Abdullah Salik on My Little Pink Lifestyle Book. A FooDiva Guide.: “Wow, what an incredibly thorough and insightful guide! From health and wellness to diet and exercise, FooDiva has left no…”
on Mexican authenticity at Lila Wood-Fired Taqueria: “Sorry – but I am not so much buying authenticity (Mexican cuisine). First: Tacos are very much a (modernized) Mexican…”
on Gaggan Anand’s new restaurant. Plus a culinary travel guide to Bangkok.: “Thank you Foodiva for this review – had the pleasure of dining at the first Gaggan few years ago and…”
on Guess what the food of Orfali Bros Bistro tastes like: “Apologies for the delayed response, but I missed responding to this. Here is my annual guide to top Dubai restaurants…”
on Guess what the food of Orfali Bros Bistro tastes like: “We’re traveling to Dubai and I came across your blog. Great info, love your blog!! Wondering if you have a…”
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