In Dubai’s most elegant setting, Francesco D’Arienzo leads the mixology experience at Blind Tiger, a hidden cocktail bar within Jumeirah Al Naseem.
The Hidden Atmosphere of Jumeirah Al Naseem
Within the courtyard of Jumeirah Al Naseem, gathered around a reflective lagoon where turtles glide undisturbed, a curated collection of venues unfolds for those seeking a more composed pause — far from the pulse of Dubai’s beach clubs. The most discreet address, reached by crossing a series of wooden bridges, is Blind Tiger: a hotel bar with the spirit of an independent venue, equally at ease in any global mixology capital while preserving its contemporary edge.
Francesco D’Arienzo and His Circus-Inspired Cocktails
Blue boiserie and exotic wallpapers depicting tropical plants and regal tigers frame a generous counter where the bar team works on cocktails inspired by the world of the circus. Live music completes the atmosphere, with selected performers revisiting timeless hits to evoke the celebratory mood of the Roaring Twenties.
Francesco D’Arienzo and Contemporary Mixology in Dubai
The floor is led by Romeo Bucciarelli, while the liquid compositions are entrusted to the team of Bar Manager Francesco D’Arienzo, who journeyed from southern Italy to find a new home in Dubai. When he is not behind the bar, he can often be found at the sea with his surfboard, embracing moments of freedom. For him, balance between profession and personal life remains the element that makes the difference once guests step through the door. That balance surfaces even in the smallest details — like serving The Clown cocktail, built on Japanese whisky, banana, pineapple and coffee, while wearing a red nose that brings a smile to every guest.
The article first appeared on Coqtail – for fine drinkers. Order your copy here
Photo by courtesy Mike Tamasco. All rights reserved
