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acquisition of minority shares inEataly’s US and German operations in announced the launch of J1 Beach, the eagerly awaited urban Riviera

2023, as well as the Parisian store last December. Eataly is also growing in Jumeirah set to transform Dubai’s beachfront dining scene. J1
its footprint, including further expansion in North America. In addition Beach reimagines coastal sophistication, combining the allure of a
to its existing 13 stores, the Italian food chain will soon open four new year-round Riviera ambiance with refined dining and stylish club
locations in Philadelphia, Miami (two stores) and Toronto. The US will experiences for an unrivalled retreat. Showcasing Dubai as a true
also be the first to see a new Eataly concept: Eataly Caffè. This new culinary capital, J1 Beach brings an extraordinary line-up of iconic
format will debut in four US airports and three French airports. restaurants from Paris, New York, Miami, London, Tulum and the
Guests can experience unrivalled elegance and get a taste of La French Riviera, making their regional debut with elevated dining
Maison Louis Vuitton in the heart of Doha. The world’s first-ever Louis crafted for the epicurean traveller. These exclusive venues offer an
Vuitton Lounge by Yannick Alléno brings an exquisite fusion of luxury exceptional culinary journey for guests seeking refined flavours in
gastronomy and French savoir-faire. Located at Hamad International a breathtaking setting. In addition, guests will enjoy direct beach
Airport and in partnership with Qatar Duty Free, this 24-hour lounge access, allowing them to bask in the beauty of the shoreline while
is as unique as the Louis Vuitton brand, offering a deluxe setting where savouring their dining experiences.
every moment is meticulously crafted to delight your senses. Found Dubai Marina saw the launch of District 8 late last year and it is
directly above the Louis Vuitton Boutique, eligible passengers can home to a multi-concept destination that has brought together great
access this luxurious retreat from Al Mourjan Business Lounge - The food and good vibes. With this new launch come three different
Garden. Indulge in a culinary experience like no other, with an exclu- restaurants all under one roof - Blume, Rodina and Luxuria. The
sive á la carte menu specially curated by three-star Michelin Chef, multi-concept venue, created by the Alex Investment Group, offers a
Yannick Alléno. Sit back and enjoy the world of gourmet dining, as you range of experiences from a lush, botanical-themed lounge with global
savour a selection of French favourites with a touch of Qatari-inspired cuisine to a fine-dining experience focused on Russian-Mediterranean
flavours in every bite. fusion and a high-energy Russian karaoke lounge. This landmark is
In December 2022, Merex Investment announced a redevelop- redefining luxury dining and entertainment, blending the city’s sig-
ment of La Mer South, to be named J1 Beach, with the addition of nature opulence with a unique collection of high-end restaurants and
13 luxury dining experiences. In October 2024, Merex Investment vibrant social experiences.

Sirene by GAIA, J1 Beach, Dubai, UAE

Blume, District 8, Dubai, UAE

of the largest and most ambitious food hall experiences the UK has ever
Eataly, Place Vendôme, Doha, Qatar seen. Sixteen independent kitchens will serve up flavours from across
the globe, each run by a different trader bringing their own signature
style. Three standalone bars will keep the drinks flowing, from fast-
pour cocktails at street level to pint-sized cocktails enjoyed on the
balcony. This is more than a place to eat however. A dedicated events
room will feature a huge screen showing the biggest sports games and
major cultural moments. The weekly programme will also include
comedy nights, live music and DJ sets, designed to keep the energy
high and the venue buzzing long after office hours.
A Euro-inspired beer hall and restaurant is set to open in Sheffield
next year, becoming the largest of its kind in the city. The vast new
venue will showcase fresh imported tank beer, continental cuisine
and top-tier live entertainment - all under one roof. Named Kapital,
the venue is the brainchild of the Sheffield-based team behind the
award-winning Two Thirds Beer Co., which is located on Abbeydale
Road and is renowned for its craft beers and German-themed street
food. Spanning two floors, the new 4,500sq ft beer hall and restaurant
will be located in the £470M Heart of the City mixed-use development
and will offer the single biggest European beer selection within the city
centre. The bar’s owners aim to bring the best of Europe’s beer halls
to Sheffield, spotlighting the rich traditions and vibrant cultures of
the iconic beer cities of Brussels, Pilsen, Prague & Munich. The space
will be dominated by four huge stainless steel beer tanks filled with
fresh, unpasteurized Budvar Czech lager - delivered directly from the
brewery cellars in South Bohemia to Sheffield every week. It will also
boast an outdoor beer garden, pan-European restaurant and private
hire space with panoramic views.
Italian marketplace Eataly is expanding its presence in the Middle
East, with a particular focus on the Gulf Countries, with a €100M invest-
ment, aimed at opening 40 new stores, including airport locations and
enhancing product distribution. This move follows Investindustrial’s

72 Retail & Leisure International November 2025 November 2025 Retail & Leisure International 73