Aretha brings retro chic and soulful sounds to Palm Jumeirah on May 16th

The live music restaurant and club – inspired by the era of sixties soul and funk – is poised to become the hot new live music venue destination in Dubai.

Rikas Hospitality Group announces the grand opening of Aretha on May 16th, a captivating new live music venue paying homage to the Golden Age of music: the swinging sixties and soulful seventies.

The culinary giants renowned for launching the city’s most exciting venues, RIKAS is thrilled to introduce a new direction in Aretha, poised to become the most distinctive, sophisticated, and memorable place to enjoy live music in Dubai.

Soul and funk aficionados seeking a classy venue to revel in the smooth sounds of both local and international talent will find their haven here, nestled in the new culinary hotspot of The St. Regis Gardens, Palm Jumeirah. Be transported to a bygone era with its retro-chic decor, evoking the nostalgia of a time defined by soulful tunes and cultural revolutions. From its rose gold bar to its central stage, every corner of Aretha exudes charm and charisma.

Central to the Aretha experience is its live music performances, showcasing talented artists who capture the spirit of the ‘60s and ‘70s. Guests can immerse themselves in soul, rhythm, and blues as they enjoy music performances that pay tribute to musical legends.

Of course, Aretha is not just about ambiance; it's also about exceptional food and innovative cocktails. Classic dishes including Dover Sole Meuniere, Wagyu Beef Rossini, Grilled Rock Lobster. Additionally you’ll find premium items such as Caviar, Oysters, and a selection of exciting starters such as Enoki Tempura, a Purple Aubergine Salad with crispy sweet potato. The poached Egg Caviar with crispy potato and Parmesan emulsion is for the Chef, Aretha’s signature dish.

And when it comes to desserts, Aretha shines. Indulge in the exquisite homemade Motown Ice Cream and Sorbet, the Anna Pavlova with mango and passionfruit sorbet, or the alluring Try a Little Tenderness with chocolate brownie, Baileys cream and caramelised peanuts.

Gilles Bosquet , RIKAS' award-winning and Corporate Chef, shares his excitement about the culinary journey at Aretha:"Creating a menu that complements the surroundings and the live music showcase while presenting a culinary offering that matches the elegance RIKAS Group is synonymous with has been a fun challenge. Our menu showcases our interpretation of favourite dishes from around the world, ranging from delightful individual servings to shareable plates".

Aretha's meticulously curated cocktail selection further enhances the bygone era with each signature drink named after a musical giant. There’s the Aretha, a Jack Daniel's single barrel bourbon infused with cigar, homemade vanilla syrup, vanilla seeds and angostura bitters; and the Marlon with vodka, fresh raspberry and lychee, in a rose lemonade. And there’s the Al with gin, fresh lime, fresh cucumber, homemade basil syrup, fresh green apple and white egg; or the Smokey, with Mezcal, italicus and martini ambrato, among many others, alongside a concise wine list and bottle service.

The visionary behind RIKAS Hospitality Group, Co-Founder Rizwan Kassim said: "It's incredibly exciting to offer something truly sensational to the city. Surprisingly, there aren't many venues in Dubai that cater to those who appreciate good food, good drinks, and great music. With Aretha, we aim to create a home; a place where music and food lovers will swoon over live jazz, soul and funk, craft cocktails, and quality cuisine that is as revered as the music on offer".

Aretha is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 7pm to 3am. To find out more or to make a reservation, please call 04 880 5242, or email [email protected]. More information can be found via Instagram @arethadubai