In addition to celebrity-chef appearances, this year’s festival is serving up the chance to dine with two Hollywood celebrities. First up is Jesse Metcalfe, best known for his breakout role alongside Eva Longoria on TV drama Desperate Housewives. He will be in the capital for a sunset barbecue on December 9, at the pool bar at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers. It runs from 6pm to 11pm and tickets cost Dh395, inclusive of soft drinks. Metcalfe will also make an appearance at Catch at Nation Riviera Beach Club this weekend.
Next weekend, 12 lucky guests will share an intimate dinner with one of Hollywood’s elite – John Cusack. The star of 1980s classics Say Anything and Sixteen Candles, as well as acclaimed films such as Eight Men Out, Being John Malkovich and Grosse Pointe Blank, will be guest of honour at an exclusive dining experience on December 16 in the presidential suite at Emirates Palace. If you do not get one of those coveted seats, you can buy a ticket to a less exclusive dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi Grand Canal on December 17, at which Cusack will also be in attendance.
“These stars represent a fantastic addition to this year’s Abu Dhabi Food Festival, adding that little bit of stardust seasoning to our already popular event,” says Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director tourism sector, TCA Abu Dhabi. “We are honoured to be hosting both actors. Their involvement adds another element to an event that is truly international in scope and appeal.”