A Quick Catch Up With The Real Geordie Armani

Often eating out in Dubai can be expensive so we need all the help we can get when it comes to finding affordable yet delicious places to eat in. And the person we always turn to when we want to discover new places is Debbie from The Real Geordie Armani. We love following her blog and always trust her opinion. If she says somewhere is worth a visit then it will be. So, we thought we’d do the right thing and let you all know a little bit more about her too.

Hi, Debbie. Tell us a bit about yourself and the background to your blog, The Real Geordie Armani.

Geordie Armani is the food-loving alter ego of myself, a long time Dubai resident. I’m the mother of a twelve-year-old daughter, wife to a Scot, and a slave to our four daft cats. A few years ago I started a food blog and this has snowballed into something bigger than I ever expected, but I am extremely happy about this. I usually write about affordable restaurants and cafes, not the fancy high-end places that are out of many people’s budgets, so the blog resonates with the majority of Dubai residents. I also love to explore new openings and areas that are up and coming in terms of dining. I am a keen cook, but not a food professional, my reviews are down to earth and honest.

How long have you lived in Dubai?

I’ve been living in Dubai for 20 years now, with a small stint back to the UK in the early days. My first visit to Dubai (if my memory serves me right) was in 1987. I met my husband in Dubai and we were married here, plus my daughter was born here so Dubai has been a big part of my life. I love how you can live your life your way here and that there is so much choice in terms of lifestyle and weekend entertainment.

Wow, that’s a long time! You must have seen lots of changes take place here. What has been the biggest change you’ve seen in Dubai over the years?

The traffic! There is so much more traffic now! Plus I miss all the taxis being Mercedes. Of course, it’s obvious the traffic has grown with the tremendous growth of the city.

We know you love to eat out so you must have a favourite restaurant in Dubai?

I don’t have one, I can’t choose! But my top three would be Dhow & Anchor, Besh Dubai and Le Taqueria DXB.

Do you know of any hidden gems in Dubai?

I really love Spice & Ice, Zen Restaurant, and Senara.

Where do you enjoy going for a great staycation?

Hands down the winner has to be Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Your favourite country you’ve visited so far?

Last year we visited Sri Lanka, and I loved it so much I can’t wait to go back!

Your favourite family activity here?

As a family, we are all foodies so dining out is a big part of our life. Great discussion takes place every weekend as to where we are going to dine.

We know you love to use your ENTERTAINER but where would you say your favourite place to use your ENTERTAINER is?

The answer has got to be my second home, Mall of the Emirates. I visit the Mall on average about four times a week.

In fact, Geordie Armani uses her ENTERTAINER so much we thought we’d celebrate a little! That’s why you can now get 10% off ENTERTAINER Products when entering her exclusive promo code ‘GEORDIE10’ at the checkout.

Thank you, Debbie, for letting us get to know you a bit better and for being our go-to guide to Dubai. Make sure you also check out Geordie Armani’s blog here for affordable restaurant tips and the best places in Dubai.