Modern, moderate Dubai, the hope of Dinesh D’Souza, steps up its Sharia adherence. “Farewell flambe: Dubai to hunt for booze in food,” from Associated Press, March 22 (thanks to all who sent this in):
[…] Media reports today say Dubai authorities plan to step up enforcement of a 2003 law prohibiting restaurants from using booze in food preparation.
Alcoholic drinks are widely available in Dubai and the 2003 law has been mostly disregarded.
But the latest move appears aimed at easing worries from Muslim restaurant goers that no wine or liquor were used in preparing their meals. Fines for violators can run nearly $5,500.
Several Dubai chefs have argued that strict enforcement of the ban would compromise their dishes. They are in talks with the municipality for less severe regulations.
Good luck with that.