Mood Living 22

Internationally renowned chef Anne-Sophie Pic made her culinary debut in Dubai with this restaurant on the 25th floor of the One&Only One Za’abeel hotel. Located in the cantilever known as The Link, the large space comes with soft tones and features a bar topped with a white marble counter at the front and an open kitchen at the back. The restaurant offers set menu options along with an a la carte menu, with dishes such as Les Berlingots ASP© with 20 months aged Comté, mushroom and coffee consommé, Wagyu beef with seaweed eggplant, and roasted pear, honey ginger with slivers of Buddha’s hand –

Three Syrian brothers own and run this deservedly popular restaurant: a light and airy space dominated by a striking, two-storey open kitchen. Original, playful small plates are Mediterranean at their core but display global influences. The cooking seamlessly delivers bold, complex and balanced flavours, as well as lovely contrasts of texture. The tasting menu includes classics from their previous menus such as the ‘ooh la la foie gras’ and their ‘corn bomb’, as well as new dishes such as their sea bream and ‘maftoul’ (Palestinian couscous). For the full experience, go for the non-alcoholic pa

Helmed by Abhiraj Khatwani in conjuction with Mohamad Orfali, this Thai restaurant is the Dubai-born chef’s ode to the cuisine closest to his heart. The place, meaning ‘lime’ in Thai, serves an 11-course tasting menu comprised of Thai classics with a twist. The dishes stay true to their roots, offering vibrant, fresh, highly authentic mouth-watering Thai flavours with wonderful balance to the spicing. The experience is perfectly paired with five non-alcoholic drinks, created and made in-house. Expect engaging, smooth service with a lively soundtrack throughout.

On the 6th floor of the chic, beachside Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, is this bustling yet relaxed spot set around an open kitchen, with an infinity pool on its terrace and sea and city views. The attentive service team ensure your dining experience is well-paced and eminently enjoyable. The chef and his team understand the importance of great quality produce and showcase a passion for Portuguese culinary traditions. The resulting vibrant dishes offer Portuguese flavours with a modern edge. The menu offers something for everyone, with plenty of dishes to share; leave room for dessert to taste the

This second venture from Bait Maryam chef Salam Dakkak is another homage to her mother. Meaning “Maryam’s Dining Table” in Arabic, the restaurant’s homey feel is reflected across the Palestinian art adorning the walls and menu. A plentiful supply of warm, freshly baked breads, including a stellar 48-hour fermented sourdough, and a selection of refined Levantine dishes are generous in flavour and in portions, so sharing is encouraged. Don’t miss the labneh crème brûlée topped with za'atar ice cream and sumac.

Industrial styling, intimate lighting and a laid-back feel are the hallmarks of this striking modern villa conversion in the residential suburb of Jumeirah – along with the huge open kitchen and grill which gives the restaurant its name. The variety and excellent quality of global ingredients are grilled to perfection over oak, hickory or hay, each of which impart their own distinctive flavour. The talented kitchen has the know-how to keep things simple, enhancing the skilfully cooked dishes subtly with well-judged seasoning.

London, Doha, and now, Dubai’s Opera district becomes the latest home to this Indian restaurant that takes its name from the intricate Kashmir shawls worn in the 16th century. Grand chandeliers and a plush cocktail bar underline the interior’s opulent design, while prime ingredients play a big part across the menu. The spices are perfectly balanced and harmonious, with some noteworthy signatures, such as Bhatti Ka Octopus and Sindhi Methi Gosht (aka goat curry), reflecting the kitchen’s craft. If you’re headed to a show at the Dubai Opera, this place offers a set lunch menu as a pre-theatre op