Hakim Rharib

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

Home-grown – and largely self-taught– Solemann Haddad tells the story and the inspiration behind each of the cleverly conceived and carefully constructed dishes on his highly original ‘surprise’ menu. He was one of the first to bring alive the top quality Middle Eastern ingredients and flavours through the clever use of Japanese notes and techniques. Perched on the roof of a smart residential building, there are two sittings for dinner at the 15-seater counter; do try to arrive on time as everyone is served together.

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.

In 2023 this colourful and creative restaurant moved to a new berth within The Dubai Edition hotel – and it’s a good fit. There’s more than a hint of whimsy to the vibrant decoration and equal amounts of imagination are shown in the menu. The kitchen isn’t afraid of incorporating global influences alongside the Indian flavours, which results in intriguing but always enjoyable dishes that are meant for sharing. Fun and mischievous indeed.

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

Its prime, raised position and smart outdoor terrace lend an element of glamour to this Japanese restaurant. The wide-ranging menu covers all the bases, with plenty of sushi – both modern and traditional – on offer. The robata grill is used to particularly good effect and there’s also a well-priced set lunch for those short on time. The service team are helpful and attentive.

After launching at Louvre Abu Dhabi, in 2023 it was the turn of Downtown Dubai to welcome its own branch of this famous Parisian restaurant. The plaques by the red carpeted entrance advertise all the famous faces who have passed through its various doors – so if you want a souvenir of your own glamorous experience there’s even a photo-booth downstairs. As expected, the menu celebrates classic French cooking.