Luxury at Socio Dubai Hills 2 Beds Sleeps 4

Little sister to avatāra, which is directly next door, this Indian 'tapas bar' is more casual and informal in style, with a particularly good range of cocktails inspired by India’s vastly differing seasons. Inside the L-shaped room, the atmosphere is very relaxed with three TV screens showing sports games, including, unsurprisingly, cricket! The appealingly priced menu comprises a good range of well-crafted, balanced, and gently spiced contemporary Indian dishes, which combine tradition and modernity. Three ‘tapas’ and a main course should do the trick and will arrive when ready. Do leave room

This second branch, opened in 2023, is located in the emerging Dubai Hills district. Similar to the original in Dar Wasl but with a few subtle differences, the eatery offers a wide range of colourful Japanese favourites, from kushiyaki (as the name suggests), to fun classics with an international twist, such as their escargot teriyaki and beef gyoza. The restaurant blends contemporary, sleek design with pops of colour.

In the heart of Dubai Hills neighbourhood is the outpost of a small restaurant group from St. Petersburg. This contemporary eatery has a light and airy atmosphere, thanks to its sleek blond wood furnishings, cream décor, high ceiling, and buzzy open kitchen. Diners can opt for an appealing breakfast menu, as well as a hearty lunch with a well-priced selection. This place offers a good range of modern, flavourful dishes, where Asian influences and European accents are found in parallel. Their signature dishes are worth trying, especially the oxtail pie with Tallegio. The well-trained staff work

Accessible through an entrance at the back door of Reif's Kushiyaki Japanese Restaurant, in Dubai Hills Business Park, TERO offers an intimate and immersive dining experience. A wooden, U-shaped table seats 12 guests in front of an open kitchen, where the chef showcases his skills with an 8 or 12 course kaiseki of modern Japanese creations with some international influences, depending on the menu’s monthly theme. Diners are encouraged to interact with the chef and service team, creating a warm, conversational and communal atmosphere.

On the second floor of the Mall of the Emirates is this very likeable restaurant which is a slightly simplified version of the original with the same name in Tokyo. Here, the menu offers ramen, including the signature shoyu ramen, along with other classic Japanese dishes: gyoza, tempura, and kushiyaki such as chicken skewers with yakitori and sesame sauce. End the meal with a light and sweet matcha mochi accompanied by coconut ice cream. Booking isn’t possible, but service starts before noon and there is usually space available at the counter.

Pizza