ibis Al Barsha

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.

The surprise multi-course tasting menu is a masterpiece of originality, intrigue and precision, featuring flavours and tastes from all four compass points of India. While the chefs work away with quiet diligence and focus in the open kitchen, the service team provide detailed explanations of each elegant creation. A little theatre here and there with certain courses adds to an unforgettable experience. There’s something magical happening here – and with just 15 seats and a rooftop location – you’ll feel you’re in on the secret. Pro tip: arrive to dinner a little earlier to enjoy signature cock

This gastronomic venture comes from acclaimed British chef, Jason Atherton. Its name combines the acronym for its “refinement of work” and its location on the 45th floor of The Grosvenor House. A penthouse-like setting with an open kitchen, this intimate culinary experience seats 22 guests and offers a 17-course tasting menu divided into three acts. The dishes feature fine Japanese ingredients prepared with French techniques, such as amebi and bafun uni. The full menu is sophisticated, refined and immaculately presented, delivering well-judged and complex flavours. If you’re going to opt for t

2024 saw Chef Dani García bring his popular Madrid restaurant to the St. Regis Gardens on the Palm Jumeirah. Located at the back of Leña, this intimate and dark room with a large semi-circular table seats 14 guests and overlooks a kitchen with an open fire and grills, a style Chef Dani dubs “Fire Omakase”. The experience is immersive and engaging, with chefs guiding diners through the 11-course menu and explaining in detail the creative and technically skilled dishes, such as sea cucumber carbonara. Desserts are a particular highlight, especially the confidently and skilfully executed burnt pu

This chic Chinese restaurant brings authentic Cantonese cuisine made modern to the second floor of the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. The creative chef prepares the dishes with quality, fresh ingredients while respecting traditional cooking techniques. Delicious homemade condiments are bold in flavour and elevate every dish. Come here in a group as all the plates, such as the delicious Peking duck and the excellent dim sum, are meant to be shared.

The owner calls her simply styled but warm neighbourhood space on the 2nd floor of a shopping mall an ‘urban Balkan bistro’. As such, the dishes are made for sharing and the influences come from all over the region, from Eastern Europe down to Greece and Turkey. Everything is homemade, fresh tasting and satisfying; do try the signature phyllo pie. Breakfast features homemade pitta and a host of egg dishes.

Situated in a charming spot by a canal at Jumeirah Al Qasr resort is this pretty, spacious house presenting Indian creations from the mind of chef Ritu Dalmia. Inside, the bright and open dining room benefits from the large bay windows that provide views out over the water and lush gardens. The menu offers a good choice of traditional specialities from many different regions of India, prepared in a contemporary way, along with other dishes that are more fusion in their makeup. Guests are greeted by smiling staff and service is always friendly and efficient.