The Canvas Dubai - MGallery Hotel Collection

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 –

A charming restaurant serving authentic Persian fare and run by the third generation of the same family. It’s set on the second floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel and boasts views over the Creek and Old Dubai. Menus offer traditional Persian dishes, such as Kash E Bademjan (their signature eggplant dish) along with a range of marinated meats, all served in generous portions.

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.

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

This restaurant from the Al-Fanar stable is on the banks of the Dubai Creek and, like the others, showcases the owners’ passion for Emirati cuisine. The interior has a rustic feel, while, out on the terrace, diners can enjoy views of boats and old Dubai across the water, underlining the freshness of the seafood on their plate. The friendly and hospitable team add to the warmth of the experience.

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.

This restaurant was borne from the mind of acclaimed Spanish chef, Dabiz Muñoz of DiverXO in Madrid. The lively and open-plan space has graffiti-covered walls, a neon-lit cocktail bar serving creative drinks, and large open kitchen with a counter (the best place to sit). The menu boasts a mix of modern, globally inspired street food originating from Europe, Asia, South America and beyond. Start with some croquetas, then the beautifully crisp soft-shell crab, and be sure to end with the 'Fluido', a molten white chocolate and egg yolk 'lava' cake. Staff are dressed in punk-inspired jackets, with