Novotel Dubai Al Barsha

There’s a buzzy atmosphere at this authentic izakaya, set in The Onyx Tower 2 in The Greens. Eight ramen dishes underpin the menu, which also lists other Japanese classics including sushi, sashimi, robata grills and tempura. Ingredients are good quality, cooking is careful, prices are low and flavours, delicious. For a chance to watch the chefs preparing their signature dishes, be sure to book your seats at the counter in advance.

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 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.

Whilst the restaurant may overlook the Persian Gulf, the menu transports you to the Mediterranean and, as the name suggests, the cuisine of the Côte d'Azur. The Dégustation menu is the best way to sample the specialities, like onion tart and bouillabaisse. It’s a charming space on a private beach and is divided into a series of elegant rooms with an open kitchen at its hub. It’s best to approach from the Jumeirah Al Qasr hotel and walk through the gardens.

The route to this restaurant may be a little circuitous – ask for a buggy in the hotel to take you – but it’s well worth it because there can be few more romantic places than this. It sits at the end of its own pier, with the water lapping just beneath you and views of the Burj al Arab to induce envy in all your Insta followers. The Italian food mixes the traditional and the modern; is light and easy to eat; and the perfect accompaniment for such a wonderful location.