卓美亚古堡酒店——夏宫

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.

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.

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.

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.

Glamorous sister to the original in Monte Carlo, this restaurant’s unmistakeable Asian vibe comes courtesy of wood panelling, carvings and a cool red palette, while a resident DJ keeps things jumping until the wee small hours. The menu covers Japan, Thailand and China, so you can start with sushi or dim sum and then head for their signature pad thai or something from the robata grill. Grab some mochi buns from the counter on the way home.

Set by the lovely Turtle Lagoon on the Jumeirah Al Naseem resort, this chic, well-dressed restaurant is understandably popular. Colourfully presented, traditional Italian dishes transport diners to the rolling Tuscan hills, while the interesting wine list offers a good selection of Italian, French and American names. The friendly yet formal service comes with old-fashioned Italian charm.

This professionally run seafood restaurant, set in the Jumeirah Hotel, has a terrace overlooking the Burj Al Arab and its surrounding sea, and its light and airy interior has high ceilings, floral displays and a chic, exclusive feel. The concise menu showcases beautifully fresh fish and shellfish in precisely cooked, powerfully flavoured dishes; the Moka Tiramisu is also a must try. The wine list features a good range of Provençal rosé wines.