Jun's
World's 50 Best #21$$$Asian, American
Chef and restaurateur Kelvin Cheung’s larger-than-life personality has found the perfect outlet here in Downtown Dubai. His Chinese heritage, Canadian/American upbringing and international peregrinations all inform his cuisine. Rainbow heirloom carrots; scallops and corn; and char siu short ribs – these are just some of the dishes that are busting with flavour and will have you licking your lips for long after. It’s contagiously fun.
Il Borro Tuscan Bistro Dubai
$$Italian
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.
Rockfish
$$$$Seafood
This professionally run seafood restaurant, set in the Jumeirah Hotel, has a terrace overlooking the Burj Al Arab and its surrounding sea, and its light and airy interior has high ceilings, floral displays and a chic, exclusive feel. The concise menu showcases beautifully fresh fish and shellfish in precisely cooked, powerfully flavoured dishes; the Moka Tiramisu is also a must try. The wine list features a good range of Provençal rosé wines.
MayaBay
$$$$Asian
Glamorous sister to the original in Monte Carlo, this restaurant’s unmistakeable Asian vibe comes courtesy of wood panelling, carvings and a cool red palette, while a resident DJ keeps things jumping until the wee small hours. The menu covers Japan, Thailand and China, so you can start with sushi or dim sum and then head for their signature pad thai or something from the robata grill. Grab some mochi buns from the counter on the way home.
L’Olivo at Al Mahara
$$$$Italian
The restaurant may be on the ground floor of Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, but thanks to the aquarium around which the tables are wrapped, one is soon transported to another world. The base of the cooking is Italian and the menu includes some of the signature dishes from their mothership in Capri, but the kitchen also puts its own spin on many of the creations. The wide selection of dishes offers an all-round experience. Service is attentive and charming.
XU Dubai
$$$$Chinese
This chic Chinese restaurant brings authentic Cantonese cuisine made modern to the second floor of the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates. The creative chef prepares the dishes with quality, fresh ingredients while respecting traditional cooking techniques. Delicious homemade condiments are bold in flavour and elevate every dish. Come here in a group as all the plates, such as the delicious Peking duck and the excellent dim sum, are meant to be shared.
TERO - The Experience by Reif Othman
$$$$Creative
Accessible through an entrance at the back door of Reif's Kushiyaki Japanese Restaurant, in Dubai Hills Business Park, TERO offers an intimate and immersive dining experience. A wooden, U-shaped table seats 12 guests in front of an open kitchen, where the chef showcases his skills with an 8 or 12 course kaiseki of modern Japanese creations with some international influences, depending on the menu’s monthly theme. Diners are encouraged to interact with the chef and service team, creating a warm, conversational and communal atmosphere.
French Riviera Beach
$$$French
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.
Pierchic
$$$$Italian, Classic Cuisine
The route to this restaurant may be a little circuitous – ask for a buggy in the hotel to take you – but it’s well worth it because there can be few more romantic places than this. It sits at the end of its own pier, with the water lapping just beneath you and views of the Burj al Arab to induce envy in all your Insta followers. The Italian food mixes the traditional and the modern; is light and easy to eat; and the perfect accompaniment for such a wonderful location.
Atrangi by Ritu Dalmia
$$Indian
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.
RSVP
$$$French
The good-looking terrace and comfortable interior are not the only things that set this restaurant apart from its Boxpark neighbours – there’s the attentive service and the flattering lighting to consider too. The appealing menu and skill of the kitchen also make this a good choice for dinner. There’s no better representation of the cuisine – which is French, with hints of Japanese – than the delicious charcoal-smoked lamb chops with teriyaki sauce.
Coya
$$$$Peruvian
Part of the popular 'Restaurant Village' at the Four Seasons resort, this stylish restaurant brings all the intoxicating atmosphere and vibrant flavours of Latin America to Dubai. Contemporary Peruvian and Nikkei dishes feature intense contrasts of texture and flavour and are great for sharing. Highlights include the wide range of ceviches and their Peruvian take on a pavlova made with sweetcorn meringue paired with mango ice cream and passionfruit yoghurt. The beautiful pisco bar adds to the appeal.
Sea Fu
$$$Seafood, Asian
Watching the sun set from a table on the sumptuous terrace of this delightful and elegant beachfront restaurant, you feel the stresses of the day fade away; endearing service from keen staff also helps to ensure an extra-special dining experience. Vibrant, Asian-influenced seafood dishes are fresh and full of flavour. The sashimi, maki and nigiri selection, as well their tempura and wok-fried dishes showcase their strong Japanese techniques.
Fouquet's
$$$French
After launching at Louvre Abu Dhabi, in 2023 it was the turn of Downtown Dubai to welcome its own branch of this famous Parisian restaurant. The plaques by the red carpeted entrance advertise all the famous faces who have passed through its various doors – so if you want a souvenir of your own glamorous experience there’s even a photo-booth downstairs. As expected, the menu celebrates classic French cooking.
Mimi Mei Fair
$$$$Chinese
This Chinese restaurant is an opulent escape in the heart of Downtown Dubai. Take your pick between an elegant, Regency-inspired dining room known as the Parlour, a club-like room like the Library or a seat in the terrace under the twinkling Burj Khalifa. Once seated, a charming team will guide you through a classic Chinese menu, with tasty dishes ranging from dim sum, golden shrimp on toast or the ever-so loved sweet and sour chicken. If you don’t want the hassle of choosing your dishes, a set tasting menu is also available.
Armani Ristorante
$$$$Italian
An elegant restaurant set in the Armani Hotel on the lower floors of the Burj Khalifa; this spot comes with high ceilings, marble flooring and a large, central glass-fronted kitchen where you can watch the chefs in action. The young and engaging team provide enthusiastic service; be sure to ask for a window table for fountain views. Traditional Italian cooking features first-class ingredients in beautifully presented dishes full of colour, flavour and textural contrasts. Their signature Sicilian red prawns seasoned with a little fleur de sel are excellent and desserts are a must! For the full
Armani Hashi
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
Sleek, modern and minimalistic, with impressive views of the fountains, as well as plenty of culinary theatrics at the sushi, robatayaki and teppanyaki counters are found in this restaurant located inside the Burj Khalifa’s Armani Hotel. The contemporary Japanese dishes use first class ingredients flown in from Japan. Go for one of the omakase or kaiseki menus.
Siraj
$$Middle Eastern
Siraj has a stylish, modern look enhanced by numerous references to Arabic culture, and its comfortable terrace is a great place from which to enjoy the nightly fountain show. The wide-ranging menu respects the traditions of Emirati and Levantine cuisines, whilst incorporating subtle modern influences, such as the lobster kebbe and shrimp kunafa.
At.Mosphere
$$$$Modern Cuisine
You’re guided to the lifts in the lobby of the Armani Hotel to get to the world’s highest restaurant, on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. The last refit provided a sumptuous lounge and muted tones in the restaurant, which are matched by the uniforms of the staff. The views are, of course, spectacular. The wide-ranging à la carte menu offers modern, colourful dishes with a French heart; the ingredients are equally top-drawer and include caviar and Wagyu steak. Tasting menus are also available at lunch and dinner.
Bordo Mavi
$$$Seafood
There’s no better place to open a seafood restaurant than in the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. The owners behind 3Fils have partnered with Turkish fisherman Ersan Yilmaz to create this rustic eatery overlooking the harbour. As you enter, take a moment to admire the fresh fish displayed on ice before you start your meal. Take your pick from Norwegian salmon, tuna, turbot and, if you’re lucky, locally caught hamour. We recommend starting with a ceviche or tartare and a salad before diving into the main fish dish and finishing off with a tahini baklava.
Masti
$$Indian
In 2023 this colourful and creative restaurant moved to a new berth within The Dubai Edition hotel – and it’s a good fit. There’s more than a hint of whimsy to the vibrant decoration and equal amounts of imagination are shown in the menu. The kitchen isn’t afraid of incorporating global influences alongside the Indian flavours, which results in intriguing but always enjoyable dishes that are meant for sharing. Fun and mischievous indeed.
99 Sushi Bar
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
Its prime, raised position and smart outdoor terrace lend an element of glamour to this Japanese restaurant. The wide-ranging menu covers all the bases, with plenty of sushi – both modern and traditional – on offer. The robata grill is used to particularly good effect and there’s also a well-priced set lunch for those short on time. The service team are helpful and attentive.
CÉ LA VI
$$$Contemporary
The Dubai outpost of this fashionable restaurant group is set on the 54th floor of the Address Sky View Hotel. It comes with a party atmosphere and a bird’s eye view over the city from its super terrace, and service is friendly and professional. Contemporary dishes have influences ranging from a mix of Mediterranean, such as fried calamari, to Japanese classics, such as nigiri and beef kushiyaki.
Tang Town
$$$Chinese
Slightly hidden on the mezzanine floor of Dubai Mall’s China Town is this dimly lit Chinese restaurant. An ambient mood encompasses the space, while its menu boasts myriad Cantonese and Sichuan dishes made with prime ingredients, like Wagyu beef and Peking duck paired with caviar – dim sum and freshly baked egg tart are must-tries. Diners can also enjoy Chinese dancing performances in the evening on the small centre stage as they eat. Pro tip: enter through the residence’s door to avoid the busy mall’s foot traffic.
Dragonfly
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
A sister to the original Dragonfly in Kazakhstan, this Dubai outpost boasts a contemporary Japanese menu with hints of pan-Asian influences. Sushi, maki, noodles and dim sum are a just a few items that adorn the menu and are prepared with prime ingredients – their braised Wagyu short rib and signature crystal toast are must haves. Inside, you are surrounded by Asian elements, with a dark wood ceiling and a large red dragonfly above; the wall panels were installed by craftsmen who travelled from China. Go for lunch for a great value meal or dinner for a lively evening out with signature cocktai
Riviera by Jean Imbert
$$$Mediterranean Cuisine
Be transported to the iconic French Riviera in the heart of Business Bay. Ideally located on the fourth floor of The Lana hotel, overlooking a small marina of luxury yachts, this restaurant exudes chic, French allure from its style to its flavours. Ratatouille cake, signature tuna tartare (made at your table) to green risotto and Carabineros spaghetti, allow you to travel from the South of France to Italy in just a few bites. Its bright terrace is perfect for alfresco dining during cooler weather.
JARA by Martín Berasategui
$$$$Basque
On the 18th floor of The Lana hotel is internationally renowned chef Martín Berasategui’s restaurant, named after his eldest granddaughter. Its décor is modern and luxurious and styled like a brasserie in dark tones. The eatery’s open kitchen is where chefs prepare the Basque dishes on an open fire and on charcoal grills. Start with charcoal-grilled octopus, Galician-style potatoes with paprika, tomato tartare with fresh and dried tomatoes; then enjoy their range of grilled steaks and be sure to order the Basque cheesecake. Opt for a seat on the terrace for uninterrupted views of Downtown Duba
Fi'lia
$$Italian, Classic Cuisine
Its name means ‘daughter’, highlighting the women leading the way in the kitchen, as well as the culinary knowledge passed down through the generations. Set on the 70th floor, it offers impressive views, while menus list everything from artisan pizza and traditional pastas, like spaghetti carbonara, to sea bass crudo. Save room for their desserts – the pavlova and limone in particular.
Indikaya
$$$Indian, Fusion
Located on the second floor of the Shangri-La on Sheikh Zayed Road, this modern spot is peaceful during the day and lively at night. The menu is split in two: the first encompasses traditional Indian dishes, while the second re-interprets the same classics in a creative, contemporary way without comprising on core taste. Tapas-style plates are meant for sharing, offering colourful, appealing presentation and well defined, harmonious flavours. End your meal with the kithul jaggery wattalappam that delicately combines coconut, nutmeg, passion fruit and lime.
Hutong
$$$$Chinese
The terrace is festooned with lanterns, while the focus of the interior is around a wishing tree wreathed in red ribbons. The menu tells the story of the Silk Road that ran from Europe to China, so along with specialities from Northern China are also ones from more westerly regions like Xinjiang; and as the chef is from Sichuan, expect fiery dishes from that province too. A more business orientated lunch leads into an altogether livelier dinner. For a special occasion, order the ‘Flaming whole Peking duck’.
Netsu by Ross Shonhan
$$Japanese Contemporary
This Japanese steakhouse delivers a theatrical culinary experience thanks to the large open kitchen which takes centre stage. The cavernous room is light and airy, and menu highlights include dishes cooked over rice straw on the Warayaki grill. Start with the tuna tataki, followed by a Wagyu steak.
Chic Nonna
$$$$Italian
Set over two levels within DIFC, this Dubai outpost of the Florentine original is a handsome creation – to find it just look out for the bright green door. The main dining room is set around an open kitchen, while upstairs hosts a stylish and comfortable lounge. Meanwhile, the menu boasts all the Italian classics, including chef’s signature ‘calamarata 2.0’ and ricciola e melone.
Shang Palace
$$$Chinese, Contemporary
Set on the first floor of the Shangri-La Hotel, this restaurant features traditional Chinese décor and offers friendly, professional service. Their menu is extensive, where good quality ingredients are used to create tasty, authentic dishes, with Cantonese specialities, assorted and colourful dim sum – and a signature dish of Peking duck in generous portions. The business lunch menu is full of favourites at a good price.
Sexy Fish
$$$$Japanese, Asian
There’s nothing low-key about this striking restaurant. A Damien Hirst octopus welcomes you in the small reception area on the ground floor, before you’re whisked up in a glass lift to a dimly lit restaurant mimicking a seabed and glittered with under-the-sea elements in every corner. Their equally eye-catching dishes take inspiration from Japan and other Asian flavours and are perfect for sharing. Catch a glimpse of the iconic city views on the balcony terrace and their bathroom is definitely worth taking a selfie in!
estiatorio Milos
$$$$Greek
It’s not just the wonderful bounty from the sea displayed on ice that’s the attraction at this smart and impeccably run restaurant in the grounds of Atlantis The Royal; the Hellenic menu offers up plenty of other choices, like a terrific tomato and aged feta salad, along with some special Greek wines. At lunch there’s a great value Business Lunch menu.
Josette
$$$$French
It’s glamour galore at this grand French restaurant; come with friends for dinner to really experience it at its best, with its live music and DJ – and there’s even a button on each table to summon the champagne. No expense has been spared in the decoration and the menu is an appealing roll-call of classic French dishes, with everything from escargots to tournedos Rossini.
The Guild
$$$Meats and Seafood
In DIFC’s towering ICD Brookfield is an homage to lively New York City brasseries. Hidden behind a curtain, this spot is home to many outlets: The Nursery, a coffeeshop; The Potting Shed, a greenhouse-style meeting place; The Aviary, a sophisticated late night cocktail bar; and two restaurants dubbed Rockpool and The Salon, which share the same menu, but offer different dining experiences. In the former, diners are seated in an aquatic setting with a central indoor pool to dine around; while the latter is a grand dining room, where chefs can be seen in action in the open kitchen. Expect seafoo
The Artisan
$$$$Italian
For a taste of ‘la dolce vita’ head to this warmly run, contemporary restaurant. The menu covers all regions of Italy, and the experienced chef knows how to get the best from his ingredients. Classic dishes are generously sized and packed full of flavour; don’t miss the fresh pasta, which is made in-house, and their dessert, more specifically a delicious chocolate and Piedmont hazelnut fondant with a black pepper ice-cream – a perfect treat to end the meal.
Carnival by Trèsind
$$Indian
Fittingly brightly decorated with gilded trees and two huge dining pods. The Indian menu includes various street food inspired choices alongside seasonal themed plates; dishes are confidently cooked and lightly spiced, with the occasional modern touch. Don’t miss the chicken momo with candied onion and garlic, and their aamsutra dessert. Their lunch menu is appealing too.
Avli BY TASHAS
$$$$Greek
Expectations are exceeded at this bright, dapper-looking restaurant in the DIFC. Its owner is of Greek heritage, and the extensive menu offers authentic, carefully cooked Greek dishes made from quality ingredients. Enjoy mezze, salads and seafood alongside classics such as feta saganaki and lamb youvetsi.
La Petite Maison (LPM)
$$$Mediterranean Cuisine, French
A popular and bright French brasserie with high ceilings, an open kitchen and a buzzing atmosphere. The menu offers tried-and-tested French classics with some Mediterranean influences and dishes are fresh, well-crafted and very tasty. End on a sweet note with desserts mostly complemented by homemade ice cream. The friendly service team put their guests at the centre of the dining experience. Be sure to book in advance to secure your spot in this busy restaurant.
Clap
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
Private lifts whisk you up to the 9th floor, where you enter this chic, modern restaurant with a sizeable cocktail bar and a buzzy vibe. The menu is a roll-call of Japanese classics, from sushi, sashimi and shrimp tempura to mains like miso cod. The rooftop terrace with its city views is the place to be.
Mina Brasserie
$$$$Mediterranean Cuisine
Michael Mina is a chef best-known in the USA and here at the Four Seasons he now has this brightly decorated and impeccably run brasserie de-luxe as the backdrop for his menu of equally sunny French and Mediterranean classics. From a host of fresh salads to seafood and wood-grilled steaks, there’s something for everyone and all occasions. Look out too for the good value mid-week menu.
Sucre
$$$Latin American
You're guaranteed a lively night out at this fashionable spot with its buzzy bar and huge open kitchen. Sharing plates combine Latin American and global influences and the open fire is used to good effect, so expect some bold and punchy flavours. The engaging team further enhance the experience.
Zuma
$$$Japanese Contemporary
The Dubai outpost of this global brand is set over three floors and comes with trendy, contemporary styling, several sushi counters and a lively atmosphere. Super-fresh, high quality ingredients are prepared with dexterity. Flavours are superb and the charming staff provide friendly, efficient service.
Bâoli
$$$$Mediterranean Cuisine, Asian
This lively space located in J1 Beach is a restaurant, bar, and beach club all in one. The main eatery, with its more relaxed atmosphere, offers an extensive menu that blends Asian and European cuisines. Dishes are designed for sharing and range from salads to sashimi, robata grilled skewers to pastas, with steaks being the real highlight. We recommend taking the team’s advice on what to choose as some portions are made for two or more people. Pair your meal with one of many cocktails as either an aperitif, or to simply enjoy into the early hours after dinner.
L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon
$$$$French Contemporary
Robuchon’s Dubai outpost is set in the heart of the DIFC and features the trademark open kitchen and red and black colour scheme. Sophisticated small plates are underpinned by a strong classical base, revisited in a contemporary key. Desserts are a highlight with an impressive choice of soufflés – for the ultimate experience, go for the 7-course tasting menu. Eat directly on the counter or on the panoramic, outdoor terrace.
Amazónico
$$$Latin American
Spread over three floors, the flamboyant and animated Amazónico comes with a greenery-filled, tropical rainforest themed interior, an open kitchen and a lively bar. The Latin American menus reflect the varied communities of the Amazon by offering everything from sushi and sharing plates to grilled meats and fish; all the dishes are colourful, vibrant and full of flavour. Be sure to book a table on the first floor for prime views of the chefs in action in the open kitchen, then head to the panoramic terrace for a Latin-inspired aperitif.
Trèsind
$$$$Indian
Expect exciting and imaginative Indian cuisine that isn’t afraid to push the boundaries, but also a kitchen which knows quality ingredients and how to get the best out of them. The spacious restaurant relocated here to the luxury One&Only Royal Mirage hotel at the end of 2022. There are lots of large tables for bigger parties and even larger windows providing views over the gardens.
Gerbou
$$Emirati Cuisine
Emirati hospitality is front and centre of this ‘humble abode’ located in Dubai’s Nad Al Sheba neighbourhood. Everything, from the heritage building in which it’s located to the banquettes blending with camel leather chairs, and from the warm and charming team to the all-encompassing menu of classic dishes, highlights the rich local culture. The authentic and carefully executed dishes, such as mezze, chicken machboos, salads and sandwiches, are ideal for sharing, while the fwala tray is a great way to experience ‘high tea’ the Emirati way.
Ninive
$$$$Middle Eastern
Set in a bustling area of the city, in the midst of grand towers, this charming restaurant exists in another world: a relaxing oasis, a step back in time. The design of this outdoor-only restaurant reflects a Bedouin tent, with rugs and lanterns, low tables and cosy sofas and lush greenery, representative of the ancient Mesopotamian city, Ninawa. Tasty and made-to-share dishes boast flavours from all over the Middle East and North Africa.
LOWE
$$$Contemporary
An appealing, original restaurant located near Dubai, green oasis, Al Barari. It’s a trendy spot with pared-back style, a relaxed vibe and a sustainable ethos. The impressive open kitchen features a wood oven, a grill and a rotisserie, which play a key role in many of the global dishes. Some plates are perfect for sharing; the whole roasted local sole, curry leaf and caper butter vinaigrette is a must.
Ibn Albahr
$$Lebanese
This Lebanese seafood restaurant features fishing paraphernalia like ropes, anchors and even a boat – as well as a beautiful terrace with a great view of the beach. Ask for a table on the sand for a beach day experience, then head to the fresh fish counter to choose what you’d like to eat; the simple yet classically cooked dishes let the ingredients speak for themselves, complemented by a blend of aromatic herbs and spices.
Rüya
$$Turkish
On the 3rd floor of the St. Regis Dubai sits this boldly decorated restaurant, with its striking chandeliers, picture windows and an open kitchen down one side. The Anatolian cuisine takes traditional recipes and updates them, to create dishes that are as vibrant as they are satisfying – this is the sort of food that you feel is doing you good. There’s plenty of choice and a great value lunch menu too – just leave room for fırın sütlaç, a traditional baked rice pudding.
Leña Dubai
$$$$Meats and Grills
Grilled meats and fish are the stars of the show at this Dubai outpost of acclaimed Spanish chef, Dani García. Everything from the black and orange hued décor (the black representing charcoal embers) to the dry-aged meats displayed in the glass cabinets points to the menu’s main flavour profiles. Some top choices to start with are the meat and fish skewers, with croquettas encased in tempura batter rather than breadcrumbs. Top it off with the chef’s signature burger, before ending with French-style desserts like a sugar and rum soaked savarin served from the trolley. Take a seat on the terrace
Ariana's Persian Kitchen
$$$$Persian
From celebrity chef Ariana Bundy comes this fragrant, pastel-coloured restaurant on the ground floor of Atlantis The Royal, with its almost tent-like feel and a fine covered terrace with views of the gardens. The appealing menu offers a host of Persian foods and flavours, from vibrant salads to charred meats and kababs, all designed for sharing, along with a great selection of teas. You’ll leave feeling good about life.
La Mar by Gastón Acurio
$$$$Peruvian
Enthusiastic staff are here to greet you at this first-floor restaurant at the Atlantis The Royal hotel – the views are impressive and the DJ ensures the atmosphere never lets up. The large fish counter is busting with prime seafood and the menu is full of classic Peruvian dishes, from ceviche and tiraditos to anticuchos. A pisco sour will help you make your choices.
Osteria Funkcoolio
$$$Italian
When a French bistro de luxe meets itameshi (a blend of Japanese and Italian cuisine), you get this intimate spot overlooking the marina in the Port de la Mere neighbourhood. Take a seat in one of three horseshoe booths and order an array of appetisers, homemade pastas, pizzas with toppings – like veal ragu or spicy duck and sriracha – and various meats and fish dishes. End your meal with their twist on a tiramisu that comes wrapped in a cover of soft meringue. Be sure to explore their selection of alcohol-free wines and spirits to complement the experience.
StreetXO
$$$Contemporary
This restaurant was borne from the mind of acclaimed Spanish chef, Dabiz Muñoz of DiverXO in Madrid. The lively and open-plan space has graffiti-covered walls, a neon-lit cocktail bar serving creative drinks, and large open kitchen with a counter (the best place to sit). The menu boasts a mix of modern, globally inspired street food originating from Europe, Asia, South America and beyond. Start with some croquetas, then the beautifully crisp soft-shell crab, and be sure to end with the 'Fluido', a molten white chocolate and egg yolk 'lava' cake. Staff are dressed in punk-inspired jackets, with
Indego by Vineet
$$$Indian
This brightly decorated, intimate Indian restaurant offers everything from street food inspired snacks to dishes from the griddle, tandoor, grill and stew pot, with plenty of options perfect for sharing. Spicing is delicate and presentation can be playful. Sit on the terrace overlooking the marina.
Rhodes w1
$$$British Contemporary
The most recent redecoration resulted in a brighter, airier look for this restaurant in the Grosvenor House hotel. The culinary legacy of the late, great Gary Rhodes is reflected in the appealing menu of European and British dishes. The kitchen handles classics like smoked haddock with Welsh rarebit, salmon fishcake, and bread and butter pudding so well they’re sure to hit the spot. Be sure to also try the chocolate Jaffa fondant with orange jelly.
City Social
$$$$Modern Cuisine
Commanding views from its perch on the 43rd floor of the Grosvenor House hotel are not the only attraction of this branch of the Jason Atherton empire. The extensive menu offers something for everyone, including pasta dishes and a wide choice of dry-aged steaks which are cooked over charcoal. Kick off your experience with a cocktail on the intimate and elegant outside terrace.
Nobu Dubai
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
In 2023 it relocated to a striking spot on the 22nd floor of Atlantis The Palm and ensured that this global brand continues to guarantee a fun and lively night out. So come with friends and order a range of Japanese dishes with South American influences. Choose from the hot and cold ‘Classic’ or ‘Now’ dishes – and don’t miss the signature black cod miso; for the ultimate experience, go for one of the two omakase menus.
Brasserie Frantzén
$$$$Modern Cuisine
This elegant restaurant boasts a dreamy Japanese vibe complemented by an intimate setting on the lower floor of Atlantis The Palm. Moody lighting and deep, comfortable seating adorn the space, with the bar offering light bites and cocktails. The experienced kitchen marry cuisines from Japan, France and Scandinavia, in dishes packed with flavours. Prime ingredients are cleverly enriched by precise seasoning, like complex Scandinavian sushi or a Dover sole with truffle dashi and white soy. Have dessert in the 'Candy Room,' where pastries, candies and homemade sweets are offered.
Ronin
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
Uninterrupted views of Ain Dubai and its surrounding sea paired with contemporary Japanese cuisine is a recipe for a great evening. Located on the ninth floor of the FIVE LUXE JBR hotel, this eatery’s interior is detailed with beautifully tiled walls and red paper lanterns. The food is fun, packed with flavour and prepared with precision and care; expect everything from raw fish to robata grilled meats, tempura to teppanyaki, made with quality ingredients. We suggest booking a seat at the counter for an exclusive omakase experience.
Bombay Bungalow
$Indian
This fun, modern Indian restaurant is open from breakfast onwards and is set right by the beach, so you can sit on the terrace and watch the world go by. Choose from street food, kebabs and classic curries: cooking is fresh, authentic and well-priced, and the caring service adds to the appeal.
Akira Back
$$$$Japanese Contemporary
Set on the fifth floor of the colourful W Hotel, this bright, modern restaurant features raised alcoves and a magical terrace with breathtaking views of the city skyline. The welcoming and professional team are happy to make recommendations from the creative Japanese menu which comes with Korean and international flavours. Dishes such as the generous rock shrimp tempura and the king crab fried rice are both must-tries on the menu.
Brasserie Boulud
$$French, Classic Cuisine
Creating a little piece of France in Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk is this classically styled brasserie deluxe with its marble flooring, red leather banquettes and art deco touches. In a spacious setting inspired by acclaimed chef Daniel Boulud, the restaurant’s appealing menu offers all the French classics from escargots and canard rôti to tarte Tatin and crêpes Suzette. It also has a good value business lunch.
The Spaniel
$$$British Contemporary
Set over two floors in Bluewaters Island’s The Wharf mall, this British brasserie is the perfect neighbourhood spot for homesick expats. The menu is full of British classics ranging from beef Wellington to Scotch egg and burnt Cambridge cream, some with a Dubai twist like their Welsh rarebit topped with truffle, all carefully prepared and full of flavour. The restaurant’s upper floor offers a spacious setting with a large bar counter – be sure to try a signature cocktails such as ‘London Calling’ or ‘A Long Night in Soho’. On Sundays, their traditional roast lunches are great for a family outi
Demon Duck by Alvin Leung
$$$$Chinese Contemporary
The eponymous celebrity chef brings his fun, bold style of cooking to Banyan Tree Hotel, where service is sweet and attentive, and the generous dishes are ideal for sharing. The fun, extensive menu offers Chinese classics with an original twist. We suggest starting with their salt and pepper tofu, then try out their lobster with green onions and ginger and finish off with a chocolate matcha fondant with brown rice ice cream.
Mott 32
$$$$Cantonese
The 73rd floor of Address Beach Resort was the chosen venue for Dubai’s branch of this ever-expanding chain and the views are predictably stunning. As with all their restaurants, the owners didn’t spare any expense when it came to the decoration – this is a sumptuously furnished spot. The carefully prepared food is largely Cantonese, but applewood roasted Peking duck is a speciality and there are also some Sichuan dishes on offer.
Pierre's TT
$$$$French Contemporary
Joyfully ostentatious décor and a delightful setting overlooking Dubai Creek make this a great spot for a night out. Menus showcase Pierre Gagnaire classics, contemporary French fare alongside, pastas, raw crudo, and if you fancy something simpler, a pizza or burger from their 'Casual' menu is worth a try. Desserts are top tier and be sure to ask for a table on the terrace to enjoy Dubai Festival City’s ‘Imagine’ laser light and fountain show.
Al-Fanar
$seafood
This restaurant from the Al-Fanar stable is on the banks of the Dubai Creek and, like the others, showcases the owners’ passion for Emirati cuisine. The interior has a rustic feel, while, out on the terrace, diners can enjoy views of boats and old Dubai across the water, underlining the freshness of the seafood on their plate. The friendly and hospitable team add to the warmth of the experience.
Late Eatery
$$Creative
Nestled among food trucks and drive-thru eateries in what’s known as ‘The 77 Valley’, you’ll find a chic, contemporary bistro blending modern Japanese cuisine with Mediterranean traditions. Complemented by a charming and attentive team, the restaurant delivers unfussy, joyful plates that are packed with flavours. On the menu: a large array of specialties such as street food classics, flatbreads turned into creative pizzas but also more elaborate dishes like meat grilled on the open flame.
Cinque
$$$Italian, International
Italian
Little Miss India
$$Indian
Indian
TakaHisa Japanese Restaurant
$$$$Japanese
Japanese