Dubai - restaurants/bars


Comptoir 102 - Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai 

Raw in Dubai - the first of its kind that Ive actually come across since living in the UAE which came as a welcomed surprise. Comptoir 102 is a destination rather than just a restaurant. Not only does it offer super healthy dishes which comprise of fresh food and huge nutritional benefits, they also play host to a small shop featuring exquisite interiors, delicate jewellery, fashion accessories and art with each individual piece being handpicked by the owners, Alex and Emma. Other unique aspects of the eatery include an ever changing menu. Based of traditional dietary wisdom and refined according to modern nutritional research, each dish revolves around seasonal fresh fruit and veg. Veggie heavy with not a lot of 'flesh' on offer, this eatery also prides itself on being gluten free/dairy free and even vegan friendly. 




The place made a great first impression when we arrived for lunch on a Saturday afternoon, with the outside area particularly appealing to me. Low arches led to sofas covering the back wall and low deck chairs surrounding circular tables - the perfect spot for a cool winters afternoon. We were welcomed inside to a tranquil space full of character covered in trinkets and knick knacks. The shop was my idea of heaven with delicate necklaces, rings and bracelets, amazing interiors and a small handful of carefully selected clothes. The restaurant itself featured all the interiors from the shops - everything was a bit miss-match yet full of charisma and the cutlery and plates were basic but quirky (and obviously EXTREMELY expensive!). 





The menu was swiftly placed in front of us which automatically led to a bit of confusion. Pages and pages of fresh juices and smoothies lay before us with a small sandwich section on the end - no sign of salads, hummos or nothing that everyone had continued to rave about. Moments later the waitress arrived to explain the concept - the daily dishes were displayed on the specials boards. Three starters, three mains, three deserts, all available for one day only. After a selection of juices and smoothies arrived, the trio of hummos, a special of theres' coming in a range of colors, flavors and textures accompanied by a seedy crisp bread, adding the perfect crunch was served (and devoured very quickly). This was swiftly followed by a seaweed and quinoa salad which despite the lack of meat did not disappoint whilst my pal went for a salmon and lentil salad.




Overall I was very impressed from what i saw/consumed - the restaurant was consistent and true to what it stood for - healthy eating one spoonful at a time. And for the icing on the cake, the damage wasn't too bad either. In a country where paying for healthy food breaks the bank, Comptoir 102 was refreshingly affordable - an excellent addition to Dubai and a place i will be 100% visiting again.  




Alta Badia - Emirates Towers, Dubai

This journey really starts with a bang... on entering Emirates Towers you are directed to the lift to whizz you up to Alta Badia, the Italian situated on the 50th floor. After an ear popping start, we were met with a warm reception by an extremely friendly lady at the reservations desk who led us directly to our table, which was conveniently situated in the middle of the restaurant in a semi-circle cove, with amazing views looking over Downtown Dubai. The light was dim and even though the interiors didnt tickle my fancy or overly stand out, this was made up for by the amazing view and the perfect table setting. The restaurant isnt huge but there was enough space to breath between each table. There was a bar at one end of the room with the official Alta Badia bar just one floor up where smokers can puff away without having to head back down to the ground. 



Our very friendly waiter arrived at the table to take a drinks order and take us through the menu. Swiftly after, a bread basket arrived followed by an amuse bouche - compliments of the chef. The a la carte menu that was presented to us was minimal but in the best way. Every dish made my mouth water so having a two page menu was definitely hard enough to choose from. Finally, we came to a decision starting with the breasola of yellow fin tuna and the wagyu beef tartare. Thinly sliced light pink tuna was presented with mandarin and tomato segments scattered over the top. The tuna was brilliantly tasty but the main highlight was the wagyu tartare. Being a meat fan, steak tartare is always my tipple and this particular dish did not disappoint. Complete with a quail egg on top, the dish was full of flavor, moist in a good way and topped off with a crunchy potato crisp.





For the main event, we dined on a dish from the sea coming in the form of Scottish scallops and a dish from the land - the Australian beef tenderloin. The scallops were good - not the best i have ever had but the clam sauce made the dish slightly more exciting. The tenderloin on the other hand was perfect, displayed on a bed of smooth mash, drizzled in sauce with incredibly soft fois gras grazing on the top. It was obvious to see how fantastic the food was, as there was not a plate with food left on in the house, including ours (which were basically licked clean). It really made a change going to an Italian which didnt just offer up pizza and pasta and it was great how the chef turned normal every day food into exceptional dishes. 



The final stage of the meal included a chocolate fondant pudding complete with strawberries and ice-cream, washed down by a delicious espresso martini - the perfect end to the dinner. Accounting for the great service  fantastic food by legendary chef Claudio Melis, breath-taking views and reasonable price tag, this is an Italian which is not to be missed. 






Bushmans - The Anantara Hotel, The Palm

The latest eatery I recently discovered is yet another restaurant at the superb Anantara Hotel on the Palm. Unlike any other Australian restaurant I have visited in Dubai, Bushman's is ultra cool with a unique edge in every aspect. The outdoor patio is laiden with comfy seating and oversized metal birdcages containing circular tables. The lighting in low with quirky with Australian nik naks hanging from the ceiling - a perfect watering hole for the cooler months in Dubai. The bar portion of the venue is set along a narrow passage which leads into the main restaurant where the low lighting and dark fittings continue throughout the restaurant with wire mesh features including walls and small animals which decorate the interiors. The tables for two are quite cramped but there is a cosy feel to the place and you never feel on top of other diners, however, there are larger tables available which offer plenty of room.


In typical Australian fashion, the menu is made up of weird and wonderful Australian classics including kangaroo, emu and barramundi - its amazing how they get these exquisite dishes across the sea and manage to keep them ever so tasty. For the curious and experiential diners out there, Bushmans will be right up your street. To start, the Australian antipasto is definitely the most exotic dish on the menu.. shared between two this plate of delight gives you a taste of whats to come next. The seared Emu fillet was particularly tasty!



The main courses however make visiting this restaurant worth while.. The two specials/Australian inspired dishes are the pan baked barramundi fillet with lemongrass beurre blanc sauce and lemon risotto and the kangaroo sirloin with sweet potato fritters, pak choi and an incredible chilli sauce (the perfect balance of sweet and spice). Both dishes were truly fantastic however the real star was the barramundi which kicked all other dishes ass. The fish was soft with a crispy exterior and the mixture of risotto and lemongrass complimented it perfectly - my mouth is watering just thinking about it. Adding to the experience, the waitresses AKA 'The Salt Guru' come round and advised on the perfect salt variety to complement the meal. I honestly never knew you could get so many different types! They also come round with a selection of sharp knifes giving each diner the chance to choose their weapon of choice.




In addition to the Australian specials, they also have a number of meat cuts from the BBQ complimented by a selection of sauces including wattle seed glaze and red onion jam. For the icing on the cake, apparently they do an incredible pavlova which is created by the chef in front of your eyes at the table. Something to look forward to next time!

The bevvys also keep in line with the rest of the venue and homesick Aussies will be pleased to find a small selection of Australian drinks at a reasonable price. They also do a happy hour daily from 5pm till 7pm.

A new favorite of mine in Dubai and another gold star for the Anantara!




Tokyo @ The Tower - Emirates Towers, Dubai

On the second floor in Emirates Towers sits this low key Teppanyaki and Sushi restaurant - not as glitzy and glamorous as similar joints like Sake No Hana but a great place to venture for a fun yet casual night out. Our visit to Tokyo @ The Tower was once again thanks to Whats On - another part of the great prize that was gave with the nights stay at Emirates Towers Hotel so i was particularly excited to discover a little bit of Toyko. On first appearances it looked small and narrow laiden with small basic wooden tables and chairs - it wasnt until we hit the back of the room that we saw the Teppanyaki stations displayed out in front of us. 




After we were seated it was time to decide the 'food' direction of the evening and luckily my companion and I came to a suitable decision from the set menu - one meat & one seafood and then obviously share :) There is also a al carte options comprising of different cuts of meat, alternative seafood and duck but, as advised by the waitress, the set menu was the real deal. With miso soup in hand and a small salad on the side it was time to watch the chef work his magic, starting with the veggies. Sliced and diced into tiny pieces in what felt like one second, the veg was ready and left to one side with the occasional toss from the chef. The rice came next - the selection being sticky or egg fried (egg fried obviously being the more entertaining and tasty option). After it was vigorous flipped and pulled from side to side a few times, the veg was added and the egg cracked and voila - egg fried rice - it was amazing how quickly they could accomplish so much! Next came the proper grub - my prawns, lobster tail, scallops and salmon were sliced, scooped up and juggled around on the hot plate with oils, salt and pepper tossed in to enhance the flavor and fire. The meat followed in the same fashion and to be honest, both dishes were fantastic - light and full of flavor - the whole show was immensely impressive. 




The food at Tokyo @ The Tower really was the main highlight of the evening, the chefs were simply spectacular however there were some aspects which didn't impress as much. The entrance of the restaurant didn't do any justice to the rest of the place and could maybe be more intriguing to entice customers at first glance. It is also situated right next to a karaoke bar which got very loud - its great if you want to join in, not so great if you have having dinner. Finally, i thought the staff weren't overly friendly or helpful and service with a smile didn't seem to apply. Apart from that, the food was fab - all credit goes to the amazing Teppanyaki chefs. 





 Clinton Street Bakery - Burj Views, Dubai

All day breakfast? Yes please! All the way from NYC, Clinton Street Bakery brings good ol' American homey food to Dubai, where breakfast is served any time of the day, full of fresh ingredients, unique dishes, and brilliant baked goods. In NYC, Clinton Street is somewhat a weekend ritual for the residents, and in a place like Dubai where decedent weekend dining is a normal right of passage for any UAE resident, this joint is quickly becoming overly popular, with many customers swapping the usual boozy brunch for a carby one at Clinton Street.



The menu houses a selection of dishes from standard breakfast specials including omelettes, eggs benedict and homemade granola to the more exquisite plates including buttermilk biscuit sandwich comprising of scrambled eggs, melted cheese, homemade tomato jam and hash browns, crispy potato cakes with apple sauce and cinnamon sour cream and the infamous fried chicken and waffle.



Right round the corner from FlyBarre and FlyWheel, the two locations go hand in hand with most people at the weekends heading down for a work out before indulging in pancakes or brioche french toast, and as you can imagine, on a Friday morning the queues become vast with everyone lining up to reward themselves to a post work out treat. Due to living the other end of town from this brilliant bakery, I haven't quite made it for breakfast yet, however dinner was not dissimilar. Before heading for my massively anticipated dinner, I headed for a quick spin to work up my appetite (which worked a treat). For dinner, my friend and I started with homemade lemonade which was delicious and full of sweet and sour flavours, before settling down for the main event. Between us we shared a portion of the famous fried chicken and waffle and the Mexican favourite Huevos Rancheros accompanied by a small pot of sweet potato mash doused in maple syrup and melted butter. Even though all dishes hit the spot, as expected, the fried chicken won the race. Covered in their signature maple butter, with a crispy aspect to the dish, it was the perfect way to end a busy day. Never did i expect three completely different components could go so well together.. i was proven wrong at the first mouthful.




This little gem also offer takeaways, and a range of cakes, pies and biscuits giving customers the chance to take a little piece of Clinton Street home with them. Martha Stewart approved, it is clear to see each dish is made with a lot of love (as well as a lot of butter) and is a definite 'must visit' for all Dubai residents.



 MO's - City Walk Dubai

Set amid Dubai's newest alfresco shopping destination sits MO's, my new favorite diner spot in Dubai. Seemingly straight out of American, MO's serves up true USA style diner dishes, offering up shakes to suit every taste bud, burgers, deli style sarnies as well as a selection or month watering mains, appetizers and lets not forget puds, consisting of sundaes, cakes and good old fashion sponge based delights. MO's probably runs one of the larger spaces in City Walk with an outdoor area overlooking the small fountains and shops, and an indoor area, decked out with diner favorites including large light board menus on the walls, high chair seating, squishy sofa booths and a long bar where diners can watch milkshakes being whisked right before their eyes. 




The staff greeted us with an abundance of smiles, swiftly placing us in a cozy booth at one side of the restaurant. Shakes were quickly suggested as the drink of choice which I eagerly obliged - its been a while since i consumed a shake! I chose wisely I think, opting for the coconut and pineapple. Creamy, full of flavor but not overly sickly, it was a perfect start to the meal ahead. My companion chose the peanut butter and banana shake, which also was delicious, but probably more of a pudding rather than a drink. Our waiter took us through the menu, picking out the favorites as he went, making it very easy when it came to decision time. 



We started with the Crock of Chilli and the Buffalo Wings. The wings were one of the best I have had in Dubai, and my companion (a massive wings fan!) rated them as outstanding complimenting the spice to sauce ratio. The blue cheese sauce partnered the dish superbly, and made a great dipping sauce for the chips! The Crock of Chilli was also delicious, coming with a dollop of sour cream and a generous amount of cheese, however I did struggle to scoop up the chilli on the skinny chips.. We could of kept the table a little less messy if the chips were a bit fatter (so one would be able to scoop up the chilli with a little more ease) or if the chips had come already swimming in the chilli/cheese combo. 




For mains we had the famous TNT Shrimp tacos. (TNT Shrimps are a specialty of the Caramel group which MO's is a part of). The ratio of shrimp to sauce was perfect with the taco being the perfect balance between soft and crispy. The only comment I would have about the tacos is that there seemed to be slightly more batter than shrimp, however apart from that they were delightful and would definitely be the dish I recommend to any diner visitor. Also up for mains was the infamous balboa steak sandwich - prime rib combined with cheese and caramelized onions, encased by a garlic bread baguette. This dish is definitely a meal in itself, and not for the faint hearted, but if you are starving, this is the dish for you. Its not too 'bready' and full of flavor- they really have nailed the sandwich on the head. 





Even though I was too full to move, our smiley waiter proposed the 'carrot cake' question. A slab of cake appeared in front of us, full of sultanas and accompanied by whipped cream. It was divine - the perfect end to the meal hosting the perfect balance of moist sponge and creamy filling. Two mouthfuls in i was fit to burst so the cake was packed up and came home with me and later consumed by some very happy work colleagues who are now dying to hit up this downtown diner. 



MO's is a diamond in the rough when it comes to Dubai diner food - the staff are extremely friendly, the food fantastic and the location suits the restaurant down to a 'T', and even though its slightly on the expensive side for a diner meal, its worth every penny. One point to note though, its no place for dieters, but if you allow a cheat day every now and then, this is the spot for you. I am very much looking forward to going back to try out there awesome breakfast menu! 


For more info: 

Twitter: @MOsDubai
Instagram: @caramelgroup



 Reform Social & Grill

Hidden among The Lakes compound lies Reform Social & Grill - Dubai's first true Gastro-pub which has flown all the way from the UK and landed with a smack in Dubai. In typical pub grub style, Reform offers up specials every night of the week including Curry nights on a Friday, Roasts on a weekend and Posh Nosh (Scampi and Chicken) on a Wednesday. All deals come with an attractive price tag as well as a glass of booze (wine or beer in traditional English style). As well as all these fun offers, they are also open every other day/night of the week and do a rocking breakfast every morning complete with Eggs Benedict, a Full English and some healthy options thrown in there too!




Located in Emirates Living District of Dubai, the restaurant plus grounds is a 15,000sqft space including  idyllic gardens with a great lounge area over looking the Lakes. In the cooler months, the outdoor bar opens up too making Reform the perfect way to spend an afternoon outside in the sun. 



I am yet to have a disappointing meal at Reform and I would highly recommend heading down on a Saturday night for a roast. With options of pork and stuffing on the menu, complimented with mountains of spuds, parsnips, carrots and cabbage, its the perfect place to kick back, relax, have a glass of red wine and prepare for the week ahead. The Pork Belly is also particularly good, and the cheese platter complete with quince jelly is mouth watering. They also do a great Bloody Mary and the house wine slips down a treat! 




In the cooler months, they also introduce the BBQ... One of my favorite things from the UK. They basically BBQ everything up (steaks, lamb etc), making the place smell delicious. 


All attires welcome, just watch out for the kids running out in the winter months - there are plenty about.





Geales - Le Royal Meredien Resort and Spa

These modern digs with its subtle British style is probably my new favorite place to 'chill' in Dubai. Set in the heart of Le Royal Meredien grounds, Geales is admittedly classy with a very obvious touch of comfort on the side. The outdoor terrace which runs the parameter of the restaurant is decked out with high metal stools, low white sofa style seating with union jack cushions and a silver bar containing every sprite under the sun. The interiors mirror a similar style, with white painted walls, black and white photos donning the walls, sofa covered 'coves' where diners can gain some intimacy as well as splendid lounge seating complete with high backed chairs, and the ever familiar union jack cushions. The center piece to Geales has to be the fish bar, decked out with high chairs around the outside - the perfect stop off for a quick bite. The counter is full of fresh fish caught that day with experts floating around to help each customer choose their fish and recommend ways of serving it up.





We started with some 'nibbles' of pineapple and cheddar and salmon carpaccio. Whilst salmon carpaccio is one of my preferred starters, the pineapple and cheddar was by far the most exciting part of the 'nibble'. Never seen on a menu before, this was picnic British food at its best, complete with tooth pick sticks to stab at your food - perfect slice of home. For mains, we shared the Royal Tower. As much as I am a fan of shell fish, this might not of been the best choice on the menu and after a few mouthfuls I was not enjoying it as much as I thought. For the price of the tower, the food on offer was not as good as expected and this spoilt the dinner slightly. Even though it was displayed beautifully, I wouldn't recommend it. Luckily, due to the extensive menu, there will be plenty of other dishes to choose from when I next go back. 




The cocktails sampled on the other hand were delicious. They serve an excellent espresso martini as well as other truly tasty British based cocktails including the infamous Pimms - something I look forward to consuming buckets of in the cooler months. The house wine on the other hand wasn't as great, tasting quite bitter (almost like it was slightly corked). 



One more thing to note is the service. The most friendly and helpful bunch of people I have come across in Dubai - they always had a smile of their face and were ready to help with every need - I was truly impressed and this fact made up for what lacked in the Royal Tower platter. 


A very friendly, relaxing and homely place, which I can imagine comes to life in the cooler months - definitely worth a try. 


 Bu Qtair - Jumierah

Messy, unpretentious however undoubtedly delicious - Bu Qtair is the only one of its kind in Dubai. Off the main road in the heart of Jumeirah with views of the Burj Al Arab sits a little Portacabin which traffics people in and out on a daily basis. Fish is caught in the early hours of the morning and then served up bringing a taste of Kerala to Dubai.


Expect to find curried prawns with an array of curried fish, cooked on the spot and served hot with Arabic bread, chips and/or rice with a deliciously spiced curry sauce to polish it off. If menus are your thing, this might not suit you as what is caught is whats on offer - take it or leave it.


All seating is on the sand, made up of plastic table and chairs and food is served on paper plates with plastic cutlery - a proper back to basics dining experience. For 100aed you can will you boots full of fish (for two people I might add), however, beware of the odd fish bone lurking in your food. 




Sho Cho - Dubai Marine Club

This place really comes to life in the cooler months, housing the young and fabulous not only for dinner but also for drinks which go on into the wee hours of the morning where the pretty play and pose. Sophisticated, classy and trendy, Sho Cho offers up Japanese cuisine, delicious cocktails and of course, sake to its diners. Comprising both indoor and outdoor seating, the selling point to Sho Cho is the outdoor terrace which looks out over the Arabian Gulf  offering up stunning views throughout the day and night. Even though dining is available inside, its more of a lounge area, covered in large white sofas, low lighting and pumping tunes - a place to unwind or gear up, depending on mood. 




When the sushi goes away, the lights come down and international and local DJs hit the decks and breathe a new lease of life into Sho Cho. Just a word of warning, if you are planning on going over the weekend or Sunday and Tuesday, be sure to book in advance as tables get snapped up quickly. Its safe to say, Sho Cho do what they do extremely well.. enjoy! 







The Observatory - The Marriott Hotel, Dubai Marina

The Observatory is one of those talked about spots which not only hosts great views of the Marina and the Palm but also has an exotic menu, a great setting, indoor smoking area and fantastic cocktails and no matter what day of the week it is, you can always guarantee a good vibe from the other customers who descend on The Observatory for after work drinks. The interior is dark with wood and leather and black and brown seating, either in the form of regular tables or the occasional high set tables with breakfast bar stools and communal seating around large circles in the center of the room, accommodating around 12 people at one time. The views are seen through floor to ceiling windows and the low lighting gives off a stunning view of the cities flashing lights. 



Even though it looks like the kind of place that would be over priced and relatively snooty, The Observatory is actually reasonable (especially if you bring a voucher from the Entertainer book with you) and not the kind of place where overly fancy dress is a necessity. Depending what you are in the mood for, customers can either chill out in the bar area and enjoy light bar snacks - my particular favourite being the beef satay, potato dippers or mini burger sliders. Alternatively, a proper sit down dinner option is also on the cards, with favorites such as steaks, pork belly and pounded tuna tartare on the menu. 



Happy hour runs from 5pm until 8pm offering up a selection of delicious (and cheap) cocktails, wines, spirits and bar food. Definitely a great spot to take a friend who is visiting - cheap and cheerful with the glitz and glamour of Dubai. 




Traiteurs - Park Hyatt Dubai Creek 

Without a doubt this is one of the top restaurants I have been to in Dubai, and even though it is a bit of a trek, it is well worth a visit. The Dubai Creek is a superb place to spend an evening and its very easy to lose track of time whilst you wonder from bar to bar seeing what each one has to offer. After having drinks at Cielo sky lounge we hopped on a buggy over to the Park Hyatt - one of the older hotels in Dubai (however its still fabulous in its own right). Traiteur is situated out the back of the hotel over looking the marina with both outdoor and indoor seating on offer making it a great spot for all types of weather conditions. 



The menu is best described as a fusion of classic bistro cuisine with gastronomy, or to put it simply, casual French fine-dining. We chose from a selection of snails and scallops followed by a delicious beef tenderloin with crunchy chips and vegetables - mouthwatering.. and washed down with a glass of champagne (which surprisingly didnt completely break the bank.. ). Even though the high ceiling, marble floor and open kitchen make it feel like it would be better suited for a business lunch/dinner, the mood lighting at night can make the venue very multi-functional and I would definitely recommend anyone going there regardless of the occasion.



The staff are extremely smiley and friendly but not in your face, offering you space but being there always at the right moment. 10/10. 

A little amuse bouche to kick start the meal - compliments of the chef :) 


A few points to add: they have a voucher in the Entertainer book so be sure to bring that along to soften the blow of the bill at the end of the meal - it can be quite hefty. Apparently they do one of the best brunches in Dubai - let me know if you have been and if its any good as I am DYING to go! 



Bon Appetite x



 Cielo Sky Lounge - Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club

Cielo is set at the top of the Club House of the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, surrounded by restaurants and overlooking the waters of the Creek. On the rare occurrence that I head that far down town, its always great to try something new, and Cielo had been highly recommended by a bunch of my down town pals. A private, very VIP-esqe lift transports you up to the top floor (its not very high so dont worry if heights put you off a bit..) where you are welcomed by open air, spacious surroundings, bean bag-ish chairs and large white lounge sofas, all spilling out from a central canopy (which resembles a tree almost..) umbrella-ing the bar. Panoramic views across Dubai's cityscape are available from nearly every seat and for some, you even get views of the picturesque Dubai Creek and surroundings.





Once plonked on a extremely comfortable bean bag chair (probably not the most attractive way to sit), a drinks menu was drawn to my attention... An array of fruity and classic cocktails were laid out in front of me as well as a vast selection of wines, beers, soft drinks and small tapas plates - a very Mediterranean style of dining/un-winding. They do a superb cucumber martini and a very strong and not too sweet espresso martini too. 



This sophisticated sky lounge is not only a great place to enjoy a few sunny d's and some nibbles, it is also a great place (so i hear..) to party the night away with top DJs who head to the Creek to light up the deck, creating a home for deep house music and performances from both local and international DJs. So escape the city, enjoy the drinks, eat some tapas and be prepared to be transported to the Med...






The Farm - Al Barari, Dubai

The Farm was definitely the kind of place I didn't expect to find in Dubai... Even though I had heard of its wonder. From driving down the bleak and unscenic Emirates Road towards Al Barari, you are all of a sudden welcomed into the arms of greenery - winding roads bound by large leafy hedges, grass and flowers which not only lead to incredible villas but also to The Farm which is tucked away in the heart of the complex. 





Probably one of my favorite types of restaurants, The Farm understands the words organic, gluten free and dairy free which is something that hasn't completely caught on in Dubai yet, and not only offers a menu full of options for everyone but also has a small shop giving customers the option to take a slice of 'The Farm experience' home with them. Set among exotic flower beds, tidy lawns, trickling lakes and kitchy furniture and bridges, you have both a tranquil indoor area plus outdoor seating on decking among the vibrant oasis. Not only is it great to go for breakie, lunch and dinner, in the cooler months I can see myself taking a book and setting up camp in one of the idyllic hammocks whilst consuming copious amounts of coffee and dozing in the winter sun. 




On this occasion the sun was beating down, however The Farm had it covered.. quite literally. The outdoor areas were covered and cooled so you could still enjoy the scenery without sweating. Breakfast was a mixture of eggs, fruits, amazing smoothies and truely scrumptious gluten free coconut and blueberry pancakes washed down with coffee. A combination of great food, perfect setting and friendly staff creates an incomparable ambiance of peace, calm and relaxation and even though you feel a million miles away from the flashing lights, The Farm is a mere 15minute drive away from MOE making it a weekend must! Be sure to treat yourself to a morning at the oasis of flavor and tranquility... 









The Beach Bar & Grill - The One and Only Royal Mirage, Dubai

The Beach Bar & Grill is a place suitable for a casual beach lunch or a date-like dinner (or any kind of dinner for that matter). Overlooking the Palm from the One and Only Royal Mirage, BBG sits between the green gardens filled with palm trees and the golden sandy beach, set on layers of chocolate brown wooden decking. The mood by day is beach chic - head down for a fresh sea food platter or refreshing cocktail under the shaded terrace or on the beach whilst you dig your toes in the sand, where at night, the place comes alight with flickering candles and lanterns, the dress code becomes a bit more grown up and seafood platters get swapped for steaks and grilled delights. 




Like most Dubai haunts, indoor and outdoor seating is available but to capture the real essence of the place, outdoor dining is a must  - the breeze comes in off the beach with fabulous ocean views available even from the terrace. We dined on a selection carpaccio and steaks, however there were a vast selection of grilled fish and meats floating about as well as mezze platters, risottos and the odd pasta dish - something for everyone! Likewise, the service was friendly and attentive without being overbearing and they ensured the flow of wine and frozen daiquiris kept coming all night. 



I would highly recommend this place for a quiet/romantic dinner or a great place to take family or friends to show them a part of the 'wow' of Dubai. Not the place for a crazy booze up - its peaceful and private and a definite gem in Dubai. 


 Smiling BKK - Al Wasl Square, Dubai

This was sold to be as a quirky Thai eatery, not too dissimilar from what you would find in the hustle and bustle of Bangkok - very un-Dubai and very cheap.



On first appearances, this seemed to very true. Without completely being through the door we were greeted by a dozen 'Sa-Wad-Dee-Ka's - there must of been 10 waiters/waitresses present, for the 10 people that were inside. The place was dark but cool with lanterns hanging from the ceiling, a mass of framed pictures on the walls, dark wooden tables and large Mona Lisa prints everywhere from menus to napkin boxes. After being seated, the rules were laid out. Every diner gets given a toy black gun. When ready to order, one must pull the trigger making a rather scratchy sound which alerts the waiters to your table. 




The menu was vast, offering up a number of Thai favorites as well as the odd peculiar dish which i'd never heard of.. Being dry, in its place was a range of mocktails and soft drinks (lots of things including green tea which i guess is normal for Thailand..). To start, we devoured a selection of spring rolls, prawn crackers and chicken satay - all extremely tasty but also extremely small. The food here seemed to be shrunk to half the size of normal food, with the spring rolls looking the size of my finger. No place mats were laid out, instead, we had torn out pages from magazines to eat on which added to the fun of the place. 



Next came the mains - a mix of  Thai green curry, Pad Thai and veggy rice - all looking great. The curry (even though i asked for it mild) appeared to be extremely spicy... to cut the long and the short of it, it took them 3 attempts to get the curry right and whilst attempting there were a lot of half-hearted tries which was disappointing  especially after the enthusiasm of the staff. Finally, the curry came (complete with micro mini prawns) and it was fair. Not the best, but considering the price we weren't going to complain. The total came to around 200aed for two, and considering the amount of food we ordered and drinks we drank, it wasnt half bad.  



Overall, it was a fun experience and I am glad I gave it a go. I don't think I would rush back but I would definitely recommend a visit if you are in the area and love Thai cuisine - maybe just avoid the curries!



West 14th - Oceana, The Palm, Dubai

West 14th might just be my new favorite joint in Dubai for a casual dinner - I can't believe its taken me this long to try out the fab steak shack on the Palm. Overlooking the sea with views of the Marina on the main land, West 14th is a great place to unwind or gear up. Offering up swanky indoor dining options, decked out with black and red interiors appearing sleek and very 'New York' as well as a chilled out al fresco eating area, filled with long tables, great views, cool breeze and a bar which is reachable from every angle - the perfect place for sunny d's - flips flops are not only allowed outside when eating, they are appreciated which is nearly unheard of in a place as dressy as Dubs. 



At the core, West 14th is a steak house, however, fish and fresh market veg are also served up as well as other meats, vegetarian dishes and other fruit de la mer.  Vegetables are often home grown in Dubai however the steak comes straight from a ranch in Nebraska - ordered by Mr West himself - the resident butcher at the Oceana based hang out. I must say, the steak is delicious and reasonably priced for the quality...



Quality must be high up on the list of commitments Mr West wants to keep, as the wine (we sampled a selection of whites, reds and rose), like the food, went down a treat - the cheapest glass being 38aed, meaning you get more for your money (so i thought..). This however, is not necessarily the case. As it tastes so damn good it is very easy to spend more than anticipated - a clever trick there from Mr West. The ingrained West 14th stamp that is burnt into pretty much everything (chopping boards, uniforms, menus etc) is prominent for all customers to see giving the place a unique/edgy touch, and the staff, emblazoned with large name tags, are helpful, friendly and on the whole, knowledgeable. 



Just a few things to note: 
  • Drinks service can be quite slow - be warned!
  • Happy Hour is from Saturday - Wednesday with two for one offers between 6-8
  • They do a great (so im told..) brunch on a Friday donned "The Butchers Brunch" 
  • From the car, its quite a walk in heels - make sure they are comfy! 
Its safe to say that ill be heading back for many more steak nights in the near future. 






TOMO - The Raffles Hotel, Near Wafi Mall, Dubai

Set on the 35th Floor of The Raffles Hotel sits TOMO which brings Dubai authentic food straight from the heart of Japan. TOMO - meaning 'lifelong friend' - encourages people to come, eat splendid food, share memorable occasions and is a place where the staff and chef want the diners to feel at home (which is very apparent through the attentive and friendly servers).  



Split into bar and restaurant, it is easy enough to pop in for a drink as it is to go for dinner with large, spacious rooms inside as well as two expansive balconies which wrap around each side of the top floor offering up amazing views of the extensive sandpit skyline and down town Dubai. 



TOMO surprised me in a few ways. Firstly, being out of the center of the 'city that never sleeps', there was a lot of life in this hotel with people bustling around the hotel, the glam pack heading to People by Crystal or Qbara, or shoppers hitting up the Wafi Mall. Secondly, the views were incredible, giving you a full on view of the sun set with barely any obstructions (try and ignore the odd crane that crops up). And thirdly, the extensive, unique menu and healthy light cocktail choice.



They offer happy hour until 7pm every night with a selection of BOGOF offers (including cocktails!). Try either Cucumber or Noshi Martini - light and (reasonably) healthy as far as cocktails go. 
When it came to ordering food we decided to be slightly adventurous (as the menu is quite wild and wacky compared to other Japanese menus i have seen) and got a selection of hot and cold dishes to share. It was the first time I had also seen a variety of 'tuna' on the menu. Not only was there normal tuna, there was also a fatty tuna, a very fatty tuna and a medium fatty tuna... to be honest, i didn't really see the difference until we tried the fatty tuna maki rolls - so delicious - i'd like to know what they feed these fish!! 



Other dishes to try would be the tempura Gobi fish, the rice porridge with egg and salmon and the pickled octopus. As far as sushi restaurants go I wouldn't choose it over Sake No Hana, however it is the best all round Japanese restaurant I have been to and well worth a visit. 




Note: even though it is a great spot to visit throughout the year, in order to dine outside with the views, go in the cooler months as the terrace is closed for dinner during the summer months. 
Bliss Lounge - Sheraton Hotel, JBR Dubai

Bliss has been high up on my list of places to visit for a while... Situated in the middle of the grounds of the Sheraton Hotel, Bliss does stand out from its surroundings. Being quite a bit smaller than I expected, this did not dampen the setting of beach and sea which laid out in front of the bar. Pitching itself somewhere between the ultra glamorous and beautiful Jetty Lounge and the heavy beats and booziness of XL, its pleasant with some pumping tunes (meaning a spontaneous boogy could definitely be on the cards) and cocooned by long bamboo looking sticks with a circular bar greeting you at the entrance.  



Bliss hosts different levels of decking, featuring booths, low table settings and seats on the beach where one can dig their toes into the sand. Sleek whites, grey and mauve can we found in the furniture with low mood lighting in the form of boxes on tables, spot lights in the floor and white large bulbs leading up to the lounge.  



Even though it is probably a better destination for the cooler months, on the breezy night it is definitely bearable and the Bliss staff come prepared with large industrial fans - these might slightly spoil the setting but at least it keeps you cool whilst still being outdoors. 


They offer a variety of finger food, sushi, healthy salads and tapas which come served as perfect sharing plates. Try the Ahi Tuna Tartar - the mix of sesame, tuna and avocado is delicious and light and leaves room to try the scrumptious cocktail and wine variety that they have on offer.

Great spot for sunny d's, dates or just casual dinners. Bliss is there to suit your every mood. 
Pai Thai - Al Qasr Hotel, Dubai 

Pai Thai has been tempting me for a long time now - everyone seems to rave about the romantic setting, the exotic cuisine and delicious cocktail, and this is seen to be true when it comes to booking a table. I had tried quite a few times and it always seemed to be booked. Finally, I got a 10pm booking on a Tuesday night which seemed pretty perfect - not only did it mean I could sample a few ladies night drinks after work but I could also end my evening with some tasty Thai dishes. 



Believe it or not, Pai Thai is not the easiest of places to locate.. set at the far end of the Madinat waterways, its really only reachable by boat or buggy. We arrived by boat which was by far the most romantic entrance (even though my date was a girl mate of mine), showing off the fairy lit terrace which leans out over the quiet water. The lighting was dim, the tables weren't too close together giving the diners enough privacy and the atmosphere was quiet but electric at the same time - perfect date location! 



On arrival, we were immediately sat at our table by a very friendly hostess. She also passed me a gluten free menu which for the first time in a while didnt look depressing at all - there were a few gluten free suitable options available to me. 

Cocktails were the first port of call - I went for a 'Ban Thai' which i would highly recommend. A mix of passion fruit, lychee and vodka went down an absolute treat. Then came the prawn crackers - which for me were rice crackers which were accompanied by a nectarine sauce instead of the usual sweet chilli - i must admit they were surprising tasty for gluten free. For mains we both ordered Thai currys. Mine was a red prawn curry which was delicious - the perfect balance between creamy and sweet and bitter spice. The portions were big enough to share between two, and the rice was unlimited. My friend went for the Thai green chicken curry which she said was the best she'd had in Dubai - Pai Thai was definitely living up to both of our expectations. 




I left the restaurant feeling full and tired after a great dinner - and even though it was quite expensive it was worth the price we paid. Adding to all this the staff were extremely attentive, helpful and knowledgeable about the food that was on the menu - something that's quite a rarity in Dubai. 

To note: the entertainer book does Pai Thai vouchers - get your hands on one and go and try it out. 




The Grand Grill - The Habtoor Grand, Dubai

I first stumbled upon The Grand Grill when I was taken there on a date... 'Date?!' my boss said, 'its not really a date place, more the kinda place you go with a large group of mates and chow down on massive amounts of meat'.. 

Being a steak fan, I wasnt too worried and once we arrived at the restaurant i didnt get the 'laddy, lets eat a tonne of meat' vibe, but more of a chilled out, civilized (and relatively quite for a Wednesday night) vibe and for the occasion this suited me quite nicely. The Grand Grill is the first South African Steakhouse I have been too and the menu/deco reflected SA culture in nearly everything. 



The indoor was decked out with mahogany brown fittings and large aboriginal-sque painting. The lighting was dim but bright enough to see and the setting was spacious with large bars taking over both sides of the restaurant. We sat outside, which was a bit more relaxed. SA colours were painted on the low white walls and the tables resembled outdoor furniture rather than dining room sets. Luckily, it was also high enough for the evening breeze to reach you, ensuring it never got too hot.



Like most Steakhouses, the wine/drink list was extensive, with a range of delicious local wines and classic cocktails to choose from. The menu, as you can image, was heavily centered around meat with favourite local dishes cropping up like ostrich, oxtail and bush chicken.



Typically, I went for a steak which was delicious (however extremely filling..), however I feel i should now go back and experience something a little more authentic as there really is so much on offer on this extensive menu. 



One of the great things about The Grand Grill is that they offer weekly deals; for example, they host a 'all you can eat chicken and ribs' night on a Tuesday, Brunch on a Friday and Express lunches every day of the week. If you like the sound of any of the above, be sure to pop down and check it out. 




Tortuga - Mina Al Salam, Dubai

Tortuga is the latest place to open up its door at Dubai's Mina Al Salam Hotel. Mexican themed, this eatery promotes drinking as much as it does eating - first tick in the box for me. We were lucky enough to have been given a pair of food vouchers for Tortuga entitling us to a 3 course meal which was brilliant news as I had been dying to try out the new hot spot for a few months... and first impressions definitely didnt disappoint. I instantly knew it was going to be a fun night. 



On arrival, we were created my friendly looking staff, great atmosphere and an Arabic-style, wooden-clad jetty, propelling the diners out into the Madinat waterways (and the turtles!). The tables - all different heights - were heaving with happy customers, each one of them tucking into a delicious looking cocktail. After a name at the entrance we were whisked off to our table for two, tucked up near to the water. After a bit of hustle and bustle, we were presented with a food menu followed by a cocktail menu which appeared to be more like a book, not a drinks list. Page after page of delicious cocktail peered out in front of me - not only Mexican classics, but international favorites too. After a lot of umming and ahhing we went for frozen margaritas - my companion went for the bloody orange, whilst me, the mango. To compliment this massive drinks menu, there was also a section on concocting your own version of a classic Mexican-inspired beverage as well as tips from the chef about which dish goes best with which cocktail. 






The food menu was equally as fun, with a vocab display running down one side explaining 'whats what' in Mexican terms. Like most Mexican menus, the classics were all there including Guacamole, a selection of tacos, ceviche, burritos and fajitas. To start, we had guacamole and beef tacos followed by Tuna and Seabass ceviche - perfectly light and full of flavor - this was swiftly followed by Tuna steak and Beef Fajitas with a divine pot of re-fried beans. Accompanying the fajitas came cute dishes will with all the fajita amenities including cheddar, sour cream, guac and salsa - its was safe to assume that moving was going to be hard after all this. To wash it down, we managed to sample 10 different cocktails between us, from Mexican specials like Margaritas, to Espresso Martinis and Sangria.



Before departing, I popped inside for a quick nose.. Even though it was nowhere near as busy and vibrant (it was still cool outside at the time), the inside matched the outdoor deco with many distinctive Mexican touches including woven fabrics, carved wood panels, bright colours and stain glass embellishment as well as authentic/slightly vintage looking chandeliers. 



On the whole my experience was a good one. The staff, even though they seemed hectic were overly friendly and accommodating and extremely helpful when it came to choosing food and beverages. I look forward to going back for a Ladies Night - hopefully in the near future! 

For more information on the nightly deals at Tortuga, please visit: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/madinat-jumeirah/restaurants--bars/tortuga/




Zaroob - Downtown Dubai just off SZR 


This is probably my favorite spot in Dubai to go for authentic Arabic food, even though it is completely alcohol free. Quite unheard of in Dubai, these digs are trendy and cool with stenciled walls, graffiti, pops of colour, weird and wacky wall hangings with a fun and eclectic vibe - something that you would expect to see in Camden, not Downtown Dubai. Choose between dining indoors among the hustle and bustle of the busy kitchen on high wooden tables and chairs, or outside complete with comfy cushions, long tables, and an eccentric Arabic vibe.



The food is cheap and cheerful with every sort of dish you could want. They serve every type of hummus under the sun as well as sweet and savoury saj bread, every variation of man'oushe possible as well as shawarmas, a delightful fried hallomi dish (accompanied by exquisite tomatoes) and a selection of local special small plates.



The beauty of this place is that it seems like its always open. Try out breakfast or even stop by on your way home from a night out - its open until the early hours of the morning and the staff are always there to help with your every need. The lack of alcohol does not hinder Zaroob either - in its place comes a selection of scrumptious mocktails and fresh fruit juices to accompany your meal.



The service can be slow during peak times but on the whole there is nothing i can say to fault this place - 10/10! Look out for the flashing lights whilst driving down SZR.






Uptown - Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai

Sophistication, intimate with breath-taking views - these are the things that spring to mind when I remember my trip to Uptown. Plonked on the 24th Floor of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Uptown is the perfect spot to wind down after work or gear up for a night out. The space comprises of both indoor and outdoor seating, the indoor being narrow and dark, leading out to an intimate area outside with lounge sitting, high stools and the odd romantic table for two. In my eyes its most definitely a cocktails bar, however Uptown does offer a variety of small nibbles, the perfect amount to line ones stomach whilst sinking many a delicious martini. The al fresco seating not only looks over the Burj Al Arab but also stretches out over downtown Dubai giving great views of the sky line and a perfect place for sunny d's. 



The staff are friendly, and come armed with compliment snacks comprising of nuts, olives and a delightful sort of crisp, however, the service is slow so be prepared to wait a while for your bevvies. 



To note: great for birthday drinks or large group bookings, but please be sure to book in advance!  



HAKKISAN - Emirates Towers, Dubai

Hidden away on the bottom floor of the infamous Emirates Towers lies Hakkasan, the hip Chinese restaurant which can be found in 9 other locations around the globe. Like most Dubai digs, you have the option to dine 'al fresco' and this is definitely the main attraction of this eatery. Set in what can only be described as a Chinese magical garden, Hakkisan can fit a casual 88 people onto its terrace. A natural oasis of charm that features rustic wooden pavilions, exotic greenery, mini waterfalls and comfy seating. 



The food is exceptional, however it doesn't massively differ from other Chinese restaurants ive visited, however, the cocktails are incredible and were definitely my favorite part of dinner. Try 'The Hakka' or the "Rose Petal Martini'! 



Like most other Hakkisans, the interiors are dark and sleek, making it great for a date but not so great for a party or business meeting - its the kind of place where you can spot people struggling to see their menus (even during the day).  

Overall, my experience at Hakkisan was pleasurable, and i would definitely go back, however next time I would probably aim to focus more of the cocktails rather than the food. 



To note: Hakkisan offers a Dim Sum brunch on Friday and Saturdays - if you're a Dim Sum fan, be sure to try this one out. Also, make sure you book an outdoor table when you are making the reservation. 



The best food 'delivered to your door' in Dubai

NKD 

The best for pizza. They even offer GLUTEN FREE pizza as well as a number of mouth watering sides and salads. 



CIRCLE CAFE

Amazing breakfast, great salads and delicious bagels. Circle Cafe has something to offer for everyone, and brings simple, easy and delicious food to the table. All fresh and made to order, Circle in my opinion gets it spot on every time. Try the wild rice salad, the burger with no bun (accompanied with their homemade guac and sweet potato fries), the chicken thai curry or the granola breakfast pot - all truly scrumptious. Please note that during peak times, delivery is VERY slow. 



URBAN BISTRO 

Urban seeks to create a retreat from the daily grind of modern life, feeding its customers healthy, nutritious and sustainable meals. They are new to delivering food (especially at the weekend..) but they now offer a range of salads, sandwiches and delicious smoothies and juices as well as a range of breakfast treats. Unlike Circle Cafe, who on the whole play by the book, Urban tries to be a little more adventurous so don't be too surprised when you find ingredients like peanut butter noodles and saffron popcorn on the menu. 



BATEEL 

Best for GLUTEN FREE pasta. Bateel offers an extensive menu, serving up everything from local to international cuisine from zaatar to homemade french pastries. Like most of these places, Bateel is perfect for every meal of the day and you could order from there every day for a month and still be trying new things! 



THE NOODLE ROOM

Best for Chinese and Thai cuisine. This is great hangover food, however be aware that the portions are large and the food filling. I particularly enjoy their green thai chicken curry. 



SUSHI COUNTER

Best for sushi. Even though its quite expensive it is definitely worth the money as an occasional treat. In a nut shell, Sushi Counter offers great flavors, consistent freshness, innovative creations (spicy chicken tikka rolls and the 'burgers') and authentic, yummy food! The extensive menu is large enough to keep the fussiest of person quiet. 



K CAL

Best for healthy dishes. K Cal offers a variety of meals for the health conscious individual, showing each customer what exactly is in the dish and how many calories it contains. It is also very descriptive in showing the customer if the dish contains gluten, dairy, nuts etc so it is quick and easy (and safe) to navigate for the people out there with allergies. 



MARIA BONITA

Best for Mexican cuisine. Large portions, authentic food and value for money, the first of its kind that ive come across in Dubai. 



SALADICIOUS 

Best for Salads. Saladicious offers a ridiculous amount of exotic, scrumptious salads, all made with fresh ingredients making your taste buds swoon. They also serve hot food, pancakes, pastas, and deserts and offer up a vast amount of smoothies, fresh juices and hot beverages. Try the tuna carpaccio, salmon sashimi or temptation salads.. Im yet to have a bad one! 



BOBS FISH AND CHIPS

Best for hangover food (and fish and chips of course..). Donned as the best fish and chips in Dubai, Bobs is open until the early hours of the morning making it a regular for most expats on route home at 4am. Try the cod or haddock and chips and make sure you get a side of mushy peas. 







Story Lounge - Holiday Inn Hotel, Internet City, Dubai

This relatively new hot spot sits on the border between Internet City and Knowledge Village making it my go-to bar for after work drinks. The trendy digs are on the top floor of the Holiday Inn Hotel, with two terraces encasing the indoor restaurant, both with marvelous views of the Palm and the sunset (if you manage to get there in time after work). 



The indoor interiors are cool and spacious with tables dug into coves in the wall as well as massive lounge areas throughout the room. One of the balcony, skinny in appearance, is the more relaxed and quiet out of the two, the perfect place to catch up with friends and wind down after a long day at work. The latter is more energetic with a DJ based at one end of the room, blaring techno beats until the early hours of the morning. Mirroring the interiors, the exteriors also boost large sofa areas, large enough for a dozen companions. There are also high tables giving customers an even better view of what lies beyond the railings. 



Snacks and more substantial meals are available, all based around a mexican style theme. Try a chicken coquette or the sweet potato fries - these are great sharing plates for the whole table to indulge in.  



Story also has many offers to get involved in. They do a great Thursday night and Friday brunch, with mounts of delicious food and a outdoor BBQ. On a Thursday night they offer 4 drinks for 100aed until 8pm and though-out the week, happy hour reigns with 50% off selected beverage... I mean, whats not to like?! 

To note: staff are a tad slow but as long as you are not too inpatient, it shouldn't ruin the experience too much...


Beit Al Bahar - The Beach House, Dubai

Next to the Dubai Off-shore sailing club sits Beit Al Bahar, a three story villa which has been turned into three restaurants. This is a real hidden gem - off the beaten track this joint is mostly inhabited by locals and Emiratis. Very un-dubai in its appearance and style, this is the sort of place where rolling off the beach in shorts and t-shirt is acceptable and flip flops are definitely allowed.




When visiting, we had dinner on the beach which is out the back of the restaurant on the ground floor. The terrace is adorned with blue and white lounge chairs and low white tables and its a perfect place to chill out and watch the sun set.



The fact that it is strictly no alcohol doesn't add a downer to the experience... they more than make up for it with their extensive drinks list, from fruity fun mocktails, to a range of imported drinks, and a great selection of coffees. On the food front you really are spoilt for choice.. a menu from each restaurant is presented to you giving you a selection of grilled meats, international cuisines and a extensive sushi menu.



To note: shisha is on offer (obviously..) and the restaurants are open to a whopping 4am.





Zuma - DIFC Dubai

There is nothing better than treating yourself to a 'business lunch' at DIFCs trendiest Japanese joint... for a mere 130aed, Zuma offers up a 4 course meal which will make your mouth water.
The light, open and contemporary interiors add to the experience, with the restaurant spread out on two levels with a sophisticated bar and lounge area taking over the majority of the top floor. 



The menu is extensive, full of Japanese favorites and sushi specials - the main issue is that everything sounds so good the main challenge is choosing dishes off the menu. The great thing about the business lunch menu is that you only have to pick between 3 or 4 options, and if you go with a few people you can get one of each and share - sharing is caring after all and is mandatory when visiting this downtown eatery. 



If you are a cocktail lover (which I most certainly am!), you will not be let down.. each cocktail is more tasty and more exotic than the last making it impossible to know when to stop. 



The staff are attentive and friendly which is refreshing in a city where service is 9/10 relatively poor, and you can see that attention to detail really is key at Zuma - whether is be the delightful food, to the supremely tasting cocktails, to the deco. 



To note: Zuma offers brunch on a Friday starting around 400aed, and if you are a DIFC dude or doll, head down for a scrumptious cocktail after work. 


Sakenohana - Souk Al Bahar, Dubai

This hot spot is probably one of my favorite Japanese eateries in Dubai.. The venue is situated in the perfect location, right in the action at Souk Al Bahar with views of the infamous Dubai Fountains. With options to dine inside, where the music is pumping and the interiors sophisticated and chic and also to dine al fresco, this restaurant has a table to fit everyone's needs. 




The cocktail menu is extensive, as is the sake selection which is on offer, and every beverage i sampled was just as unique and delicious as the last. 



The food, authentic and typically Japanese definitely overexcited my taste buds! Be sure to try the iron pot black cod rice and accompany anything you order with the sesame spinach - i assure you you won't be disappointed.



To Note: On Monday Sakenohana offers a deal of all you can eat sushi for a remarkable 199aed, and on a Tuesday night, in true Dubai fashion, head down for free cocktails and sample the selection they have to offer.



Blue Marlin UAE

Blue Marlin might just be my new favorite spot in Dubai.. 


This Ibizian beach brand brings something refreshing and new to beach club chic in Dubai and unlike Nasimi Beach, this joint is more about party and less about relaxing. 
During the day, people prance about in bikinis, swim in the sea, enjoy some light lunch, however, around 4pm the crowds from Dubai and decent on Blue Marlin and the atmosphere becomes raucous.




Expect intense beats from world renowned international house DJs, a crowded dance floor, oversized shades (even when its dark!) and a party to rival Dubai's best. 


Note: Blue Marlin is about 25mins out of Dubai toward Abu Dhabi, and as you can imagine the queues get big quickly. Be sure to leave enough time to get there and get in. 


Siddharta Lounge - Grosvenor House Dubai




Only a few floors up from its sister, the infamous Buddha Bar, Siddharta lounge also sits in Grosvenor House among other 5 star eateries. Stylish to casual, boosting both indoor and outdoor dining as well as offering the option of sipping on a cocktail during the night as well as during the day around the lavish outdoor pool. The Siddharta lounge is an ideal spot to bring a date for a long leisurely evening filled with conversation, drinks, snacks, and watching the Dubai glam pack swanning around.


One note to make - unlike its sister, Siddharta lounge is not a place to go if you are hungry... the food menu is not extensive and the portions are small and intended to be shared. However, don't let this put you off - the Mediterranean and Asian infused dishes are delightful and at least you can leave without the fear of indigestion! 






40 Kong - The H Hotel Dubai

On the 40th Floor of the H Hotel in Downtown Dubai lies 40 Kong, the newest roof top lounge in Dubai. Completely open-air, this relatively small space has its own lift up the 360s views this swanky joint has to offer. A good place for an after work tipple, or the perfect spot to impress a newcomer, the resident DJ spins tunes into the early hours of the morning inevitably turning your night into a late one. 



Be sure to try the Wagyu Mini Burgers or Beef Tartare and definitely wash it down with a Lykke Li or a One Two Fizz - the cocktails are definitely something to write home about. 




Jetty Lounge, The One and Only Royal Mirage 



Situated in the One and Only Royal Mirage, this swanky beach  bar/terrace is perfect for a couple sunny d's after work or at the weekends. Livening up at the weekends, however never raucous, this place is perfect to catch up with friends and is also a great WOW spot - perfect for friends who are visiting, newbies in town or date nights. 




Large white sofas stretch out of the sand, candle lights sparkle above and the mood lightening is perfect. Pop down for an espresso martini and some stuffed olives a watch the sun set on a clear night. 



Note: light snacks are served but its not really a 'dinner' location. 



Asado - The Palace Hotel 
13.04.2014

I first heard about Asado many months ago whilst chatting to a colleague about where was nice (and a bit different) to go for dinner in Dubai. Asado was her first recommendation, with the baby goat appetizer being the main draw to the place... i was definitely intrigued. Situated in The Palace Hotel, the restaurant’s terrace backs onto the Burj Khalifa and the legendary fountains, and I thought this would be great spot to take my friends when they came to stay, plus – id never been myself! Definite added bonus! Even though it is an Argentinean Grill, it is not quite like any of the other steakhouses ive been to in the city. On offer is a wide variety of unique, mouth quenching dishes like Poach Lobster over cauliflower caviar with crab remoulade and bisque, Grilled scallops, olive oil caviar, basil granite, carrot reduction and braised pigeon with foie gras, mushrooms, asparagus puree and purple potatoes as well as the beautifully cut pieces of steak and grilled food. 




On arrival, I was slightly disappointed in the view of the fountains from the terrace.. you could barely make them out and instead of the ‘ooo’s and ‘ahhh’s I should have been hearing from my friends, there was nothing apart from ‘yeah they were nice…’. Luckily the food and wine made up for the lack of fountain watching. However, the interiors of the restaurant were very different...Asado had the authentic feel of a grand Argentinean country farmhouse, plonked in the Middle East with traditional music and live entertainment - relaxing yet sophisticated. The wine list was extensive with a sommelier offering a helping hand at every turn. The staff were friendly and happy to offer suggestions, specials and the best cuts on offer. We were all aligned on that the baby goat would be our starter of choice, traditionally called Cabrito asado which is roasted on a slow-burning charcoal fire. This would then be followed by an array of fish, steak, chips, and vegetables for our main choices.


Baby Goat - nearly demolished! 


The baby goat was the highlight of the meal – not coming across as the best looking of dishes, this plate of hot, extremely well-seasoned goat was to die for.. It fell off the bone with no hassle and quite literally melted in one’s mouth leaving four very happy campers around the table! Shortly after arrived my tenderloin steak with its side order of thick-cut fries arranged like building blocks. The steak was beautifully marbled, sensationally tender and tasty! The fish I hear was equally as delicious - a lighter option for those who prefer. 


Overall, Asado turned out to be a fun night for all, a definite high light of their holiday, and I would happily go again if the opportunity presented itself. However, its not the cheapest of eateries and if you own an Entertainer book, be sure to take along a few vouchers! 



Bon appetite x

101 - One and Only The Palm
09.04.2014

Its March, my parents and friends are on route to Dubai for the World Cup and my mother is asking me to think of a suitable restaurant to have lunch. The mandatories? Must be by the beach, not too busy, seafood would be preferable and must be outdoors… So not a lot to ask for really…!



After a few phone calls and a bit of research, 101 at the luxury One and Only Hotel on the Palm sounded like a reasonable choice. Set over the water, with insane views of the mainland, 101 has a diverse Mediterranean menu on offer, serving up mainly fresh seafood but also a mix of meats, light and fresh salads and a selection of delightful looking puddings. This sounded like it was definitely going to tick most boxes.

Even though it’s a slight trek from main land Dubai (the hotel is literally a stone’s throw away from the main land – however by car it’s a fair distance!), its well worth the journey once you arrive. Located by the resorts private marina, this place not only has a casual and laid back dining area, but also a hip and chic lounge, the perfect place for sunny d’s.



On arrival (driven in a buggy from our car to the restaurant..) we were promptly sat, menus appeared, followed by a light snack to awaken the palate. This came in the form of a duck ball.. looked a bit suspect but tasted delicious. As it was lunch time, a light meal was on everyone’s minds, and one by one plates of tuna carpaccio, scallops and salads were ordered. Last but by no means least, my younger brother piped up and ordered the Octopus, definitely coming in as one of the more extravagant items on the menu. Twenty minutes later the food arrived, the table went quiet and ‘mmm’ing sounds could be heard from all sides. I personally went for the Scallops which came with a leek and carrot medley. The vegetables were sliced so slightly that they looked like spaghetti and melted into the scallops, accompanying them perfectly. The portion left me feeling satisfied and after washing it down with some rose, I was left feeling content. The salads and the tuna also went down a treat (from what I hear!), however the real deal was the Octopus. Sprawling tentacles covered the plate accompanied with toasty tomatoes and salsa – not only did it look amazing, it tasted amazing too. Definitely the dish of the day.  




After a lovely long, chilled out lunch, basking in the sun it was time to think about moving. Clean plates, coffees were drunk, rose finished, and no puddings. My brother, who was conveniently shacked up in the One and Only Royal Mirage (the hotel directly opposite where we were), invited the party back to the hotel for a drink meaning that the only thing that was standing between us and an ice cold cocktail was the long (well twenty minute) car journey.. however turns out this was not the only mode of transport on offer! 

‘Why don’t you just take the boat?’ chirped the waiter in response to my grumbling. The boat? Yes, the boat. As it turns out, One&Only provides a ferry service across the short stretch of water between the Royal Mirage and The Palm, meaning our journey back from the 101 at One&Only The Palm had suddenly become much easier. Departing every hour, this is a quick, easy and enjoyable way to travel to and from the restaurant, dropping you directly at Jetty Lounge on the beach of the One and Only Royal Mirage.



Even though its quite an expensive dining experience it is worth every penny. There was an understated class to 101 that I immediately liked and I am very much looking forward to going back again – maybe next time ill try dinner! 


Sunny d's at the One and Only Royal Mirage


Tom and Serg - Al Quoz, Dubai

My new home away from home, this is the first place I have been to in Dubai which actually reminded me of London (minus the rain of course). Hidden in Al Quoz, its a slight pain to find (just round the corner from Ace Hardware off SZR) but its worth the trouble. Resembling an old iron warehouse, this all indoor haunt is as quirky as they come (well for Dubai anyway!) covered in large chalk boards, iron and wooden tables and chairs and the odd plant scattered around. With additional bench seating, cosy arm chairs and white brick walls upstairs, these digs keep in line with the arty farty galleries which surround it. 



The line for a table was out the door when I finally pitched up at midday so i promptly made by way to the hostess to get my name on the list before heading to the counter to get a take away coffee to pass the time.. "Vanilla skinny latte please" i asked, which provoked a laugh from the man serving me.. apparently they don't offer flavored syrups OR skimmed milk..! Hungover, tired and now slightly grumpy I took their advice and got a bog standard Latte and boy o boy i wasn't disappointed - if I could trade this for my daily Starbucks I think i would in a heartbeat. It was tasty, rich and the perfect temperature (as well as being 15aed a cup!).. bliss. 



10 minutes later I was seated, my friends had arrived and coffee number two was on route. All of a sudden FREE water appeared in-front of us in branded Tom and Serg bottles.. tape water?! Indeed... however not from Dubai (thank god)! They produce it in Northumbria and send it over to Dubai for the happy people at Tom and Serg to consume.. This is definitely a first, and i hope the rest of Dubai catch on to this sometime soon! The menu isn't extensive but well crafted housing a mixture of healthy salads, breakfast favorites and meaty mains. It was clear to see that a lot of love and care had gone into creating the menu and each item was described to a point where you could imagine what it would taste like. This was going to be a tough decision.. then, as if he read my mind, Serg appeared with a smile on his face asking if he could help with anything. Finally, after a quick Q&A, the orders were made and the food was on route. I picked their Indonesian specialty , Our Gado: Fried egg/spiced quinoa/zucchini/eggplant/cauliflower/silken tofu/
steamed bok choy/gado sauce, whilst others opted for the roast lamb salad, sweet potato salad and smoked salmon and poached egg. The food was everything but a let down.. extremely tasty, decent sized portions, displayed beautifully and cheap! There were 4 very happy customers with very clean plates. 

Our Gado

Sweet potato salad

Smoked salmon and poached egg

Lamb salad


Following another cup of coffee it was time to go (3 hours later.. how time flies when you are having fun, eating good food and drinking good coffee). With a thank you and a wave (and a bit of a shake due to coffee overload) we left promising myself i'd be back soon. Best brunch/lunch spot in Dubai - excellent food, friendly and speedy service with a smile, owners who are more than happy to mingle with the guests, THE BEST coffee, really reasonably priced and a great atmosphere all round. 10 out of 10! 




Saffron - The Atlantis Hotel, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai 

Head to the top of the palm and there you will find the mighty Atlantis Hotel. One of the many restaurants housed inside the hallow halls is Saffron, an Asian themed all day buffet. After hearing many good things about Saffron Brunch I was seriously excited about being taken there for dinner, however when I first entered the restaurant I must admit I was a little disappointed.. Instead of the swanky joint I was expecting, Saffron resembled a canteen?! I was confused.. However I was promptly told that ‘this is what all restaurants look like in Hong Kong’… !



For a Monday night the place was booming (mostly full of Chinese who im guessing were on holiday to celebrate the Chinese New Year), and I was pleased that the waiter sat us on a quiet table in the corner. Our host was great, firstly talking us through what Saffron is about and then secondly giving us a tour around the restaurant to show all the different stations.


Asia is a big place and this is definitely shown in the size of the buffet – it was huge! I had never seen so much food on display at one time. Hosting 20 different theatrical cooking stations, they were definitely making sure they offered a taste from every region. First stop – sushi central. A mass of nigiri, sashimi, and maki rolls were on offer with all the trimmings. We then moved over to the soup, and dimsum section where you could pick your own coloured noodles and elements to make the perfect soup! Following on from that there was a international section (boring!), Chinese, Indian, a bread section, salad bars, Thai and then pudding.. a huge selection of cheese, mousses and cakes as well as sweets, ice cream and a chocolate fountain, all of which is very easy to navigate and I never felt like I was squashed when trying to pick what to put on my plate. To add to this, there was also a superb selection of sake and wine to complement the many moods and flavors of the cuisine.








My eyes being larger than my stomach, I overexcitedly over piled by first plate of food – spilling over the sides with sushi, dim sum, salads and deli meats.. far too much. After finishing off plate one, the waiter produced a plate full of spicy jumbo prawns in cooked spicy tomatoes.. I mean how could I say no?! So I ploughed on, adding on to my already full belly. Round 2… Indian. Struggling to walk, I waddled over to the Indian station to put together a small selection of curries.. yum. Not the most flavorsome I had ever had but did the job, however standing was now becoming difficult. My already tightly fitted dress felt like it might burst, and it was definitely now time to stop eating.. however, Grandpa, who only really eats desert,  produced a mountain of ice cream and pudding willing me to at least ‘try’ a few things. Finally it was over, but I was now thinking how I was going to get from the restaurant to the car… it felt like someone might have to roll me out. After a 10minute sit down and ‘rest’ I managed to slowly make my way through the hotel and back to the car. Thank god!









Saffron will definitely be a place I will never forget, it’s a great place to go to feed the fussiest of people and a perfect fit for a family feast. It still baffles me though how people can go for brunch and drink as well as eat at the place like Saffron, I have a feeling I will be sticking to one or the other if I come again! 



The Spice Emporium - The Westin Mina Seyahi, Dubai Marina

The Spice Emporium restaurant at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina in Jumeirah, Dubai offer exotic Asian fusion (mostly Thai) grub in an atmosphere which takes you straight to Thailand. On entering, you are instantly met by friendly faces, paper lanterns, open kitchens and far east trinkets (both large and small). The cooking stations reminds me vaguely of Bennihana with the roaring woks, dancing grills, Teppan, tandoor, and steaming baskets , open air and on full display for the customers to watch their food being prepared from a far. The attractive low-slung tables in chocolate brown and the soft latino music pumping around the room adds to the Asian experience.



On my last outing, eight of us dinned together around a large spacious table inside, however on previous visits, I have ate outside in the pretty, dimmed lit terrace which mirrors the same kind of vibe. The staff are friendly and there to help with a good knowledge on most dishes. They also make sure the bowl of prawn crackers (served with a sweet chilli dip) in the middle of the table is constantly topped up (I think I managed to consumer a bowl to myself !) To start, we opted for a variety of small dishes to share amongst us (tasty chicken spring rolls and piping hot Thai prawn cakes).For mains, there was a selection of curries, sea bass, chicken based stir fries and beef. I chose the Stir fried beef with ginger, mushroom, chili and spring onion which was a slight disappointment.. it was missing that certain je ne ce quoi and wasn’t as tasty as I had preempted. My neighbor went for a better option of stir fried chicken with cashew nuts which was divine – tender chicken with the crunch from the cashews and a perfectly sweet and spicy sauce – excellence! I also tried the sea bass, cooked just right, melting in my mouth, perfectly marinated with thai herbs. On previous occasions I have tried the chicken green curry (one of my favourite dishes from my Thailand travelling days) and it was delightful, and if I was to visit again, this would be my dish of choice – the flavor combination was perfect.


I would highly recommend this as a mid week treat. The food is not overly expensive and the service is quick. They also offer a ‘ladies night’ promotion on a Tuesday where they take 50% off your food bill making it very possible to spend under 100aed (if you are not drinking). And finally, to add to the experience of delicate textures, heady flavors and aromas, exotic food and helpful staff, roughly every 30minutes you will be treated to a local Thai dance which is performed in the middle of the restaurant! Score (if you like that kind of thing!) 






The Meat Company - Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai

Can you guess what type of restaurant this might be? The hint is in the name… Another one of Dubai’s many steak houses, with chains dotted around the city. I have visited the Madinat venue a few times now and this is by far my favourite, boasting great views of the waterways and a peaceful and pretty setting. Originating in South Africa, The Meat Company is now a huge contender in the restaurant biz, with venues in the Middle East, UK and the home land. The menu is simple -  you can choose aged beefs from the United States, Australia, Japan, and South Africa that are flame-grilled to your exact specification. The menu covers a few chicken and lamb dishes, juicy 100% beef burgers, and there's even fish… however meat is king here.



On this occasion I was out with family – the red wine was flowing while the waitress made her way around the table to take our orders. Starters and mains for everyone – great! However what the waitress failed to mention was the size of the starters, which when they turned up, were a meal in themselves. My 15 year old female cousin who is constantly ‘on a diet’ chose the cheesy garlic bread and nearly fell off her chair when it was placed in front of her – a massive loaf of buttery goodness oozying with cheese. It was enough to feed our entire table of nine! I had been slightly more sensible in my decision and had opted for the beef Carpaccio, and even this was larger than your ordinary starter portion.



On the downside, such a sizeable opening to the meal meant that we weren’t anticipating our mains as enthusiastically as we normally do…
Next round – steak (no surprises there). Being a steak fan myself (as you might of guessed from previous posts!) I was happy with what was put in-front of me. My steak was cooked just the way I like it with a rich, thick and flavorsome blue cheese and vodka sauce and all steaks come with skinny, crunchy fries. Another (small) family member went for the special ribs – again, a HUGE portion appeared in front of him, however he managed to finish the plate so I am guessing they were tasty!  



Sadly at the end of this, once again there was no room for pudding – something I will try and squeeze in next time I go.



Overall, this is a finely tuned steak serving machine with friendly and efficient staff (and enough of them to deal with the dinnertime rush!), a good atmosphere nearly every night of the week and it’s a place which pleases all types of clientele – there is something on the menu for everyone, young or old. Also being in the Madinat adds to the dining experience, not only through the scenery but also the shopping aspect.  One last note.. even though you can normally get a table if you just turn up, I would recommend booking beforehand to secure a seat outside by the canals – it really does add to the experience! 




Karma Kafe - Souk Al Bahar, Dubai 

Straight from the ‘creators’ of Buddha Bar, the sister restaurant, Karma Kafe overlooks the Dubai Fountains in Downtown Dubs and is a firm favorite of Dubai hipsters and socialists. From the outside, there is a mysterious touch to the place, and I was chomping at the bit to get in while we were waiting for the hostess to find our table. Finally we entered to be greeted by the hustle and bustle of the trendy Dubai crowd settling down to cocktails and nibbles on low tables, tightly packed together, lit up with fuschia lanterns and colourful boho style cushions – a feast for the eyes. After a quick passion fruit martini  at the bar we were whisked out to the terrace – a somewhat brighter space, overlooking the far end of the fountain display – mirroring the buzzy and close atmosphere for inside, I was happy to be sat on the terrace - for one, it was definitely easier to read the menu! 



The menu is Asian-Californian fusion-inspired and mixes traditional dishes, such as sushi and sashimi, with Central American and European flavours. When picking your dishes, be adventurous and go for the fusion themed plates. Greedily, we ordered an array of dishes varying between hot and cold and shared. It is definitely worth skipping the normal pan-Asian standards to make room for the more unique dishes on offer. Favourites of mine include the sashimi tacos with wasabi guacamole and tomato relish, blackmore wagyu and seared foie gras with edemame rice, the angry chicken, broccillini with goma shabu sauce, and miso black cod. To accompany, I would always suggest partnering these dishes with a cocktail of your choice – they offer a vast selection! Also to note, there are plenty of veggie options available for the herbivores among you.



After feasting on dish after dish we decide to skip pudding – the selection didn’t quite have the same imagination which ran through the rest of the menu.



The Karma Kafe is definitely full of pleasant surprises and even though food has always been a bit of an afterthought at Buddha Bar, it takes centre stage at this trendy downtown eatery. There is nothing stuffy about this place, even though you are tightly packed in and the staff are attentive and welcoming and produce a quick and efficient service, and, depending on what night you visit, there could be a celeb DJ on the decks too! 




360 - Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai

Set on the Jumeirah coastline, this helipad shaped space is unlike any other location in Dubai. Out in the sea, connected to land by a small pier, the name ‘360’ is the perfect fit for this space. With panoramic views of the coast and Burj Al Arab, this trendy bar/restaurant is the perfect spot to watch the sunset with a cold beverage.  During the week, it’s all about the shisha, fruity cocktails, large white sofas to lay around on and laidback tunes. Come Friday night the place transforms into a playground for the young and fabulous with local and international talent hitting the decks.  


The crowds come in two waves – the 5pm crew who slip on cocktails and take in the fab views and glistening sun set, then the 8pm gang arrive, who party on down until the early hours of the morning.
360 is split in two, with an open air upstairs deck, perfect for warm evening. However, downstairs there is a panoramic glass layer, decked out with tables, and perfect for dinner. The menu is Asian inspired, hosting traditional favorites such as veggie spring rolls and prawn dumplings, however also offering more unique dishes such as beef cheek and foie gras with caramelized shallots.


Things to note:
  • ·         Minimum age is 21 – make sure you bring ID with you.
  • ·         To gain entry at weekends make sure you register online before you go.
  • ·         Make sure you dress to impress!
  • ·         Ladies night – 9pm-midnight. Groups of six or more get complimentary cocktails. Men get treated to two for one offers.
  • ·         Lazy Sundays – one free appetizer when you buy selected drinks
  • ·         Happy hour – every day except Friday between 5pm-8pm
  • ·         In order to save your feet, catch a buggy from the entrance of 360 which will take you straight to the bar. 




Gaucho - DIFC, Dubai

 Even though the place is the polar opposite to the original Argentinan ‘gaucho’, it is still somehow different to other steak houses. I took the time to read up on the place and read the following: The beef is taken only from Angus cattle (which are born and raised in Argentina), a shorter and stockier breed, meaning smaller, more flavourful cuts. The intricacies involved in rearing and slaughtering cattle, preserving and transporting the meat, and preparing and serving of steak, perhaps explain why Dubai is in love with this seemingly simple dish: dining on good steak is to dine on a flavourful, complex back story… and O my did I later find out how true this was..

After whizzing our way up in the panoramic lift from the car park, we were greet by the chilled beats and cool interior of Gaucho.. decked out with a black and white colour scheme, accompanied with similar cow-hind chairs, and high ceilings (decorated with chandeliers of course – it is Dubai after all!) this was definitely the restaurant to be at on a Thursday night. My attention was also drawn to the glowing chamber behind the staircase, lined with fine Argentinian wine.The restaurant was positively rammed and buzzing with conversation, however on this one occasion I was happy to be seated outside, where the atmosphere was a little more laid back and it was possible to indulge in conversation with my friends and family (my dad was not a fan of the loud, remixy tunes that hummed away inside!). The terrace presented a different sort of atmosphere.. still with music however it was somewhat muted and the place seemed slightly magical. Streaming with small candles and soft lighting, the terrace was surrounded by leaves, blocking Gaucho from the outside world.



Shortly after being seated, our hostess Claudia, promptly arrived to talk us through the menu (both wine and food). Each hostess tells you about the meats (and shows you the selection too on large brown chopping boards), and which wines complement what best (all wines are imported from Argentina except from the bubbly). After a lot of ‘umm-ing and ah-ing’ we chose our selection of starters – Tuna Tiradito, seared scallops and crab linguini. And WOW – not only were they presented perfectly, they tasted exquisite. My choice, the tuna tiradito, literally melted in my mouth. They had got the element combination/ratio just right!

For the next course we went our separate ways, with two people opting for fish and my dad and I going for the famous Argentinian steak! I must say the tuna looked divine, perfectly pink coated in sesame, and dressed in a delicious combination of orange, ginger and cardamom. However when my steak arrived, I knew I had made the right decision. Rare – just the way I like it – was a perfect portion of steak, complimented with mushroom sauce, sweet potato wedges and almond broccoli. The steak was great – maybe not the best ever, but a serious contender. The winner of the meal was definitely the sweet potato wedges.. something I will now endeavor to re-create at home and eat everyday for the rest of my life (they were that good!!). Twice cooked with lemon and honey, and served with lemon confit, honey and capers, these wedges were unlike anything I had ever tried. Crispy on the outside but impossibly soft in the middle, they were an ideal addition to my tasty steak!




After all this, sadly there was no more room left at the inn and pudding was given a miss – something I will definitely save room for next time (however Im not quite sure if I would be comfortable sacrificing something to enable this!)…

Gaucho really does offer an all-round dining experience with tasty food, incredible décor, great atmosphere and service as slick as the interior – it definitely did the job and I will be returning (hopefully soon!)

Try the round buns - they come warm, doughy with a tangy cheesy taste! 

 http://www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk/restaurants/restaurant.php?id=dubai 

La Petite Maison - DIFC, Dubai 
In the heart of DIFC, in Downtown Dubai lies the fabulous La Petite Maison. Straight from Nice, this French bistro haute doesn’t follow suite when it comes to Dubai’s mantra ‘bigger is better’. Instead, expect to find a tightly packed space, full of atmosphere with an electric and sophisticated vibe to boot. The restaurant colour palate is very simple, whites and beiges run around the room with large white shutters on the windows and a leafy court yard outside which adds to the laidback atmosphere. Bundles of vegetables can be found around the restaurant, either on the tables or on the counters adding colour to the demur surroundings.


The menu is simple but exquisite and you can see the French/Mediterranean heritage behind it. They have done a great job at focusing on doing what they do in the best possible way and haven’t messed around with lots of different elements when it comes to their dishes – they just concentrate on using the very best materials utilized in the best possible way to create exceptional plates of food.
The concept is to share and all the plates are presented with this in mind. I would recommend being slightly adventurous when it comes to ordering – choose dishes you might not normally go for and expect to be surprised. The dishes arrive when ready which staggers you evening and ensures you enjoy the food in front of you. Even though I have had the pleasure of trying quite a few things on the menu my absolute faves would be the following… The burrata is a must have! Flown straight from Italy its exceptionally creamy and rich – barely solid it goes perfectly with the faintly sweet tomatoes and herbs which accompany it. Not being a lamb fan myself, the Grilled Lamb Cutlets with Smoked Aubergine are out of this world. The lamb, cooked to perfection, juicy and pink marinated in a way which compliments it flawlessly with the smoked, incredibly tasty aubergine paste on the side – probably the best dish I have had since living in Dubai. Moving on to pudding.. from what I have heard they are all delightful, however the one that beat the rest around our table (admittedly we ordered quite a few deserts all to share) was the warm chocolate mousse with malt ice cream – only one word can describe this.. divine! Melt in your mouth heaven, this isn’t your typical chocolate mousse but more of a fondant with a deliciously soft interior and hard(ish) exterior. The malt ice cream blends into the pudding perfectly making this the icing on the cake at the end to your meal. Trust me, there is always room to fit in this desert!

To add to this already excellent restaurant, the staff are fantastic. Always ready to help with your every need however not ‘in your face’ as some waiters can be. They also know what they are talking about so it doesn’t take 20 minutes to get an answer to a question (which it so often does in Dubai).

It is clear to see that attention to detail touches everything they do from the atmosphere they create to the food they serve and I would highly recommend this as a MUST when it comes to dining in Dubai.  
Book in advance to avoid disappointment! 
http://www.lpmdubai.ae


 MJ's Steakhouse - Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeriah, Dubai 

 MJ’s steakhouse – ‘fine feasting for meat lovers’. If you are particular about your steak, MJ’s is the place for you with its dedication to meat cooking perfection.
Situated in Al Qasr Hotel (next to the Madinat in Jumeriah), this classy restaurant resembles a mix between sophistication and cool, decked out in red and black, large street shots taking over the wall and polished brown wood floor to boot.


With MJ’s busy open kitchen you’ll see first hand the chef’s finesse and flair with flame and grill – all part of the entertainment with the added benefit of diners getting the chance to pick there meats from the counter if they wish.

Seating is also available outside (which is my particular favourite) where you can look out on to the water ways which make their way up to the Madinat – you can also see the Burj poking through the trees.

Being a steak joint, the menu is centered mainly around meaty dishes (with a few fish options inbetween!). Even though I am sure all the food is divine by particular favourites would be, to start, the dry aged beef tartar. This dish is presented in its separate elements and then mixed together in front of you, allowing the diner to have an opinion on how much of each element they want in the dish. When choosing a main choice, I would highly recommend the tenderloin, the Chateaubriand, or the Australian Wagu – and to accompany this I would always go for the parmesan truffle fries with a portion of the broccilini – perfect combination!
All steaks come with your choice of sauce too ranging from your classic béarnaise to MJ’s signature BBQ.
After selecting your dish of choice, waiters will then appear with large baskets of bread (with gluten free options too!) and a tray of knifes where the diner can selected there preferred slicing device. Palette cleansers are also offered before your meal – the last time I went we had a delightful bowl of mango sorbet.. yum! 
I would give MJ’s 10 out of 10 on all fronts. The service is great and the waiters friendly, the atmosphere is buzzy but the restaurant never feels cramped and finally, so far, it’s my favourite steak joint in Dubai. 
Dress code is smart casual and I’d recommend always booking before you go so you’re not disappointed! 
https://www.jumeirah.com/en/hotels-resorts/dubai/madinat-jumeirah/restaurants--bars/mjs-steakhouse/


 SHADE - The Address Hotel, Dubai Marina 

 Looking for somewhere to kick back and relax with a drink, tapas or/and shisha? If so, then Shades is the place for you.
Located at the Address Hotel in the Marina, this ‘chill out’ lounge does not only house great laid back tunes but also stunning views on the infinity pool and Marina.



Situated on the 4th floor, Shade’s is vast, decked out with a combination of large cabana beds, sofa areas and a seated area at the back where people can dine.
 Open all day and night, you can visit shades during the sun shine hours and hang out by the pool (for a steep 300aed however!), or go for sun downers for a drink or two.



Not the busiest of spots in Dubai, so if you are looking to somewhere with a bit of buzz, Shades would not be the place for you. However I have heard that at the weekend, when the resident DJ Enigma8 steps up to the decks, the entire venue buzzes well into the early hours of the morning (something to check out for sure!).
 Drink and food are reasonably priced and happy hour happens daily between 7pm-9pm (half price on selected drinks and cocktails) so get involved!
http://www.theaddress.com/en/dining/shades-1

Spectrum on One - The Fairmont Hotel

This little gem has been a family favourite of ours for many years. Back in the day when Dubai wasn’t what it is now, Spectrum on One would be our end of holiday treat before venturing back to the UK and as kids we would spend many an hour whizzing up and down in the panoramic lift in the hotel.

This is a restaurant which will satisfy even the fussiest families needs with dishes ranging from Chinese to Thai, European to Arabic and Indian and Japanese (for the sushi lovers amongst you!). The set up displays the same kind of thing – the restaurant is split into different areas, all themed around the different cuisines displayed on the menu. The Haggas favourite has always been the Thai section situated at the back of the restaurant and I must say the thai selection is fantastic (my particular favourite being the Green Thai Prawn Curry!). One word of warning though.. present in the majority of the thai dishes are chillies resembling green beans – my younger brother, who has been known to consume all food on his plate (decoration or not) has made the mistake of eating this rather spicy specimen and it took him the rest of the evening to get over it (after consuming an overwhelming amount of milk and bread!) .




To start I would recommend either the sushi or the tempura soft shell crab. On the whole, the mains which I have sampled have all been delightful, however I would maybe avoid the Pad Thai, the portion was huge and not overly exciting - other dishes on this well rounded menu would definitely satisfy the palette more! There is also a great bar in one corner of the restaurant, decked out with comfy armchairs, soft mood lighting and a great selection of wines! 



Spectrum on One also offers Friday brunches, Thursday Duppers (an all inclusive combination of dinner and supper) and Noire, the ultimate dining in the dark experience. 
Dress: Business/Smart.


Aprons and Hammers - Dubai International Marine Club, Dubai

Aprons and Hammers - Dubai’s answer to London’s The Big Easy with a twist. Set in two different locations in Dubai, one in the Marina and one in down town Dubai this, in my option, is the best surf n’ (slightly) turf restaurant I’ve been to so far.




I’ve had the pleasure of dining in the Marina location twice now and both on occasions my seafood cravings were satisfied. 

The menu presents a variety of favourites of mine, swinging from tasty salads, bowls of seafood to burgers and pasta. My dishes of choice however would have  to be the 'what we do best' buckets – freshly caught jumbo prawns, shrimp, mussels,  crab, and lobster – the fun part being when you order these particular dishes they come with aprons, hammers and tiny little forks to ‘fish’ out the yummiest bits!




Set on a boat at one end of the Marina (by the beloved Barasti to be exact!), it’s a venue suited for all types on weather, with an undercover area at the bottom of the boat and outdoor seating at the top, however if you are prone to a bit of sea sickness I would aim to go when its not to breezy… the boat does to tend to rock when the winds up (not ideal on a hangover!)

I’ve been with both family and friends, and on both occasions there was not an empty plate in sight (always a good sign!) 




Top tips:
  • ·      The portion sizes are huge (especially the salads!) so if going with kids, sharing options are definitely the way forward!
  • ·      If you are not drinking, I would suggest ordering the mint lemonade – extremely refreshing and tasty! Perfect ratio of mint, lemon and sugar!
  • ·      The atmosphere is on the whole better upstairs (keep this in mind when you are booking a table!)
  • ·      Avoid wearing white – it’s the kind of food which ends up on your clothes by the end of the evening!
  • ·      If you’re looking for a tasty side, I would always suggest the corn on the cob, if you are a fan this corn its a dreamy accompaniment to your food..
   www.apronsandhammers.com

4 comments:

  1. Anonymous2 June 2020 at 04:44

    Your website has a unique design. Please check my latest post on accounting firm in dubai and let me know what you think.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Lewis Ken14 March 2024 at 23:05

    This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Lewis Ken15 March 2024 at 02:26

    Impressed beyond words with Multiwood! I recently furnished my home office with a desk and bookshelf from Multiwood, and I couldn't be more satisfied. The furniture is not only elegant and modern but also incredibly durable and functional. The desk provides ample workspace, while the bookshelf offers plenty of storage without compromising on style.

    ReplyDelete
  4. bloggingbasics10124 September 2024 at 14:01

    International nursing recruitment agencies in the USA specialize in bridging the gap between healthcare facilities and qualified nurses from around the globe. These agencies facilitate the recruitment process by managing visa applications, licensing requirements, and credential evaluations to ensure compliance with U.S. regulations. They work closely with hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics to address staffing shortages and provide skilled professionals where they are needed most. In addition to recruitment, these agencies offer support services such as cultural orientation and relocation assistance, helping nurses transition smoothly into their new roles. By fostering a diverse workforce, they enhance patient care and bring varied perspectives to the healthcare system. Their expertise in international recruitment enables healthcare providers to find the right talent quickly and efficiently.
    https://www.dynamichealthstaff.com/international-nursing-recruitment-agencies-in-usa

    ReplyDelete

Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)