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.

Shades - 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 4^th 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