Global favourites: Dine around the world without leaving Dubai
#DubaiDining #EatingOut #GlobalCuisines
As restaurants cautiously begin to re-open and with travel vetoed for the foreseeable future, FACT explores the best dine-in destinations to enjoy your favourite global cuisines. From rustic Italian to tempting Thai, here are our recommendations.
AEGEAN DELIGHTS: FISH BEACH TAVERNA, LE MÈRIDIEN MINA SEYAHI BEACH RESORT & MARINA
The menu at Fish boasts signature sharing plates offering the best of fresh Aegean cuisines such as salads, tzatziki, vine leaves, seafood, dressed octopus, salmon, sea-bass, mussels, calamari, pasta dishes and more. Enjoy the menu of Turkish and Greek cuisine with a strong focus on seafood as you dine at the water’s edge — a perfect spot for sunset.
Recommended dish: Ahtapot (grilled octopus served in a casserole)
GO: Email 03034.restaurants@westin.com or call (0)4 511 7373 for more information
ALL AMERICAN CUISINE: PICKL, JLT
Homegrown brand Pickl has fast built a reputation for serving up some of the best burgers in JLT. With beef shipped in from the USA and potato buns that soak up juices like no other, every meaty delight has been handmade and perfected before being adorned with homemade pickles to take the patties to another level.
Recommended dish: the double-stack burger
GO: Call (0)4 584 6859 for reservations and more information
THE BEST OF BRITISH: THE CROFT, DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES
Dine on traditional British cuisine with a modern twist while overlooking Dubai Marina’s waterscape on The Croft’s terrace or sit beside the open kitchen and watch the team of culinary experts craft pub-grub favourites like fish and chips, beef Wellington and apple pie. Better yet, why not indulge with a Saturday roast including all the trimmings – the perfect way to enjoy the weekend.
Recommended dish: roast sirloin
GO: Email eatatharbour@marriott.com or call (0)4 319 4000 for more information
BRITISH CUISINE WITH A TWIST: THE LONDON PROJECT, BLUEWATERS ISLAND
The London Project, has re-opened its al fresco terraces and cool indoor corners for the cities foodies to enjoy. Located on Bluewaters Island, the buzzing botanical restaurant has also launched a brand-new menu, featuring a fusion of feasts from different London districts. Enjoy an eclectic menu inspired by buzzing Camden’s street eats, the refinement of Mayfair’s polished flair and mouth-watering dishes from the bohemian Shoreditch kitchen.
Recommended dish: Oxford beef cheek croquettes
GO: Email info@thelondonproject.com or call (0)56 913 4699 for more information
CONTEMPORARY CANTONESE: SHANGHAI ME, DIFC
Showcasing the glamour and depth of Shanghai’s history, dine in a sophisticated yet relaxed environment that has been purposefully designed to transport guests into life under the dynasties. The menu is inspired by the culinary traditions of East Asia, serving recipes that have been preserved from generation to generation albeit with a playful twist. Don’t miss the giant fortune cookie filled with a hazelnut and matcha mousse.
Recommended dish: Peking duck with Chinese caviar
GO: Call (0) 4 564 0505 for more information.
EXCEPTIONAL EUROPEAN EATS: THE BAY, MANDARIN ORIENTAL JUMEIRA, DUBAI
Serving a wide choice of Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, The Bay is a beachside brasserie that boasts a spectacular terrace overlooking the blue waters of the Arabian Gulf. The cosy spot offers relaxed dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner and a menu with dishes from across Europe, including pizzas, pasta, and a selection from the charcoal grill.
Recommended dish: lobster tagliatelle
GO: Email modub-thebay@mohg.com or call (0)4 777 2233 for more information.
RAFFLES SALON, RAFFLES DUBAI
Raffles Salon presents a dine-in option throughout the day as well and handcrafted sweets for take-away. Escape for a few hours of blissful respite in the cosy setting of this lobby lounge and nibble on light bites, delicious homemade pastries and cakes. Alternatively, you can enjoy the Raffles floral afternoon tea, with savoury treats such as cured salmon with hibiscus extract, fresh mango, herb sponge and basil leaves and rose-shaped brie mousse with edible flowers.
GO: Email dining.dubai@raffles.com or call (0)4 324 8888 for more information.
GLOBAL FAVOURITES: SOUL STREET, FIVE JUMEIRAH VILLAGE
If you recently had to change your travel plans, Soul Street has got you covered. Live your summer holiday vicariously at the Insta-worthy restaurant with street food delights from Latin America, America, Asia, and Europe. With executive Chef Jagjit’s seasonal menu changing soon, it’s your last chance to make your way to the trendy restaurant at Five Jumeirah Village to tuck into all-time favourites, including delicious Tandoori Lamb Chops, tender BBQ ribs, beef bao and chicken satay.
Recommended dish: beef bao
GO: Visit https://soul.st or call (0)4 455 9989 for more information.
ENJOY A GRECIAN ESCAPE: GAIA, DIFC
Exquisite cuisine and intricate details are woven throughout the restaurant experience at GAIA, where guests can enjoy a Grecian escape in the heart of DIFC. Bringing people together to share food is the aim here, and the menu designed by Chef Izu and Chef Orestis Kotefas pays tribute to the simplicity of Greek cooking. A highlight of the experience is the ice market and dedicated Fishelier, the first and only worldwide, where guests can hand-choose their seafood, and have it cooked to their preference.
Recommended dish: prawn saganaki.
GO: Call (0)4 241 4242 for more information.
INTERNATIONAL EXCITEMENT: THE WORLD EATERY, SOFITEL DUBAI THE PALM
RESORT & SPA
The specialities of the house at The World Eatery are favourites from the four corners of the globe. Hot or cold Arabic mezze, chicken quesadillas, Italian-style pizzas, soba noodles and butter chicken masala allow you to sample the best of the world without ever leaving your table. A good option when your friends and family all want something different to eat.
Recommended dish: crusted herb provencal salmon.
GO: Email dining.palmdubai@sofitel.com or call (0)4 455 6619 for more information
RUSTIC ITALIAN FLAVOURS: TRATTORIA TOSCANA, SOUK MADINAT JUMEIRAH
Expect a warm welcome at this Italian restaurant, located on the waterfront at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Trattoria Toscana serves simple, rustic Tuscan cuisine in a family-style environment while celebrating classic Italian flavours via a menu of Italian favourites. Expect crisp oven-baked pizzas, traditional pasta dishes and a selection of irresistible desserts which includes the classic tiramisu.
Recommended dish: shrimp risotto with lemon and aromatic spices
GO: Call (0)4 366 6318 for reservations and more information
TIME-HONOURED ITALIAN FAVOURITES: SCALINI, FOUR SEASONS RESORT JUMEIRAH
Scalini creates distinctive flavours with the finest ingredients through a carefully curated menu of signature dishes, including the spaghetti all’ Astice, fresh lobster served with spaghetti and a rich tomato sauce; and the Burrata con Datterini, a creamy burrata with cherry tomatoes. Inspired by the matriarchal kitchens of Italy, the cuisine complements a sophisticated and relaxed environment where guests can unwind and indulge.
Recommended dish: carpaccio pizza
GO: Call (0)4 349 0068 for reservations and more information
AUTHENTIC JAPANESE CUISINE: KIKU, LE MÈRIDIEN DUBAI
Aiming to recreate the culinary heritage of Japan, the signature offerings at Kiku have been created using a combination of specially imported Japanese ingredients. The Kiku team have curated a unique selection of delicacies that allows diners to experience a taste of Japan right here in Dubai.
Recommended dish: Sweet mango with sticky rice
GO: Email restaurants.lmd@lemeridien.com or call (0)4 702 2455 for more information
A MEDITERRANEAN MUST: LARTE, STUDIO ONE HOTEL
Following the flagship concept in Milan, LARTE offers an all-day dining experience that combines a counter-service café and full-service trattoria. Whether it’s burrata, calamari or pasta you’re after, LARTE has you covered with a selection of traditional Italian favourites and honest hospitality.
Recommended dish: gnocchi alla sorrentina
GO: Call (0)4 581 6870 for more information
PERUVIAN AND PAN LATIN DELICACIES: AMAZONICO, DIFC
Amazónico Dubai, situated in the heart of DIFC, takes inspiration from the cultural diversity and gastronomic heritage of the Amazon region. Combining a blend of tropical and Latin American cuisines Amazónico’s menus are not only inspired by the countries of the Amazon but the unique Asian and Mediterranean communities which inhabit them. From Peruvian sushi and the freshest raw seafood to carefully sourced grilled meats and fish; the chefs use both traditional and cutting-edge techniques along with seasonal and vibrant ingredients to transport diners into the very heart of South America.
Recommended dish: entrana marinada
GO: Call (0)4 571 3999 for reservations and more information
STEAKHOUSE CLASSICS: WEST 14TH, DUKES THE PALM
Enjoy a tasty selection of the highest quality meat cuts and strong service at the West 14th Steakhouse to complement the spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf and the scenery of Dubai Marina. Enlivened with the feel of 1920’s New York, West 14th serves the expected steaks, seafood and vegetarian options alongside steakhouse staples such as crab cakes and steak tartare.
Recommended dish: 24 hours braised short rib
GO: Email dining.dubai@dukeshotel.com or call (0)4 455 1101 for more information.
TANTALISING THAI CUISINE: MEKONG, ANANTARA DUBAI THE PALM RESORT & SPA
The eclectic contemporary decor sets the stage for an exotic feast for the senses at Mekong. Take a seat at one of the rickshaw tables on the terrace and experience the variety of delicious Thai dishes on offer. More than just a Thai restaurant, at Mekong guests can journey through the flavours and spices of not only Thailand but also China and Vietnam.
Recommended dish: salmon skin roll
GO: Email restaurants.dubai@anantara.com or call (0)4 567 8304 for more information
TEMPTING THAI SPECIALITIES: TONG THAI, JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS DUBAI
Thailand’s rich culinary history is on full display at Tong Thai restaurant. Savor flavorful Thai classics including Tom Yum Kung soup and Pad Thai, as well as refreshing beverages. The surroundings are bright and colourful to match the flavours of the aromatic food on offer. It’s the closest we’re likely to get to a Thai escape this summer.
Recommended dish: panang kung
GO: Call (0)4 4 414 3000 for more information
ULTIMATE USA: BLACK TAP, RIXOS PREMIUM JBR
Home of the Crazy Shake in Dubai, Black Tap has created quite the following with their extravagant and Instagrammable milkshakes. For those with pure food indulgence in mind, there are also craft burgers, tacos, wings and chili cheese fries on offer. Combining comfort food with a relaxed ambience and brilliant soundtrack, there is a reason why Black Tap is always busy.
Recommended dish: Cuban burger
GO: Call (0)4 399 9076 for more information.
