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Food & Drink
Dubai's favourite sun-filled restaurant terraces
Sun, January 17, 2021
Whether you’re after an ocean-fresh catch or Mediterranean staples, we've rounded up top restaurant terraces – all you need to do is book a table.
Whether you’re after an ocean-fresh catch or Mediterranean staples, we've rounded up top restaurant terraces – all you need to do is book a table.
1
folly by Nick & Scott
This hip spot heats up during the cooler months, with the elevated terrace a top choice. Sunset is the perfect time to order an early dinner, so you can catch sight of the sun sinking into the waters of the Arabian Gulf and the abras sailing along Madinat Jumeirah's canals. Formerly of Gordon Ramsay’s kitchens, Nick and Scott's seasonal menu tickle tastebuds with British flavours and fresh ingredients. Book ahead – the terrace is understandably popular with locals and visitors alike.
2
Tagine
Make a booking at Tagine at One&Only Royal Mirage hotel and prepare to be transported along the ancient spice routes to Morocco. Everything here – from the horseshoe arches and glowing lanterns to the saffron-infused mains, melt-in-your-mouth kebabs and live oud music – harkens back to a past time and taste, evoking an exotic gastronomical adventure. To step back into reality, but continue the deliciously luxurious experience, retire to the majlis-style outdoor seating surrounded by palm trees.
3
Atelier M
Combine the bright lights of Dubai Marina with magical flavours, and it’s easy to see why Atelier M is a hotspot every winter. The menu of Mediterranean dishes sings with an Asian twist and bestsellers include the creamy burrata, eleven-spiced duck, gourmet pizza, Japanese-style scallop risotto and zingy black cod. But no matter what you choose, you’re in for a treat thanks to the terrace views overlooking the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina. It’s a great date spot and also a wonderful choice for celebrations because as the night wears on, the tempo picks up. There's even a 'secret rooftop' where resident DJs keep the party going.
4
Fish Beach Taverna
Proving popular every al fresco season, Le Meridien Mina Seyahi's Fish Beach Taverna has cemented itself as a seasonal hotspot, thanks in no small part to its outdoor shoreside dining area. By day, diners can snack on flash-fried squid, slow-cooked octopus and other Aegean delicacies, while wiggling their toes in the private beach’s silky sands. At night, floating fairy-lights illuminate the vibrant white-wash and azure decor, as diners munch on Greek mezze by candlelight. Be sure to get there before nightfall, as the restaurant’s positioning gives you an unobstructed view of the Arabian Gulf's famous sunset.
5
Mercury Lounge
Perched on an open rooftop jutting out from the sixth floor of the Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach, the aptly-named Mercury Lounge gives guests an opportunity to dine beneath a galaxy of stars. Featuring a laidback Mediterranean menu and cool vibes, dinner is served until 11:30pm, when the lounge is turned over to the resident DJ’s beats. The views are terrific with shimmering waves and Downtown Dubai skyline. Reserve one of the five majlis areas – traditional cushioned private dining spaces – for extra exclusivity.
6
Iris
Feel the pulse of the city from Iris' open-air lounge in the heart of Dubai's racing district. Modern with a hint of casual elegance, the decor is complemented by tasteful art installations while the East Asian-focused menu is refreshing and wholesome, with many vegetarian options. Aside from its crisp skyline views, the venue is known for its handcrafted beverages and regular live music performances by local artists. It's a winter treat, so book ahead.
