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Dubai's best fine dining restaurants
Mon, September 19, 2022
When only the best will do, book a table at these top restaurants in Dubai.
When only the best will do, book a table at these top restaurants in Dubai.
1
Modern European fare at folly
Homegrown heroes in Dubai’s culinary scene, chefs Nick Alvis and Scott Price were not afraid to innovate when setting up folly. The protégés of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay helped put Dubai on the world foodie map and its legacy continues with executive chef Bojan Cirjanic. The restaurant at Madinat Jumeirah has it all, including waterway views, expansive terraces and a menu of contemporary dishes that champion creativity, such as the lamb saddle with whipped pine nuts and salsa, and monkfish cheeks with paprika and lemon.
2
Fine Japanese with a South American twist at Nobu
The talented culinary icon Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa continues to earn praise for his restaurant in Dubai’s five-star Atlantis, The Palm resort. From the brilliant decor and friendly service to the contemporary Japanese menu, it’s all a vibrant showcase of creativity. As expected, the sushi served at Nobu is in a league of its own, while the black cod with buttery miso and a hint of yuzu citrus is utterly addictive.
3
Contemporary Peruvian plates at COYA
Every once in a while, a restaurant comes along and exceeds every expectation – COYA is one of them. One of London’s most popular restaurants, COYA's Dubai outpost instantly made its mark on the city’s culinary scene with its inspired Peruvian plates – think refreshing ceviches, delightful tiraditos and flavour-packed anticuchos skewers. Nestled in the Restaurant Village by Four Seasons Resort, this is the place to go to for fine cuisine in a stunning setting, complemented by slick service.
4
World-famous fusion Japanese at Zuma
With locations in the world’s most exciting destinations, including Miami, London and New York, Zuma is right at home in vibrant Dubai. Inspired by nature’s elements, the setting features chic granite counters and rusted-steel walls. Whether you take a seat at the private dining area, sushi and robata counter, or main restaurant floor, you won't be disappointed. The menu has it all, from small plates such as salmon and tuna tartare with sevruga caviar, to signature dishes including seabass with yuzu, truffle oil and salmon roe.
5
Innovative Indian flair at Trèsind Studio
Chef Himanshu Saini's Trésind Studio is regarded as one of the best restaurants, not just in Dubai but the world – a reputation that has been reiterated by its Michelin star. His curated tasting menus, featuring carefully-choreographed dishes, take diners on an Indian-accented culinary journey that can't be forgotten. Saini's personal anecdotes are often weaved into the storytelling that accompanies every dish, with fine dining techniques and Instagram-friendly plating adding to the excitement of every reveal.
6
Fresh Italian bites at Il Borro Tuscan Bistro
If you're on the hunt for a delicious meal in opulent surroundings, Il Borro is your table. This award-winning Italian restaurant based at Jumeirah Al Naseem delivers authentic flavours using seasonal, ethically-sourced ingredients, many brought in from the restaurant's own farm in Italy. Complete with olive trees and gentle folk music playing in the background, you can't help but feel like you've been transported to a charming corner of Tuscany.
7
French classics at LPM Restaurant
A name whispered in awe by gourmands in the city, LPM at Dubai International Financial Centre remains a firm favourite. Setting the mood with slick marble, bright artwork and welcoming vibes, the restaurant impresses on every level. The Niçoise restaurant presents fine French Mediterranean cuisine. Try signatures such as the creamy burrata salad, roast baby chicken marinated in lemon, and roasted rib of beef to taste the difference at this Dubai culinary gem.
8
Expert Eastern flavours at 3Fils
A homegrown favourite that topped MENA's 50 Best restaurants list, this unassuming casual eatery serves up stunning Asian plates with a strong Japanese accent. Its insider location at the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour adds to the charm, while the no-reservations policy adds to the egalitarian allure. The sushi selection is strong; crispy eel is paired with foie gras for richness, while wasabi mayo adds a kick to spicy tuna. There are also corn waffles, sticky lamb ribs and a must-try wagyu burger, all served in small plates to share.
9
Spectacular seafood menus at Ossiano
Enjoy a uniquely Dubai dining experience at the Michelin-starred Ossiano at Atlantis, The Palm. A rite of passage for the culinary crowd, chef Gregoire Berger serves up an immersive, multi-course menu in a grand gold and blue-hued setting. Specialising in seafood, the plates are as astounding as the surroundings. Perched under glistening chandeliers, watch more than 65,000 marine creatures swimming past your table. It is perfect for a romantic experience mixing fine European cuisine and an adventure into the sea.
10
Fusion Vietnamese delights at Indochine
One of the trendiest spots in DIFC, Indochine boasts tropical foliage and chic vibes. There’s a relaxed lounge area, a terrace and an elegant dining space. Set up in New York in 1984, the French-Vietnamese eatery opened in Dubai in late 2019 and has been a hit ever since. Dishes are adventurous, and their risks pay off. Don’t miss the kaffir lime and lemongrass-infused escargot, Vietnamese ravioli, the lamb char sui or the crunchy fried bananas for dessert.
11
Elevated French cuisine at STAY by Yannick Alleno
STAY by Yannick Alléno features classic French dishes cooked using contemporary techniques, and a Pastry Library where desserts are custom-made. Try the impressive spit-roasted offering for two, which includes beef that's been aged for 28 days, milk-fed lamb leg and whole wild turbot. Just like the visual sensations on the plate, this dining destination at One&Only The Palm has style to spare – from the high timber walls and white pillars to the ceiling dripping with black chandeliers and intricate designs.
12
Middle Eastern magic at Ninive
This chic lounge continues to win awards, and it's clear to see why. Ninive's modern menu is inspired by the flavours of Morocco, Iran, Iraq and Turkey with low-level seating to amplify Dubai skyscraper views. The charming, foliage-filled space has a 1001 Arabian Nights vibe with twinkling lights, coloured lanterns and mosaic tables whisking you into a fairytale. Expect a combination of well-known favourites as well as more innovative fare on the menu, with the traditional tagine being particularly delicious.
13
Tokyo traditions abound at Hōseki
Enjoy an authentic omakase menu at Hōseki in Bulgari Resort. Every course is expertly prepared by Japanese sushi master Masahiro Sugiyama and his team while an intimate setting with just nine seats, effortless service and ingredients flown in straight from Tokyo ensure a memorable meal. Head over to find out why most foodies dream of ticking this restaurant off their bucket list.
14
Seafood surprises at Ristorante L'Olivo Al Mahara
Chef Andrea Migliaccio helms the only two Michelin-starred restaurant on the chic island of Capri and now he's bringing his famed Ristorante L'Olivo to Burj Al Arab's spectacular Al Mahara restaurant. It feels like a real sense of occasion as you take your table among the coral-filled aquariums and sample seafood-centred plates refined in the kitchens of the Capri Palace Jumeirah.
15
Italian signatures at Il Ristorante Niko Romito
Fine Italian cuisine is at the heart of Il Ristorante - Niko Romito – one of the proud two Michelin-star winners in Dubai. The restaurant, located at the Bulgari Hotel & Resorts, was conceptualised to showcase traditional culture through its cooking. From Parmigiano Reggiano soup to roasted langoustines salad and spaghetti with sea urchins, this eatery serves up favourites that will transport you to the scenic Italian countryside. Seafood fans will not be disappointed with the variety on offer, with the oven-baked black cod being a showstopper.
16
Shoreside favourites at Twiggy by La Cantine
A sunshine-filled spot that will brighten your day, Twiggy by La Cantine is a refreshing beach club and restaurant at Park Hyatt Dubai. Dine by the 100m infinity pool, which has its own menu complete with small plates such as poke bowls, lobster rolls, sushi and caviar, or swap the sun beds for a table on the terrace because the a la carte menu is more than worth it, filled with celebratory Mediterranean dishes.
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