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Food & Drink
Dubai's best fine dining restaurants
Mon, July 5, 2021
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
folly
Homegrown heroes in Dubai’s culinary scene, chefs Nick Alvis and Scott Price were not afraid to innovate when setting up folly. The joint venture by the protégés of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay helped put Dubai on the world foodie map. 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.
Known for: A local take on modern European fare
2
Nobu
The talented Michelin-starred chef 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.
Known for: Japanese food with a South American twist
3
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 opened its Dubai doors in 2014, instantly making its mark on the city’s culinary scene with its inspired Peruvian plates – think refreshing ceviches, delightful tiraditos and flavour-packed anticuchos. 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.
Known for: Contemporary Peruvian fare and a buzzing atmosphere
4
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. You'll soon be back for more.
Known for: World-famous sushi in a chic setting
Known for: World-famous sushi in a chic setting
5
Trèsind
Trèsind has become a much-respected favourite among Dubai foodies. Noted as the birthplace of innovative Indian cuisine in Dubai, its flagship restaurant on Sheikh Zayed Road is a must-visit for those looking for an exciting dining experience. Sample modern Indian dishes, served up with serious flair thanks to molecular gastronomy cooking techniques. For equally photo-worthy Indian dishes in a more funky setting, head over to its sister restaurant, Carnival by Tresind at the Dubai International Financial Centre.
Known for: Picture-perfect Indian dishes with a modern twist
6
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.
Known for: Fresh Italian fare in Tuscan-themed surroundings
7
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, which also has locations in London and Miami, 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.
Known for: French classics in an elegant setting
8
3FILS
A homegrown favourite that has foodies swooning, 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 while wasabi mayo adds 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.
Known for: Expertly fused Eastern flavours in a charming setting
9
CLAP
A cool, Beirut-born restaurant, there has been heaps of noise about CLAP since it first opened. Housed in Gate Village Building 11 in DIFC, and boasting a restaurant, lounge and sparkling outdoor terrace, the menu features slick modern Japanese cuisine. There’s a full vegan offering too, plus a range of grills from the Josper charcoal oven. As expected, there’s loads of sushi to dig into, and with more than 140 options on the menu, the chic crowd that frequents this hotspot is spoilt for choice. Ask for a table at the Music Room where you'll be treated to quirky design accents, 'dancing' tables and visual projections that light up every evening.
10
Indochine
One of the coolest spots in DIFC, Indochine boasts jungle-esque 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.
