Book a table at Dubai's finest seafood restaurants
As a prime destination in the Arabian Gulf, you can expect Dubai to be filled with excellent seafood all-year-round. But how do you choose from the infinite restaurant options in this ever-growing city? Here are some of the best places in Dubai that know how to do seafood – and do it well. Whether it’s for a special occasion, family meal, casual lunch or a romantic dinner, these spots are guaranteed to satisfy your seafood cravings.
Pierchic
Long lauded as one of Dubai’s most romantic restaurants, this over-water venue set at the edge of its own pier comes along with incomparable views of the Burj Al Arab. Balmy ocean breezes flow through oversized windows and glamorous décor, while fishing net-style crystal chandeliers bring home the marine theme.
The contemporary gourmet menu showcases the finest seafood, from Beluga caviar and Gillardeau oysters, to Norwegian cod, Atlantic halibut and Cornish turbot. Don’t miss the grilled scallops with tapioca pearl, vanilla and bergamot butter, or the poached lobster with roasted cauliflower and Dijon mustard sauce. The picturesque setting and luxurious experience makes this ideal for celebrating special occasions.
Leen's: Casual to Gourmet
This restaurant on the Jumeirah strip is a relatively recent and very welcome addition to Dubai’s beach dining scene. Offering fresh, fantastic seafood in a laidback environment, the restaurant is frequented by beachgoers coming straight from a morning sun-and-surf session at the beach.
Exposed ceilings, chalkboard menus and unfinished flooring give the sun-drenched, two-storey space a relaxed yet trendy vibe to match its fuss-free menu. Downstairs is a sushi bar, while upstairs fresh seafood is displayed on ice – just pick what you want, and have it steamed, grilled or cooked a la plancha (grilled on a metal plate) with sauces and sides of your choice.
The MAINE Oyster Grill
With an unconventional entrance (through The DoubleTree by Hilton’s car park), this restaurant piques your interest from the get-go. The tasteful interior of this New England-inspired seaside brasserie and outdoor terrace also turns intrigue up a notch. But the main winner is its luscious servings, satisfying a whole range of cravings, from seafood and steaks to pot roasts and steamers.
Take in the grandeur of Neptune Folly, a three-tiered seafood tower decorated with crab legs, prawns, oysters and scallop ceviches, or enjoy a Mexican touch with the crispy fish tacos. Don’t forget to try the indulgent lobster roll or chargrilled octopus for a lip-smacking experience.
Moana
Surrounded by Sofitel’s idyllic pool and resort, this pagoda-style seafood restaurant is all about simple, authentic and contemporary. You can be sure the seafood here is fresh – hence the Raw Bar featuring a delectable assortment of sushi, sashimi and ceviche. Focusing heavily on Asian-inspired flavours, Moana combines a variety of cuisines and cooking styles under one roof.
Start with some sashimi and sushi before moving onto the ceviche, and we highly recommend one of the signature curries which range from Indian-style and Singaporean to Thai. Finish with one of the popular desserts like the sticky date pudding or zingy mango sorbet.
Ossiano
Vying for the title of best seafood restaurant and most romantic restaurant in Dubai, Ossiano is definitely one to impress. Surrounded by the Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis, The Palm, this could possibly be the perfect seafood restaurant for romantic dinners. With floor-to-ceiling walls – or lack thereof, you get the most stunning views right from your table.
Bells and whistles aside, the food is equally delectable. With various a la carte options, chef’s specials and a number of courses to choose from, you’ll be absolutely spoilt for choice. We recommend the oysters to start, followed by one of the experience menu options ranging from four, five or even seven courses. A meal here is well worth every dirham.