Here’s where to dine in style
Dubai’s maritime history is famed. Much of the city, as well as its many landmarks (hello, Palm) even sit on the very waves that helped build this waterfront metropolis.
Which means we aren’t short on sweet spots to take in the ocean blue while dining on spectacular fare from both surf and turf.
Hooked on sea views with your meal? You’re about to be.
101 dining
This spot has a lot going for it. Nestled in the southernmost arc of the Palm, it is set on an elevated platform accessible only by buggy… or by boat from the mainland Royal Mirage Hotel. Tapas is the order of the day, and signatures include king crab hot dog (worth ordering just for the ’slaw garnish), and avocado topped pane carasau, a staple of all good Sardinian menus. Other highlights include the ‘Ossau-Iraty’ fingers with black cherry jam and beef meatballs, piping hot and smothered in an onion and tomato sauce. Bring a bib.
Open daily 12pm-1am. One&Only The Palm – Dubai (04 440 1030).
Aprons & Hammers
Al fresco dining is a big hit in Dubai (durr), and the beach-facing terrace at Aprons & Hammers is calling. Order the catch of the day and slip away on the private beach with tables, chairs, sofas, and bean bags depending on whether you want a more relaxed experience. This licensed venue also serves up a raft of tasty mixed drinks packaged in disposable pouches – like adult Capri Suns – for those wanting to feel the sand between their toes while sipping a cold one.
Open daily 12pm-1am. West Palm Beach (04 589 5444).
Breeze Beach Grill
Pitched on the corner of Club Vista Mare, Breeze Beach Grill makes for a superbly sweet spot for sundowners – and the inevitable late-night drinks that follow. Despite many names coming and going in the area, Breeze has refused to be blown away, pulling in crowds of sun-seekers, residents and holiday-makers all wanting to stare out to sea with a pint or glass of the good stuff. Long may that continue.
Open daily 12pm-12am. Club Vista Mare (04 568 3000).
Flooka
Wooden beach hut-inspired interiors give Flooka a boho vibes that you’ll want to slide your flip flops into. The kingfisher fillet with steamed vegetables is strong bait, but don’t forget to cast your line at one of the many mezze plates that come in around the Dhs40 mark. Portions are huge, so dock hungry.
Open daily 12pm-11pm. Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa, Jumeirah Street (04 346 1111).
Ibn Al Bahr
A seafood icon, Ibn Al Bahr knows fish. But what else would you expect from a restaurant run by the very men manning the nets? There’s even a fish market where you can pick your own to be freshly prepared. All you need to choose is your cooking style (chargrilled, steamed, butterfly or salt-grilled) and sauce, and you’re good to go. Time to tip the scales in your favour.
Open daily 12pm-1am. Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah (04 553 9575).
Myrra
Smashing Greek fare can be found at Myrra by Opa, and it’s always plated up with a cracking view out to sea. Be it late lunches or evening dinners along the terrace, you’ll score all the holiday feels here, elevated even further by the authentic plates and sounds of live DJ on the decks.
Open daily 12pm-1am. Club Vista Mare, Palm Jumeirah (04 770 1433).
Sea Fu
Sea Fu is sea view goals, and a huge reminder for those who live here exactly why they chose this beautiful postcode. This restaurant specialises in Asian seafood dishes, and you’ll find an Eastern flavour to most of the mixed drinks as well as to the hops available in bottles and on tap. For out of town guests or visitors it is certainly one to add to the list for the stunning ambience and delicious dishes.
Open daily 12:30pm-12am. Jumeirah Beach Road (04 270 7777).
Sho Cho
A Japanese bar and restaurant decked out over the water, with the Burj Khalifa sitting in the cityscape backdrop – what’s not to love? Sho Cho still boasts that exclusive vibe and excellent views, perfect for a more chilled out date night or after work catch ups with the girls.
Open Wed-Thu, Sun 6pm-2am, Sat, Tue 6pm-1am. Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa (04 346 1111).
The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill
With a menu ranging from fish and chips to linguine vongole and pan-seared tuna, The Maine boasts quite the reputation in this city. The most popular dishes are the spicy shrimp linguine and the famous fish tacos, best enjoyed early evening on the terrace overlooking JBR The Beach, with grape and friends.
Open daily. 12pm-1am. (04 457 6719).
