Restaurants

With its impressive exterior and hosting some of the best performances to come to the region, Dubai Opera is the perfect location for a superlative dining destination. Just as well, then, that Belcanto has opened its doors – a sophisticated new Italian dine dining restaurant with a scenic rooftop. Immersing guests in the drama of opera, interiors are bold and theatrical – think striking crystal chandeliers, dramatic pillars and heavy velvets – while the menu features Italian classics like pizza created by world champion of the Neapolitan Pizza Chef Vincenzo Palermo and creamy primavera alla fragola. Cocktail highlights include the…

Those who know Amelia in its guise in Beirut would have had doubts when hearing about the beloved restaurant opening in Dubai. In the Lebanese capital, it occupies a spot in an atmospheric 500-year-old Gothic building with industrial-style interiors that encourages partying until the wee hours. However, the team has managed to pull it off, securing a location (which few people knew existed) at the base of Address Sky View and delivering the same feeling and style, but with a glossy upgrade. A soaring double-height ceiling, gigantic gyrating plane (Amelia Earheart’s, of course) mounted on the wall, delicious Japanese-Peruvian menu and…

This British pub has found its home in the Sofitel Dubai Downtown, boasting a massive terrace with those all-important Dubai skyline views, pool tables, table football tables, drinks pong and more. The menu is jam-packed with both international dishes and favourites from the UK including burgers, steaks, pizzas and sharing-style platters, plus bar-style snacks like black calamari, spicy prawns, and triple-cooked chips, plus there’s an extensive vegan and veggie menu too. With brunches, roast dinners, ladies’ nights, happy hours and more, this new spot is pulling in the expat crowd. For Time Out Dubai’s review, click here. Open Sun-Wed 5pm-2am, Thu…

Big fan of super-authentic Japanese restaurant Fujiya? There’s now a second branch of the Time Out Dubai Award-winner. The new restaurant is at Swissotel Al Murooj in Dowtown Dubai. Outdoor seating is the star of the newly opened Fujiya Downtown branch, so roll on winter, as we’re ready to dine al fresco. Owned by former sumo wrestler Akio Hayakawa, the restaurant aims to provide authentic, affordable food. Dishes on the menu include tataki, sushi, sashimi, ramen, Japanese barbecue and more, so get ready for traditional eats in a casual setting. For the best Japanese restaurants in Dubai click here. For Time…

A dazzling new dining and entertainment venue, Cue Dubai is the latest addition to Dubai’s vibrant late-night dining scene. Housed on the ground floor of Downtown’s Sheraton Grand, Cue is a dimly lit, sultry and sophisticated spot where globally inspired dishes such as salt crust seabass and flame grilled Wagyu Tomohawk are served up against the backdrop of a roster of spectacular entertainment, from jaw-dropping aerial performances to heated fire shows. @cuedubai

Imagine being encircled by Dubai’s world famous dancing fountains while dining by candlelight—this fine-dining Thai restaurant is about as romantic as it gets. With a magical location and a menu that is sure to capture your attention, Thiptara is the perfect setting for a special celebration or that all-important question. Try the tantalizing massaman curry or the stir-fried scallops for a dining experience that is not to be missed. Tel No. +971 4 888 3444

A new Italian restaurant has opened in Downtown Dubai, sure to please lovers of pizza and pasta. Via Veneto Osteria e Cucina will be serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner at its Manzil Downtown location. The restaurant is spilt into two sections – the Cucina (for rapid bites) and the Trattoria, for a more leisurely meal. There’s also an outdoor terrace for the cooler months, as well as the Osteria upstairs, which has prime views of the Burj Khalifa.

Located at the top of one of the UAE’s most iconic buildings, Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera is the British born chef’s first restaurant in the Middle East.Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera is a contemporary brasserie, with an uncomplicated and produce driven menu serving seafood and steak, which can be enjoyed in the main restaurant, the cocktail Pearl Bar or at the rooftop terrace with an impressive view of the Burj Khalifa.The restaurant design was inspired by the highly irregular shape and scale of the Dubai Opera building. Each design element within the venue explores ideas of the sea, from…

This popular weekend hotspot, located in the boutique Vida Downtown hotel, hosts a laidback al fresco brunch with an Asian-inspired sharing menu that always impresses. For the best setting, walk through Toko’s main entrance and head to the restaurant’s serene outdoor back garden where canopied tables are surrounded by lush greenery. With a welcoming vibe, it’s easy to spend a leisurely Friday afternoon here with friends as you savour signature classics such as crispy duck salad, irresistible maki rolls, miso chilli salmon and barbecue Hoisin chicken. Best for: Al fresco dining When: Fridays, 12:30-4pm Cost: AED190 with soft beverages Tel No.  +971 4 442…