Restaurants

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

Located in the swanky new Palazzo Versace, Enigma is more than just a restaurant – it’s a new dining concept that overhauls its menu – chef included – every three months. And these are no ordinary chefs, either – mostly they hail from Michelin-starred eateries to include Spain’s Quique Dacosta and Sweden’s Björn Frantzén, who have been given the challenging task of creating a bespoke food narrative. Guests must pre-book and can select seating, but bring your curiosity and your appetite as the food remains a mystery until it’s on your table.

This tea house is a hidden gem situated in Dubai’s historic heart. The quaint cafe is an oasis of calm and it’s easy to imagine times gone by while you relax within its traditional walls made of coral, shell and clay. Settle down to sip your morning tea as the sun rises, taking in the cool breeze coming off the nearby Creek with a traditional breakfast platter that includes balaleet – a dish of egg and cardamom flavoured vermicelli. Tel No.   +971 4 353 5071

Combining the best of two worlds, Purobeach Urban Oasis presents a fantastic barbecue brunch where guests can lounge poolside. Located on the 6th floor of Conrad Dubai, this cool urban jungle is a sun-seeker’s dream come true with luxe white lounges, sparkling blue waters and landscaped gardens. Every Friday, the Miami BBQ Pool Party kicks the tempo up a notch with lively beats and an eclectic selection of barbecue fare, including freshly-grilled prawns, Arabic meat skewers and prime beef. Spend the rest of the day unwinding on a private cocoon bed. Trust us, this brunch will be the highlight of…

One of Dubai’s most Instagram-famous hotels, Rove Downtown never ceases to impress. Boasting a prime location overlooking the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, stop by the hotel’s gallery wall that features an eclectic range of local art, before making your way to The Daily. Every Friday, this expansive space presents a breakfast buffet, complete with freshly-baked pastries, a selection of cheeses and plenty of fresh fruit. Choose your mains from the menu and toast to a memorable start to the weekend with the perfect cup of coffee, expertly crafted by the restaurant barista. Best for: Early starts When: Fridays, 11am – 3pm Cost: AED99…

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…

Here’s your favourite neighbourhood café where families can get together for a chat over food that aims to please. Whatever you choose, whether it’s jerk chicken, prawn tacos or even the healthy Korean Bibimbap bowl packed with kimchi and sprouts, you’re sure to enjoy the brilliance of each carefully prepared dish. The café is also popular with fitness enthusiasts who frequent the place for their generous selection of teas, seasonal juice blends and organic smoothies. Tel No.   +971 50 478 1094

Set high up on the 35th floor overlooking the Arabian Gulf, this high-level chic nightspot affords stunning views of Dubai’s coastline and iconic Palm Jumeirah. The two large terraces provide a choice for lounging either indoors or outdoors, while the open-air barbeque sizzles with delicious delights to tempt hungry guests. Open every evening until 2am, the Pure Sky Lounge is the place to enjoy twilight dining and late night mingling.

Sit under the glass dome of Anwar and take in the natural daylight or gaze up at the evening sky. This bright restaurant offers all-day dining options, starting with the famous Holiday Inn lavish breakfast that is available until 11am on lazy mornings. Choose between the buffet or a la carte menu at lunch or dinner, both offering an array of international starters, mouth-watering mains and delicious desserts. Telephone +971 [0] 4 357 2999