Restaurants
Part of Dubai’s wave of hipster-style café eateries, Common Grounds is a slice of cool calm amongst the exciting shopping frenzy that is Mall of the Emirates. A great place to grab an antioxidant packed, energising breakfast, artisan coffee or any of the super healthy dishes available for both lunch and dinner, Common Grounds offers welcome respite after a hard day on your feet. +971 50 478 1094
Stretching across the Palm’s Crescent foreshore, and with the iconic seashell-pink Atlantis, The Palm looming in the background, the Royal Pool strikes a balance between a family-friendly destination and a relaxing spot for the unaccompanied grown-ups. The oversized five-star pool is perfect for a dip, with or without younger family members. Or take the kids down to the private beach, the nearby jungle gym or the lawn badminton court to totally tire them out before dinner. We recommend the signature grilled tiger prawns. +971 4 426 2626
Specially designed, imported and affixed to the side of the seven-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab Terrace was never going to be anything short of spectacular. As exclusive as the hotel itself, the expanse of ocean-grazing infinity pools, swim-up counters and sun loungers are reserved for hotel guests and VIP membership holders only (who pay from AED2,500 a day for the privilege). While the 32 luxury beach cabanas are each stocked with a full mini-bar, fresh fruits and gourmet coffee, it’s the California-cool menu from the adjacent Scape restaurant that will tempt you to order your meal directly to your lounger. +971…
With its open kitchen and vaulted framework, this award-winning restaurant evokes a hip night spot in a converted Indian marketplace. The high-end Indian cuisine is vibrant and the curries are prepared using time-honoured traditional cooking methods and ingredients. Outside, the terrace is a magical spot to watch the Dubai Fountain light show and views of the Burj Khalifa. Gather with friends to savour the taste of India Armani-style in an unforgettable setting. Telephone +971 [0] 4 888 3888 Email info@armanihotels.com
As you wander through Karama’s maze of shops, check out this popular Indian eatery. Although it’s quite a busy restaurant, dishes are excellent, portions are generous, and prices are affordable. The fish curry and chicken biryani are firm favourites. Fish is infused with a delicate spice and flavoursome sauce, while the biryani rice is a taste sensation of mixed raisins, vegetables and slow-cooked meat. You can take advantage of complimentary helpings too. Telephone +971 [0] 4 335 8700 Email contacts@paragonrestaurant.net
If you’re in the vicinity of Dubai Media City and are feeling peckish, drop into the Arabesque Cafe. This cosy all-day dining restaurant serves buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a la carte options during the evening. Popular with locals and visitors, the themed evening buffets feature a mouthwatering choice of dishes from across the globe. Themed nights include Asian flavours on Sunday and Italian night on Tuesday. Telephone +971 [0] 4 436 0000 Email rjaan.dmc@rotana.com
Miss Lily’s restaurant brings a Caribbean island flavour to the heart of Dubai’s financial district. Located in the Sheraton Grand Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, this New York transplant is one of Dubai’s hottest late-night spots. Miss Lily’s chefs came to Dubai from New York City and Jamaica, showcasing a modern international twist on traditional Jamaican fare. The menu offers dishes like shishito peppers, their “world famous” jerk chicken, sweet plantains and guava doughnut holes.Open from 7pm to 2am, nightly, Miss Lily’s is great for a late-night snack. The stylish interior has a colourful island vibe with a musical theme…
A must for true romantics with an appetite for seafood, Beach Bar & Grill offers delectable fish platters to share. If seafood isn’t your thing, there’s surf and turf options. You must try the chef’s recommendation though, a cataplana of shellfish clams, mussels, prawns, scallops and crabs with cooked beef chorizo, tomatoes, vegetables and fresh herbs. It’s simply wonderful! There’s indoor and outdoor seating, but al fresco is best for romantic sea views. Telephone +971 [0] 4 399 9999 Email fb.acourt@oneandonlyroyalmirage.ae
The Cheesecake Factory is renowned for its large portions at branches across America, and that’s no different at Dubai branches, with eye-popping large portions of comfort food served to your table. Head to Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall to enjoy pastas, avocado rolls, rich mac and cheese burgers and, of course, the cheesecake. Choose from more than 40 different types and ignore your waistline for one night. Telephone +971 [0] 4 419 0223 Email cheesecake.dxbmall@alshayauae.ae
